Coquitlam Shower Conversion: From Tub to Modern Shower in 4 Weeks

Why This Coquitlam Homeowner Replaced the Bathtub

The homeowners had a 1990s alcove bathtub that was stained, slow to drain, and difficult to step over. With two seniors visiting regularly, they wanted a curbless entry that was safe for all ages. The property is a 1998 townhouse in Coquitlam's Westwood Plateau neighbourhood.

They called Reno Stars for an in-home assessment. The quote included: scope review, fixed price, BC-code-compliant waterproofing, and a written 3-year workmanship warranty.

Real Budget: $14,000 – $17,000

Here is what the $14,000–$17,000 investment covered for this Coquitlam shower conversion:

• Demolition: Remove existing bathtub, tile surround, old plumbing valves, and waterproofing layer — hauled to designated Metro Vancouver disposal.
• Plumbing: Replace drain assembly with a 2-inch shower drain. Pressure-test rough-in before tiling. Install new pressure-balance shower valve.
• Waterproofing: Full Schluter-Kerdi membrane system on shower walls and floor. Mortar pre-slope to linear drain. Water test before tile goes down.
• Tiling: 24×48 large-format porcelain on shower walls. 12×24 hexagon mosaic on floor. Grout and silicone at all movement joints.
• Hardware: Fixed glass panel and swinging door. Matte black hardware package: shower head, controls, and built-in soap niche.
• Electrical: New vanity lighting and exhaust fan upgrade to meet BC Building Code.
• Finishing: Paint, baseboard trim, and final clean.

The main cost driver was the large-format tile and custom glass door — adding roughly $2,000 over a basic fiberglass surround quote they had received elsewhere.

Waterproofing: Why the Membrane Matters

A common shortcut in tub-to-shower conversions is liquid waterproofing (RedGard brushed on). That works for a rental suite with low moisture exposure. For a primary bathroom in a townhouse with shared walls, the correct standard is a continuous membrane — Schluter-Kerdi — installed behind the tile on walls and floor.

For this Coquitlam project, the Reno Stars crew installed Kerdi membrane from the shower floor up to 84 inches on all walls. The drain was a Kerdi drain flange assembly, creating a watertight ring. The floor had a pre-sloped mortar bed directing water to the drain before the membrane was installed.

This approach meets BC Building Code Section 3.7 (wet locations) and carries the Reno Stars 3-year warranty on workmanship.

Timeline: 3.5 Weeks from Demo to Handover

Day 1: Demolition and plumbing rough-in.
Days 2–5: Membrane installation and water test.
Days 6–14: Tile work (walls first, then floor grout).
Days 15–17: Glass hardware installation.
Day 18: Final inspection, caulking, and clean.

The project finished on day 19 — half a day ahead of schedule. The homeowners were able to use the shower the following morning.

What a Coquitlam Shower Conversion Costs in 2026

Metro Vancouver market rates for a professional tub-to-shower conversion range from $10,000 to $22,000, depending on tile selection, glass type, and whether the floor plan requires drain relocation. The key variable is whether the existing drain location suits a shower layout — moving a drain adds $2,000–$5,000 in plumbing.

At $14,000–$17,000, this Coquitlam project is mid-range for a professionally waterproofed conversion with quality finishes. It does not include floor tile replacement beyond the shower zone, which would add $800–$2,500 depending on the area.

Book Your Coquitlam Bathroom Assessment

Every Reno Stars bathroom project starts with a free in-home consultation — measurements, photos, and a written estimate with specific line items. No vague quotes.

To schedule yours: Contact Reno Stars. We serve Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, and all of Metro Vancouver.