How to Incorporate a Shower Stall Into a Bathtub-Only Bathroom

Remove the existing shower rod and curtain, if they exist. Clean the rim of the tub and the tile walls. Make sure to remove any soap scum. Rinse with water and dry.

Measure the length of the bathtub and the height of the tile walls from the rim of the tub to 1 inch from the top edge of the tile to determine the size of the shower doors you need.

Cut the base rail for the shower doors with a hacksaw so the rails fit across the length of the tub. Subtract 1/8 inch from each end to account for the side rails.

Set the base rail across the edge of tub with the track sloping toward the inside of the tub. Hold it in place with one hand and squeeze a line of tub and tile silicone caulk along the inside and outside edge. Press the rail into the rim of the tub for several seconds to set the caulk.

Align the side rails so the bottom of the rails is flush with the edges on the base rail. Use a level to ensure the rails are straight. Screw one rail at a time into the wall. Ensure the rail is straight, and drill through the predrilled holes in the rail into the existing tile wall with the carbide bit. Screw the rail to the wall.

Cut the top rail to fit across the length of the tub. Subtract 1/8 inch to account for the side rails and jambs. Align the top rail over the side rails, and screw it into place inside the side rails.

Install the door jambs that come with the shower doors into the base rail and top ends of the side rails. These jambs keep the shower door from slamming into the walls.

Spread a line of caulk along the inside and outside edges of each side rail. Press the rails into the tile firmly for several seconds to set the caulk.

Screw the shower door rollers into the top of the doors. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for exact placement.

Lift the inside door, and insert the rollers into the tracks inside the rails. Install the outer door in the same manner.