Step‑by‑Step Roadmap to a Tub‑to‑Shower Flip in Marana

Picture this: you pull the curtain back and a bright, open shower greets you, no tub in sight, just clean lines and a splash of modern style. That feeling of stepping into a space that actually works for you is what drives homeowners in Marana to swap their old tubs for sleek showers.

Beyond the looks, a tub‑to‑shower flip saves water, cuts down on cleaning time, and adds serious resale value. It’s a smart move that fits the desert climate and the fast‑paced lifestyle of our community.

Ready for a no‑nonsense, step‑by‑step roadmap that takes you from demolition to the perfect finish? Keep reading and you’ll see exactly how to make the transformation happen without a hitch.

Assessing Your Space, Budget, and Local Building Codes

Measure the Footprint

Grab a tape measure and walk the perimeter of your current tub. Note the width, depth, and ceiling height—these numbers dictate the shower size you can actually fit. Don’t guess; write them down and compare them to standard shower dimensions.

Check for obstacles: door swings, vent fans, and any low‑lying pipes. A quick sketch on graph paper helps you see where the new shower will sit without crushing the flow of traffic.

Set a Realistic Budget

Start with a ballpark figure—most Marana tub‑to‑shower flips land between $7,000 and $12,000. Break it down into materials, labor, and contingency.

• Materials: shower base, tile, fixtures, waterproofing.
• Labor: demolition, plumbing, carpentry, finishing.
• Contingency: 10‑15% for surprises like hidden water damage.

Ask for at least three quotes from local contractors. The lowest bid isn’t always the best; look for a balance of price, reputation, and warranty.

Check Marana Building Codes

Before you swing a sledgehammer, pull the Marana Planning & Development website and locate the plumbing and waterproofing requirements. You’ll need a permit for any plumbing re‑routing or structural changes.

Key items to verify:

• Minimum slope for the shower pan (usually 1/4" per foot).
• Approved waterproofing membranes and sealants.
• Clearance for grab bars if you’re aiming for accessibility.

Getting the paperwork right the first time saves you from costly re‑inspections later.

Selecting the Ideal Shower Design and Fixtures for Marana Homes

Shower Layout Options

First, decide how the space will flow. A corner alcove saves square footage, while a linear bench adds a spa‑like feel. Think about traffic patterns – you don’t want a door that swings into a towel rack.

• Corner niche – perfect for tight bathrooms.
• Walk‑in with a curbless entry – great for accessibility.
• Dual‑head rain system – adds a touch of luxury.

Materials That Beat the Desert Heat

Marana’s sun can turn cheap tile into a crack‑fest. Choose porcelain or natural stone with a low water absorption rating. They stay cool, look sharp, and last decades.

• Porcelain tiles – durable, low maintenance.
• Quarry tile – slip‑resistant, ideal for wet zones.
• Glass panels – modern, easy to clean.

Fixture Choices That Pay Off

Don’t skimp on the hardware. A single‑handle thermostatic valve gives you precise temperature control and saves water. Pair it with a water‑saving showerhead to keep the bill low without sacrificing pressure.

• Thermostatic valve – consistent heat.
• Low‑flow showerhead – eco‑friendly.
• Grab bars or built‑in benches – boost safety and resale value.

Demolition, Plumbing Re‑Routing, and Structural Preparations

Clearing the Old Tub

First, shut off the water main and disconnect the supply lines – a simple twist and pull does the trick. Remove the tub by breaking the caulk, unscrewing the flange, and lifting the unit with a helper; it’s heavier than it looks.

Once the tub is out, you’ll see the subfloor. Check for rot or water damage and replace any compromised plywood before moving on.

Rerouting the Pipes

Marana’s code requires the drain to sit at least 1‑inch below the shower base. Shift the drain by cutting the existing PVC and installing a new line that slopes toward the main stack.

Supply lines for the shower head and controls often need a new route. Use flexible copper or PEX, keep the runs short, and secure them with clamps to avoid future leaks.

• Mark the new drain location before you cut.
• Test the new plumbing with water before closing walls.
• Seal all joints with plumber’s tape and primer.

Structural Prep for the New Shower

Before the base goes down, reinforce the floor if the tub was bearing extra weight. Add a layer of ½‑inch cement board over the subfloor for a solid, water‑tight foundation.

