TroubleshootingUpdated June 9, 2026
Older Highwood homes come with charm, but many still have a bathtub taking up space in a bathroom that would work better with a walk-in shower. Swapping out a tub for a shower can solve mobility issues or simply make better use of a small bathroom. A project like this isn't just about tile and glass, there are plumbing challenges underneath that need the right approach. We've seen what can go wrong if those details get skipped, especially in Highwood's mix of early and mid-20th century houses.
Why Older Highwood Homes Clog Up Remodeling Plans
Many homes in this area still use original galvanized steel supply lines or cast iron drains. Both types of pipe are prone to corrosion over time. If your tub has been in place for decades, the connections underneath likely haven't moved since installation. Clay tile sewer lines, which are common in this region, can also create headaches if roots have snuck in or if ground shifting has caused cracks. Moisture from Lake Michigan and the freeze-thaw cycles in winter don't help either. These factors make tub-to-shower conversions in Highwood a bit more involved than in newer construction.
Key Plumbing Concerns During Conversion
When pulling out a tub, we usually find a few trouble spots:
- Old galvanized or corroded copper pipes behind the wall, sometimes with leaky threads.
- Cast iron or lead P-traps that don't fit modern drain assemblies.
- Drain lines set too high in the floor, which can affect the slope required for a walk-in shower pan.
- Low water pressure from narrowed, rusted pipe interiors.
- Sewer smells if traps have failed or vents are undersized.
Even if your current fixtures work, converting a tub to a shower exposes plumbing that may be on its last legs. That's why we always do a full inspection before quoting any bathroom remodeling project. Issues with old supply or drain lines can make or break the remodel's long-term reliability. For major supply line issues, our pipe repair and repiping team can update those runs to modern standards.
Drainage and Venting Adjustments
Tub drains are typically 1.5 inches, while walk-in showers work best with 2-inch drains. This helps prevent clogs from hair and soap scum. Upgrading that section to 2 inches often involves breaking up the floor and connecting to the main stack. If the home's P-trap is buried in concrete or made of brittle cast iron, it can need careful removal to avoid further disruption. Clay soil in Highwood doesn't drain quickly, so leaks under the slab or on a first-floor bath can cause slow, hidden water damage. Proper venting is critical, too, undersized or blocked vent stacks can lead to slow draining and sewer gas backing up.
Shower Valve, Fixture, and Slope Issues
Installing a new shower valve is the best time to update old shutoffs. Many older homes don't have accessible shutoffs right at the fixture. We recommend replacing these with ball valves or quarter-turn shutoffs for reliability. If the bathroom remodeling project calls for a rainhead or multi-function system, verify your home's pressure can handle the upgrade. For shower pans, the correct slope is essential for drainage. With Highwood's older framing and sometimes uneven floors, building a level but sloped base so water flows to the drain can take more prep time than expected. For advice on fixture selection and precise installation, see our faucet and fixture installation service.
Steps We Recommend Before Starting
- Inspect all visible piping for corrosion, leaks, or odd connections.
- Check the main water shutoff so you know it works before demolition.
- Assess nearby supply lines and valves for age and function, replace if needed.
- Evaluate the drain location and size for compatibility with a walk-in shower base.
- Plan for waterproofing (membrane, proper slope, and correct drain height) to avoid leaks and future mold.
On projects where the home has a history of backups or slow drains, scheduling a drain cleaning can clear out settled sludge or root growth. If you suspect bigger issues in the line to the street, our sewer line services include camera inspections to confirm the path is clear before you invest in upgrades.
What to Watch Out For During Construction
Once demolition starts, keep an eye out for rotten subflooring from old leaks, hidden cast iron pipes with hairline cracks, or mold from prior water intrusion. If your home is one of Highwood's older Cape Cods or Colonials, piping could still be routed unconventionally around floor joists, which means adjusting layout plans. If you have a sump pit close to the bathroom, it's wise to ensure it's working well during construction. Our crew can handle sump pump checks and repairs as part of the sump pump services we offer, so you don't end up with water issues just as the project finishes.
We understand updating your bathroom is a big step, especially in a house with old plumbing behind the walls. If you want expert help converting your tub to a walk-in shower, give us a call at 224-524-1625. Our team knows what to expect in Highwood homes, and we're ready to help get your remodel right from the start.