The cost to replace a bathtub or shower drain ranges from $500 to $1,020, with an average of $700. Copper and cast iron drainpipes are more expensive than other types.
You may not think that much about your bathtub or shower drain—until it stops working properly. The cost to replace a tub drain and overflow is around $700, but prices range between $500 and $1,020 and vary depending on the location of the drain.
At best, a malfunctioning drain can make it harder for water to drain, and at worst, it can cause water damage to the floor or ceiling of your home. Let’s look at all the costs associated with replacing a bathtub or shower drain.
Here are the main factors that affect the cost of replacing a bathtub or shower drain. Keeping these in mind as you create a budget can help you understand the overall price.
Before removing a bathtub drain and replacing it, consider that different types of drain materials have different price points. Copper and cast iron tend to be more expensive than other types of drainpipes.
| Type of Drain | Average Cost (Per Linear Foot) |
|---|---|
| Cast iron | $12.50–$30 |
| Copper | $2.50–$15 |
| PVC | $0.75–$7.50 |
| PP | $1.25–$15 |
Cast-iron drainpipes, which are common in houses built before the 1970s, cost an average of $12.50 to $30 per linear foot.
Copper drainpipes cost between $2.50 and $15 per linear foot. Copper is an excellent choice for drainpipes because of its durability and longevity.
PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride. These pipes cost from $0.75 to $7.50 per linear foot and are among the more affordable drainpipes.
Polypropylene pipes are also cost-effective and range between $1.25 and $15 per linear foot. While more affordable, these pipes are less durable than metal ones.
New drainpipes cost between $0.75 and $30 per linear foot. The total cost will depend on how much pipe you need to replace and what type of pipe you use. Materials like cast iron and copper are more expensive than PVC or PP pipes (more on this below).
Labor costs an average of $45 to $200 per hour. In most cases, you should leave drain replacement to an experienced plumber. The last thing you want to do is accidentally cause a leak to the floor below the bathtub, which can cost between $45 and $55 per square foot to repair.
You may also need to account for some common repair add-ons when replacing a drain in your tub or shower. For example, you may need to call in a pro to unclog the drain, which averages $225, or you might want to upgrade your showerhead at the same time.
If installing a new drain requires tearing out part of the wall, new drywall installation costs about $2,100. Other elements of your bathroom that might need repair after pipe replacement include cabinets and tile. Most importantly, if parts of your foundation are disturbed, prioritize fixing them.
When pulling out drainpipes, you may find a leak and surrounding damage. Repairing water damage costs between $1,350 and $6,100, but your costs will depend on the extent of the damage.
If you choose to replace a drain yourself, you could save $45 to $200 per hour in the labor costs charged by a professional plumber near you. That said, drain replacement and repair are best left to the professionals. If you install a replacement drain incorrectly, it could result in water damage repairs to your home.
The cost to replace a bathtub is $1,400 to $7,000. Whether you want to spruce up your bathroom or your existing bathtub is not functioning correctly, purchasing a new tub typically costs about $4,150. Prices may vary depending on the type and size of the tub.
Prices for shower drain styles vary. For example, a linear shower drain costs about $200 or more for the part alone compared to about $15 for a circular shower drain. Also, linear shower drains typically require a shower remodel to use them, so you may pay a few hundred dollars more for labor. Read about the pros and cons of linear shower drains.
If you need to repair part of your plumbing, it will cost an average of $330. The cost of plumbing repairs is influenced by several factors, including the type of drain and the specific repair needed.
If your plumbing is leaking, you’ll need to get it repaired right away. The average bathroom leak repair cost is $150 to $350. You shouldn’t put off repairing a leak, as it can cause water damage to your home if left untreated.
Roto-Rooter® typically charges a flat rate of $160 to $450. The largest plumbing service provider in the country, Roto-Rooter prices include the time it takes for a technician to get to your house. They can tackle a variety of issues, including clogged drains, leaks, and emergency plumbing services.
