When was the last time anyone took a bath in that tub? For most Portland households the answer is “years ago” — while everyone showers daily around a tub wall that makes the room feel smaller and the step-over higher. A tub-to-shower conversion swaps the space-eater for a walk-in shower you’ll actually use, usually within the existing footprint.
Kit Liner vs. Custom Tile — Know What You’re Buying
The franchises advertising “one-day conversions” install acrylic liner kits over your existing walls. They’re fast and cheap — and they look like it. K&H builds the other kind: custom tiled showers with real waterproofing systems — membranes, sloped pans, sealed penetrations — glass panels, and tile you choose. It’s the difference between covering the problem and rebuilding the space.
What a K&H Conversion Includes
- ✓ Tub-out and haul-away — including cast iron (we’ve wrestled plenty)
- ✓ Waterproofing to manufacturer spec — membrane systems, sloped pan, sealed niches
- ✓ Tile you choose — floor-to-ceiling walls, niche storage, bench seating if you want it
- ✓ Glass panel or door — frameless options that keep the room open
- ✓ Plumbing updates — new valve, head, and controls, permitted and inspected
- ✓ Curbless options — aging-in-place entries without the institutional look
Good to Know Before You Convert
One honest note: if your home has only one tub, keep resale in mind — families with small kids often want at least one bathtub in the house. Multi-bath home? Convert the primary and keep the hall tub. One-bath bungalow? We’ll talk through it honestly at the consultation. Small bathroom? A conversion pairs perfectly with our small-bathroom remodeling approach.
Trade the tub for the shower you’ll use every day.
Free consultation and itemized estimate — response within one business day.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion FAQ
How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost in Portland?
Acrylic kit installs from the franchises run a few thousand dollars; a custom tiled conversion with real waterproofing and a glass panel is typically more — where exactly depends on tile scope, valve work, and glass choice. We’ll give you a free, itemized estimate with real numbers for your bathroom.
How long does a conversion take?
A custom tiled conversion typically takes one to two weeks — demo, waterproofing, tile, cure times, and glass. Kit liners are faster because they skip most of that; it shows in the result.
Will it fit my existing bathroom footprint?
Almost always — the shower goes where the tub was (a standard tub footprint is 30×60 inches, which makes a generous shower). No walls need to move for most conversions.
Do I need a permit for a tub-to-shower conversion in Portland?
Yes, when plumbing changes are involved — which a conversion includes. We pull the City of Portland permit and handle inspections as part of the project.
Exploring a bigger update? See full bathroom remodeling, the project gallery, or call (971) 220-6397.
