Walk‑in showers surge
Walk‑in, barrier‑free showers are rapidly replacing tubs in Raleigh/Cary/Apex, NC — homeowners cite better accessibility, modern style and resale value as drivers of the switch. Local remodel guides are already pivoting to walk‑in designs as a top recommended upgrade for 2026. (openpr.com)
The National Kitchen & Bath Association’s 2026 bath trends report lists curbless/ barrier‑free entries, grab bars, shower benches and other “aging‑in‑place” features as mainstream design goals for primary bathrooms. (nkba.org) Houzz research found 66% of homeowners address special needs during bathroom remodels and specifically call out curbless showers as a frequent accessibility choice. (houzz.com) Multiple Triangle‑area firms now advertise rapid tub‑to‑shower conversions and walk‑in installations — Luxury Bath & Kitchens promotes one‑day installs, Re‑Bath cites typical 3–5 day turnarounds, and Five Star Bath Solutions advertises 1–2 day shower installs for Raleigh customers. (luxurybathral.com) Industry pricing guides show wide cost variation: Angi lists an average tub‑to‑shower conversion near $3,000 with typical ROI around 60%, while national Cost vs. Value data and Zillow note midrange bathroom remodels commonly recoup roughly 70–80% of project cost at resale. (angi.com) Local remodel blogs and trade‑site guides serving Raleigh/Cary/Apex are emphasizing frameless, open walk‑in showers and spa‑style layouts as leading 2026 upgrades, with Raleigh Custom Glass calling frameless showers the “top choice” and regional remodelers listing walk‑in designs among their top trend picks. (raleighcustomglassandmirror.com) Updated national remodel guides and contractor portals published in early 2026 provide step‑by‑step pricing and installation options for walk‑in and tub‑to‑shower projects, and several Triangle installers are advertising financing and packaged one‑day systems to lower upfront barriers. (modernize.com)
