Transform your bathroom with a modern, accessible walk-in shower. Portland's trusted remodeling contractors ready 24/7.
Call Now {{PHONE}}A walk-in shower conversion is a practical upgrade that improves both functionality and accessibility in your bathroom. Whether you're replacing an old bathtub or reconfiguring an existing shower layout, the process requires careful planning and skilled execution. We'll walk you through how this remodel actually happens, step by step, so you understand what's involved and why proper installation matters for long-term durability.
Before any demo work begins, we assess your current bathroom layout to determine the best approach for your shower conversion. This means taking measurements, evaluating plumbing locations, checking wall condition, and understanding your space constraints. Some bathrooms work well with a corner installation, while others benefit from a linear design against a single wall. We consider traffic flow, door swing, and how the shower will integrate with your sink and toilet placement.
We'll discuss your preferences for entry style, whether that's a simple step-in threshold, a curb-less walk-in for maximum accessibility, or a low-profile base. We'll also examine your budget and timeline so there are no surprises once work begins. This planning phase is where good design decisions save headaches later.
Evaluating space, plumbing, and structural considerations to create an efficient floor plan that maximizes usability.
Choosing tile, fixtures, base materials, and waterproofing products that fit your style and withstand moisture exposure.
Setting realistic expectations for how long demolition, construction, and finishing will take for your specific project.
Once we've finalized the design, demolition removes the old tub, surround, and any fixtures that won't be reused. If you're converting from a bathtub, we carefully remove the tub itself, the existing walls or surround panels, and any damaged subflooring underneath. We disconnect plumbing lines that fed the tub filler and redirect them as needed for your new shower layout.
If the existing bathroom has structural issues like rotted framing or water damage, we address that now before it becomes a bigger problem. We inspect the floor joists, wall studs, and any visible damage. Sometimes converting a tub space reveals moisture problems hidden by the old surround. It's better to find and fix these issues while walls are open than to seal them up and deal with mold later.
We protect adjacent areas with plastic sheeting and contain dust properly. Demolition is messy work, but keeping your home clean and organized is part of our responsibility. Once the space is cleared and inspected, we're ready to move forward with the structural and plumbing modifications your new shower requires.
Your new shower's plumbing might differ from the old tub setup. We run supply lines to the correct height for your showerhead and handle valve placement. If you want body sprays or a bench, those require additional plumbing rough-ins. We ensure all lines are properly supported, pitched for drainage, and accessible if future maintenance is needed.
The drain is critical. Shower drains need to slope correctly toward the main drain line so water flows freely and doesn't pool. We use proper drain pans or sloped bases to direct water where it needs to go. The drain rough-in happens before flooring and waterproofing so everything's hidden inside the walls and floor structure.
We also frame any wall modifications needed for your layout. If we're moving the entry or adding a niche for shampoo storage, we build and reinforce those areas now. We install any blocking or bracing needed for mounting grab bars or fixture hangers. Every structural element is in place before we begin waterproofing.
Installing hot and cold supply lines at the correct heights and locations for your fixtures and valves.
Setting up properly sloped drains and pans that direct water away from wood framing and toward main drain lines.
Building wall sections, niches, and support blocking for grab bars, benches, and fixture mounting points.
Waterproofing is the foundation of a shower that lasts decades instead of failing in five years. We install membrane or waterproofing compound on all surfaces that water contacts: the floor, the walls, and any horizontal ledges or niches. This creates a continuous barrier so moisture never penetrates into the wood structure behind the tile.
We pay special attention to corners, seams, and the drain opening. These areas are prone to leaks if not sealed properly. We use quality waterproofing products and follow manufacturer guidelines carefully. The membrane must be applied smoothly with no gaps, tears, or missed spots. We test critical areas to verify the barrier is complete before moving to the next step.
For the shower base, many modern conversions use a pre-formed shower pan or a sloped base that's integrated with the waterproofing. Others use a traditional mortar bed with built-in slope. Either way, the base needs to direct water reliably to the drain. We ensure no standing water can occur, and the slope is visible but not awkward to walk on.
