View Full Version : Convert shower/tub to walk-in shower in a condo
MBERNARDY
Oct 7, 2008, 09:26 AM
I would like to convert my tub to a walk-in shower and intall a small shower in the powder
Room that shares the same wall as the existing shower/tub. I need to know if I can plumb
This using the same shared vent that the sinks and tub are using? I haven't removed the
Tub yet but the plumbing I can see appears to share the same drain. I will not have an
Option to demo the concret between floors in the high rise bldg but I can raise the ceiling about 8" to accomidate a raised shower pan in both spaces to install any plumbing needed
To make these changes. Is this remodel possible?
ballengerb1
Oct 7, 2008, 09:37 AM
Since I can't see what your lay out is like its tough to answer. However, Swanstone makes a retro fit pan 3260 L or R made specifically to convert a tub to a shower using the same foot print. http://www.swanstone.com/products/showerWallsFloors/singleThreshold/index.php
MBERNARDY
Oct 7, 2008, 11:28 AM
I don't know how to show you the floor plan of my unit. I've noticed some of the responses from experts refer to images, I don't see any images in their answers.
ballengerb1
Oct 7, 2008, 11:40 AM
I did not attach an image because I do not have the plans, you do. I did however attach a link to Swanstone so you can shop for a 3260 shower. Swanstone Products (http://www.swanstone.com/index.php?page=landing_ts)
MBERNARDY
Oct 7, 2008, 12:03 PM
I know that I have the floor plans and you don't, dah, I don't know if there is a way to download images to this thread. And, of course I noticed the link, I was referring to other "experts" that have replied to questions and in their reply they say "see image" and I think what image? Get it
ballengerb1
Oct 7, 2008, 02:05 PM
When they say see image do you see any tiny square with a red X inside, if so click it. It could also be a function of how you are connected to the net and the set up of your computer. I have similar troubles on this computer and am on dial up but at home I have DSL and a better computer with no troubles. Wish I could explain more about how you might attach an image or picture but that aspect is not my strong suit.
tjnelson12345
Oct 8, 2008, 11:56 AM
You can also keep the existing tub and remove a section from the tub to make it a walk in shower. It is also possible to have a door on it to use it as both a tub or shower.
You may want to checkout Bathroom Refinishing, Bathtub Repairs, Acrylic Tubliners, Countertop Repair & Refinishing, Bath & Kitchen Remodeling (http://www.surfacespecialists.com)
For more information on products like these.
The plumbers can help you bring your project together.
Good luck
TJ
speedball1
Oct 8, 2008, 12:09 PM
I don't know how to show you the floor plan of my unit. i've noticed some of the responces from experts refer to images, I don't see any images in their answers.
Here's your image! This is the Swanstone conversion base that Bob was referring to. Nothing simpler! Just increase the length of the trap raiser to a few inches above gradeand install in the usual way. If the base isn't supported and "gives" a bit when you step in it then bed the base in by puddling cement or mortar under the base for support. If you fail to do that the drain may develop a leak in time. Good luck, Tom
MBERNARDY
Oct 8, 2008, 12:16 PM
Thanks tom,
When you say increase lenth of raiser
Above grade, does that mean above the floor? I'm new to all the plumbing speak so pardon my ignorance. Also,
I looked up the product and it sounds perfect! How do I know if I need left or right drain?
ballengerb1
Oct 8, 2008, 02:19 PM
Your new Swanstone is a 3260L if the shower drain is on the left when you stand in the bath looking in at the shower. 3269R if its on the right. The 2" PVC shower drain pipe should stick up out of the floor about 3" above the current bath flooring. Once you lay the pan down in a bed of modified thinset the pipoe sticks up about 2" into the pan. A large black rubber ribbed coolar is forced down over that pipe and into the show pan drain sump area, spot the looks like a coffee cup.
MBERNARDY
Oct 8, 2008, 02:42 PM
My drain has a 1 1/2" pipe (1980's const) so i don't know if i can use this pan, will it be easiler to go custom on the shower pan? i keep thinking that if the tub/shower has no problem drianing with the exsisting drain, why can't i have a very low "tub" made that i can step into like a "shower" without screwing with the drain? I wouldn't mind raising the floor to make this happen with the ready made product but I'm not getting the vibe that
The swanstone drain is set up to accommodate the tub drain opening.
speedball1
Oct 8, 2008, 04:55 PM
my drain has a 1 1/2" pipe (1980's const) so i don't know if i can use this pan, No problem. Simply install a 2 X 1/2" Reducing coupling next to the trap and take the raiser up at 2". Regards, Tom
ballengerb1
Oct 8, 2008, 05:48 PM
Tom is cirrect about the adaptation to 2". You can reuse the old 1 1/2" trap and transition to 2". You do need to move the vertical pipe that enters the shower drain since the 3260 retro does not exactly match a tub drain. You may think your tub drain is right where you see it but it is actually inside the wall, there is a vertical length of pipe connection what you see with where it actually is located. Tom should have some picture, my computer is more of a door stop and I lack the file space.