An objective comparison to help Metro Detroit homeowners choose between locally-owned custom contractors and national franchises like Re-Bath, Bath Fitter, and Jacuzzi Bath Remodel. Updated May 2026.
For custom design and long-term value: Choose a locally-owned contractor (real tile, fully custom, 5-10 day install, $7,995+ tub-to-shower). For fast acrylic overlays: Choose a national franchise (1-3 day install, proprietary system, $10,000+ tub-to-shower). Both are valid choices — it depends on whether you prioritize speed or customization.
New to bathroom remodeling? Read our 7-step planning guide first →
How locally-owned custom bathroom contractors compare to national franchises across the factors that matter most.
| Factor | Local Custom Contractor | National Franchise |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Itemized custom quote — pay for what you choose | Package pricing — fixed bundles with markup |
| Tub-to-shower conversion (starting price) | $7,995 | $10,000 – $15,000+ |
| Materials | Real tile, stone, glass — fully customizable | Proprietary acrylic systems (in most cases) |
| Install timeline | 5–10 business days (standard remodel) | 1–3 days (acrylic overlay only) |
| Design flexibility | Fully custom — any tile, any layout, any fixture | Limited to franchise catalog |
| Warranty | 5-year workmanship warranty | Lifetime product warranty (acrylic only) |
| Owner accountability | Direct relationship with business owner | Sales rep + corporate franchise structure |
| Resale value impact | Custom tile work increases home value (~70% ROI) | Acrylic systems can lower resale appeal |
| Financing | 0% APR for 12 months on qualified credit | Available — varies by franchise |
| Best for | Homeowners wanting custom design and long-term value | Quick acrylic refreshes with minimal disruption |
Data based on publicly available pricing and Metro Detroit market research, May 2026. Specific pricing varies by project scope and location.
Like Stone Works Remodeling
Best if you want:
Tradeoffs:
Like Re-Bath, Bath Fitter, Jacuzzi Bath Remodel
Best if you want:
Tradeoffs:
Metro Detroit has both national franchises (Re-Bath, Bath Fitter, Jacuzzi Bath Remodel) and locally-owned custom contractors. For homeowners wanting fully custom tile work and design flexibility at lower price points, locally-owned contractors like Stone Works Remodeling typically offer better value. For homeowners wanting a fast acrylic overlay system, national franchises offer 1-3 day install timelines. The right choice depends on your priorities: custom design vs install speed.
National franchises like Re-Bath and Bath Fitter use proprietary acrylic shower and tub systems installed over your existing fixtures, completed in 1-3 days. Local custom contractors like Stone Works Remodeling perform full demolition and rebuild with real tile, stone, and custom fixtures over 5-10 business days. Franchise installs are faster but more limited in design and typically cost more for comparable work.
Tub-to-shower conversions in Metro Detroit range from $7,995 (local custom contractors with real tile) to $10,000-$15,000+ (national franchise acrylic systems). Stone Works Remodeling currently offers tub-to-shower conversions starting at $7,995 all-inclusive — including demolition, waterproofing, custom tile, glass enclosure, and 5-year warranty.
Established local contractors with verifiable Michigan licensing, insurance, BBB accreditation, and Google reviews are equally reliable as national franchises. The advantage of a local contractor is direct accountability with the business owner. The advantage of a franchise is consistent process and corporate-backed warranties on proprietary products. Always verify Michigan licensing through the state LARA database before hiring any contractor.
Acrylic systems (used by national franchises) are faster to install (1-3 days), easier to clean, and come with lifetime product warranties — but they're limited in design and can lower resale value. Real tile installations (used by local custom contractors) take 5-10 days but offer unlimited design flexibility, higher resale value, and a more premium look. For homes you plan to keep long-term or sell at premium, real tile is generally the better investment.
Stone Works Remodeling has been serving Metro Detroit homeowners since 2009. Free in-home consultation, transparent pricing, and a 5-year workmanship warranty on every project.