Tips And TricksUpdated July 18, 2026
Many homeowners in New Lenox are choosing to swap out tubs for walk-in showers, whether to make the bathroom easier to access or to give it a modern update. Older bathrooms, especially those from the 1990s and early 2000s, often have tub-shower combos that no longer meet changing needs. But converting that old tub into a walk-in shower is more than just a trim carpentry job, there are plumbing details below the surface that can make or break the project, especially with our area's clay soils, freeze-thaw cycles, and mix of home ages.
Why Tub-to-Shower Conversions Appeal in New Lenox
The housing mix here includes plenty of homes built during the westward growth of the Chicago suburbs. Many still have original tub units with outdated fixtures and old supply lines. Mobility is a big concern for some families, and walk-in showers offer safer entry, no more climbing over a slippery tub wall. There's also less hassle cleaning, and shower upgrades can be more water-efficient. On the plumbing side, though, unexpected surprises can come up fast.
Planning the Project Plumbing Comes First
We always start by mapping out what's behind and under the tub. Many New Lenox homes have municipal water from Lake Michigan, but water hardness varies by street and can affect older supply lines and shutoff valves. Clay-rich soil and some foundation settling mean drain lines sometimes need adjusting. Common problems include:
- Old galvanized supply lines that restrict flow or rust inside
- Cast iron or ABS tub drains set too high or low for a shower base
- Improper venting, which can cause that classic shower gurgle
- Missing or stuck main shutoff valves that complicate repairs
If walls open up during demolition, it's smart to inspect for hidden leaks or corroded pipes. Our team handles pipe repair and repiping as needed when supply lines or drains show age, helping avoid trouble down the road.
Drainage Details Adapting Bath Plumbing for a Shower
A key difference between tubs and showers is how the drain is built. Tubs have a higher threshold and longer trap arm. To meet code, most shower drains in Will County need to be at least 2 inches. Many older tub drains are only 1.5 inches. Swapping the P-trap and drain line to handle more water flow is a must. If your tub shared its trap with a sink or another fixture, venting could be an issue. Sometimes the original rough-in was set for slab or crawlspace access, which changes the work needed underneath.
It's also common to find sediment buildup in old drains, especially if the line has any dips from settling soil. We recommend a professional drain cleaning before installing the new base and tile. This helps prevent slow drains or backups right after the remodel.
Water Supply and Fixture Considerations
Walk-in showers usually call for a mixing valve and sometimes a handheld shower or rain head. If your home's supply lines are original, this is a good time to replace shutoff stops and update to modern valve bodies. Swapping an old tub spout diverter for a pressure-balanced valve gives better temperature control and helps prevent scalding, which matters in homes with kids or seniors.
Low water pressure can be a sign of mineral build-up in pipes, especially if your house is on the older side. While working on a remodel, many homeowners also upgrade fixtures. We provide faucet and fixture installation for showerheads, hand sprays, and new valves so everything matches in style and function.
What to Watch For During Construction
- Check for leaks at every new connection before closing walls.
- Confirm all joints meet code, including trap height and venting.
- Seal the shower pan properly, especially if your house has any history of foundation settling.
- Consider slope for proper drainage so water doesn't puddle.
- Insulate any exterior-facing walls to prevent freezing pipes in winter.
Many New Lenox homeowners have sump pits to manage basement moisture. If your shower is above a basement, keeping an eye out for leaks is extra important. We also handle leak detection and repair if hidden water damage is found during demolition.
Other Plumbing Upgrades to Consider
A bathroom remodel is an ideal time to look at other plumbing systems close by. If your water heater is older or undersized, switching from a standard tub fill to a shower can highlight temperature swings or recovery issues. Our crew offers water heater services if you need advice on capacity or want to prevent future hot water shortages once your new shower is in use.
Major bathroom work can reveal bigger water or drain line problems. If you find recurring slow drains, it may be worth an inspection of the main lines as well. Our sewer line services cover everything from video inspections to major repairs, especially in neighborhoods where rapid development led to a patchwork of old and new underground pipes.
If you're thinking about turning your old tub into a walk-in shower, our team can help you plan the job from demo to final inspection. Give us a call at 779-217-8632 and we'll make sure your New Lenox project goes right the first time.