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How to Budget for a Walk-In Shower Tile Remodel

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How to Budget for a Walk-In Shower Tile Remodel

Upgrade your bathroom and handle the cost of a tile remodel without paying interest by planning your payments.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $6,500 before anything else
Across the 0% window $361.11/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $6,500 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Getting rid of that cramped tub for a clean, open walk-in shower changes your morning routine entirely and makes the whole bathroom feel twice the size. A standard tile remodel usually takes about one to two weeks of actual dusty work once the crew shows up. Scheduling contractors in late winter is your best move since schedules slow down and you are much more likely to get a quick callback and a fair rate.

Before you commit to anyone, get at least three distinct quotes from local tile setters or general contractors. Prices swing wildly for the exact same square footage, and having options stops you from overpaying for labor.

Remember that the 18-month 0% window is a hard deadline and not free money, so if any balance is still sitting on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card when that period ends, you will get hit with interest on the remaining amount.

The steps

  1. 01

    Line up three quotes

    Call local contractors now while winter work is slow and get at least three separate estimates. Compare the line items for tile, waterproofing, and labor so you know what the fair market rate actually is.

  2. 02

    Pick your purchase window

    A typical US tile remodel runs about $6500 for materials and labor. Map out your timeline so you buy tile and schedule the build when you have cash flow steady.

  3. 03

    Use the card term

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. That lets you stretch out the cost without adding interest while you finish the room.

  4. 04

    Set the monthly payment

    Take that $6500 total and divide it across your timeline. If you spread the $6500 across the 18-month window, you need to pay $361.11 per month to clear it before time runs out.

  5. 05

    Buy materials early

    Order your tile, grout, and fixtures before demolition starts so the contractor isn't waiting on shipping. Delays cost you time and sometimes extra labor fees.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

How long does a walk-in shower tile remodel take?

The actual construction usually takes one to two weeks once demo starts. However, you should add a few weeks on the front end for ordering tile and nailing down contractor schedules.

Why schedule contractors in late winter?

Home renovation requests drop off significantly after the holidays. Contractors are looking to fill their schedules and are much more likely to negotiate or start your job quickly.

What happens if I don't pay off the $6500 in 18 months?

Any leftover balance will start accruing interest at the standard rate. Make sure you match your monthly payments to the timeline so you avoid those extra charges.

Do I need to buy the tile myself?

Most contractors let you pick and buy your own tile, grout, and fixtures to match your style. Just make sure you verify exact quantities and get extra for cuts and breakage.