Homeowners across Pensacola ask us the same first question: what will a tile shower actually cost? The honest answer is a range, because the price depends on the size of the shower, the tile you pick, what is behind the old walls, and how much plumbing moves. Rather than quote a number that may not fit your bathroom, this guide explains what a shower estimate includes and every line that moves the number, so you know exactly what you are comparing.
Every estimate we write covers labor and materials installed by a licensed and insured crew, including demolition, waterproofing, tile, grout, and cleanup. Glass, plumbing fixtures, and permits are listed separately because they vary the most from job to job.
What a custom tile shower includes in Pensacola
Every shower we price includes the same core scope. The table shows what each common shower type involves and where the cost comes from, so you can compare estimates line by line.
What drives the cost of a tile shower up or down
Two showers with the same footprint can differ widely in price. These are the line items that account for almost all of that difference.
- Tile choice. Porcelain subway and 12 by 24 tiles sit at the low end. Large format slabs, marble, zellige, and mosaics cost more to buy and far more to cut and set.
- Shower size and height. Tiling to the ceiling adds material and labor. A 48 by 72 walk in uses roughly double the tile of a tub alcove.
- Waterproofing system. A bonded sheet membrane system such as Schluter Kerdi or a comparable foam pan and membrane adds cost over a liquid membrane, but it is the reason the shower lasts. See how we waterproof showers.
- Built ins. Each niche, bench, half wall, or shelf is a separate waterproofed feature with mitered or trimmed edges.
- Plumbing. Moving the drain for a curbless floor, adding a rain head or body sprays, or replacing a valve in a slab home all add plumbing labor.
- Demolition and surprises. Rotten studs, a cracked slab, or old mud beds in a 1950s Pensacola ranch add material and time. We quote known conditions up front and price surprises by the hour with your approval.
- Glass. Frameless glass is priced separately by size and hardware and is measured after the tile is finished.
Pensacola specific factors that change the estimate
Slab homes make up most of Pensacola, Pace, and Milton. Relocating a drain in a slab means cutting concrete, which is routine for us but adds time and a plumber's visit. Older East Hill and North Hill homes have wood subfloors and sometimes original plumbing, so we budget for subfloor repair and leave room for a plumbing update.
Condos on Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key often require a licensed and insured contractor on file with the association, elevator scheduling, and sound control under floors. We handle that paperwork, but it is worth asking your association about rules before you start.
Permits are generally not required to replace tile in the same footprint. A remodel that moves plumbing may need a permit from the City of Pensacola, Escambia County, or Santa Rosa County. We tell you during the estimate.
Where to spend and where to save
Spend on waterproofing, prep, and the person installing it. Those three decide whether the shower is still dry in fifteen years. Save on tile by choosing a well made porcelain in a classic format, by limiting mosaic to the floor and one accent, and by keeping the drain where it is if the layout already works.
Skip the cheap options that cost more later: liquid membrane applied too thin, pre fabricated pans that do not fit the space, and unsealed natural stone in a hard water area.
How to get an accurate written estimate
Start the free estimate form or call (850) 633-8020. We visit, measure the space, look at the existing plumbing and subfloor, and send a written, itemized estimate that separates tile, waterproofing, labor, plumbing, and glass. Bring tile photos you like, or we bring samples. There is no obligation and no pressure. Read more about our custom showers and bathroom remodeling or browse finished showers.
Ready for a real number?
See our showers & bathroom remodeling in Pensacola or request a free written estimate.