Swapping Your Tub Shower for a Standalone Shower: Everything You Need to Know

Are you considering trading in your old tub shower for a sleek standalone shower? You’re not alone—many homeowners are opting for this upgrade to enhance their bathrooms’ style, functionality, and accessibility. Whether you’re seeking a modern aesthetic, easier cleaning, or a safer, more accessible solution, The Tile Experts specializes in making your dream shower a reality. We too collaborate with contractors like Dynamic General Contracting to do this exact things on their projects.

Why Consider a Standalone Shower?

Standalone showers offer numerous advantages:

Modern Design: A sleek shower can instantly elevate your bathroom’s appearance.
Easy Maintenance: Without the tub’s hard-to-reach corners, cleaning becomes simpler and quicker.
Accessibility: Perfect for aging in place, standalone showers can be tailored for mobility needs, including barrier-free options.
Space Efficiency: A standalone shower can make smaller bathrooms feel more open and spacious.

For older adults or those planning to age in place, a standalone shower provides not just comfort but peace of mind.

Options for Every Lifestyle

At The Tile Experts, we cater to a variety of needs and preferences:

With a Curb: These showers are practical, containing water within the enclosure while maintaining a stylish look.
Barrier-Free Showers: Designed for seamless accessibility, these curbless showers are ideal for seniors or anyone with mobility challenges.

Barrier-free showers, also known as aging in place showers, eliminate thresholds, reducing the risk of trips or falls and making them a perfect fit for independent living.

Things to Consider Before Making the Switch

A tub-to-shower conversion isn’t just about aesthetics—it requires thoughtful planning:

Space Availability: Is your bathroom layout suited for a standalone shower?
Plumbing Adjustments: Relocating or modifying drains and water lines may be necessary.
Waterproofing: To avoid costly water damage, professional waterproofing is essential.
Customization Options: Consider features like built-in niches for toiletries, a bench for comfort, grab bars for added safety, or stunning tile designs for a personalized touch.

The Tile Experts’ Process

Here’s what you can expect when working with us:

Consultation: We’ll discuss your goals, assess your space, and provide expert recommendations.
Design: Together, we’ll create a custom plan, selecting tiles, layouts, and features. For an added fee, we can include our trusted interior designer referral partner to streamline decisions on tile, grout, metal finishes, and more. This service ensures a cohesive look and an stress-free experience from start to finish for all our clients.
Preparation: Our team handles all plumbing adjustments and waterproofing to ensure a flawless foundation.
Installation: Using premium materials and skilled craftsmanship, we bring your vision to life.

Real-Life Results

One of our recent clients transformed their outdated tub shower into a stunning barrier-free shower. The result? A mobility-friendly shower that combines modern style with safety and accessibility, allowing the homeowner to age in place comfortably.

Cost and Financing Options

A tub-to-shower conversion is a worthwhile investment in your home. At The Tile Experts, we offer competitive pricing and flexible financing through our partnership with FinanceIt. This makes it easier than ever to achieve your dream bathroom without financial stress.

Conclusion

Upgrading from a tub shower to a standalone shower is a decision that blends style, function, and accessibility. With The Tile Experts, you’ll get a professionally designed and installed shower tailored to your needs.

Ready to start? Contact us today at (587) 333 9800 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a bathroom transformation! Alternatively for your convenience, you can fill this form below or email us directly at admin@thetileexperts.ca

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take?

A: Typically, the process takes 1-2 weeks from demolition to installation, depending on the size and complexity of the project. Our team will provide a detailed timeline during your consultation.

Q: Do I need to update my plumbing for a standalone shower?

A: In many cases, plumbing adjustments are required to ensure proper drainage and water pressure. We also recommend considering a 2-outlet plumbing kit for added comfort, featuring a showerhead and handheld option.

Q: Can I customize the design of my new shower?

A: Absolutely! We work with you to design your ideal shower, from tile selection and layouts to added features like niches, benches, grab bars, and glass enclosures.

Q: Is a barrier-free shower more expensive than one with a curb?

