How Long to Install a Shower: What to Expect
How Long Does It Take to Install a Shower? Depending on the scope of your project, a new shower could be installed in as little as a day. In many cases, it will take two to three days when you take prep work and other considerations into account.
Let’s take a closer look at what impacts a shower installation timeline and whether you should do it yourself or hire a professional to do so on your behalf.
Quick Takeaways
- Most standard shower installations take one to two days
- Full shower replacements typically take two to three days
- Custom tile showers often take three to five days or more
- Plumbing changes and wall repairs can extend timelines
- Hiring a licensed plumber helps prevent delays
Average Shower Installation Time
A prefabricated shower can be installed in about a day while a shower replacement using the existing layout takes about a day or two to complete.
Converting a tub to a shower takes about three days on average while a full custom job can take anywhere from three days to a week or more.
What Affects How Long a Shower Installation Takes?
The size and scope of the project as well as the availability of materials will have a major impact on your shower installation timeline. Obtaining permits, the need to relocate drains or other components and the condition of drywall, wood and other materials in the bathroom can also influence the project timeline.
Shower Installation Timeline Step-by-Step
Day 1 – Demolition and Preparation
Assuming that the project is not using a prefabricated shower, the first day will typically be dedicated to removing the existing shower and checking for damage. After existing materials are removed, the bathroom can now be prepared for the new shower to be installed. The first steps are to inspect the plumbing and framing to determine if they need to be repaired or replaced.
Day 2 – Plumbing and Shower Installation
After demolition and prep work are complete, the focus turns to ensuring that plumbing is adequate for the new shower. After that is complete, the new shower can be installed assuming that materials are ready and that there aren’t any other issues that need to be resolved. Wall system or tile prep work will also begin at this stage.
Day 3 or Longer – Finishing Work
Tiles are installed and cured, the glass enclosure is installed and all fixtures are tested to ensure that they are properly sealed. Ideally, you’ll be able to walk into your new shower and use it as soon as the professionals leave your home.
Shower Replacement vs New Shower Installation Time
A replacement is typically faster than a new install because you’re using the existing layout. Therefore, it’s likely that the plumbing is already in good shape and all a professional will effectively need to do is take out the old shower and put the new one in.
If you choose to install the shower in a new location or convert from a tub to a shower, you will need to add time for remodeling to take place.
Can a Shower Be Installed in One Day?
A prefabricated shower can be installed in a single day in some circumstances. However, even if you can install a shower in a single day, it’s not always a great idea to do so. This is because you risk rushing the plumbing or waterproofing process, which can lead to leaks and other issues that can cause serious damage.
Common Delays That Extend Shower Installation Time
Hidden damage such as mold or wood rot will need to be dealt with before your new shower can go in. If materials can’t be sourced or take more time to cure, you’ll need to account for those variables as well.
Finally, design changes in the middle of a project may add several days to the overall timely. This may be especially true if permits are required before those changes can be made.
How to Keep Your Shower Installation on Schedule
Choosing your preferred materials beforehand means that you can confirm that they are available and affordable. You should also consider working with a licensed professional who is able to do the job in a timely and proper manner. Finally, you should seek a written estimate including a timeline for the proposed project.
Is It Faster to Hire a Professional Plumber?
A professional plumber is going to have the tools and experience needed to ensure that the job is done right and in a matter of days. In some cases, attempting to do the work may violate local building codes as well as put yourself and your home in harm’s way.
FAQ About Shower Installation Time
How long does it take to install a walk-in shower?
It will typically take at least two days to install a walk-in shower depending on the scope of the job.
How long does a tile shower installation take?
It can take anywhere from three to five days to have this type of project completed.
Can I use my shower the same day it’s installed?
In most cases, your new shower should be ready for use after it passes leak testing.
How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take?
This type of project will typically take about two to three days to complete.
Does replacing shower plumbing add time?
In most cases, yes. It can take up to a day or more to adequately repair or replace existing plumbing.
Schedule Professional Shower Installation in Clearwater, FL
The punctual plumbers at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing want to make your Clearwater, FL home a more comfortable place to live. We can do that by offering top-notch shower installation services that have clear timelines and affordable prices. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help!