The Average Cost of Framing Shower Stall

General Information

• Framing your shower stall involves adding the necessary studs and lumber to support the stall. Framing the shower stall and adding drywall allows you to create the foundation to use for a ceramic tile wall for your shower. You can also install a fiberglass shower stall after framing the area. Different contractors will charge different rates, so get at least three bids before committing to the project. The cost of framing your shower stall can also vary based on the type of shower stall you use and the complexity of the job.

Materials

• The cost for the necessary supplies to add a shower stall to a room is $2,000 for a fiberglass shower stall or $3,000 for a tile surround at the time of publication. If tiles will line the shower walls, the tiles will run about $2.50 a square foot for ceramic tiles or $5 a square foot for natural stone tiles. A basic shower stall costs between $200 and $300, but customized units run up to $4,000. The lumber for framing costs between $15 to $30 a square foot, including other materials, such as nails. Additional costs include the use of greenboard that you will install in place of traditional dryboard around the shower stall. You will also need a framing square and you will need to rent a table saw to cut lumber if you do not already have one.

Labor

• The cost for a licensed contractor to complete the necessary framing will average $70 per hour. Framing work can cost between $5 and $10 a square foot. The average cost for a shower stall installation, including the plumber, masonry work and carpenter, adds up to $4,800 to $5,400.

Other Factors

• Other factors can affect the cost of framing your shower stall. Pre-fabricated shower stalls are cheaper than customized shower stalls. Likewise, smaller shower stalls are less expensive than larger stalls. Framing the walls around the shower stalls is less costly if the shower stall is smaller and in a standard shape and size. If the shower will be placed on an exterior wall, you will need to install a vapor barrier. This additional insulation will increase the overall cost of the project. Completing the job yourself can eliminate labor costs.