Bathtub Replacement

Replacing bathtubs with showers is popular in Denver, especially for guest bathrooms and aging-in-place remodels. Showers cost less to install ($4,000-$8,000 vs $5,000-$10,000 for tubs), use less water, and provide better accessibility. Peak Builders helps Denver homeowners evaluate tub-to-shower conversions based on household needs and resale considerations. Keep at least one bathtub in homes with children or when planning to sell to buyers with families. Master bathroom tub-to-shower conversions are common in Denver as homeowners prioritize larger, luxury showers with multiple shower heads and seating. Walk-in showers with curbless entry are ideal for aging-in-place remodels. Shower-only bathrooms are more water-efficient, important in Denver where water conservation matters. We design custom tile showers with proper waterproofing, adequate size, and features meeting your lifestyle needs.

The best bathtub materials for Denver homes are acrylic and cast iron because both handle temperature fluctuations well and provide longevity in Colorado's climate. Acrylic tubs ($800-$2,000) are lightweight, retain heat well, resist chipping, and come in many styles and colors. Cast iron tubs ($1,500-$3,000) are extremely durable, retain heat excellently, and provide luxury feel but are very heavy. Peak Builders installs both options depending on preferences and budget. Acrylic-fiberglass composites ($500-$1,200) work well for budget remodels but are less durable than acrylic. Stone resin freestanding tubs ($2,000-$5,000) provide luxury aesthetics with excellent heat retention. We avoid cultured marble tubs which scratch easily. Tub material choice affects installation costs - cast iron requires reinforced floors while acrylic is lightweight and easier to install.

Bathtub replacement in Denver takes 3-5 days for standard alcove tubs or 5-7 days for freestanding tubs including plumbing modifications and tile work. Drop-in tub replacements take 4-6 days depending on deck construction requirements. Peak Builders coordinates all trades to complete bathtub replacements efficiently. Timeline breakdown: old tub removal (0.5-1 day), plumbing modifications if needed (0.5-1 day), tub installation and waterproofing (1 day), tile surround installation (2-3 days), grout and caulk (1 day), fixture installation (0.5 day). Cast iron tub removal adds time because of weight. Custom tile work or floor reinforcement for heavy tubs extends timelines. Denver permit processing occurs before work begins (1-2 weeks) and final inspection after completion. We schedule work continuously to minimize bathroom downtime.

Bathtub refinishing (reglazing) costs $300-$600 in Denver and works well for cosmetically damaged tubs with good structural condition, but only provides 3-5 year lifespan versus 15-25 years for tub replacement. Refinishing makes sense for budget constraints or unique vintage tubs. Peak Builders evaluates tubs to determine whether refinishing or replacement provides better value. Refinishing limitations: cannot fix structural damage, chips return if coating fails, strong chemical odors during application, and surfaces never quite as durable as original. Tub replacement allows layout improvements, updated plumbing fixtures, better waterproofing, and increased resale value. If your Denver bathroom needs other updates (tile, fixtures, plumbing), full tub replacement makes more sense. We recommend replacement for most bathroom remodels because marginally higher cost provides significantly better long-term results.

Standard bathtubs for Denver bathrooms are 60x30 inches (alcove tubs) for 5-foot tub spaces or 66-72 inches long for larger bathrooms. Soaking tubs range from 60-72 inches long and 32-36 inches wide for comfortable bathing. Freestanding tubs require 8x10 foot minimum bathroom space plus clearance all around. Peak Builders helps select bathtub sizes that fit your Denver bathroom dimensions while meeting building codes. Code requires 21 inches clear space in front of tubs and adequate door access (minimum 24 inch door width). Small bathrooms (5x8 feet) typically fit 60-inch alcove tubs while master bathrooms (10x12 feet) can accommodate freestanding or large soaking tubs. Japanese-style soaking tubs (shorter but deeper) work well in compact Denver bathrooms. We measure carefully and plan layouts to maximize tub size within your existing bathroom footprint.