Bathrooms · 4 min read

Walk-In Shower Remodel: What to Decide Before Demo Day

Size, niches, glass and tile choices to settle before the old shower comes out.

Measure what you really have

Trading a tub for a walk-in shower is one of the most popular bathroom remodels, and the footprint decides nearly everything else. Measure the space and think about where the door swings and how you will step in.

Plan the niches and benches now

Shower niches, benches and shelves are built into the wall before tile goes up, so they cannot be an afterthought. Decide how many you want, what height is comfortable, and what you need them to hold, including tall bottles.

Waterproofing matters most

Tile is not what keeps water out of your walls. The waterproofing behind it does, and in a humid climate like Tampa Bay it deserves real attention. Ask any contractor exactly how they waterproof the walls, the niche and the floor.

Choose a floor tile with grip

Small floor tile or pebble gives more grout lines, which means more traction underfoot. Whatever you choose, check that it is rated for wet floors.

Frameless glass or a curbless entry

Frameless glass makes a bathroom feel larger and shows off your tile. A curbless entry looks clean and is easy to walk into, but it takes more preparation in the floor, so bring it up at your first meeting.

Sort out the trades early

We do not do plumbing or electrical work. If your new shower moves a drain or valve, or adds lighting, you will need a licensed plumber or electrician, and it helps to line them up before demo day.