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Tub to Shower Conversion in Oahu: FAQs Every Homeowner Should Know

 

From Honolulu to Kaneohe and Kailua, tub-to-shower conversions are one of the most requested bathroom remodels we complete. For many families, it’s about updating their bathroom with a modern, functional design. For others, it’s about something far more meaningful: creating a safe, accessible space for kupuna and loved ones to age in place with dignity.

 

What is a tub to shower conversion?

A tub-to-shower conversion is when an existing bathtub is removed and replaced with a walk-in shower in the same space. This upgrade can be as simple as installing a prefabricated shower kit or as custom as building a fully tiled, curbless entry with grab bars and seating. For many Oahu homeowners, it’s a practical way to improve bathroom safety, accessibility, and style while making better use of limited space in condos and island homes.

 

At Hilweh Builders (BC-37232), we are a licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor, recognized as Best in Aging-in-Place Renovations by Hawaii Home & Remodeling Magazine. Owner and general contractor Chad Hilweh grew up in Kaʻaʻawa and has built his entire construction career on Oahu. Our family roots run deep here, and our promise is simple: to do the right thing for local families and to deliver projects with care, planning, and transparency.

 

During our Hui Kapili cohort experience, we reflected on how we can best contribute to housing in Hawaii. While we’re not a large developer, one way we can make a lasting difference is by helping families create safe spaces to remain in their homes and communities. Tub-to-shower conversions may not always be flashy or “magazine features,” but they are often some of the most meaningful projects we complete.

 

General FAQs for Oahu Homeowners

 

1. Why do homeowners in Oahu convert tubs to showers?

 

The most common reason is practicality. Many tubs simply go unused, while a walk-in shower provides:

• Faster, more efficient daily routines.

• Easier cleaning and maintenance.

• A more spacious feel in smaller bathrooms.

• Improved safety and accessibility.

For families in Honolulu condos and Windward homes, removing a bulky tub often transforms the entire bathroom, making it feel more open, modern, and functional.

 

2. How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost in Oahu?

 

Costs depend on the materials, design, and location. To receive a high-level estimate, please reach out to us at chad@hilwehbuilders.com or at 808-220-5007 for your free consultation. 

 

In Hawaii, shipping delays, higher material costs, and humidity-resistant construction practices all influence the price. That’s why our estimates always include allowances for common unknowns — reducing the risk of change orders later.

 

To learn more about bathroom remodeling costs, visit our bathroom renovation costs guide. 

 

3. What types of clients usually ask for a tub-to-shower conversion?

 

We serve a wide range of Oahu homeowners:

• Families caring for aging parents.

  • For example, we’re currently remodeling a Honolulu condo for a family who lives on another island. They travel to Oahu often for medical appointments and wanted a safe place for their parents to stay. Converting the tub to a walk-in shower with grab bars and non-slip flooring was one of their top priorities.

• Couples planning to age in place

  • Some remodel before mobility becomes an issue, choosing curbless showers, slip-resistant flooring, and durable solid-surface materials.

• Families with children and visiting relatives

  • Parents may keep a tub in one bathroom for kids while converting another into a shower for grandparents or guests.

• Condo owners navigating HOAs

  • These projects often require approval. We help clients through that process while making sure the design still fits their needs.

  •  

No matter the situation, the shared goal is peace of mind and safety for their families.

 

4. What’s the difference between a curbed and curbless shower?

 

• Curbed shower: Has a raised lip at the entry. It’s the most budget-friendly option, faster to install, and often required in condos with post-tension slabs, where the floor can’t be recessed.

 

• Curbless shower: Provides a seamless, step-free entry. It’s the gold standard for accessibility and aging-in-place, but it typically costs more due to added framing, sloping, and waterproofing.

 

Local note: Curbless showers are becoming more popular across Oahu, but not every building can accommodate them. Costs can vary by several thousand dollars depending on site conditions.

 

5. What feature can break my budget?

 

Glass shower doors. They’re beautiful but can add several thousand dollars to your project. And for accessibility, they’re often not recommended. Safer, more cost-effective alternatives include open-entry showers, partial glass panels, or stylish curtains.

 

6. What’s one downside of converting a tub to a shower?

 

For families with small children — or planning to have kids — a bathtub can be more convenient. Many homeowners choose to keep at least one tub in the home while converting another bathroom into a shower. This balance ensures both family functionality and future resale value.

