InstallationUpdated July 3, 2026
Old bathtubs can be hard to step into, especially in homes with aging family members or anyone with mobility challenges. Many Des Plaines homeowners want a walk-in shower to make daily routines easier and safer. A tub-to-shower conversion means more than swapping fixtures. The plumbing behind your walls, the type of drain, and how water is delivered all affect how well the new shower will work for years to come.
Why Tub-to-Shower Conversions Work for Local Homes
The housing stock in Des Plaines includes both older houses with galvanized or cast iron pipes and newer builds with copper or PEX. In either case, bathrooms often have tubs that take up needed space or pose a slip risk. A walk-in shower can solve that, but only if the work is done to match the existing plumbing and structural setup. Clay soils in the area and frequent freeze-thaw cycles add extra pressure on drains and supply lines, so we plan any conversion to hold up against these common issues.
What to Think About Before Removing a Tub
Before you start picking tile colors, line up the practical details. The drain line under the tub is usually 1.5 inches, but standard showers work best with a 2-inch drain for better flow. If your house is older, that drain might be cast iron and could need an upgrade to modern PVC. Your main water supply might need adjusting for new valves and shower fixtures. We check the integrity of supply lines, especially in older homes where mineral buildup from the moderately hard Lake Michigan water can slow flow over time.
- Measure the space to confirm your new shower fits local code requirements for width and depth.
- Locate the main shutoff valve before starting any demolition.
- Inspect under the tub for water damage or signs of leaks needing repair.
- Plan for proper waterproofing and a sloped shower pan so water drains fully.
- Decide if you want extra features like a bench, grab bars, or upgraded fixtures.
Our team always checks for existing leaks and recommends leak detection and repair if there's any sign of moisture where it should not be. This helps avoid future rot or mold once the new shower is in place.
Key Steps in a Tub-to-Shower Installation
Every job starts with shutting off water at the main, then disconnecting and removing the old tub and surround. In some Des Plaines homes, we run into old galvanized supply lines that should be replaced with copper or PEX to avoid future corrosion and rust buildup. After demo, we rework the drain for a 2-inch line if needed and make sure the P-trap is set to prevent sewer gases from entering the room. For homes on slab or with tricky clay soil, we take extra care with concrete cuts and drainage angles.
Once the plumbing is set, we install a shower pan with correct slope, waterproof the walls, then put in the fixtures and glass doors. We always pressure test new supply lines, check every connection, and clear any debris from shutoff valves so nothing restricts flow. The last step is sealing the joints to keep water from getting behind the walls.
Choosing Fixtures and Features
Walk-in showers can be as basic or as custom as you like. Most homeowners in Des Plaines opt for an anti-scald mixing valve, hand-held showerhead, and a low curb or curb-free entry. With hard water from Lake Michigan, we advise choosing fixtures built to stand up to mineral deposits, these make cleaning easier in the long run. Our faucet and fixture installation service can help you upgrade to models that resist buildup and keep their finish looking new.
Common Plumbing Issues to Watch For
In our area, old pipes are a regular cause of slow drains, leaks, and low water pressure. Clay soils can shift over time, putting extra stress on your home's foundation and plumbing, especially when you change the layout of a bathroom. Here are warning signs to catch before your project gets too far:
- Water stains or soft spots around the tub area
- Low flow at existing faucets or showerheads
- Standing water in the drain after using the tub
- Rusty or discolored water on startup
- Musty odors from behind or under the tub
If these show up, it's smart to get a pipe repair or repiping inspection before investing in a new shower.
Related Upgrades for Lasting Results
Walk-in shower conversions are a good time to check on other plumbing. Hard water shortens the life of water heaters by building up sediment. If your hot water runs out too fast or isn't hot enough, take a look at water heater services as part of your remodel. With the risk of basement leaks in Des Plaines from local soils and water table, we also recommend checking sump pump systems before finishing any bathroom upgrade. Keep everything watertight above and below ground.
No matter the age or type of home, our crew knows the plumbing quirks that come up in Des Plaines bathrooms. If you're ready to make your bathroom safer and more usable, call us at 224-257-7145. We handle the details so you can enjoy your new walk-in shower.