Tub cut-out conversions in Dallas: a low step into the tub you have
A section of the tub wall is cut away and capped with a watertight insert, so the step in drops to about six inches. No demolition, no new tub, and usually done in one day.
Updated October 2026. Service office: 2353 Bryan St, Dallas. Phones answered 24/7.
A tub cut-out conversion in Dallas removes a section of an existing tub's side wall and seals it with a watertight insert, lowering the step in to about six inches. It usually takes one day and works on fiberglass, steel and cast iron tubs. Installed cut-outs with a convertible door start around 1,495 dollars in market data.
How a tub cut-out works, and who it suits
The tub wall is the problem for many people: often 14 inches or more to lift a foot over, frequently on a wet surface. A cut-out removes a section of that wall at the front of the tub and caps the edges with a molded insert, leaving a low, smooth step.
Nothing else changes. The tub, drain, tile and plumbing stay in place, which is why the job is quick and far less disruptive than removing the tub.
Without a door, the tub becomes a step-in shower. With a watertight door, it can still be filled for a bath. Either way, a grab bar at the opening and a handheld shower make it work properly.
The three cut-out options we install
Step-Through Tub Cut-Out
The simplest version turns the tub into a step-in shower. We mark the opening at the front of the tub, usually centered or toward the faucet end, cut the section out, and bond a watertight insert over the cut edges so there is no raw or sharp surface. A shower curtain or a short glass panel keeps water in. The step drops to roughly six inches, which removes most of the lift and the balance problem of climbing over a full tub wall.
Cut-Out With a Watertight Door
For someone who still wants to take baths, the cut-out gets a hinged door with a seal that closes the opening. Close and latch it, and the tub fills as before; open it, and the step is low again. The door and seal need to be kept clean and checked, because a worn seal will leak. Installed convertible-door models start around 1,495 dollars in market data. A tub that is too narrow at the front may not suit a door model, which we check before ordering.
Planning range, tub cut-out with a convertible door, installed: from about $1,495.
Cut-Out With Grab Bars and a Handheld
A low step helps most when there is something solid to hold and a way to wash without standing still under the showerhead. We add a vertical grab bar at the opening, anchored into studs or blocking, a horizontal bar along the back wall, and a handheld shower on a slide bar through a diverter at the existing arm. A shower chair or bench completes it for someone who needs to sit. All of it fits within the same day or adds a short second visit.
A quick safety change for Dallas homes
For many Dallas households a full accessible remodel is not needed yet, or not affordable right now, and the existing tub is sound. A cut-out keeps that tub, avoids opening the floor or walls, and needs no plumbing changes, so it can be done quickly when someone comes home from the hospital or starts struggling with the tub wall. When more is needed later, the bathroom can still be remodeled.
How a tub cut-out runs
- 1
Call and describe who uses the tub
Mobility and whether baths still matter.
- 2
Check the tub
Material, condition and front width confirmed.
- 3
Choose the option
Step-through or door model, bars and handheld.
- 4
Mark and cut
Opening marked and the section removed.
- 5
Seal and cap
Watertight insert bonded over the cut edges.
- 6
Add bars and handheld
Anchored to framing, sealed through the tile.
- 7
Water test and walkthrough
Tub filled or shower run, step tried with the user.
What moves the price of a tub cut-out
A cut-out is a short job. These items decide the price.
Planning range, tub cut-out with a convertible door, installed: from about $1,495. Market data, not a quote.
Door or no door
A watertight door model costs more than a step-through.
Tub material
Cast iron takes longer to cut than fiberglass or steel.
Tub condition
A cracked or flexing tub may need replacing instead.
Grab bars
Each bar is anchored into framing and sealed.
Handheld shower
A diverter at the arm is simple; a new valve is more.
Glass or curtain
A short fixed glass panel costs more than a curtain.
Someone struggling with the tub wall? Call (214) 646-2836, any hour.
Call nowTub cut-out questions
Something else? Call and ask, any hour.
About six inches, down from a full tub wall.
Yes, with a watertight door model.
Usually one day.
Yes, as well as fiberglass and steel.
Installed convertible-door models start around 1,495 dollars in market data.
Transfers are possible but not ideal; a roll-in shower suits them better.
See accessible remodels.
More Accessibility & Repairs work we do in Dallas
Accessible Bathroom Remodel
Roll-In Shower with Fold-Down Seat and more, in Dallas.
Learn moreBathroom Water Damage Repair
Subfloor Replacement Around the Tub or Toilet and more, in Dallas.
Learn moreGrab Bar and Safety Installation
Grab Bars Anchored Into Studs or Blocking and more, in Dallas.
Learn moreFrom our guides
Lower the step this week
Call and tell us who uses the tub and whether baths still matter. We will check the tub and suggest the option that fits.
2353 Bryan St, Dallas, TX 75201