A bathroom renovation is a transformative project, adding to the value of your property and the comfort of your home. But the question of whether to go for a walk-in shower or a bathtub installation is one that every homeowner asks themselves. While there is no one-word answer that fits all, there are certain things like your lifestyle, future needs, and availability of space that play a huge role in influencing your decision. Instead of asking around or scouring the internet, keep on reading this blog to find out which is the right option for your unique bathroom makeover.
Shower VS Bathtub: What Is Right For You
Let’s say you’re planning on redoing that old bathroom and are on the fence about the shower situation. While a shower doesn’t take up much space, according to your neighbor, your aunt insists that a bathtub is a better idea for the young ones. Result: total confusion! This is where we come in.
Let’s take a look at a few things you should consider when deciding the right option for you.
- Floor Plan: Spacious or Cramped?
The first thing we need to look at is how much square footage your bathroom has. If it’s a small bathroom that doesn’t have a lot of floor space, then it would be better to have a stand-in shower. It barely takes up any space, and if you go for the same tiles as the rest of your bathroom, it can actually make your room look bigger.
On the other hand, if your bathroom is large, then adding a bathtub against a wall or even as a centerpiece is a fine idea.
- Family Members: Young Adults or Small Children?
Believe it or not, this choice can also depend on the type of family you have. Imagine having to bathe young children or even toddlers. No one wants to get soaked by the shower as they try to clean their playful kids. If you have a little one or two in the house, go for a bathtub to make your life easier.
On the other hand, if your kids are all grown up, then a walk-in shower is an easy pick for efficiency.
- Cost Considerations: What Fits Your Wallet
You might not believe it, but a walk-in shower is actually more expensive to install. Taking into account the additional tiles, the waterproofing, and the glass enclosure, a shower can cost you anywhere from $6000-$12000.
Conversely, a prefabricated bathtub averages around $4600. This is because there is no custom work involved in a basic bathtub installation. So keep in mind your bathroom renovation budget when picking between the two.
- Time Management: Efficiency Or Relaxation
Speaking of efficiency…, do you enjoy long soaks? Or do you prefer quick showers?
If you’re someone who likes to relax their aching muscles by taking a long soak in warm water with some bath salts, a bathtub all the way. But if you don’t really care about that and would rather be in and out, then a walk-in shower is just fine for the job.
- Future Goals & Considerations
Is this your forever home? Or are you planning on moving to a different part of the city or to a new state after a few years? If you’re going to sell your house after a while, then a bathtub can add to the market value of your property.
But if you’re planning on staying, then maybe you should go for that shower instead. Showers—especially curbless ones—are easier to access for aging bones with mobility issues. You could even install grab bars and a shower seat.
- Personal Aesthetics
Okay, do you like the classy, vintage look of a claw-foot bathtub? Or is the sleek design of a walk-in shower with a glass door that interests you? Depending on your personal preferences, you can go either way.
A bathtub can be made of ceramic, marble, or even granite with different options for shapes. On the other hand, walk-in showers are square, circular, or even triangular. Their shower doors can either be clear, frosted, tinted… You get the idea. The point is, make your choice based on your style.
- Maintenance: Scrubbing Nooks vs Wiping Shower Doors
Regardless of what you choose, it’ll be you who needs to clean the space. So what is your preference? If you don’t mind the scrubbing that comes with bathtubs and their curves and corners, then that’s a viable option. But if you prefer quick and easy, then go for walk-in showers as they’re pretty straightforward to clean.
Conclusion
To conclude, picking between a walk-in shower and a bathtub installation during a bathroom renovation is a personal choice. For a trendy bathroom, go for a walk-in shower, but if you’re someone who prefers the charm of the vintage era, bathtubs all the way. Take into account your lifestyle, future goals, and budget when making the right decision for your home.
FAQs
What is the currently trending walk-in shower?
A walk-in shower with a frameless glass shower door is a fan favorite these days.
What is the most popular bathtub material?
Acrylic is widely the most preferred bathtub material, owing to its affordability, durability, and heat-retaining characteristics.
Is there a middle ground between walk-in showers and bathtubs?
Yes. You could go for a walk-in bathtub for the best of both worlds.