Hello,

My bathroom shower/tub needs a facelift. She's cute, but not that cute, as my wife would say. So we're considering tearing down the tile inside the shower wall wall and replacing with new tile. Or we're thinking about just getting one of those vinyl shower covers that you place over the tub and this creates your new wall and shower unit. Any thoughts on pros, cons, costs on either? Thanks for your help. :rolleyes:

TJ

Go with replacing the tile. Tile work is not hard to do and it looks a lot better and classier. Cost will vary depending on the tile you use. Natural stone is best for the shower because it is porous and not as slippery when its wet

We had one of the vinyl covers installed about a year ago. Its holding up great. Cost was about 1/3 to 1/2 of a rip out job. It did take 2 days to complete because of some problems with the pipes. But that's less than a rip job.

thanks for the note, yes helpful. What are the approximate costs of the covering job?

TJ,

I prefer that questions be kept public so that all can benefit.

My job was about $1800. I'm on LI, NY so prices may be higher than other areas. Rip jobs (according to local ads) generally start at $4000.

Thanks for the notes. Guess I have some options to look into.

I don't think the cover jobs were available over 25 years ago when I ripped out my tile. I went with a 3 piece acrylic. Still looks great with no, that is none at all, maintenance.

I am not sure you need our opinions here. The cover unit will be cheaper and easier to do, and take less upkeep. Many people love the look of the tile and are willing to care for the grout. Tile may help the resale value. It is a matter of deciding what you want.

Be sure to consider upgrading the fixtures at the same time if they need it.

. Please post plumbing questions on the plumbing page.
Thank you, Tom