Denver Shower Remodel: Walk-In Conversion with Custom Tile Installation
Complete bathroom transformation converting an outdated elevated shower into a modern, accessible walk-in design
Project Overview
A complete bathroom transformation in Denver's Irving Street neighborhood, converting an outdated elevated shower into a modern, accessible walk-in design with custom vertical tile and natural stone flooring. This project demonstrates our expertise in both bathroom renovation and solving complex plumbing challenges while delivering stunning aesthetic results.
The Challenge
The homeowner contacted us frustrated with their existing shower design. The main issue was a raised platform requiring multiple steps to enter the shower - an inconvenient and potentially unsafe feature that didn't meet modern ADA accessibility standards.
The cause of this elevated design was unknown, raising concerns about hidden plumbing complications that might prevent a floor-level installation. This type of conversion requires careful planning to ensure proper shower floor slope requirements are met for optimal drainage.
Discovery Phase
Upon complete demolition of the old shower and removal of the existing pan, we uncovered two critical issues:
Good News
No plumbing obstacles prevented a floor-level shower installation. The elevated platform had been unnecessary and could be safely removed to create a modern walk-in shower.
Hidden Problem
During tile and toilet removal, we discovered the toilet had been leaking for an extended period. The subfloor plywood showed significant fungal growth and rot damage around the drain area.
After consulting with the homeowner, we agreed that partial plywood replacement was essential to prevent fungal spread to undamaged wood. This type of hidden water damage is common in older Denver homes and highlights the importance of professional inspection during renovations.
Our Solution
Structural Repairs
Following Denver building code requirements, we completed comprehensive structural repairs:
- Complete removal of damaged subfloor sections
- Installation of new plywood to eliminate fungal contamination
- Repositioning of the drain to center location
- Plumbing modifications to accommodate new floor-level design
- Floor repair and new toilet drain installation
Waterproofing & Preparation
We followed TCNA (Tile Council of North America) standards for waterproofing best practices:
- GoBoard installation on all shower walls for optimal moisture protection
- Waterproof membrane application at seams and corners
- Custom-built shower pan using traditional method with rubber liner
- Proper slope engineering (1/4" per foot minimum) for optimal drainage - see our guide on shower floor slope requirements
Tile Installation
Shower Walls
We installed a unique textured vertical tile - a wave-pattern product we were working with for the first time. Despite being a new material for our team, the tile proved surprisingly easy to work with due to its flexibility and malleability. This type of large-format installation requires techniques covered in our gauged porcelain tile installation guide.
Shower Floor
Natural stone mosaic in a pebble pattern, providing both beauty and slip resistance - an important safety feature endorsed by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA).
Bathroom Floor
Hexagonal (octagon) tile extending throughout the bathroom space, creating a cohesive and modern aesthetic.
Custom Soap Niche
Fabricated and installed in the left wall, perfectly integrated with the vertical tile pattern for seamless functionality.
Finishing Touches
- Drywall ceiling and wall repair with texture matching
- Complete bathroom painting
- Baseboard installation and painting
- New toilet installation
- Glass shower door installation
- Bronze-finish fixtures (showerhead and control valve)
Installation Process Gallery
Measuring and marking tile layout for outdoor bathroom installation
Demolition phase showing exposed framing and rotted subfloor from toilet leak
Old shower demolition revealing damaged plywood and drain assembly
Before photo of outdated shower with beige tile and black accent stripe
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Cutting beige tile with Milwaukee oscillating multi-tool during removal
Installing custom soap niche in textured vertical tile shower wall
Completed modern walk-in shower with bronze fixtures and pebble stone floor
Finished shower niche installation with vertical textured tile surround
Overhead view of completed shower showing vertical tile and stone floor
Final shower remodel with vertical tile installation and pebble floor detail
In-progress shower niche installation showing textured tile alignment
Using laser level for precise vertical tile installation alignment
Applying thinset mortar to textured vertical tile during installation
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Drilling through tile with Milwaukee tool for fixture installation
Spreading thinset mortar on tile backing with notched trowel
Materials Used
All materials were sourced from trusted suppliers and selected for durability in Denver's climate. We use only products that meet or exceed industry standards set by organizations like the Tile Council of North America.
Results
The transformation eliminated the dangerous elevated platform, created a modern walk-in shower with stunning visual appeal, and resolved hidden water damage that could have caused more serious structural issues if left unaddressed.
The combination of textured vertical walls and natural stone flooring creates a spa-like atmosphere while maintaining practical functionality. The homeowner now enjoys:
- Safe, barrier-free entry (no more elevated platform)
- Modern, spa-like aesthetic with custom tile
- Proper waterproofing and drainage
- Resolved structural issues (rot repair)
- Increased home value
- Peace of mind with professional installation
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about shower remodeling projects in Denver
How long does a shower remodel typically take?
This project took approximately 2 weeks from demolition to completion. Timeline varies based on scope and unexpected issues like water damage. Most standard Denver shower remodels take 1-2 weeks.
Can you convert any elevated shower to floor-level?
Most can be converted. We assess plumbing configuration during demolition to confirm feasibility before proceeding. Our team has extensive experience with tub-to-shower conversions and elevated platform removals throughout Denver.
What if you discover water damage during demolition?
We immediately notify you, document the damage with photos, and provide options. Addressing water damage prevents larger structural issues. In this Irving Street project, we discovered and repaired significant subfloor rot caused by a toilet leak.
Do you handle plumbing modifications?
Yes, this project included drain repositioning, plumbing relocation, and toilet drain repair - all completed in-house. We're fully licensed for plumbing work and familiar with Denver building codes.
What's included in the shower remodel cost?
Demolition, water damage repair, plumbing work, custom shower pan, all tile installation, fixtures, glass door, painting, and cleanup. We provide detailed, itemized quotes before work begins.
Have more questions about your Denver shower remodeling project?
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9494 Halstead Ln, Lone Tree, CO 80124
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From elevated shower conversions to complete bathroom renovations, South Denver Tile Experts delivers exceptional results throughout the Denver metro area. Contact us today to start your project.