After waterproofing, we allow proper drying time before tiling begins. Rushing this stage is how problems develop. A well-waterproofed shower rarely fails. A poorly sealed shower causes expensive damage within months.
Once waterproofing is cured, we begin tiling. We lay out the tile pattern so cuts are even and visible trim pieces frame the shower nicely. We use proper thinset mortar and set tiles firmly in place with spacers that ensure consistent grout joints. The size of your tile and the complexity of any patterns will affect how long this takes, but we never rush the work.
After tiles cure, we apply grout to the joints. Grout needs time to firm up before we seal it. Proper grout spacing prevents cracks and makes cleaning easier. We use quality grout products and seal grout appropriately so it resists moisture and mildew over time.
Then comes the trim work. We install the showerhead, valve trim, grab bars (if included), and any shelving or niche edges. All fixtures get caulked with quality silicone at corners and joints where tile meets tile or tile meets fixtures. This final caulking is important for preventing water from entering seams where it shouldn't go.
We also handle the entryway finish. If you have a glass enclosure, we install that now. If it's an open walk-in or with a simple shower curtain, we ensure the opening is finished cleanly. Some customers add a threshold, others prefer seamless entry. We accommodate your preference.
Planning tile patterns, applying thinset mortar, and setting tiles with proper spacing and support.
Filling joints with grout, finishing seams smoothly, and sealing to protect against water intrusion and staining.
Installing showerheads, valves, grab bars, glass enclosures, and finishing all edges with caulk and trim pieces.
The final step is a thorough cleaning and inspection. We remove any thinset residue, grout haze, and dust. We test all fixtures to confirm water pressure is good and temperature control works smoothly. We check that your walk-in entry is comfortable and water drains properly during use. We provide care instructions for your new tile and waterproofing so it stays beautiful and functional for years.
A walk-in shower conversion involves complex plumbing, waterproofing, and finishing work. Mistakes in any phase can lead to leaks, structural damage, and costly repairs down the road. Professional contractors have the experience to anticipate problems, follow building codes, and deliver a shower that performs correctly from day one.
Years of experience installing showers the right way so water stays where it belongs and wood framing stays dry.
Knowing local Portland building codes for plumbing, ventilation, accessibility, and electrical requirements in wet spaces.
Sourcing durable tile, fixtures, and waterproofing products that last and perform in high-moisture environments.
Having a systematic approach to avoid delays, contain costs, and deliver the project on schedule.
Standing behind workmanship with warranties so you have recourse if issues arise after completion.
Handling unexpected structural issues or plumbing complications without panic or major cost overruns.
When you invest in a bathroom upgrade, proper installation protects that investment. A walk-in shower done right becomes a feature you'll enjoy for decades.
We serve bathroom remodeling customers throughout Portland and the surrounding area. Whether you're in Northeast Portland, the Pearl District, Southeast neighborhoods, Southwest, or the outlying areas, our contractors are ready to discuss your walk-in shower conversion project.
Beyond the Portland city limits, we also work in nearby communities and suburbs. Call to confirm service availability for your specific address.
Let's discuss your walk-in shower conversion project. We'll answer your questions, assess your space, and provide a clear picture of cost and timeline. Call now to schedule a consultation with a Portland bathroom remodeling contractor.
Call {{PHONE}} NowA walk-in shower conversion often pairs well with other bathroom upgrades. Explore related services we offer to complete your bathroom remodel:
Converting your existing bathtub to a spacious shower layout, perfect if you want to eliminate the tub entirely. Learn more about tub conversions.
Installing new shower systems with modern fixtures, custom tile work, and professional waterproofing throughout. Explore shower installation services.
Expert tile work for walls, floors, and special finishes that complement your new shower design perfectly. View tile installation details.
Durable, water-resistant flooring that works beautifully outside and around your new walk-in shower area. See flooring options.
Modernizing plumbing lines, adding supply runs for new fixtures, and ensuring proper drainage and code compliance. Check plumbing upgrade services.
Working with you to create a thoughtful, personalized bathroom layout that reflects your needs and style. Discover custom design services.
For a complete bathroom remodeling project in Portland, we handle all aspects from design through finishing. Contact us to discuss how we can transform your space.