Home Garden

How to Change a Twenty Year Old Shower

After 20 years of regular use, most showers will require an update of some kind. While the shower may still function properly, styles change and fixtures that are regularly exposed to water can start to look dull. There are a number of different ways to update an older shower, some of which cost more than others, but generally have a larger impact on the bathroom they are in.

Things You'll Need

  • Replacement tile
  • Grout
  • Replacement shower door
  • Replacement shower curtain and hardware
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Replace the tile in your shower with new tile in a more contemporary style. Many older bathrooms have tile that can look somewhat dated, like pastel colored tile or tile with a floral pattern. For a more contemporary look that will easily fit in with stylistic changes, look for a solid color that can blend with many different styles of décor, like blue, green or black. As an alternative, checkered Bowery-style tile will blend with both contemporary and antique fixture and accessories, as will some types of natural stone like marble, granite or travertine.

    • 2

      Put a new layer of grout around the tile in your shower. After regular use, the grout that holds your tile in place will take on a dull, somewhat dirty look. Going over the grout with a fresh coating can be done fairly quickly and it can make your whole shower look newer. If you are unsure of your ability to re-grout your tile, consider hiring a professional to do it for you.

    • 3

      Get a new shower door made out of a more contemporary material. Replace the shower door with a clear or block glass shower door if you have a traditional frosted glass shower door. Look for a thinner frame than traditional shower doors, or use a shower door without a frame if you are going for a very contemporary look.

    • 4

      Swap out your old shower curtain and hardware for new ones -- if you don't have a shower door. This gives you a chance to update your style in the bathroom to current trends or to go with new fixtures and accessories without spending too much money. As an added benefit, a new shower curtain and hardware will make the bathroom feel cleaner and fresher.