 

7. What materials are most common for tub-to-shower conversions in Hawaii?

 

• Shower Kits - Budget-friendly, quick install.
• Tile - Premium, customizable, timeless, but labor-intensive.
• Solid Surface Panels - Sleek, low-maintenance, mid-to-high range cost.

 

No matter which finish you choose, proper waterproofing is the most critical factor for long-lasting results in Hawaii’s humid, salt-air environment.

 

8. What is one overlooked area of this type of renovation?

 

Ventilation. Many homeowners focus only on finishes, but in Oahu’s humid climate, a properly vented exhaust fan is essential. It reduces moisture, prevents mold, and extends the life of your remodel. It may not be glamorous, but it’s one of the smartest upgrades you can make.

 

9. Can I expand the shower footprint?

 

Often, yes. Many tubs are a standard 60"x30" size that converts neatly into a shower. In some single-family homes, we can expand into closets or adjacent spaces. In condos, expansion is usually limited by plumbing and structural conditions.

 

10. How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take in Oahu?

 

Once construction starts:

• Shower kits – ~2 weeks.

• Custom tile showers – 3+ weeks.

 

In Hawaii, the bigger factor is material lead times — special orders can take 6–8 weeks to arrive. Careful planning ensures projects stay on schedule.

 

11. What should I do to get started?

 

• Take photos of your current bathroom.

• Gather inspiration images.

• Measure your space if possible.

• Think about budget priorities — adding custom features, moving plumbing, or choosing luxury finishes will significantly increase costs. Knowing what matters most will make planning smoother.

• Schedule a free phone consultation with Hilweh Builders.

 

    

Example of a budget friendly shower kit installed by Hilweh Builders with accessibility and aging in place for a homeowner in Oahu

 

Accessibility & Aging-in-Place FAQs

 

12. How do you make a shower safe for seniors?

 

As a NAHB Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), we design with safety and dignity in mind. Features often include:

• Strategically placed grab bars.

• Non-slip flooring.

• Adjustable handheld showerheads.

• Wider entries and layouts for mobility devices.

We also anticipate structural needs, like extra backing for grab bars, and include those in our estimates up front.

 

13. How many grab bars do I need, and where should they go?

 

Most bathrooms benefit from two to three grab bars — at the entry, along the back wall, and near the controls. Placement depends on mobility needs, and our CAPS training ensures they’re discreet yet effective.

 

14. Is a glass shower door safe for accessibility?

 

Usually not. Glass doors can make entry difficult and increase fall risk. Safer alternatives include open-entry showers, partial panels, or curtains.

 

15. What other features support aging in place?

 

• Floating vanities

• Comfort-height toilets with grab bars.

• Slip-resistant flooring.

• Task lighting to reduce shadows.

• Seating options like a built-in bench or fold-down seat.

These details create bathrooms that are not just accessible, but also comfortable and functional for the long term.

 

The Planning Promise

 

We believe the success of a remodel is determined before the first hammer swings. Our planning process ensures projects don’t drag on or spiral with hidden costs:

• Consultation & Photos

• Site Visit & Measurements

• Accurate Estimate with Allowances

• Design & Materials Selection

• Contract & Timeline

• Build & Completion

 

We don’t rush in unprepared. Careful planning allows us to deliver projects on time, on budget, and built to last.

 

 

Why Choose Hilweh Builders for Your Tub-to-Shower Conversion in Oahu

• Best in Aging-in-Place Renovations – Hawaii Home & Remodeling Readers’ Choice Awards.

• Licensed, bonded, insured General Contractor (BC-37232).

• NAHB Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS).

• Family-owned, Kaneohe-based business with deep Oahu roots.

• Chad Hilweh, RME & General Contractor — raised in Kaʻaʻawa, career built entirely on Oahu.

• Pro installer credentials with leading brands.

• Transparent communication, accurate estimating, and a one-year workmanship warranty.

 

These projects aren’t just about tile or fixtures. They’re about families — creating safe, functional bathrooms where loved ones can age in place and live with dignity. That’s our promise, and our values drive everything we do.

 

 

Ready to Begin?

 

Start with a free phone consultation. Share your photos, inspiration, and goals, and we’ll help you create a shower that’s safe, stylish, and built for island living.

 

Contact Hilweh Builders today to begin.

 

Learn more about our Aging in Place Services.