Many Garland homes built in the 1980s and 90s, particularly in neighborhoods like Firewheel and Duck Creek, were designed with standard alcove tubs that few residents use today. As the housing market in Garland evolves, homeowners find that these builder-grade tubs take up valuable floor space without offering the luxury of a modern suite. Converting that bulky tub into a sleek, walk-in shower is one of the most practical upgrades you can make. It immediately creates a more open feel in smaller primary baths and addresses the common Texas humidity issues by replacing old grout and framing that may have unseen moisture damage.
At Alfaro Remodeling, we focus on high-quality conversions that prioritize both durability and appearance. Because we are working within your existing plumbing footprint, this process is significantly faster and less disruptive than a full-scale bathroom gut. We handle everything from the initial demo of your cast iron or fiberglass tub to the final installation of custom frameless glass. Our goal is to give you a shower that is easier to clean, safer to step into, and built to the standard required for North Dallas homes. We pull the necessary city permits and ensure every pan is flood-tested before a single piece of tile is laid.
Common issues we hear from Garland homeowners
- Stepping over high tub walls creates a slip-and-fall risk for seniors or those with mobility issues.
- Builder-grade fiberglass tubs look dated and often develop hairline cracks or yellowing over time.
- Standard alcove tubs feel cramped and make the entire bathroom appear smaller than it actually is.
- Wasted water and time spent waiting to fill a large tub that is rarely used for soaking.
- Old tub surrounds often hide mold or rot behind the walls, especially in older Garland ranch-style homes.
What's typically in a Garland tub to shower conversion project
- Complete removal of existing tub, porcelain tile, and subfloor inspection.
- Plumbing reconfiguration to transition from a 1.5-inch tub drain to a 2-inch shower drain.
- Installation of a pre-sloped pan and professional-grade waterproof membrane system.
- New pressure-balanced shower valve installation at a custom, ergonomic height.
- Floor-to-ceiling tile installation including a recessed soap niche and optional corner bench.
- Professional installation of heavy-duty frameless glass doors or low-profile panels.
- High-end hardware fitting including rainfall heads, hand-held sprayers, and matching trim.
- Final cleanup, grout sealing, and a detailed walk-through to ensure quality.
What drives the cost
- Tile Selection
- Prices vary by scope as large-format porcelain is generally more affordable to install than intricate natural stone or mosaic patterns.
- Plumbing Condition
- Labor costs may adjust if the existing subsurface drain pipe is damaged or requires significant relocation to center the new shower.
- Glass Enclosure
- Standard-size sliding doors are budget-friendly, while custom-cut frameless heavy glass adds cost but provides a high-end look.
- Fixture Upgrades
- The price varies by scope based on your choice of standard chrome finishes versus premium matte black or brushed gold hardware.
FAQs: Tub to Shower Conversion in Garland
Often paired with
While we are converting your tub, many homeowners in Garland choose to update their vanity tops or install new LVP flooring to complete the fresh look. We can also coordinate light fixture upgrades and painting to match your new shower aesthetic.