Excel Shower & Bath
Tub-to-Shower Conversions
Trade the tub you step over every day for a low-step walk-in shower. Step in, not over — easier to use, easier to clean, most done in 1–2 days.
Family-owned since 1982 44 years in Chicagoland EPA Lead-Safe Certified Energy Star Partner A+ BBB Accredited since 1993
A lot of folks have a tub they haven't taken a bath in for years — and stepping over that high wall gets harder over time. A tub-to-shower conversion takes the old tub out and puts in a walk-in shower with a low threshold, so the idea is simple: step in, not over.
Because we set the new base where the tub sat, we can usually do the conversion without moving your plumbing — which keeps the job clean and quick. Most conversions are done in 1–2 days. It's one of the biggest changes you can make to a bathroom for the smallest disruption.
Our walls are the Onyx Collection — a seamless solid surface made from alumina trihydrate and resin, with no grout lines to scrub. We can build in a seat and anchor Moen grab bars right where you need them while the wall is open. We've been remodeling baths in south-suburb homes since 1982, and our crew handles your job start to finish.
Your options
Onyx Collection walls & low-step base
A seamless solid surface built to your space — warm, easy to wipe clean, no grout. Paired with a low-threshold base so getting in is a small step, not a big lift.
Built-in seat & niche
Add a built-in bench and a recessed shelf while the wall is open, sealed in for good instead of bolted on later.
Moen safety fixtures
Hand-held showerheads, easy-grip valves, and ADA-rated grab bars rated to 500 lbs, backed by the manufacturer's warranty.
BRANDS WE INSTALL
How we do business
From first call to final walk-through
- 1
Free design consultation
We come to your home, measure, and talk through low-step entry, seats, and grab bars with samples. You get a clear written proposal — no pressure.
- 2
Order & build
Your walls and base are made to your space. This usually takes a few weeks so everything's on hand before we start.
- 3
Install
Our crew handles it start to finish. Most conversions are done in 1–2 days.
- 4
Walk-through
We clean up, show you how everything works, and stand behind the job.
REAL EXCEL BATHROOMS
Tub-to-Shower Conversions — finished projects
Real Excel installs in the south suburbs — swipe, or use the arrow buttons.
Flexible monthly payments available through Service Finance. See financing options →
Tub-to-Shower Conversions — common questions
Does the new shower have a door?
Yes — a doorless, open shower isn't the only option. Bypass sliding doors from Arizona Shower Door come standard, with frameless glass as an upgrade if you want the open look. We fit the door to your new opening.
How low is the step into the new shower?
A lot lower than a tub wall. We use a low-threshold base, so getting in is a small step instead of a big lift over the side. We'll show you the exact base height at the consultation.
Do you have to move the plumbing?
Usually not. Because we set the new base where the tub sat, most conversions are done without relocating your plumbing — which keeps the job clean and quick. If something needs adjusting, we'll tell you straight at the measure.
How long does it take?
Most conversions are done in 1–2 days. We give you a real timeline at the consultation — it varies a little by project.
Can you add a seat and grab bars?
Yes, and this is the right time to do it. We build the seat in and anchor Moen grab bars — rated to 500 lbs — into the wall while it's open, so they hold solid. Much safer than adding one later.
Will it be easier to clean than my old tub?
Yes. The Onyx walls wipe clean with no grout lines, and there's no high tub wall to lean over. Less scrubbing, less reaching.
What if I still want a tub somewhere in the house?
That's fine — a lot of people keep one tub for resale and convert the one they actually use. We'll help you decide which makes sense.
What's the warranty?
The manufacturer warrants the product, and Excel warrants the labor for 5 years. The specifics are written into your contract — read them, and ask us anything.
Ready When You Are
Let's talk about your tub-to-shower conversions.
A free, no-pressure in-home consultation. We bring the product samples, measure what we need to measure, and leave you with a clear written proposal — not a sales pitch.
