Bathroom Debate: Bathtub or Walk-In Shower?

When it comes to one of the biggest concerns that people have when remolding their bathroom, shower vs. bathtub seems to be at the top of the list. Though most bathrooms offer the standard shower tub combination, people are moving away from the standard when they make updates. Having the option to do both requires a bathroom that’s large enough to fit a soaking tub and a walk-in shower, but if you’re short on space, you might have to choose.

Popularity in Both

Thanks to home improvement shows that are popular on television, the world has seen just how amazing large, sauna-type showers can be. Nothing can take the place, however, of a deep bathtub to soak away the stress of the day.
Your own personal taste and needs should be at the center of the shower tub debate, so here are a few things to keep in mind when making the final choice.

The Bathtub

Bath tubs are perfect for:

• Families with small children
• Soaking away soreness in muscles
• Relaxing after a long day

Bathtubs also come in many shapes and sizes and some even have jets and whirlpool features that can be exciting.

Bathtubs can be difficult for:

• Older people (getting in and out of the tub)
• Bathrooms with limited space
• Homes with small water heaters

Sometimes, it can be difficult to find time to take a bath and they do consume a lot of water.

The Walk-In Shower

Showers are perfect for:

• Water conservation and sustainability
• Those who have mobility issues
• Quick and convenient access to bathing

Showers can now be found with plenty of features like stream variations and multiple heads.

Showers can be difficult for:

• People with small children
• Cleaning and constant care (calcium buildup on shower doors)
• Resale value of the home

If you spring a leak in the shower, it can be difficult and lengthy to fix, leaving you without a place to bathe for a time.

The Bottom Line

If the pros and cons aren’t enough to help you with your decisions, consider that many home experts recommend that you have at least one tub in your home to ensure a solid ROI if you sell. So, keep a tub in the guest bathroom but put a shower in the master suite if you like. If you don’t plan to sell and feel that this is your home until the rest of your days, you might consider a shower that would be easier to use as you grow older.

We’ve been helping people with their kitchen and bathroom remodeling designs for many years and we think we’re pretty good at it. If you’re planning to remodel the bathroom, but are unsure if you should choose a tub or shower (or both), give us a call so we can work with you. Together, we’ll make the best bathroom choice for you your family’s needs.