Many choices are available when replacing a tub assembly. If the tub is a combo as in many homes, it has three walls and an entrance, and is normally made of fiberglass. Sometimes one piece, other times, multi-piece, this assembly can be purchased in many colors with hundreds of wall designs and unique etched patterns. Replacement is basically straight-forward, with the extraction of the old tub combo the largest portion of the job. Installation of the new piece involves hooking up the drainage and tub/shower valve, then sealing all the work.

Stand alone claw foot tubs are an older design that has recently regained popularity. Elegant and contemporary, claw foot tubs sit on the floor away from any surrounding walls, with the drain stubbed up from the floor directly behind it. The tub/shower valve resembles a faucet, and is attached to the edge of the tub on one end. Claw-foot tubs range higher in price due to their design and construction, and are much heavier that standard fiberglass units. Installation is, once again, simple, just setting the tub in place and connecting pipes and water supplies.

Modifying showers and shower head replacement involve a few more decisions. Showers are usually of the fiberglass type as well, while some are complete tile assemblies with a shower pan underneath. Replacing a fiberglass assembly with another unit of the same style and size is relatively easy, and the most common type of replacement. The shower valve and drainage are disconnected, and the old shower assembly is pulled out. The new shower is then installed, connecting everything back up and sealing all the edges. Removal of sheet rock or wall material is usually necessary to accommodate the complete installations, as access to the shower valve is necessary. Replacing a tile shower is much more tedious, and as such is more expensive.

Removal of all the tile work is the first step. This alone is complex work and can take some time. Disconnecting the drainage and shower valve is necessary. The shower pan is now accessible. If replacement of the shower pan is needed (older pans were made of lead, and often leaked), now is the time to do that job. Once all prep work has been completed, including valve replacement, drain work, and if necessary, the shower pan, a tile contractor can now come and reinstall all of the tiling, with thousands of colors and design options. Plumbers do not do this task. Once all the tile has been replaced, a plumber can come back and finish the shower, including shower head replacement.