Walk-in Shower Vs. Tub: The Ultimate Showdown

Are you tired of your outdated bathroom and ready for a bathroom remodel? One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between a tub or shower.

Both walk-in shower vs tub have their unique benefits and drawbacks, but which one is right for you? Whether you’re looking to increase accessibility, save space, or simply add a touch of modern style to your bathroom, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of walk-in showers and tubs to help you make an informed choice about a bathtub conversion that will bring you one step closer to the bathroom of your dreams.

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Factors to Consider When Choosing Between a Walk-in Shower and a Tub

Budget

Budget is a key factor to consider when choosing between a walk-in shower and a tub. Walk-in showers can be more expensive upfront, ranging between $3,000 and $6,000 while tubs can have a higher long-term cost due to the added maintenance and cleaning requirements. Expect to pay around $2,000 to $3,000 for a new bathtub installation. It’s important to consider your budget and the potential costs associated with each option before making a decision.

Space Constraints

Another important factor to consider is space constraints. Walk-in showers are a great option for smaller bathrooms as they don’t take up as much space as a traditional tub. However, if you have a larger bathroom, a tub may be a better option as it will provide more versatility and functionality.

Family Size and Needs

Family size and needs are also important factors to consider when choosing between a tub or shower. If you have young children, a tub may be a better option as it provides a safe and comfortable place for kids to bathe. On the other hand, if you have mobility issues, a walk-in shower may be a safer and more accessible option. When you have a small bathroom it’s not always an option to have a bathtub.

Personal Preference

Personal preference is another important factor to consider when choosing between a tub or shower. Do you prefer a modern and sleek look, or do you prefer a classic and timeless design? Do you enjoy taking baths, or do you prefer a quick and efficient shower? Your personal preferences should play a role in your decision-making process.

Future Plans for the Home

Lastly, it’s important to consider your future plans for the home when choosing between a walk-in shower and a tub. If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, keeping at least one tub may be a better option as it can add value to your home. On the other hand, if you’re planning to stay in your home for the long-term, or you have more than one bathroom you may want to choose a walk-in shower for its low maintenance and home appeal.

Understanding the Differences Between Walk-In Showers and Tubs

For the sake of this article, we are going with the idea that you are only able to make a choice between one or the other and that a tub shower combo isn’t an option. Of course, a tub shower combo can be a good compromise if you can’t decide between the two.

Walk-in Shower Pros

Increased Accessibility: Walk-in showers are a great option for those who have mobility issues or are looking for a safer and more accessible bathroom. The lack of a threshold and the spacious design make it easier for individuals to enter and exit the shower without the risk of tripping.
Space-saving Design: Walk-in showers are a great option for smaller bathrooms as they don’t take up as much space as a traditional tub. A custom shower allows you to maximize your bathroom space and create a more open and airy feel with the ability to add large rain shower heads. With the option for built-in shower niches or shower ledge, it can be easier to keep your bathroom organized and clutter-free.
Low Maintenance: A walk-in shower stall is also a low maintenance option as they have fewer crevices and corners that can collect dirt and grime. This makes cleaning and upkeep much easier, freeing up more time for you to enjoy your new bathroom.
Modern Style: Walk-in showers are a stylish and modern addition to any bathroom. They offer a sleek and contemporary look that can add value to your home and give your bathroom a fresh and updated feel. There’s also the possibility of adding his and hers shower heads so you can shower together.

Drawbacks of Walk-in Showers

May Not be Ideal for Families with Young Children: Walk-in showers may not be the best option for families with small children as the lack of a standard bathtub can make it difficult for kids to bathe. Additionally, the open design of walk-in showers can pose a safety risk for young children.

Higher Upfront Cost: Walk-in showers are typically more expensive than traditional tubs, making them a less budget-friendly option for some homeowners. The cost of installation, materials, and labor can add up quickly, making it important to consider your budget when making your decision.

Water splash: Another drawback of walk-in showers is the potential for water splashing out of the shower stall and on the bathroom floor. Without proper waterproofing and drainage, water can seep into the flooring and cause damage over time. It’s important to take these factors into consideration and make sure your bathroom is properly sealed and protected to prevent water damage.

