Shower Replacement Guide for Greater Columbia Homeowners
Shower replacement is a different scope than a tub-to-shower conversion or a full remodel. You're swapping a worn or dated shower for a new one inside the existing footprint — often the right move when the rest of the bathroom is in good shape.
When replacement is the right scope
If the existing shower is leaking, the grout and waterproofing are failing, the surround is dated or cracked, or you simply want a different look — replacement typically lands in the $9,000–$17,000 range for an acrylic system or $14,000–$30,000 for tile across Greater Columbia.
- Failing waterproofing or visible leaks behind tile (especially in older intown and Forest Acres / Arcadia Lakes stock)
- Cracked or chalky fiberglass surrounds from the 80s–90s in inner Cayce, West Columbia, St. Andrews, Seven Oaks, and older Irmo stock
- Outdated builder-grade tile in 90s–2000s Irmo, Chapin, Lake Carolina, Spring Valley, Wildewood, and Woodcreek Farms phases
- Persistent mold from undersized vent fans (common in historic intown bungalows and Lake Murray waterfront stock)
- Worn primary-bath showers in long-tenure Shandon, Rosewood, Heathwood, Melrose Heights, Forest Acres, Forest Hills, Arcadia Lakes, and downtown Lexington stock
Not sure which option fits your home? Julia will walk you through a 2-minute guided conversation and show you a personalized remodel profile.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep the existing shower pan?+
Sometimes, but most full-service remodelers replace the pan because that's where leaks start — and in Midlands humidity, a compromised pan over a crawlspace rots the subfloor and joists fast. If a quote keeps the existing pan, ask why and what the warranty covers if it leaks later.
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BathGuide is a 2-minute guided conversation, not a contractor form. You'll see your personalized remodel profile before sharing anything. Matching with a local provider is optional and only happens if you want it.