How Much Does It Cost To Install A Shower Pan?

Shower Pan Replacement Costs

A shower pan replacement typically costs between $500 and $3,500, which includes the pan itself and the installation. Your total cost will depend on whether the pan is pre-made, made of metal, installed using tile, or if any custom stone is added. Metal and stone shower pans have the best level of durability, but they’re also the most expensive of the premade options available.

Acrylic and fiberglass shower pan costs

The cost of a shower pan depends on the size you need and the material you choose. Fiberglass shower pans are the cheapest, but they’re also not as durable as acrylic, which is also budget-friendly. Acrylic shower pans are lightweight and cost between $200 and $620 before labor costs. Fiberglass is more affordable at between $150 to $450, but it also shows scratches more easily and is prone to mold and bacteria in the corners and crevices.

Custom stone and tile shower pan costs

Custom stone and tile shower pans feature a solid surface made of everything from cultured marble to natural stone. This luxurious design is highly durable and includes a range of colors and styles to choose from. Stone shower pans are typically between $200 and $950, which does not include the cost of installation. While they look beautiful, they do require a bit more maintenance, including re-sealing the stone every so often to protect it. A tile shower pan can cost from $900 to $3,500, but it depends on the size, type of tile, and installation method required to complete the job.

Cast iron shower pan costs

Cast iron is exceptionally durable, retains heat well, and isn’t prone to cracks or leaks. It’s also very aesthetically pleasing, making it a bit more expensive than some other options. The cost to replace a shower pan with cast iron ranges from $700 to $1,200. This material is very heavy and can be difficult to repair if it chips.

Shower Pan Installation Costs

The average shower pan installation cost ranges from $900 to $2,300. The price you’ll pay depends on the type and material, the size, any special features you choose, the labor, and the base type. Most shower pan bases are either tile-ready or made using poured mud. The labor cost for a mud shower pan is between $45 to $150 per hour and is typically done by a professional plumber or tiler. Additional features like adding a bench or creating variations in the edging will range from $100 to $600 more. 

If you’re getting a hot mop shower pan base, it’ll cost between $225 to $550 to install but should last 15 years or more. Adding just the shower pan liner will range between $30 and $70, depending on whether it’s made of vinyl or PVC. You may also need a plumbing permit to install a new shower pan. The cost varies depending on your jurisdiction.

Other costs to replace and install Shower Pan

Your shower pan replacement cost will vary depending on several different factors. Here are some things that may impact your total project cost:

• Size: The two most common shower pan sizes are 32 x 32 and 36 x 36 inches. These shower pans will cost less than larger ones, so prepare to pay more as the size increases.
• Type: Installing or replacing a simple walk-in shower style pan costs less than a tub and shower combo or a custom design. Basic builder-grade shower pans almost always cost less than shower pans customized to fit a specific shape and size.
• Materials: Fiberglass and acrylic shower pans cost less than cast iron, porcelain-coated steel, natural stone, or tile shower pans, which can be thousands of dollars more.
• Demo and removal: Plumbers and shower installers charge an additional cost to remove an existing shower pan, which typically costs between $50 to $100 for the removal and another $250 for debris disposal. If you need to install new plumbing or have any plumbing moved, plan to pay an additional $600 to $1,600 for this type of work. Adding a new drain line costs $1,000 to $7,000.
• Permits: Depending on where you live, you may need a plumbing permit before installing a new shower pan. This costs between $30 and $500 per day or you may pay a one-time fee, depending on the project's scope and your location. 
• Extras: A new shower door costs between $600 to $1,350 including the price of materials. This is in addition to the cost to replace a shower pan. If you want a new bath fan, the cost to install one is usually $400 on average, and another $100 to $200 if you want one with a light or heat. Ask your contractor for a detailed price list when you get an estimate to confirm how much each additional feature costs. 

DIY or hire a pro

You may think that replacing a shower pan DIY is an easy process, but it requires a lot of skill and precision. A professional installer knows how to grade the floor to ensure proper draining and will confirm that your new shower pan liner is completely watertight. They’ll also provide you with a much faster, easier installation than if you were to attempt to do it yourself. Look for a licensed plumber if you need to have any plumbing added or moved. Local shower installation companies can recommend a plumber, or they may have one on staff that they use to work on their projects.