Advantages of Tubs

Versatile Use for Bathing and Relaxation: Tubs offer versatility and can be used for both bathing and relaxation. They allow you to soak in warm water to soothe sore muscles and unwind after a long day, making them a great option for those who enjoy taking baths. You can opt for a whirlpool tub for a massaging experience.

Ideal for Families with Young Children: Tubs are an ideal option for families with young children as they provide a safe and comfortable place for kids to bathe. The added depth of the tub also provides a sense of security for young children, making bath time a stress-free experience for both parents and kids.

Adds Value to the Home: A traditional bathtub is a timeless and classic design element that can add value to your home. Whether you’re looking to sell your home in the future or simply want to increase its resale value, a tub can be a great investment, especially if it is a whirlpool tub.

Classic, Timeless Design: Tubs have a classic and timeless design that never goes out of style. They offer a sense of elegance and sophistication that can elevate the look of any bathroom. Whether you prefer a traditional clawfoot tub or a modern freestanding tub, there’s a design to suit every style and taste.

Drawbacks of Tubs

Takes up a Significant Amount of Space: One of the main drawbacks of tubs is that they take up a significant amount of space. They can be quite bulky and may not be suitable for a smaller guest bathroom or those with limited space.

Higher Upfront Cost: Tubs are typically more expensive than walk-in showers, making them a less budget-friendly option for some homeowners. The cost of installation, materials, and labor can add up quickly, making it important to consider your budget when deciding.

Requires More Maintenance and Cleaning: Tubs require more maintenance and cleaning than walk-in showers. With more crevices and corners, they can collect dirt and grime more easily, making it necessary to clean them regularly.

May be Difficult for Some Individuals to Access: Tubs can also be difficult for some individuals to access, especially for those with mobility issues. The high sides of the tub can make it challenging to get in and out, making it important to consider the accessibility needs of all members of the household.

FAQ

Does your house lose value without a bathtub?

If you are only going to have one bathroom then it is wise to make sure that you have at least one standard bathtub. A house without a traditional bathtub may not necessarily lose value, but it could impact its resale value and appeal to potential buyers. Bathtubs are a common feature in homes and are considered a standard by many home buyers. In some cases, a lack of a bathtub may make a home less appealing to families with young children, as well as to those who enjoy taking baths.

Do people still want bathtubs?

Yes, many people still want bathtubs in their homes. Bathtubs are a staple in many homes and are considered a standard by many home buyers. They offer a place for relaxation and stress relief, as well as a safe and comfortable place for families with young children to bathe. Additionally, bathtubs can add value to a home and have a timeless, classic design that appeals to many people. Walk-in showers are very popular, however. If you have two bathrooms then it makes sense to have at least one tub and one walk-in shower.

Do you get cold in a doorless shower?

It is possible to feel cold in a doorless shower, especially if the bathroom is not properly heated or ventilated. A doorless shower, also known as a walk-in shower, does not have a door or enclosure to keep the warm air in, making it more susceptible to temperature changes in the room. This can make it feel colder, especially during the colder months or in areas with a cooler climate.
To mitigate this issue, there are several options to consider. Installing a heated floor, adding a heat lamp or a heated towel rack, or using a waterproof shower curtain can help keep the temperature in the shower warm and comfortable. Additionally, proper ventilation and insulation in the bathroom can help regulate the temperature and prevent the room from getting too cold.

Bottom Line

In this article, we’ve explored the world of walk-in showers and tubs, looking at the benefits and drawbacks of each option. We’ve discussed the impact of budget, space constraints, family size and needs, personal preference, and future plans for the home on the decision-making process.

Homeowners should weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision. By considering their budget, space constraints, family size and needs, personal preference, and future plans for the home, they can make an informed decision that will best meet their needs and bring them one step closer to the bathroom of their dreams. With careful consideration and attention to detail, homeowners can create a bathroom that is both functional and stylish, and that will provide years of enjoyment and satisfaction.

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Denise

Hi we're Denise and Tony! We are new homeowners and the bathroom is our favorite room. We made this blog to help others like ourselves get all the useful information needed to build a better bathroom all in one place!

Walk-in Shower vs. Tub: The Ultimate Showdown