By Custom Bath & Shower | Papillion, NEIn Papillion, NE, where summers are hot and winters test your plumbing’s patience, homeowners are getting serious about their showers in 2025. And for good reason: nothing sets the tone for your day (or helps you forget it) like a great shower. But here’s the challenge—how do you upgrade without drowning your budget?

At Custom Bath & Shower, we’ve worked with enough families to know that bathroom remodeling doesn’t need to be extravagant to be exceptional. When it comes to replacement showers, there are smart, stylish, and cost-effective ways to make the switch mid-year. If you’re dreaming of an upgrade but watching your wallet, here’s your guide.

1. Stick with Acrylic (It’s Not a Dirty Word)

Acrylic used to get a bad rap. But in 2025, it’s one of the most durable and budget-friendly materials around. Today’s acrylic wall systems mimic the look of stone or tile but cost a fraction of the price—and they’re far easier to maintain. They resist mold, mildew, cracking, and fading, and best of all, you don’t have to spend your weekends scrubbing grout. In a place like Papillion, where humidity and temperature swings are real, low-maintenance materials are a win.

2. Keep Plumbing in Place

Changing your plumbing layout can be like opening a can of worms… and then inviting them to dinner. The easiest way to keep costs low on replacement showers is to work with what you’ve got. If your drain, valves, and fixtures are already in a logical spot, don’t move them. It’s a fast way to keep your budget from ballooning.

3. Choose a Shower Kit Over Full Custom

We love custom work as much as the next perfectionist, but shower kits have come a long way. Pre-designed units can still look amazing—and they’re far more affordable than building something from scratch. Many now come with stylish features like built-in seating, glass doors, and sleek shelving. They install faster too, which means less labor cost and fewer days of brushing your teeth in the kitchen sink.

4. Accessorize with Intention

Not all upgrades require demo hammers. Swapping out old showerheads, faucets, or curtain rods for modern, water-efficient versions can instantly freshen up your bathroom. Want to splurge a little? A rainfall showerhead or handheld wand adds a luxurious touch without wrecking your remodeling budget. Little changes = big mood boost.

5. Shop Off-Season or Mid-Year Specials

Summer can be a busy time for remodeling, but it’s also a prime time for deals. Many suppliers and contractors (including yours truly) offer mid-year promos. Off-peak scheduling can mean lower prices, quicker timelines, and more flexibility. And in a city like Papillion, beating the winter rush is always a smart move.

Replacement showers don’t need to be expensive to be impressive. With the right materials, smart planning, and a little creative flair, you can transform your bathroom without needing to refinance your house.

Thinking about giving your shower a glow-up? Call Custom Bath & Shower at (844) 772-8821. We’re here to help guide you through it—budget, design, and all. No pressure, no gimmicks—just a team that knows a good shower is a basic human right.