Adding a shower to a claw-foot tub allows you to enjoy both leisurely baths and quick showers without a complete bathroom renovation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of outfitting your standalone tub setup with a showerhead, creating a dual-purpose bathing area. This Old House plumbing expert Richard Trethewey demonstrates the installation process in the video above.
Types of Shower Conversion Kits
There are various shower conversion kits available for claw-foot tubs:
- Wall-mounted systems
- Freestanding shower risers
- Ceiling-mounted shower kits
- Handheld shower attachments
Each type has its own benefits and installation requirements, so choose the one that best fits your bathroom layout and personal preferences. Wall-mounted systems are typically more stable, whereas freestanding risers provide flexibility in placement. Ensure the shower kit you choose includes all necessary components. Some kits might require additional parts like wall brackets or extra tubing.
When selecting a shower kit for your claw-foot tub, consider the following factors:
- Compatibility with your existing tub
- Finish that matches your bathroom decor
- Quality of materials (brass or stainless steel are durable options)
- Showerhead style and hand shower options
- Installation difficulty
Before You Start Adding a Shower to a Claw-Foot Tub
Before beginning the shower conversion, consider the following factors:
- Plumbing: Ensure your plumbing system can accommodate the new shower. Check for sufficient water pressure and compatibility with the shower kit.
- Space: Measure the space available around your claw-foot tub. This will help you choose the right shower curtain and rod.
- Aesthetics: Select a shower kit that complements the existing décor of your bathroom, considering finishes and styles.
Tools and Materials Needed
To add a shower to your claw-foot tub, you’ll need to have the following tools and materials:
- Adjustable wrench
- Drill/driver
- Level (18-inch)
- Plumber’s putty
- Screwdriver
- Shower conversion kit (including faucet, riser, showerhead, and curtain rod)
- Teflon tape
- Tubing cutter
- Wall anchors (if needed)
Safety Precautions
Turn off the water supply before starting. Use proper safety gear, such as gloves and goggles. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each tool and material.
Step-by-Step Shower Installation Process
Installing a shower in your claw-foot tub involves several steps. Follow this guide carefully to ensure a proper and leak-free installation.
Removing the Old Faucet
- Turn off the water supply to the tub using the shut-off valves for both hot and cold water.
- Open the faucet handles to release any remaining pressure and confirm the water is off.
- Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the water supply lines from the back of the tub.
- Unscrew and remove the old faucet from the tub.
Removing the old faucet is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to ensure all connections are properly loosened before attempting to remove the faucet. This helps prevent damage to the tub or plumbing.
Installing the New Faucet
- Dry-fit the parts of the new shower assembly to ensure everything fits correctly.
- Apply plumber’s putty around the threaded fittings on the backside of the new tub faucet.
- Install the faucet to the tub and tighten the lock nuts with an adjustable wrench.
- Scrape away any excess putty that squeezes out from behind the faucet.
- Reattach the hot and cold water supply lines to the new faucet, tightening each compression fitting with the adjustable wrench.
- Tighten the new tub spout onto the faucet housing.
Setting Up the Shower Riser
- Assemble the shower riser according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using Teflon tape on each threaded connection to ensure watertight seals.
- Tighten the shower riser into the threaded hole in the back of the tub spout.
- Use a level to ensure the riser is perfectly vertical.
- Mark the wall where the wall support will intersect with the riser.
- Cut the wall support to the appropriate length using a tubing cutter.
- Attach the wall support to the riser and secure it to the wall using the provided hardware.
The wall support provides additional reinforcement to keep the riser steady.
Installing the Shower Curtain Rod
- If necessary, cut the overhead shower curtain ring to fit your bathroom’s dimensions.
- Install mounting brackets on the ceiling or wall opposite the tub.
- Assemble the shower curtain ring and connect one end to the riser and the other to the mounting bracket.
- Add an additional wall support to prevent the shower curtain ring from rotating out of position.
Finishing Touches
- Attach the showerhead to the upper, curved end of the riser.
- Hang your shower curtain from the newly installed oval ring.
- Turn on the water supply and test your new shower setup for any leaks or issues.
Double-Checking Installation
After completing the installation, double-check each connection and fitting. Ensure that all components are securely fastened and properly aligned. Check the water flow and make sure it’s consistent from both the tub spout and showerhead. Ensure there are no leaks and everything functions correctly.
Troubleshooting Common Shower Conversion Issues
If you encounter problems with your new shower setup, here are some common solutions:
- Low water pressure: Clean the showerhead or check for kinks in the supply lines. Ensure that all connections are secure and free from obstructions.
- Leaks: Tighten connections or replace worn washers. Use plumber’s tape to reinforce any loose fittings.
- Unstable riser: Adjust or reinforce the wall support. Double-check the alignment and secure any wobbly parts.
Additional troubleshooting steps can include checking the water supply valves for any obstructions or debris that might impede water flow. Monitoring the setup regularly ensures minor issues are caught early.