Shower & Bathtub Installation & Repair

Yes, it’s best to hire a licensed and certified plumber and not a handyman.

An unprofessional installation can cause a host of problems.

• Water build-up from poor drainage can cause structural damage or mold growth.
• Pipes can leak or burst if the drain line can’t handle the water load.
• Water can leak through faulty seals and caulking, damaging drywall or discoloring flooring.
• An improperly sealed shower door will let water escape.
• Unlevel showers contribute to slips and falls.
• Poor installation leads to problems with plumbing fixtures like faucets and valves.
• Shoddy installation can also cause leaks in built-in shelving units.

You may save a few dollars in the short term with a discount or DIY installation, but in the long run, you could invite repair bills that far exceed the cost of an installation done right.

The cost of bathtub repair varies greatly depending on the type of repair and the labor involved.

Generally, minor fixes like replacing caulking or fixing a leaky faucet will cost less than $200. Significant repairs like replacing cracked tiles or dealing with water damage may cost $500 or more.

These costs don’t include materials. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to consult a professional plumber.

If you’re a confident DIYer with some plumbing experience, you may be able to replace your bathtub. But significant changes to the plumbing or tile work should be left to a licensed plumber.

Replacing a bathtub requires expertise in tearing out existing structures, installing drainage and water supply pipes, and sealing walls and fixtures. Plumbers are trained professionals who can handle complex jobs efficiently and safely.

Minor touch-ups like replacing caulking or repairing leaks take only an hour or two. More complicated repairs may take several days, especially if the plumber has to order replacement parts.

Reputable plumbers will give you an estimate of time and cost before they proceed with a repair. And they’ll go ahead with the repair only if you consent.

Epoxy putty will seal small cracks in fiberglass. Deeper cracks or chips require a resin and glass fibers patch kit. With more extensive damage, you may have to replace part of the shower pan or wall.

The cheapest shower replacement is a pre-made model that fits the space. You may be able to purchase one from a discount store or find one online. Avoid custom-built showers; they require much more time to install and cost more than prefabricated alternatives.

Depending on the extent of your bathtub’s damage, your options include:

• Resurfacing or refinishing
• Reglazing: replacing the old finish with an updated one
• Epoxy putty and patch kits can repair cracks or chips
• Replacement faucets and valves can fix leaks and poor drainage

At least once a week. Mildew, soap scum, and other residue build up over time and can damage your bathtub or shower surfaces. Cleaning with an all-purpose cleaner or vinegar solution will keep your bathroom fresh and prevent expensive repairs.

Schedule regular deep cleanings with a commercial bathroom cleaner to eliminate germs and grime from shower surfaces.

Water seeping behind the grout can cause mold, mildew, and water damage.

Act quickly if you notice discolored areas on your shower walls or floors. Seal any visible cracks in grout and tiles with a waterproof sealer. Consult a professional plumber for more extensive repairs.

Yes – but only if the surface is nonporous. Porcelain, fiberglass, acrylic, and enamel surfaces are suitable for painting; concrete and marble are not.

Use paint specifically designed for bathrooms and showers to prevent peeling or chipping. Before painting, sand any rough edges with fine-grit sandpaper and apply a primer.