Bathroom remodeling is one of the major projects that may include a huge decision you should frequently consider: a walk-in shower or a bathtub, or both. Both of them have features, advantages, and aesthetics. It is your decision, and it is up to you depending on your needs, lifestyle, and space.
There are advantages and disadvantages of walk-in showers and bathtubs. In this blog, we will decompose them, assist you in making a choice of the best bet to assist in your remodeling process, and discover a scenario where using both will be the most suitable option.
Walk-In Showers: Contemporary, Metal, and Space-Saving
In the past 10 years, modern bathrooms, particularly contemporary ones, have accommodated walk-in shower stalls in the list of amenities available. The lines of these walk-in showers are clear, it has an open appearance, and versatile designs. These characteristics make them an appealing option among homeowners searching for luxuriousness and productivity.
Benefits of Walk-In Showers
- Accessibility:
In any bathroom, walk-in showers are very convenient to operate, particularly among people with families of seniors, or persons with mobility issues. They guarantee low or zero-threshold entrances because such type of shower is ADA-compliant and great for age-in-place design.
- Space Efficiency:
These walk-in showers are features that are space-efficient feature. They can be installed at any point in your bathroom. These especially help in case one has a small bathroom and desires to utilize these areas.
- Modern Aesthetic:
A walk-in shower can be considered with frameless glass, big tiles, rain showerheads, and built-in niches. They are also able to bring in natural light freely, which makes the space appear bigger.
- Low Maintenance:
Walk-in showers, as per any licensed bathroom remodeler, are mostly simple to clean in comparison to bathtubs. Having less in the form of corners, edges, and nooks and crannies, they are not likely to develop mold and mildew.
Cons of Walk-In Showers
No soaking option: If you enjoy long baths or have children who love tub time, a walk-in shower might fall short on relaxation or family functionality.
Perceived lower resale value: In a competitive real estate market, you may find it hard to get a good resale value if you only have walk-in showers in the bathroom.
Bathtubs: Classic, Relaxing, and Kid-Friendly
Bathtubs remain the top choice in several bathrooms. This is for good reasons. A bathtub in any bathroom is more than something functional. They also bring comfort, relaxation, and traditional charm.
Pros of Bathtubs:
- Great for Families:
Bathtubs are great for families. If you have young children, it allows you to get extra family time in which you can enjoy your heart out.
- Soaking & Relaxation:
Nothing beats the long soaking hours in a bathtub. When you are tired and need relaxation, you can enjoy a hot water bath to free yourself from stress.
- Higher Appeal to Some Buyers:
In neighborhoods where homes cater to families, having at least one bathtub is considered a must. It can influence home value and marketability.
- Wide Range of Styles:
Bathtubs can make a strong design statement, as you can find these in different finishes according to your bathroom design. Freestanding tubs, in particular, have become symbols of luxury.
Cons of Bathtubs
- Takes Up More Space:
A standard-size bathtub takes more space than a walk-in shower. It can cause hindrances to homeowners who have a small space for their bathrooms.
- Harder to Access:
Bathtubs can not be accessed by elderly people or those with mobility issues. They can find it unsafe and refrain from using it.
- More Water Usage:
Baths typically use more water than showers. It may concern eco-conscious homeowners or those with high water bills.
Walk-In Showers vs. Bathtubs: Which Is Right for You?
You can choose a walk-in shower or a bathtub according to your choice and overall space in your bathroom. A bathroom remodeling contractor can guide you in selecting according to your needs.
Choose a Bathtub If:
- You have small children or are planning to start a family
- You love long, relaxing soaks
- You want to appeal to traditional buyers when reselling
- You have enough bathroom space to accommodate one without compromising other elements
Choose a Walk-In Shower If:
- You’re remodeling for aging in place or accessibility
- You prefer quicker showers over baths
- You’re working with a small or awkwardly shaped bathroom
- You want a minimalist, modern design aesthetic
Can You Have Both?
If you have space and budget, you can consider both a walk-in shower and a bathtub.
Combining a walk-in shower with a freestanding or built-in tub provides functionality and luxury. There are several homeowners in Orlando who consider this setup for bathroom remodels. Common examples are: a spa-like walk-in shower with multiple jets and rainfall showerheads, alongside a beautiful soaking tub. This dual option increases resale appeal and serves a wide range of personal needs.
Final Thoughts
The question of whether you should have a walk-in shower or a bathtub in your remodeled bathroom is not the question of better or worse but rather a choice of what works best, depending on your lifestyle, needs, and space.
A walk-in shower can be the best option in case modern comfort, the ability to bathe in old age, and a stylish look are what you are interested in. Bathtubs may be a necessity to those who like to soak, families with children, or to people who wish to get the maxim out of resale value in a kid-friendly market.
And yet you are undecided? Take both of them. There is no better way to declare the feel of luxury than a bathroom that resembles a spa by providing the best of both worlds. Our design team at Personal Touch Contracting will be happy to assist you in designing the ideal bathroom. We have been your trusted local bathroom remodeling company offering top-notch services. Connect with us today!
FAQs
Which is safer, a walk-in shower or a bathtub?
Walk-in showers are generally safer than bathtubs. The common reasons include low entry thresholds, reducing tripping risk for seniors and individuals with mobility issues.
Which is more space-efficient for small bathrooms?
Walk-in showers save space and can make small bathrooms feel larger. On the contrary, bathtubs require more floor area and are not a good choice for small bathrooms.
Do walk-in showers or bathtubs add the same home value?
Both add value to your home. However, modern homeowners prefer walk-in showers due to convenience and low maintenance.
Can I install a walk-in shower where my tub is now?
You can consider these changes. However, make sure plumbing and waterproofing adjustments are done accurately.
Which option is better for families with young kids?
Bathtubs are a better option if you have young kids in your family. It allows you to enjoy quality time with your loved ones.