A: Yes, barrier-free showers typically cost more due to the additional work required. The shower floor must be built down between the I-joists, and a linear drain is often used, both of which add significant cost to the project. While barrier-free showers provide excellent accessibility and a modern look, the extra steps in construction contribute to a higher price point. We’ll provide a detailed estimate during your consultation so you know exactly what to expect.

Q: How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost?

A: The cost varies depending on factors like the size of your bathroom, tile selection, and custom features. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed estimate tailored to your project, ensuring there are no surprises.

Luxury Home Tile Installation in Lewis Estates: A Showcase of Premium Craftsmanship

We completed a high-end tile installation in a beautiful luxury home in the prestigious Lewis Estates neighbourhood of Edmonton Alberta. Our team worked with top-quality materials to create a stunning, durable finish across multiple areas of the house.

Glass Subway Tile Backsplash
Main Floor Tile Installation
Ensuite Bathroom Tile and Waterproofing
Fireplace Surround with Travertine Tile
Vanity Splash and Tub Surrounds in Bathrooms
Basement Tile Flooring
Other Areas Tiled
Final Touches
Ready to Transform Your Home with Professional Tile Installation?

Glass Subway Tile Backsplash

In the kitchen, we installed a 3×6 glass subway tile backsplash in a clean, straight-lay pattern. Using ReliaBond Tile Adhesive, we ensured a flawless and secure installation. This glass tile adds a modern, sleek element to the overall design.

Main Floor Tile Installation

Approximately half of the main floor was finished with elegant tile flooring. The homeowner chose glossy black 12×24 tiles, which we laid in a sophisticated 70/30 pattern. We used the 253 Gold Laticrete Mortar to ensure a strong bond, providing both style and durability for high-traffic areas.

Ensuite Bathroom Tile and Waterproofing

In the bathroom, we applied the Schluter Kerdi Membrane for waterproofing, combined with Premium Plus Mortar to install 12×24 tiles in a stacked pattern. The shower surround was extended to create a striking wall feature and vanity splash, adding a seamless, luxurious touch to the bathroom. For the shower floor, we used a mosaic tile that beautifully contrasts the light wall tiles and dark floor tiles, enhancing the bathroom’s design.

Fireplace Surround with Travertine Tile

Another standout feature in this luxury home is the custom fireplace surround. We used premium 8×36 travertine tiles, laid in a 60/40 pattern with ProLite Mortar, adding a touch of elegance to the living area.

Vanity Splash and Tub Surrounds in Bathrooms

Two of the bathrooms feature a vanity splash surrounding the mirrors, created with 3×6 black glossy subway tiles. These bathrooms also include tub surrounds, where we used the same glossy subway tile as an accent insert, complemented by 4×24 tiles for the rest. VersaBond Thin-Set was used to ensure a smooth, durable finish.

Basement Tile Flooring

The entire basement was tiled with 12×24 tiles. For large areas like this, we utilized a leveling system to prevent any lippage, ensuring a perfectly smooth surface. All 12×24 tile floors in this home were installed using 253 Gold Laticrete Mortar for superior stability.

Other Areas Tiled

Other sections such as the basement fireplace, the entrance tile and mudroom tile were also installed all in 12×24 format. Stacked pattern for the fireplace with the wall returns as well. 70 / 30 pattern for the entrance floor and the mudroom.

Final Touches

To complete this luxurious tile project, we used Prism Grout, a high-performance, stain-resistant grout, throughout the house. This ensures long-lasting beauty and easy maintenance.

Ready to Transform Your Home with Professional Tile Installation?

If you’re looking for expert tile installation that combines luxury, quality, and attention to detail, we’re here to help. Whether you need a stunning backsplash, durable flooring, or a custom bathroom design, our team has the experience to bring your vision to life. Contact us today for a consultation and let’s create a space you’ll love.

Call us at 587 333 9800. You could also email us at admin@thetileis.com or fill out this form below to get started!

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Removing and Replacing a Tiled Tub Shower Surround Due to Mold: Why You Should Hire a Professional

At The Tile Experts, we know how stressful it can be to discover mold behind your tub or shower tiles. Replacing a Tiled Tub Shower Surround Due to Mold. Mold can pose serious health risks, damage the structural integrity of your walls, and make your bathroom an unpleasant space. When this happens, removing the old tiles and replacing the tub surround becomes more than a cosmetic upgrade—it’s a crucial step in preventing further damage and ensuring the safety of your home.