Install a vapor barrier, then lay the pre‑sloped shower pan. This creates the perfect slope and keeps moisture from seeping into the joists.

Installing the Shower Base, Walls, and Waterproofing System

Lay the foundation with the right base

Start by positioning a pre‑sloped shower pan that matches your floor layout. Level it on a bed of thin‑set mortar, then double‑check the slope toward the drain—no water should linger.

Secure the pan with the manufacturer’s screws, then run a quick leak test before moving on. Trust the test; a tiny drip now saves a flood later.

Wall panels and the waterproofing membrane

Attach cement backer board or a waterproof wall panel system to the studs, leaving a ¼‑inch gap at the floor for the membrane. Use corrosion‑resistant screws and a thin‑set adhesive for a rock‑solid bond.

Roll out a liquid waterproofing membrane over the entire shower cavity—walls, floor, and the seam where they meet. Let it cure fully, then tape the joints with a high‑quality fiberglass mesh tape for extra strength.

Seal, set, and inspect

Install the shower curb or threshold, sealing every edge with a silicone bead that won’t crack under desert heat. Apply a second coat of waterproofing over the curb for a watertight finish.

• Check all seams for gaps.
• Run water at full pressure for five minutes.
• Look for any signs of seepage before you tile.

Tiling, Grouting, and Adding Finishing Elements (lighting, accessories, accessibility)

Start with a clean, level substrate—any bumps will show up under the smallest grout line. Back‑butt your tiles to the wall studs, then lay out a dry run to catch any awkward cuts before the mortar sets. When you’re ready, spread a thin‑set that’s firm but workable, and press each tile into place with a gentle twist to lock it in.

Grout and Seal

Choose a sanded grout for wider joints and a non‑sanded version for tighter seams; the right choice prevents cracking later. After the grout cures (usually 24 hours), wipe the surface with a damp sponge, then apply a penetrating sealer to keep moisture out and stains at bay. A quick silicone caulk bead where the wall meets the shower base adds that extra barrier against leaks.

Finishing Touches

Lighting, hardware, and accessibility upgrades turn a plain shower into a spa‑like retreat. Pick LED fixtures that cast even light without heating the space—perfect for Marana’s sunny days. Add grab bars, a low‑threshold entry, and a handheld showerhead for comfort and safety.

• LED recessed lights or a waterproof vanity light for bright, even illumination.
• Chrome or brushed‑nickel towel bars and hooks that match your fixtures.
• Built‑in bench or niche for shampoo and soap, keeping the floor clear.
• ADA‑compliant grab bars and a curbless entry for easy access.
• Smart shower controls for precise temperature and water‑saving presets.

Case Study: A Marana Tub‑to‑Shower Conversion That Boosted Home Value

The Project Snapshot

When the Martinez family bought their 1998 ranch‑style home in Marana, the bathroom still featured a dated claw‑foot tub. They wanted a sleek, low‑maintenance shower that could handle the desert heat.

We stripped the tub, re‑routed the plumbing, and installed a curbless, glass‑enclosed shower with a linear drain. The whole job wrapped up in just 12 days, staying under the $9,500 budget they set.

Numbers That Talk

• Water usage dropped 30% – a win for the planet and the utility bill.
• Appraisal after the remodel added $12,000 to the home’s market value.
• Potential resale price rose by roughly 7% compared to similar homes with tubs.

What the New Owner Said

“Walking into the shower feels like stepping into a spa,” says the Martinez’s. “Cleaning is a breeze, and we love the extra space for our kids’ toys.”

Real estate agents in the area now list the property as “shower‑ready” – a phrase that pulls in more qualified buyers and shortens the time on market.

Final Words

Now that you’ve seen the whole process laid out, the only thing left is to put the plan into motion. Don’t wait for the perfect moment—the desert heat makes a fresh shower a daily win.

Take the First Step

• Grab a free quote from a local Marana pro.
• Check the Tub to Shower Conversion page for design ideas.
• Set a realistic budget and schedule.

When you’re ready, call a trusted contractor, lock in permits, and watch the old tub disappear. It’s that simple. Your new shower will pay for itself in water savings, time saved, and added curb appeal.

Marana Bathroom Remodel

Marana Bathroom Remodel brings over a decade of specialized bathroom renovation experience to homeowners throughout Marana, Arizona. Their team combines local knowledge with skilled craftsmanship to deliver functional, stylish spaces that reflect the unique needs of the community.