HF #228 | Christine Stoman

A shower's design is more than a style statement; it is a long-term investment in the home's functionality. Therefore, when planning a bath-to-shower conversion, it is worth a thorough think-through.

Which one uses the most water: a half-filled bathtub or a 10-minute shower?

According to AI (Gemini 2.5 Flash), an average bathtub holds around 120-150 litres of water. Filling it halfway would use approximately 60-75 litres. On the other hand, a ten-minute shower depends on the showerhead's flow rate. A standard showerhead uses about 9-12 litres of water per minute, hence 90-120 litres for 10 minutes. The best option is a low-flow showerhead which uses about 6-8 litres of water per minute. That 10-minute shower would use 60-80 litres, roughly the equivalent of a bathtub half filled.

True to AI-form, Gemini has a word of advice: “The most economical option is a quick shower (5 minutes or less) with a low-flow showerhead.”

So, it is much of a muchness in terms of water usage. With your planning cap on your head, consider your budget, the plumbing and construction. There are risks involved that a junior DIYer should perhaps not attempt.

The type of shower determines the cost. A walk-in shower offers a seamless, open feel, often without a curb. It's great for accessibility. An enclosed shower would need a door or curtain to create a separate space. Speak to professionals about creating step-in access into an existing fiberglass, acrylic, steel or cast iron bathtub. This modification allows senior citizens easier access to the bath.

The existing plumbing is the most logical place for the new shower. However, if you want a total bathroom revamp, check with your local authority to see if you need a permit for the renovation. This is especially important if you're making significant changes to the plumbing or structure. Proper ventilation (a good fan or opposite windows) is vital to prevent mould and mildew growth.

Depending on the materials you choose, your budget will need some flexibility. A shower pan or base could be made from acrylic, fiberglass, tile or stone. A pre-formed pan is easier to install than a custom tiled floor. The walls can be tiled, acrylic/fiberglass panels, or stone slabs. Tiles offer exciting design choices but require more work and maintenance (grout cleaning).

Choosing the correct door is vital. Who wants a half circle of water drip on the bathmat where you are supposed to be drying off? Options are glass (framed or frameless, swinging or horizontal sliders). Alternatively, a long shower curtain can keep the runoff inside the cubicle.

And that showerhead: it makes or breaks a shower experience. Consider a hand-held showerhead so that water can reach your nether regions.

Before you begin any demolition, turn off the main water valve to your home. Carefully remove the old bathtub and taps. This is messy, so have your rubble removal plan in place beforehand.

Inspect the existing pipes. Upgrade old pipes or re-route them if necessary. If you're moving the drain, a plumber's expertise is crucial. Check the subfloor for any water damage or rot. Waterproofing of the shower floor and walls must be done with meticulous care to prevent future leaks and mould. Silicone all seams to prevent water from seeping through.

After all is done, the proof is in the pudding: hopefully nothing is leaking.