While DIY might seem like a good option, mold remediation and tile installation are jobs that require precision, expertise, and professional-grade materials. In this article, we’ll explain the process of removing and replacing a tiled tub shower surround and why hiring professionals, like us, is the best choice to ensure the job is done right.

Table of Content

1. Mold: A Serious Problem in Bathroom Walls
2. Why You Should Leave Tile Removal to the Experts
• Safety and Health Concerns:
• Avoid Further Damage:
• Comprehensive Mold Treatment:
3. Our Step-by-Step Process for Replacing Tiled Tub Shower Surround Due to Mold
• Inspection and Preparation:
• Tile and Backer Board Removal:
• Mold Treatment:
• Installing New Waterproof Backer Board and Tiles:
• Grouting and Sealing:
4. Why Choose Us?
• Professional Expertise:
• Top-Quality Materials:
• Save Time and Hassle:
• Guaranteed Satisfaction:
5. Contact Us Today
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1. Mold: A Serious Problem in Bathroom Walls

Bathrooms are notorious for moisture buildup. Without proper ventilation, mold can easily thrive behind the tiles in your tub or shower area. Whether due to cracked grout, poorly sealed joints, or leaks, mold can creep behind the walls and spread over time, weakening the structure and creating a health hazard.

If you’ve noticed signs of mold behind your tiles, it’s crucial to act fast. Leaving it untreated can lead to further spread and costly repairs. Unfortunately, just scrubbing the visible mold won’t address the problem—removing the affected tiles, treating the mold, and installing a new waterproof surround is the only long-term solution.

2. Why You Should Leave Tile Removal to the Experts

Removing a tiled tub shower surround is a delicate and potentially hazardous process. Here’s why hiring professionals makes sense:

• Safety and Health Concerns:

Mold can be harmful, especially for individuals with respiratory issues or allergies. Without proper protective gear and techniques, removing moldy tiles can release harmful spores into the air, putting your health at risk.

• Avoid Further Damage:

Removing old tiles and backer boards is tricky. If not done carefully, you could damage the underlying structure or plumbing, leading to costly repairs. Our team has the experience to ensure the job is done efficiently and without further damage.

• Comprehensive Mold Treatment:

Once we remove the tiles, we’ll assess and treat any mold that has spread beyond the surface. We follow industry standards to ensure the area is thoroughly cleaned and safe before installing new tiles.

3. Our Step-by-Step Process for Replacing Tiled Tub Shower Surround Due to Mold

Here’s how our team at The Tile Experts handles the removal and installation process:

• Inspection and Preparation:

We begin by inspecting the affected area to determine the extent of the mold damage. Next, we turn off the water supply, remove fixtures, and protect your tub with coverings to prevent damage during tile removal.

• Tile and Backer Board Removal:

Using professional tools, we carefully remove the old tiles and backer board. We then inspect the wall cavity for mold or structural damage. If we find any compromised areas, we’ll repair them before proceeding with the new installation.

• Mold Treatment:

After removing the old materials, we thoroughly treat the exposed area with mold-killing solutions, ensuring the space is clean and safe. This step is critical for preventing future mold growth.

• Installing New Waterproof Backer Board and Tiles:

We install a high-quality, moisture-resistant backer board, which is essential for protecting your walls from future water damage. Then, we install waterproofing membrane and use precision to lay new tiles, ensuring a perfect fit and finish.

• Grouting and Sealing:

Once the tiles are set, we apply high performance grout and seal the plane change lines with caulking to ensure a seal tight instalation.

4. Why Choose Us?

At The Tile Experts, we specialize in tile installation. Our experienced team is equipped to handle every aspect of the job, from safely removing moldy substrate to expertly installing a new, waterproof tub surround. Here’s why homeowners trust us:

• Professional Expertise:

We’ve handled countless mold-related tile jobs and know exactly how to diagnose and resolve moisture issues.

