Skip to main content

«  View All Posts

Should You Replace Plumbing In Your Newport Beach Tub-To-Shower Conversion Upgrade?

April 24th, 2025

3 min read

By Joe Cox

Is Plumbing Replacement Necessary For Your Tub-To-Shower Conversion In Newport Beach?

What To Consider And How A Professional
Installer Can Make The Process Easier


Upgrading your bathroom with a tub-to-shower conversion in Newport Beach gives you a more functional and safer space. Showers improve accessibility, are easier to maintain, and increase the value of your home.

For many, the idea of a renovation project like this can feel overwhelming. Plumbing is a critical aspect of a project like this and often intimidates homeowners the most. You might be tempted to assume plumbing replacement is unnecessary.

The good news?

Working with an experienced professional can help you make the right decision. They’ll know what factors to consider when determining the need for plumbing replacement.

What are those factors?

For starters, you’ll need to address the current condition of your plumbing. Next, you’ll want to determine if there are any issues with water lines or drainage. And finally, your renovation must comply with local building codes.

The only way to get it right is to work with a company that understands these issues.

If you’re considering switching your tub to a shower, what should you expect when it comes to replacing the plumbing?


A Tub’s Existing Plumbing Conditions Determine If
You’ll Need Any Updates For Your Project

Before starting your transition from a tub to a shower, you’ll need to evaluate the current condition of your plumbing.

Over time, exposure to water deteriorates and corrodes most things. Plumbing is no exception. If your current system has a lot of wear and tear, it won’t function correctly, and you’ll need to replace it.

There might also be issues with pipe configuration when switching from a tub to a shower. Showers require different water pressure and have different drainage needs than bathtubs. In many cases, the existing plumbing needs to change to accommodate these new demands.

A thorough evaluation of your current plumbing is crucial. Improper plumbing can lead to issues over time.

At Shugarman’s Bath, we take a Down-To-The-Studs approach with your tub-to-shower conversion. This allows us to find any issues early in the process and fix them, so they don’t cause damage later.


 

 


There Could Also Be Drainage And Water Line Issues
You’ll Need To Address To Complete The Conversion

Drainage and water line configurations often require attention when converting a tub to a shower. There are several reasons for this.

For one, your new shower will have a different water flow than your tub. Your existing drainage system might not be able to handle it. If you’re upgrading a tub and shower combo, this might be less of a concern but still important.

Other drainage issues include the floor's slope and the drain's size. Your shower conversion specialist must address both during the conversion process.

Additionally, the water supply lines might need updating. Showers often require more substantial water pressure. Sometimes, you must add or reposition water lines to deliver the desired flow rate.

Addressing these issues early on in the project is essential. Drainage issues and problems with water pressure can lead to future headaches and added expense.

As experts in bathtub-to-shower conversion, we’ll assess your current setup and modify it as needed. This way, everything functions properly and efficiently once the conversion is complete.


Your Newport Beach Tub-To-Shower Conversion
Must Be Compliant With Local Building Codes

The final plumbing considerations for your shower upgrade are local building codes and permit issues.

Complying with local building codes allows you to complete your upgrade safely and correctly. Codes cover all aspects of plumbing and drainage. Failing to meet the requirements can lead to fines, delays, or even the need to tear out work and redo it.

In some cases, you might also need a building permit to change your bathroom. Shugarman’s Bath is familiar with regulations and permit requirements in Newport Beach and the Orange County area. We’ll ensure your conversion meets all necessary standards and do everything we can to keep your project on track.


How An Experienced Tub-To-Shower Conversion Pro
Can Ensure Your Upgrade Goes As Planned

The best way to ensure your Newport Beach bathtub-to-shower conversion goes as planned is to work with an experienced conversion specialist.

At Shugarman’s Bath, we do everything possible to give you the best renovation experience. You can trust us to install a shower that functions correctly, complies with regulations, and provides long-term durability.

You’ll get more than the results you want. You’ll also enjoy the process.

Replacing a tub with a shower can seem overwhelming. Working with an experienced professional makes the process less intimidating. If you want the best possible outcome for your Newport Beach tub-to-shower conversion from a company you can trust, contact Shugarman’s Bath at [tel] for a free estimate.