Shower-to-Bathtub Conversion: Costs, Steps & Permits

Thinking about converting your shower into a bathtub? Here is the complete shower-to-bathtub conversion guide, from tub types to real costs and permits.In this episode of The Remodel Report, Chris and Jessica break down the entire shower-to-tub conversion process, the budget you should plan for, and the Northern Virginia permit rules most homeowners miss.TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Intro0:35 - Why convert a shower to a tub (4 key benefits)1:40 - Tub options: standard vs. walk-in2:30 - Planning and prep (order your tub early)3:25 - Removing the old shower (and the asbestos warning)4:20 - Installing the new tub, slope, and waterproofing5:20 - Why you cannot reuse the shower drain + weight/floor joists6:10 - Doors, faucets, diverter spouts, and storage6:55 - Design and decor that makes the space yours7:55 - What it really costs (and why labor is 60-70%)8:45 - Fairfax County permits, DPWES, and contractor licenses9:35 - Lightning round: DIY, timeline, resale, military shower method10:30 - Key takeaways11:00 - How to get startedA shower-to-bathtub conversion touches plumbing, the drain location, floor framing, waterproofing, and finishes. Key points covered:- Standard alcove/platform tubs (acrylic, enameled steel) vs. walk-in tubs with ADA-compliant seats and low thresholds- Order custom tubs early - lead times run 4 to 6 weeks- Showers use a center drain; tubs need a side drain 8 to 15 inches from the end wall, set at a quarter inch per foot slope- A filled cast iron tub can weigh 500 to 800 pounds vs. 150 to 200 for a shower base - plan for joist reinforcement- Waterproof with backer board and a membrane like RedGard before the surround goes on- Typical cost is about $6,000 all in; Bob Vila reports a $3,000 to $8,000 range, with labor at 60-70% of the total- Fairfax County requires plumbing and building permits via DPWES and the ePlan portal; verify your contractor holds a DPOR Class A and a Fairfax County BPOL license- Acrylic offers the best balance of heat retention and weight for most conversionsFull guide: https://www.usacabinetstore.com/shower-to-bathtub-conversion/Book a complimentary consultation: https://www.usacabinetstore.com/complimentary-consultation/Website: https://www.usacabinetstore.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/USACabinetStore/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usacabinetstore/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Usacabinetstore#BathroomRemodel #ShowerToTub #HomeRenovationShower to bathtub conversion guide covering tub types, installation steps, drain relocation, floor joist reinforcement, waterproofing, bathroom remodel cost, and Fairfax VA permits for homeowners across the DMV.