• Top-Quality Materials:

We use industry-leading, mold-resistant materials to ensure your new tiled surround will last for years.

• Save Time and Hassle:

DIY tile removal and installation can take weeks and often leads to frustration and costly mistakes. We’ll complete the project efficiently and correctly, so you can relax knowing the job is in expert hands.

• Guaranteed Satisfaction:

We stand by our work and offer a satisfaction guarantee. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your new tub surround is beautiful, durable, and mold-free.

5. Contact Us Today

If you’ve noticed mold in your tub or shower area, don’t wait until it gets worse. Removing and replacing your tiled tub surround is a significant project that requires the right tools, experience, and materials to be done safely and effectively.

Let The Tile Experts handle the hard work for you. Our team will take care of everything—from removal of glass doors, mold removal to the final tile installation—ensuring your bathroom is both beautiful and safe. Contact us today for a consultation or to schedule your service!

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Shower Floor Repair

Shower Trends

What Are the Latest Trends in 2023 Tile Shower Design?

Tile showers are making a big comeback in the bathroom design world. From classic subway tiles to modern hexagons, there is a plethora of tile options for shower design. But what are the latest trends in tile shower design?

custom lit niches, custom double trough drain barrier less entry with fixed glass panels.

Custom Shower Design with standalone bench, niche ledge, and rainfall handheld options

When it comes to tile shower design, there are a few trends that are gaining traction. First, the use of large format tiles is becoming increasingly popular. These larger tiles create a sleek, modern look that is perfect for a luxurious shower space. Go ahead and check out more of our projects to see other shower designs Additionally, geometric patterns and shapes are being used to add visual interest to shower walls. Whether it’s mosaics, hexagons, or chevrons, these shapes can make the shower feel more unique and dynamic.

The use of Large Format Tiles is becoming increasingly popular

Another trend that is gaining popularity is the use of mixed materials. Combining materials such as stone, marble, and wood can create a stunning, high-end look. For a more subtle touch, consider using tiles with a glossy finish, as this can add a touch of glamour to your shower.

Barrierless Custom Shower Trough Drain Steam Shower and Custom Glass

Additional photo shower the steam shower controller, and the bench is housing the steam unit inside

Hexagonal tiles are becoming a popular choice for shower design

Finally, hexagonal tiles are becoming a popular choice for shower design. This hexagonal shape is a versatile option that can be used in a variety of ways. Whether it’s used to create a herringbone pattern or a honeycomb effect, hexagons are a great way to add interest to your shower walls. So, if you’re looking to upgrade your shower space, consider incorporating some of these tile shower trends into your design.

If you’re looking to do it yourself! We (TheTileI.S.) wish you luck on your endeavour, otherwise you can check in with us to get you some pricing. From large format tiles to mixed materials and hexagons, there is a lot of potential to create a stunning and unique shower space.

steam shower custom glass and trough drain

Here are some of the tile suppliers we work closely with:

Basement Bathroom Reno in Holyrood

In this project the client was doing a Basement Bathroom. Growing families need an extra bathroom in the basement 100%. Our client had a lot of the knowledge needed for the entire project but he was very busy with his Brewery. We actually had the honour of getting a few of their beers to taste at home with our loved ones.

When we came in the plumbing and concrete were already done. We did small amount of levelling with CustomTech TechLevel 150. That takes about 4 hours to cure so we had left this for the end of day and went home.

Following day we got down to business. Opened up the back wall where the niche is going to be located and place all the support necessary, etc. Installed a 38×60 Schluter Shower Kit and tied it all together with the niche and ready to tile.

They had us do the shower base and back of the niche with a mosaic tile. The rest of the shower and bathroom area with 12×24 but with 2 different shades of the same series of tile. All the tile was great to work with and it was supplied by our good friends from TierraSol.

The bathroom floor area got tile on all walls up about 43″ high. All grouted with our number one pick grout Custom Prism. Final stage was the custom glass which took the bathroom from a 10/10 to a 15/10 😉 Here are other examples of what floor tile could be used for bathrooms like this

Before and after Pictures of Basement Bathroom:

Thanks you to the Oswald Family for this wonderful opportunity and for more Shower Installations check out this other cool project