TroubleshootingUpdated June 19, 2026
Many Morris homeowners want to swap out an old tub for a walk-in shower. This change can improve accessibility, update the bathroom's look, and often fits how families use their space today. But converting a tub into a shower isn't always as simple as it sounds, especially with the mix of mid-century and newer homes found around Morris and the surrounding Grundy County area.
Why Tub-to-Shower Conversions Get Tricky in Morris
The majority of homes in Morris were built between the 1950s and 1980s, with a fair number of even older houses near downtown. These homes often have plumbing made from galvanized steel or cast iron. Over generations, those pipes corrode and collect mineral buildup, which restricts water flow and can lead to leaks or weak pressure. When we move drain and supply lines for a new shower location, we often run into brittle pipes or outdated rough-ins that complicate the job.
Our climate brings frequent freeze-thaw cycles in winter, stressing pipes that run against exterior walls. Summer humidity also encourages mold and mildew growth, which makes proper waterproofing essential for long-term success with any shower conversion.
Common Plumbing Hurdles During Conversion
The most common issue we see is the difference in drain size and position. Standard tubs usually have a smaller drain and a different trap type than most shower bases require. For example, a typical tub has a 1 1/2-inch drain, but modern showers need two inches for code compliance and to prevent slow draining. This means updating the drain line, installing a new P-trap, and sometimes opening up the floor to re-route everything properly.
If your home has clay-rich soil and a high water table, both common in Morris, you could also have issues with slow drains or sewer backups. This makes proper slope and venting even more important during a conversion. We often recommend a camera inspection before demolition, especially if your drains have shown signs of trouble or haven't been cleaned in years. For ongoing drain concerns, you can learn more about our drain cleaning services.
Steps for a Safe and Durable Conversion
- Turn off the main water supply before any demolition begins to avoid flooding.
- Remove the old tub and inspect for hidden water damage or mold behind the walls and under the floor.
- Check for outdated or corroded supply lines; replace galvanized steel or brittle copper with new PEX or copper runs as needed.
- Swap the tub drain for a shower drain with a two-inch line, install a new P-trap, and ensure correct venting.
- Install a waterproof membrane on walls and floor before any tile or shower base goes in.
- Double-check that the shower valve and fixtures fit your water pressure and are compatible with the rest of your system.
If you have signs of foundation settling or high water table issues, you may also want to inspect your sump pump. Clay soils here can cause basement seepage, so maintaining a reliable system helps prevent future problems. For more on this, see our sump pump services.
Hidden Problems to Watch Out For
We often run into subfloors damaged by years of minor leaks around old tub drains. Soft, sagging, or moldy plywood underlayment needs replacement before any new shower base goes in. Installing a shower pan or tile floor on an unsound surface leads to future headaches. Older supply valves may also fail under new pressure or freeze in the coldest months if they're too close to exterior walls without insulation.
Another hidden problem is with venting. Bathrooms in ranch-style homes from the 1960s and 1970s often have minimal vent stacks, and adding a new shower may strain the system. Insufficient venting can cause gurgling drains and slow flow. If you suspect larger issues with old pipes, our pipe repair and repiping team can handle a full assessment and replacement if needed.
Fixture Updates and Final Touches
Switching out the tub faucet for a pressure-balanced shower valve is key for safety and comfort. This prevents temperature spikes when someone flushes a toilet or runs water elsewhere in the house. Before closing up the walls, double-check for leaks at all new and existing joints. It's also smart to consider water efficiency. New showerheads and valves today can save gallons every week, which matters with moderate water hardness in Morris putting wear on fixtures over time. Our fixture installation service can guide you on options built to last for the long haul.
When Professional Help Makes Sense
Some Morris homeowners tackle small bathroom projects themselves, but converting a tub to a walk-in shower touches every part of your plumbing. Hidden surprises behind old walls, tricky drain changes, and townspecific code requirements are all common. If you run into old pipes or suspect hidden leaks, our plumbers offer leak detection and repair before you commit to a full remodel. We also handle whole remodels, including rerouting supply and drain lines, at our Morris bathroom remodeling page.
We know Morris homes, their quirks, plumbing layouts, and the local code. If you're ready to upgrade your bathroom or need help troubleshooting a conversion gone sideways, call our crew at 779-217-8568. We'll help you get your project going the right way.