Replacing a bathtub with a shower is a decision that requires careful consideration, especially when it comes to choosing the right tiles. The tile selection process differs depending on whether it’s a complete bathroom renovation or just a tub-to-shower conversion.
In the case of a complete renovation, the decision is relatively straightforward. You can choose the color and style freely, without any restrictions imposed by existing elements. However, when converting a bathtub to a shower, the choice of tiles is influenced by the existing fixtures and fittings, making it a bit more challenging.
Before choosing tiles for the tub-to-shower conversion, consider the following:
-
Measure the space: Accurately measure the area occupied by the bathtub. This will determine the size of the shower tray and the amount of tiles needed for the walls. It’s also helpful for obtaining a more precise cost estimate.
-
Protect the tiles: During the conversion process, it’s essential to protect the tiles near the bathtub to prevent damage. Taking this precaution will save you from the additional expense of replacing more tiles.
-
Be cautious during removal: Removing the bathtub requires caution to avoid damaging other components, such as faucets or surrounding tiles. Hiring a skilled technician is highly recommended for this task.
-
Invest in slip-resistant surfaces: Consider investing in slip-resistant shower trays or tiles to prevent accidents and ensure safety.
-
Keep spare tiles: It’s advisable to store a few extra tiles, about 10% of the total area, in case any of them get damaged over time. Alternatively, you can keep a sample of the tile for future reference.
-
Explore all tile options: If you’re unsure about which tiles to choose, contact us at our online tile store, Trestile, and our specialists will gladly assist you in making the right decision.
When replacing a bathtub with a shower, you’ll likely encounter an issue due to the height difference. The area previously concealed by the bathtub will now be exposed, requiring tiles to fill the gap. However, finding the exact same tiles might be challenging due to changing trends in tile designs.
To maintain the bathroom’s aesthetic, you’ll need to explore alternatives and combine the existing tiles, even if they are no longer in line with current trends. At Trestile, our online tile store, you’ll find a wide selection of materials that will perfectly match the style and aesthetic you want for your bathroom.
Here are some tile material options for the tub-to-shower conversion:
-
Glass: Glass tiles offer a sleek finish and are easy to clean. They come in mesh-backed sheets, making installation a breeze. At Trestile, we have a wide range of glass imitation tiles that will complement your bathtub-to-shower conversion.
-
Porcelain: All our tiles are porcelain, known for their quality and durability in wet areas. They come in a variety of prices, ensuring there’s an option for every budget.
-
Stone: Stone tiles create a unique and perfect style for industrial or rustic bathrooms.
-
Mosaic: Mosaic tiles are specifically designed to withstand wet environments, making them ideal for shower areas. They are widely used for their quality and durability, especially in swimming pools.
The height of the tile installation plays a crucial role in the final aesthetic of your bathroom. You can choose from three different height options:
-
Basic tiling: This option is suitable when the faucet is at an ideal height. The tiles are installed within the space left by the removed bathtub.
-
Standard tiling: In cases where the faucet is at a lower level, the tiling needs to be extended to accommodate the new shower fixture.
-
Full tiling: If you want a complete bathroom transformation, consider tiling from floor to ceiling. This option creates distinct areas within the bathroom.
The duration of a bathtub-to-shower conversion project depends on the chosen materials and the layout of the bathroom. Typically, it takes between 2 and 3 days to complete the necessary plumbing and construction work.
Before starting the conversion, keep in mind that there will be some debris and dust. It’s best to remove towels and decorations from the bathroom to protect them during the process.
At Trestile, our online tile store, you can conveniently purchase a wide range of tiles for your bathtub-to-shower conversion. To help you make the right choice, we offer a sample service where you can order up to 5 tile samples for a fee of €15 (covers shipping cost). The samples will be delivered to your doorstep within 48-72 hours. If you decide to place a larger order, the sample fee will be deducted from your final invoice. The final order will be delivered within 5-7 days, depending on stock availability.
If you have any questions or want to explore our tile collection, feel free to contact us through our website, Facebook, Instagram, or phone. Our team of experts is always ready to assist you.
At Trestile, our tiles have no history until you bring them home and become the storyteller, giving them a tale to tell in your bathroom.
