Thinking about a shower-in-a-day or tub-to-shower conversion? Here’s how to get that sleek, grout-free, solid surface look, without the avoidable headaches that slow projects and inflate costs.
This guide covers the top mistakes and how to avoid them. Learn why solid surface shines for fast, grout-free installs, what drives budget and timelines, and the small choices that make daily use effortless.
On this page, you'll learn about mistakes to avoid, like:
1) Expecting Tile Results on a One-Day Timeline
2) Forgetting Accessibility
3) Neglecting Built-In Storage
4) Under-Budgeting (or Under-Planning) the Glass
5) Mixing Fixture Finishes or Choosing the Wrong Valve
6) Chasing the Lowest Quote (and Paying Later)
Design Choices You’ll Love
Budget & Timeline (So You Can Plan)
1) Expecting Tile Results on a One-Day Timeline
Tile is gorgeous, but it needs layout, setting, grout, and cure time.
Solid surface shower systems are engineered for fast, clean installs and a seamless look without grout. Decide upfront which path you want so that budget, timeline, and expectations align.
If you want a fully custom mosaic or niche pattern, plan for a longer schedule with our design-build team. If you want speed and easy care, solid surface delivers that spa-clean vibe in days, not weeks.
2) Forgetting Accessibility
A beautiful shower should also be easy to enter and safe to use. Plan a low threshold, the right bench style (fold-down or solid), and blocking in the walls for future grab bars, even if you’re not ready to install them now.
These small decisions today help you age in place with confidence tomorrow. We also place controls within easy reach so you can turn on the water without stepping into the spray.
3) Neglecting Built-In Storage
Add integrated niches or corner caddies sized to your go-to products. Solid surface makes these details simple and clean. Placed outside the main spray, shelves stay cleaner and keep your routine streamlined.
4) Under-Budgeting (or Under-Planning) the Glass
Frameless glass is the jewelry of your shower and a cost driver. Thickness, coatings, hardware finish, and custom sizing affect both budget and lead time.
We’ll review options early so your glass order doesn’t bottleneck the install. Consider easy-clean coatings if you want to minimize spotting and keep maintenance quick.
5) Mixing Fixture Finishes or Choosing the Wrong Valve
Mismatched finishes (matte black faucet, brushed nickel shower trim) can cheapen the final look. And the wrong valve (depth, type, or brand mismatch) creates delays. We’ll confirm valve compatibility and trim families before anything ships.
Locking finishes and specs early keeps your look cohesive and prevents last-minute swap headaches.
6) Chasing the Lowest Quote (and Paying Later)
Rock-bottom prices often skip essentials: licensed installers, proper waterproofing, quality glass, or a real warranty.
The result? Callbacks, stress, and hidden costs. Ask about what’s included, such as valves, pans, glass thickness, cleanup, and warranty terms. Choose transparency over surprises so you know exactly what you’re getting for your money.
Design Choices You’ll Love
Your shower should look as good as it works. With solid surface, you get a polished, grout-free finish plus a wide palette of colors, textures, and details to match your style. We’ll help you mix form and function, so storage, seating, and fixtures feel intentional and refined.
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Wall panels: classic solids, stone looks, or subtle textures
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Storage & seating: built-in niches, corner caddies, fold-down or solid benches
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Fixture finishes: matte black, brushed nickel, champagne bronze
We’ll bring samples to your consult so you can see color and texture in your own lighting. From modern minimal to soft coastal, we’ll help you dial in a look that fits your home.
Budget & Timeline (So You Can Plan)
No guesswork here. Just clear pricing and a schedule that respects your time.
We’ll walk through options, explain what drives cost, and map an install window that keeps life moving. You’ll know exactly what’s included before we lift a tool.
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Typical budget: $8K–$12K+
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Install speed: often 1–2 days with trained installers
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Why it’s popular: groutless = easy cleaning and a polished, modern look
We’ll give you a clear, line-item proposal so every dollar has a job. Most clients keep using the rest of the bathroom outside of installation hours while we work, thanks to clean, contained setups.
Ready for a Seamless Refresh?
A few thoughtful choices make the difference between “fine” and “fantastic.” Our team keeps it simple: clear pricing, tidy installs, and timelines that respect your life.
Ready to upgrade? Book a quick GDB Express Free Estimate, and we’ll map finishes, fixtures, glass, and a start date that works for you.