Remodeling your shower doesn’t have to drain your wallet. While the idea of a luxurious new shower space can conjure images of sleek glass doors, rain showerheads, and gleaming tilework, it’s entirely possible to achieve a beautiful, functional upgrade without overspending. The key is knowing where to focus your budget—and where to pull back.

Here’s a breakdown of smart, practical strategies to help you save money on your shower remodel without sacrificing style or quality.*

1. Set a Realistic Budget (And Stick to It)

Before calling contractors or shopping for tile, sit down and determine what you’re truly comfortable spending. This number should include a buffer—typically 10–15%—for unexpected costs. Remodeling projects often reveal hidden issues, like water damage or plumbing quirks, that can quickly inflate your bill if you’re unprepared.

Once you’ve set your budget, commit to it. A well-defined spending cap keeps you from getting upsold on upgrades you don’t need.

2. Keep the Existing Layout

Changing the layout of your shower—especially if it involves moving plumbing—can be one of the biggest expenses in a remodel. If you’re trying to save money, keep the drain, valves, and water lines where they are.

This also applies to keeping your shower in the same location altogether. Moving it to another wall, or converting a tub into a new shower stall on the other side of the bathroom, can snowball into major plumbing and demolition costs.

Pro tip: If your layout feels tight or awkward, talk to your contractor about simple adjustments (like a corner shower or curved door) that preserve the plumbing but improve usability.

3. Choose Prefabricated Shower Kits Over Custom Builds

A custom tile shower may look stunning, but the labor involved in waterproofing, tiling, and finishing is extensive—and costly.

Instead, consider a prefabricated shower kit, which typically includes the shower pan, walls, and sometimes doors. These kits are:

• Easier and faster to install
• Less prone to leaks
• Available in a wide range of styles and materials
• Significantly cheaper than custom tile work

Fiberglass and acrylic units are the most budget-friendly, though some brands offer upscale versions that still cost less than a tiled build.

4. Refinish Instead of Replacing

If your existing shower isn’t structurally damaged and just looks outdated or worn, refinishing may be the way to go.

• Shower pans can often be reglazed for a fraction of the cost of replacement.
• Tile and grout can be cleaned and re-sealed to give a fresher appearance.
• Fixtures like showerheads and faucets can be replaced individually without redoing the entire system.

This approach not only saves money but also reduces construction time and material waste.

5. Opt for Mid-Range Materials

High-end materials like marble, custom-cut glass, or designer fixtures quickly eat into your budget. But going cheap on everything can result in a look (and feel) that’s underwhelming or prone to issues down the line.

Aim for a mid-range approach:

• Use porcelain or ceramic tile instead of natural stone—they’re durable, water-resistant, and come in designs that mimic more expensive materials.
• Choose semi-frameless or framed glass doors over fully frameless ones.
• Pick quality hardware in standard finishes like brushed nickel or chrome—they’re often cheaper than matte black or brass but just as stylish.