How To Convert a Tub or Walk-In Shower to a Curbless Shower

Converting to a Barrier-Free Shower: A Modern Upgrade

Considering a switch from an old tub or curbed shower to as leek, barrier-free, curbless shower? This upgrade not only enhances accessibility for mobility devices or aging-in-place needs but also elevates your bathroom’s aesthetic with a modern, open feel. To ensure a seamless transformation while maintaining structural integrity and waterproofing, hiring an experienced contractor is key. Here’s what you need to know about this renovation.

Achieving Proper Drainage

A curbless shower requires a sloped floor for effective drainage without a step at the entrance. This is typically achieved by lowering the shower floor rather than raising the surrounding bathroom floor, which would introduce a step at the bathroom’s entrance. In new construction, the floor can be designed with a lowered shower area, but retrofitting an existing space demands a careful approach to preserve structural stability.

Instead of cutting floor joists, which could weaken the entire floor system, we remove the subfloor (the plywood or wood planks beneath your tile or hardwood) in the shower area. New wooden supports are attached to the joists, positioned ¾ inch below their tops, using structural screws and adhesive. A new ¾-inch plywood subfloor is then installed, creating a lowered shower floor that aligns with the joists.

Most homes have a subfloor of 5/8 to ¾ inch thick, often with an additional ¼- or 3/8-inch underlay beneath the tile. This provides about 1 inch of depth to work with. With a standard shower slope of ¼ inch per foot and an additional ¼ inch for the drain, a shower can extend up to 3 feet from the drain in all directions, allowing for a spacious 6x6-foot curbless shower.

Ensuring Waterproofing

Without a curb, some water may escape the shower area, making comprehensive waterproofing essential. The best approach is to replace the entire bathroom floor with a continuous waterproof membrane beneath new tiles. Paired with tile baseboards, this creates a durable, water-resistant space that can handle splashes without worry.

Conclusion

Converting to a curbless shower is a smart investment for accessibility, safety, and style. By focusing on proper drainage and robust waterproofing, you can create a spacious, modern bathroom that’s both functional and visually appealing. Partner with a skilled contractor to navigate the technical details, and you’ll enjoy a worry-free, elegant upgrade that enhances your home for years to come.