Buying a bathtub or a walk-in shower is one of the biggest decisions you will have to make while planning your bathroom remodel. Some homeowners prefer to keep the two fixtures if their budget and the square footage of the bathroom permit. But if you have limited space in your bathroom and cannot afford to invest in both options, you will have to make a choice.
Choosing between a tub and a walk-in shower can be really hard. In fact, the two fixtures have much in common – they come in a wide variety of styles and materials. Plus, they both provide fantastic therapeutic benefits. But at the same time, a tub and a walk in shower differ a lot. Let’s dig deeper to analyze the pros and cons of using the two fixtures. Hopefully, this information will help you select the fixture that suits your needs, your bathroom design and your home.
The Advantages of Using a Tub
If you cannot imagine your life without soaking in hot water, getting a tub would be the best option for you. A tub provides unique bathing experience. No doubt, soaking in hot water improves your physical and mental health. It helps you relax after a stressful day and sleep better at night.
Today tubs come in a variety of sizes. So, you will easily find the tub that suits your bathroom size. There are also different design options. If you have a spacious bathroom, you may think about installing a freestanding tub. This tub adds luxury and style to your bathroom turning this room into an ideal space for rest and relaxation.
A bathtub is also a better option for families with kids. Bathing your pet in a tub would be also much more convenient. Modern tubs have a lot of special features that can make your bathing even better.
The Disadvantages of Using a Tub
Despite the fact that bathtubs have so much to offer to their users, they still have some drawbacks that may stop you from getting this fixture. When it comes to choosing between a tub and a walk-in shower, keep in mind that tubs are not the ideal choice for older people and people with disabilities. It can be really hard for them to get in and out of the tub.
Bathtubs need a lot of space and are not recommended for very small bathrooms. Bathtubs require a lot of water to fill. If you have a whirlpool tub or a deep soaking tub, your water use can increase up to 100 gallons. You will also have to install a water heater that will allow you to fill the tub with that amount of water. As a result, your water and energy bills will go up as well.
The Shower Pros
Some people believe that a walk-in shower is a more functional option in comparison with a tub. Installing a walk-in shower can help you save a lot of space in your bathroom. That is probably one of the main advantages that makes showers so popular among homeowners.
Showers also use less water in comparison with bathtubs. They are convenient and quick as well. Showers are a much better choice for people who have mobility problems. It is much easier and safer to get in and out of a walk-in shower. Showers can be equipped with benches, non-slip tiles and grab bars.
Today, walk-in showers have a lot of fantastic features you will definitely enjoy – steam options, rain showers and jets.
The Shower Cons
Walk-in showers are not convenient for families with kids. Showers require more cleaning and maintenance in comparison with the tubs. Shower doors should be cleaned on a daily basis to prevent stains. Regular cleaning will help this fixture look always fresh and attractive.
Due to the fact that walk-in showers have glass walls, they cannot offer you the privacy you need. Water splashes can become another problem that showers have. Depending on your shower design, there is a high risk of water splashing into the rest of your bathroom. However, you can solve this problem if you choose to install the right shower base.
A Tub Or a Walk-in Shower to Increase the Resale Value of Your Home
As a homeowner, you will definitely agree that remodeling your bathroom is one of the most successful investments you can make. There are many reasons why you should opt for a bathroom remodel. No doubt, it adds functionality, storage space, improves energy efficiency and simply makes your bathroom more beautiful and unique. But most importantly, it increases the resale value of your home.
Choosing between a tub and a walk-in shower is the main thing that can influence significantly your home’s resale value. You may wonder whether removing a tub and installing a walk-in shower will decrease your home’s resale value. In fact, replacing an old tub with a modern luxurious walk-in shower can increase the value of your home. But it works well only if you have another bathtub in your home. Removing the only tub is not recommended just because the vast majority of prospective homebuyers still want to have at least one tub in their home.
So, having a bathtub is critical to resale value. A full bathroom still attracts not just married couples with kids, but single homebuyers as well.
A Tub or a Walk-in Shower – How to Make a Choice
If you are struggling to choose between a walk-in shower and a tub, you are not alone. It is definitely, an important decision to make. As you already know, both fixtures have their own pros and cons. But how can you make a decision that you will never regret?
No doubt, your final choice should be based on your personal preferences, budget and the size of your bathroom. Most real estate experts agree that you should keep at least one tub, if you plan to sell your property in the future. But if you are not going to sell your home, you can install a walk-in shower if that’s exactly what you want.
Once you have done a thorough research, it will be much easier for you to make the right choice. Select wisely to get the fixture that will bring beauty and comfort to your bathroom.
If you’re ready to purchase your bathtub, check out our article here on buying bathtubs.
Deciding Between a Walk-In Shower or Tub for Your Bathroom Renovation
