InstallationUpdated June 14, 2026
Many homes in River Forest were built 50 to 100 years ago. Aging tubs and outdated bathroom layouts can make daily routines harder, especially if you want better safety and accessibility. Converting a bathtub to a walk-in shower is one of the most practical ways to upgrade your bathroom, whether you own a historic bungalow or a Colonial Revival house. Our team handles these projects with an eye on plumbing lifespan, drainage, and lasting value for your property.
Why Homeowners Choose Walk-In Showers
Older tubs can be hard to step over, especially in homes where the bathroom hasn't been updated in decades. Walk-in showers offer low thresholds, making them much easier to enter and exit. This reduces slip risks and fits well with universal design, a major plus if mobility is a concern. Showers also free up floor space and create a more open feel, which is valuable in houses with smaller bathrooms from earlier eras.
What to Consider Before Starting the Conversion
Plumbing isn't just about swapping out fixtures. In River Forest, many homes have galvanized or cast iron drain lines that could be reaching the end of their service life. Old supply lines can leak or clog, especially if you're already noticing low water pressure or slow drains. During a tub-to-shower conversion, we inspect all accessible plumbing in that wall. If we see corroded galvanized pipes, it's usually smart to consider repiping or at least replacing the worst sections.
Clay-rich soil and a flat yard can also spell trouble for drains if the slope isn't correct. We make sure shower floor drains are properly sloped and vented, connecting to existing stacks or updating lines so you don't end up with standing water or gurgling noises. If persistent drainage issues have been a problem in your home, connecting with our drain cleaning pros before or during your remodel can keep those new fixtures trouble-free.
The Plumbing Steps in a Tub to Shower Remodel
- Turn off water supply and protect the work area.
- Remove the existing tub and surrounding wall material.
- Inspect (and update if needed) water supply and drain lines.
- Rough-in new supply lines, shutoffs, and shower valve height to meet modern standards.
- Install a new shower receptor or build a tiled shower pan with the right slope and waterproofing.
- Fit the new drain assembly, tie into building vent, and check for leaks.
- Finish walls, install fixtures, and test everything for performance and code compliance.
Sometimes, extra upgrades like adding a pressure balancing valve are necessary. This stops sudden hot or cold surges if another fixture is used elsewhere in the house.
Addressing Common Challenges in River Forest Homes
Homes here often surprise us with what's behind the walls. Old tile, thick cement, and decades-old framing can mean a little extra demolition. We look for any signs of water staining, soft subfloors, or mold before rebuilding. If you find leaking or suspect hidden water damage, our leak detection team locates the source and makes sure it's fixed for good before new finishes go up.
In houses with historic value, we can work to preserve original details outside the wet area. If your remodel involves moving or splitting supply lines, we use materials compatible with Lake Michigan's moderately hard water. This keeps minerals from building up too quickly. We also recommend high-quality fixtures designed to handle our local water chemistry, and our fixture installation team can help with the final look.
Upgrades That Make a Difference
Beyond accessibility, a new walk-in shower is a chance to rethink drainage and waterproofing. We often suggest larger shower drains (2-inch instead of 1½-inch) for better flow, especially if you have multiple shower heads. Waterproof membranes, proper curb height, and a reliable P-trap are all standard, not extras.
If you've had issues with sewer backups, it's smart to address these before finishing the shower. Older homes around the Des Plaines River sometimes rely on aging clay-tile sewer lines. Tree roots and heavy storms can cause slow drains or backups. You can plan your remodel to include sewer line inspection or repair as part of the project. That way, your investment isn't threatened by hidden problems under the slab.
Keep Your Investment Protected
Bathroom remodels are a big improvement, but they only last when the underlying plumbing is solid. If your water heater is showing age or struggling to keep up with new shower fixtures, it might be time to review water heater service options as part of the project. Local water conditions can shorten the life of old tanks, and an undersized heater will leave you with short or cold showers.
Our crew is used to working in tight spaces and around vintage building details in River Forest homes. If you're considering a tub-to-shower conversion, we recommend planning with both comfort and code in mind for results that last through the seasons and hold up well during our cold, snowy winters.
If you're ready to discuss converting your old tub to a walk-in shower, our licensed team is here to help you plan every step. Call us at 708-734-6186 to schedule a site visit or ask plumbing questions specific to River Forest homes.