Bathtub Cutouts in Canada: A Complete Guide

What a bathtub cutout is

A bathtub cutout is a modification to the tub you already own. A section of the tub wall is removed and a purpose-made insert is fitted into the gap. The place where you step in then sits well below the rest of the rim.

The tub itself stays where it is. There is no tear-out and no larger renovation, which is why the job is often described as tub cutting rather than remodelling. CleanCut inserts are made from durable composite polyethylene, with a skid-resistant step surface molded in.

Some people search for it as a bathtub cut out or a step-in conversion. Whatever the name, the idea is simple: keep the bathtub, lower the way in. If a shower is your main goal, our guide to converting a tub to a shower without replacing it goes further. For older adults planning ahead, see bathtub modifications for seniors.

How the modification works, step by step

Every installation follows the product's own instructions. At a homeowner level, the work happens in this order.

1. Measuring and choosing the product. The height of the tub and the width of its wall, at the top rail and lower down, decide which CleanCut model and size will fit. If the tub has glass sliding doors, they come off before any cutting starts.
2. Marking with the template. Each kit includes a cardboard cutting template sized for that product. It is positioned on the tub wall and traced, so the opening comes out at the right shape and height.
3. Cutting the opening. A grinder makes the entry cuts and a reciprocating saw handles the main cuts. Cast iron needs a diamond blade and more effort, which is one reason professional installation is recommended for cast-iron tubs.
4. Fitting the insert. The CleanCut unit is trimmed with a jigsaw so it follows the inside and outside profile of the tub, including curved or contoured walls. A two-part support box structure, also in the kit, goes in with it.
5. Bonding and sealing. Industrial-grade waterproof adhesive, supplied in the kit, bonds the insert in place and seals it into the opening.

A typical installation takes a few hours. The bathtub is never removed, so the walls and tile around it stay as they are. To watch the process from start to finish, the CleanCut installation and measuring videos show each stage.

The four CleanCut options in plain terms

All four products do the same basic job. They differ in how far they lower the entry and whether you can still fill the tub for a bath.

CleanCut Step

The CleanCut Step suits many standard bathtubs. It removes about 8 inches from the tub wall and comes in Small, Medium and Large to match different wall widths.

CleanCut Deep Step

The CleanCut Deep Step is meant for medium-height soaker tubs that need more reduction than the Step can give. It removes about 10.5 inches and comes in Large and Extra-Large.

CleanCut Ultra-Low

The CleanCut Ultra-Low is the lowest step-in option, made for taller, high-profile tubs. It removes about 13.25 inches. The tub must be at least 14.75 inches tall, inside and outside.

CleanCut Convertible

The CleanCut Convertible lowers the entry by about 8 inches and adds a removable watertight insert that weighs roughly 2 pounds. Take the insert out to step in and shower, then put it back when you want a full bath. It must be properly installed.

Each product comes in White or Beige. The comparison below sets the key measurements side by side.

Which bathtubs work and which don't

CleanCut products are designed for acrylic, fibreglass, steel, porcelain-on-steel and cast-iron bathtubs. Material is only part of the picture, though. The type of tub matters just as much.

Usually a good fit

• Built-in tubs with a conventional wall running down to the floor
• Acrylic, fibreglass and steel tubs, which take less effort to cut
• Cast-iron tubs, with professional installation recommended
• Tubs with curved or contoured walls, since the insert is trimmed to follow the profile

Not suitable or not recommended

• Clawfoot tubs: there is no conventional wall running to the floor, so they can't be modified.
• Tubs with an existing liner: many can be modified with a Double Cut. The installer traces the CleanCut cutting template, cuts through the liner first and then through the original tub underneath. Because two layers are cut and sealed, it is preferably done by an independent installer experienced with Double Cut installations, and the fit, dimensions and sealing are still checked first.
• Jetted tubs: not recommended, because water lines may run inside the tub wall.

Worth checking first

Garden-style tubs vary a great deal. Some can take a CleanCut product and some can't, so send photos and measurements for review before ordering. Do the same for any tub where your numbers land close to a limit. If a tub is wider than a product's maximum measurements, that product will not work with it. The CleanCut sizing guide shows exactly where to measure.

Benefits and honest limitations

What a cutout does well

• Lowers the step into the shower using the tub you already have
• Avoids tearing out the tub or starting a bigger renovation
• Usually takes a few hours to install
• Adds a skid-resistant surface right where you step in
• Keeps the option of a bath if you choose the Convertible
• Can be installed as a DIY kit or by an independent installer

What to weigh before you decide

• The opening is permanent with the Step, Deep Step and Ultra-Low. Once the wall is cut, the tub can't be filled for a bath. Only the Convertible keeps that choice.
• Glass sliding doors have to go. They are removed before cutting and normally replaced with a shower rod and curtain.
• Not every tub qualifies. Clawfoot tubs are ruled out and jetted tubs aren't recommended. A tub with an existing liner can often be modified with a Double Cut, and garden-style tubs need a review.
• There is still a step. The entry is lower, not level with the floor. How low it ends up depends on how tall your tub is to begin with.

If you're also looking at a new bathtub with a door, our comparison of bathtub cutouts and walk-in tubs lays out the differences. For the everyday reasons people make this change, read why homeowners choose a tub-to-shower conversion.

Professional installation or DIY

There are two ways to get a CleanCut product into your tub. Which one makes sense depends on your tub and how comfortable you are with the tools.

Working with an independent installer

Imperial Bathrooms can connect you with an independent installer experienced with CleanCut products who serves your area. The installer confirms which product fits and does the work, and their quote can include both the product and the installation. You don't need to buy a kit first. This route is recommended for cast-iron tubs, and for anyone who would rather not cut into a bathtub.

Installing a DIY kit

If you, or a contractor you hire yourself, are comfortable cutting and fitting a tub, a complete kit is the other option. Kits for the Step, Deep Step and Ultra-Low include:

• the CleanCut unit
• a two-part support box structure
• two tubes of industrial-grade waterproof adhesive, plus an adhesive angle extension
• a cardboard cutting template
• an installation guide

The Convertible kit adds the removable insert and a waterproof wrap. DIY kits ship free across Canada, and you can see them all on the CleanCut DIY kits page. Measure carefully and watch the installation video before you order.

Retirement residences and care facilities have the same two choices. They can buy kits for their own qualified maintenance staff, or request an independent installer.

How to get a bathtub cutout quote in Canada

Imperial Bathrooms works with a network of 100+ independent installers Canada-wide. Every installation request comes to Imperial Bathrooms first and is reviewed before an installer is arranged.

To start, send the short form on the installation quote request page or call 1-855-707-9777. Include your postal code, and photos or measurements of your tub if you have them. You'll receive a response within 2 business hours.

Service is confirmed for each address when the request is reviewed. You can see where independent installers currently work in the Canada-wide service area directory. Each installer sets their own pricing, and what affects the cost of a bathtub cutout explains the factors involved. If no installer reaches your area, a DIY kit installed by you or your own contractor is still an option.

Common questions