Bathtubs/showers

[jimj]

Ok, here's the no drift answer. I'd put in a tile pan as you can match it up to whatever exists. Secondly, I'd put in either Corian or Cultured walls if you're really against tile as there's no grout except the pan (floor) and that's not hard to keep clean.
I wouldn't use fiberglass unless I absolutely had to.

[accufitgolf]

Donn and others:

Thanks for the info.

I will be visiting a few big box stores to get my arms around material cost but I am not going the DIY route. I am willing to pay "fairly" to get it done the way I want, but I will not pay outrageous money as some "bath redo franchise" places want.

Many big box employees are clueless (spell electrical and we will put you in that department) but if one visits/questions enough of them one can learn and ocassionally find an employee that does know what they are talking about.

I have done grouting. I hate the stuff for two reasons. It is only a matter of time/material but eventually it will get messed up as in looking bad. Secondly, while grouting is a no brainer/simple task, many expect to get paid well for doing such thus it can be very expensive. All in all, I say avoid grouting.

Thanks.

[MrRational]

Originally Posted by accufitgolf

I will be visiting a few big box stores...

Isn't this largely where you were at the beginning of the thread?

I looked online at a few big box stores and the units that interest me
seem to be $800 to $1,200 ...so outside material cost is $1,500 to $1,700.

Have you done any homework to learn what you have UNDERNEATH your existing tub?
I mentions construction drawings. I'm sure others mentioned poking into the access hatch.

The biggest difference between prefab showers and prefab tubs is the drain location.
Even if the existing drain pipe in your house is 2"... it won't be stubbed up where the shower needs it.
The nature of the wall or enclosure (material choices) is the lest of the concerns you have.

hth

[accufitgolf]

Thanks all.

I have spent sometime on several online sites (Plumbing, DYI. Remodeling, etc.) and I have learned quite a bit plus I talked to the original installer.

Seems in order to meet my desires for size, a custom shower pan might have to be done so either I change my desires or pay for such. Such is life.........LOL

Thanks for all the help.