California Bathrooms FAQs

Bill Thompson is the owner and founder of California Bathrooms, Inc., based in Kearny Mesa, San Diego.

Yes. California Bathrooms is fully licensed, bonded, and insured in the state of California.

Every project follows the Crafted to Zero™ 5-layer construction process. We tear down to the studs on every job, install HydroBlok waterproofing behind all surfaces, and use grout-free wall systems with two manufacturer lifetime warranties. No subcontractors.

No. Every project has a certified Crafted to Zero crew using our system to build every project. You deal with one team from start to finish.

Two manufacturer lifetime warranties: one on the wall system and one on the HydroBlok waterproofing substrate. Plus our own labor warranty.

A shower remodel in San Diego costs $10,000–$40,000+ in 2026 depending on scope. All tiers include complete tear-down to studs and HydroBlok waterproofing.

A tub-to-shower conversion costs $15,000–$22,000 with California Bathrooms. This includes tub removal, full waterproofing, walk-in shower build, and lifetime warranty wall systems.

Projects range from $10,000–$40,000+ depending on the tier and scope. The Fresh Start starts at $10,000, The Transformation at $15,000, and The Crafted Suite at $22,000. All tiers include the same 5-layer construction process with full waterproofing and manufacturer lifetime warranties.

Yes. We work with financing partners to offer monthly payment options. Ask about current terms during your free in-home consultation.

Because we tear down to the studs, install proper waterproofing, and use grout-free wall systems with lifetime warranties.

Most projects complete in 1–7 days. Basic replacements take 1–2 days. Tub-to-shower conversions take 2–4 days. Full build-outs take 4–7 days.

In most cases, yes. We build the new shower in the existing tub footprint, so no major plumbing relocation is needed. We assess feasibility during the free in-home measure.

For most homeowners, yes. A walk-in shower eliminates the step-over required to enter a tub. With barrier-free entry, grab bars, and slip-resistant flooring, it’s a significant safety improvement — especially for aging in place.

In most San Diego homes, a well-built walk-in shower adds more value than an outdated tub — as long as the home still has at least one bathtub elsewhere. If it’s your only bathroom, we’ll discuss options during your consultation.

Ask specifically: “What waterproofing system do you install behind the tile or panels?” and “Do you tear down to the studs and inspect the framing?” If the answer is vague, that’s a red flag.

Ask about waterproofing: what system they install behind the tile or panels. Ask if they tear down to the studs. Ask about warranties — both labor and manufacturer. A contractor who builds properly will explain their process clearly.

Choosing a contractor based on price alone. The cheapest bid often means corners are cut behind the walls. These shortcuts typically lead to water damage and full tear-outs within 5–10 years.

Focus on what’s behind the walls, not just the surface. Ensure your contractor installs proper waterproofing, correct drainage, and addresses ventilation. Look for manufacturer warranties on materials, not just labor guarantees.

Shower waterproofing is a continuous barrier installed behind tile or wall panels that prevents water from reaching the wood framing and structure. It’s separate from the surface finish.

No. Tile is a surface finish. Water penetrates through grout lines over time. A separate waterproofing membrane is required behind the tile.

Unless you were present during construction or have documentation, you likely don’t know. Most showers built before 2015 do not have a dedicated waterproofing system.

Common signs include musty smells that won’t go away, mold or mildew that keeps returning, soft or discolored drywall near the shower, and flooring damage outside the shower area.

Most bathroom remodels fail because of hidden issues behind the walls: missing waterproofing, poor drainage, structural movement, inadequate ventilation, or reliance on grout and caulk as the primary water barrier. These problems develop slowly over 3–10 years and are typically invisible until significant damage has occurred.

In most cases, a failed shower needs a full tear-out and rebuild. Surface repairs like re-grouting or re-caulking don’t address the underlying water damage.

In San Diego, repairing water damage from a shower without proper waterproofing typically costs $10,000–$30,000+, including mold remediation, structural repair, and full rebuild.

No. Building inspectors check for code compliance at the time of inspection, but they don’t open walls or evaluate waterproofing quality. A shower can pass inspection and still lack proper waterproofing.

Every project follows the Crafted to Zero™ 5-layer system: waterproofing, drainage, ventilation, structure, and finishes. We tear down to the studs on every job, install HydroBlok waterproofing behind all surfaces, and use grout-free wall systems with manufacturer lifetime warranties.

Most projects take 1–7 days depending on the tier. A basic shower replacement (The Fresh Start) completes in 1–2 days. A tub-to-shower conversion (The Transformation) takes 2–4 days. A full bathroom build-out (The Crafted Suite) runs 4–7 days.

Our methodology is based on understanding our clients' needs and the market landscape. We utilize data and insights to develop customized strategies that resonate with audiences.

Yes. Our Crafted Suite tier includes full Title 24 energy code compliance for ventilation, lighting, and energy efficiency. All tiers include ventilation assessment and recommendations to ensure your remodel meets current California building requirements.

HydroBlok is the waterproofing substrate system California Bathrooms installs on

No. HTP is a higher-performance material than standard acrylic. It’s thicker, more impact-resistant, and available in a wider range of designs. Standard acrylic panels are thinner and more prone to scratching and fading over time.

HTP walls carry a lifetime manufacturer warranty and are designed for decades of daily use. They’re non-porous and impact-resistant, so they don’t degrade the way tile grout does over time.

Yes. Both are available in designs that replicate tile, subway, stone, and marble patterns — without the grout, sealing, and maintenance those materials require.

Neither is objectively better — both deliver the same waterproof, grout-free, lifetime-warranty performance. HTP offers more pattern variety and is included in all pricing tiers. PuroStone delivers a premium natural stone aesthetic and is available in The Transformation tier and above. The choice is personal preference.

High-Tech Polymer (HTP) is a durable, grout-free wall system available in a wide range of tile and pattern designs. PuroStone is an engineered stone surface that replicates marble and natural stone without the maintenance. Both carry lifetime manufacturer warranties. The choice comes down to aesthetic preference.

A zero-threshold shower has no curb or step to enter. The floor is flush with the bathroom floor, allowing easy access for wheelchairs, walkers, and anyone with mobility challenges.

In some cases, yes. But for grab bars to be truly safe, they need to be anchored into solid backing behind the walls. During a full remodel, we install blocking specifically for grab bar placement — so they’re secure for years, not just screwed into drywall.

There may be. Some accessibility modifications qualify for medical expense deductions or state tax credits. Consult your tax advisor for specifics. We can provide documentation of the accessibility features installed.

Yes. We partner with Rebuilding Together San Diego and the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego to donate accessible bathroom renovations to families in need.