Palatine, IL
If your Palatine tub feels dated, slippery, or hard to step over—especially during hectic mornings near Downtown Palatine and the Metra station—a tub-to-shower conversion can deliver a safer, cleaner bathroom without a full gut remodel. Barrington Bathroom Remodel Contractors Pro converts tubs into modern, watertight showers designed for daily Illinois use and built to last.
In Palatine, many homes in areas like Winston Park and along Dundee Road were built with standard 60-inch alcove tubs that no longer fit how families live—especially for busy commuters using the Palatine Metra (UP-NW) line and for homeowners planning to age in place. We see frequent issues like high tub walls, worn-out fiberglass surrounds, and recurring grout staining caused by seasonal humidity swings and heavy winter boot traffic from Cook County weather.
Our tub-to-shower conversion process starts with precise field measurements and moisture inspection using a pinless moisture meter before demolition. We remove the existing tub and surround, inspect studs and the subfloor, and then set the shower base using laser leveling and proper mortar bedding. When plumbing needs updating, we install code-compliant valves such as a Moen Posi-Temp or Delta MultiChoice pressure-balance valve and rework supply lines with copper or Uponor PEX-A, then verify slope and drainage performance before tile or wall panels go on.
For long-term waterproofing, we build to Tile Council of North America (TCNA) methods and use ANSI-compliant materials: a Schluter-KERDI or LATICRETE HYDRO BAN waterproofing system, cement backer board where appropriate, and polymer-modified thinset mortar meeting ANSI A118 standards. We finish with grout options like epoxy (for low maintenance) or sealed cementitious grout, install proper movement joints per EJ171, and set tempered glass shower doors that comply with safety glazing requirements.
Palatine clients choose conversions for practical outcomes: easier entry, more usable floor space, and easier cleaning compared to old tub tile lines. We commonly add slip-resistant flooring (DCOF-friendly porcelain), a stainless linear or center drain matched to the existing trap location, and accessories like an ADA-style grab bar (when requested) and recessed niche shelving. The result is a shower that looks custom, drains correctly, and stays dry behind the walls—ideal for long-term home value in the Palatine market.
A homeowner in Winston Park near Palatine High School called because their 1990s alcove tub had spider-cracked fiberglass and a constantly mildewing caulk line where the tub met the surround. The family had two kids and one parent commuting via the Palatine Metra station, so they needed a faster morning routine and safer footing—especially with wet floors after winter mornings. We scheduled an in-home assessment, confirmed the tub was a standard 60" x 30" alcove, and found elevated moisture readings behind the valve wall. After demolition, we replaced a small section of softened subfloor, corrected stud plane with sistering/shimming for a flat tile-ready surface, and upgraded the old valve to a pressure-balance Moen Posi-Temp for consistent temperature. To keep the project watertight and low-maintenance, we installed a Schluter-KERDI waterproofing membrane tied into a bonding flange drain, then set a slip-resistant porcelain mosaic floor and 12"x24" wall tile with polymer-modified thinset. We added a recessed niche, a handheld shower on a slide bar, and a 3/8" tempered glass door with a clear seal sweep to reduce splashing. The finished shower provided a lower step-in, improved drainage, and dramatically easier cleaning—no more peeling caulk at the tub lip. The homeowner reported quicker mornings and more confidence for guests using the bathroom, and we documented the waterproofing steps for warranty records.
We offer same-day service for most tub-to-shower conversion needs in Palatine. Our local team can typically arrive within hours of your call.
Serving Palatine from our Barrington location — Barrington Bathroom Remodel Contractors Pro is just a short drive away.
Schedule your free in-home design consultation today. Our licensed bathroom remodel contractors in Barrington will walk your space, listen to your vision, and give you an honest fixed-price quote — with no pressure and no hidden fees.
