Taking a bath in a stand-up shower is among the best ways to relax after a tiring schedule. But you need to make some investment to install such a shower. So, what is the cost to install a stand-up shower?
The average cost of installing a stand-up shower is about $1,150, including labor. However, this figure will vary depending on the style of the stall, added embellishments, and local labor rates. Excluding labor costs, installing a shower stall can cost a low amount of about $700.
This guide will help you determine the average cost of installing a stand-up shower. It also has additional costs and the factors determining the cost of installing a shower. Read on!
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Shower?
There are two main types of showers namely the full shower and the shower and bathtub combination. Each of these types offers merits and drawbacks based on cost and efficiency. A stand-up shower costs about $1,150, and a shower and bathtub combination costs about $2,000.
Cost of Installing a Shower Per Square Foot
Common shower installation materials such as tiles cost below $30 and more than $80 per square foot. This figure varies depending on the intricacy and quality of the design and tiles. Ceramic tiles are less expensive, while upscale options such as handcrafted natural stones are more expensive.
If you are looking for a slip-resistant finish, it would be best if you installed smaller tiles. You’ll also need to install a shower pan below the floor, which will trap any water that penetrates through the grout and tiles. On average, a shower pan costs some hundred dollars, slightly more than $1,000.
Cost of Different Types of Showers
Here is a detailed cost of the main types of showers:
1. Full Shower
The average cost of installing a stand-alone shower is about $1,150. This cost includes labor and varies depending on the embellishments added, the style of the stall, and the local labor rates. However, a simple shower stall costs around $700, including labor.
A shower liner( a plastic or acrylic sleeve creeping over an existing tub or shower) can cost $750. A stand-up shower occupies little space compared to a shower and bathtub combination and costs much less.
A shower without a tub utilizes less water (mainly when it uses a low-flow shower head), which helps minimize the overall environmental and installation costs. This design is greatly preferred for aging homeowners since it lacks step barrier walls and provides space for installing additional features such as benches.
2. Shower and Bathtub Combination
A shower and bathtub combination costs around $2,000, labor costs included. However, this figure varies depending on the embellishments added, the style of the tub, and the local labor rates.
Installing a general-purpose tub costs as little as $625, including labor. Investing in a shower and bathtub combination can be rewarding in terms of the resale value since most homeowners with children hunt for a house with a minimum of one bathtub. In addition, securing a shower and bathtub provides two features in one.
Due to the size and plumbing configurations, it is mostly less expensive and easier to convert a shower and bathtub combination into a stand-up shower than vice versa. Further, the shower and bathtub combination require quite some more space.
Additional Costs When Installing a Shower
The overall cost of installing a stand-up shower will vary depending on the features and fixtures you choose. Often, different fixtures come with different costs, and some features, such as built-in storage and glass doors, can increase the price.
1. Fixtures
Faucets and fixtures are available in different finishes and come at various prices. A showerhead costs as low as $20 and may extend to a few hundred dollars for more advanced models.
According to research, 38 percent of homeowners match fixtures around their bathrooms using satin nickel or brushed fixtures, while 28 percent use polished chrome.
Typically, fixtures with a soft nickel finish, regarded as low maintenance (as they show fingerprints and smudges) are more expensive than shinier chrome.
2. Shower Curtains and Glass Doors
Vintage shower curtains are easier to maintain and less costly than glass doors. This is because they require high maintenance due to mildew build-up and are likely to wear. Also, they require regular replacement.
A panel or shower glass door offers a glossy look and is easy to maintain clean, but it comes at a higher price. On average, a new glass shower door costs between $600 and $1,500, including labor costs.
However, this cost may vary depending on the enclosure’s style and the glass type.
3. Built-In Storage and Benches
A typical built-in storage costs $100 to extra hundred dollars, depending on the unit’s waterproofing costs and complexity. A built-in shower bench, specifically for aged users and users with leg complications, generally costs around $250 to $500 or more, depending on the style of the enclosure or the type of glass material used.
4. Shower Mixing Valves
The type of shower mixing valve you choose will also affect the total cost of your shower. There are two main types of shower mixing valves:
- Thermostatic Valves
These valves have two handles for water temperature and water volume. You can optimize the shower temperature to a certain temperature while setting the other valve to control the flow. Similarly, you can have different sources of water working alternatively.
This type of valve is quite expensive to purchase and install, costing between $400 to $1,200. The installation can take 3-4 hrs, with a labor hour rate of $45 to $65.
- Pressure Balancing Valves
This valve has one handle and works by detecting changes in water pressure between hot and cold lines. It functions by closing off the line at more pressure, helping maintain a balance between the two systems. It offers less control over your shower but is inexpensive to purchase and install.
This valve can cost you $150- $400 for the whole system and trim. Installation can take a maximum of two hours at a labor hour rate of $45-$65.
Factors Determining Shower Installation Costs
Various factors will affect the cost of installing your stand-up shower. Here are some of them:
1. Quality of Materials
Each shower fixture is available with various qualities. High-quality materials come at a costly price, while low-quality materials come at a low price. Thus, the quality of the fixture you choose for your shower will affect the cost of installing the shower.
2. Type of Shower
There are various showers, including power, electric, and mixer showers. The type of shower you choose will affect your overall cost of installing a stand-up shower. For instance, power showers are more expensive than electric and mixer showers.
3. Current Bathroom Fixtures
If you have an existing shower or bath cubicle, you will need to remove these fixtures before installing your new stand-up shower. The average cost of removing a bathtub is $400.
Also, you may need to pay an extra cost if you want to remove any fittings that will not be part of your new shower.
4. Location
Your location will also affect your shower installation costs. If you live in areas with high living standards, you will incur a higher installation cost and cost of purchase. Similarly, you will incur a lower shower installation cost if you live within an area of low standards.
5. Permits
Some states will require a permit for extensive home renovation involving plumbing work. Depending on your project, you may need plumbing or building permits. Each permit will cost about $250, depending on your state or city.
Summary
It will cost you around $1,150 to install a stand-up shower, including labor. However, this cost will vary depending on the added embellishments, the style of the stall, and your local labor rates.
Nonetheless, a stand-up shower is a less expensive shower design that will give you a breathtaking shower after a tiring schedule. With this information, you can easily budget for your next installation of a stand-up shower.