When you’re remodeling the bathroom at your home, there’s lots to consider. One of the first things you’ll have to decide is whether to go with a shower or a bathtub. This choice will affect the overall look and layout of your bathroom, so it’s something you’ll want to give ample consideration to. It will also determine how you can use your bathroom so it’s important to choose an option that suits your lifestyle and functional needs. Below, we look at the most noteworthy features of tubs and showers in hopes of helping you decide which may be right for your home.
The Bathing Experience
When deciding whether a shower or a tub is the right choice for your bathroom, you should first consider which you prefer—taking baths or taking showers. If your idea of unwinding after a long day of work is taking a relaxing soak in the tub, then a bathtub is going to suit you best. However, if you’re looking for a more efficient bathing experience and don’t want to spend time waiting for a large tub to fill up with water, then a shower might be more your speed.
If you have small children (or plan to in the near future) then a bathtub is going to serve you well as it will be easier for the kids to use. For this reason, having a tub in the bathroom is a major selling point, so if you plan to sell your home down the road, opting for a tub may catch the eye of more potential buyers.
Visual Appeal & Customization Options
Both showers and tubs come in a variety of styles, so both offer considerable design flexibility. It really comes down to what kind of look you’re going for. If you want to give your bathroom a class, old-world aesthetic, then a claw-foot tub is a great choice. However, if the style of your bathroom is sleek and contemporary, then a glass shower stall may be more fitting. With a tub, you’ll likely be able to choose from a few different colors to complement your bathroom’s design scheme, whereas there are usually more customization options available for the walls of a shower enclosure. Options for wall surrounds typically include different colors, tile patterns, and textures, with some emulating the look of stone, so if you have a distinct look that you’re envisioning, opting for a shower may be the better way to bring it to life.
Durability & Maintenance
Many tubs and showers made nowadays are crafted from acrylic, which is an exceptionally strong material, so in terms of durability, you really can’t go wrong with either. Because the color is infused into the acrylic, you won’t have to worry about your tub or shower flaking or peeling from daily wear and tear, no matter how much you use it. What’s more, because acrylic is non-porous, the tub and shower surfaces effectively resist mold and mildew growth so they’re much easier to keep clean than ceramic or porcelain surfaces. Simply wipe your new tub or shower down with a damp cloth and a household cleaner and watch it glisten like new!
Safety & Accessibility
Another main aspect of the bathing experience is ensuring safety and accessibility. If you or a loved one have limited mobility, you should take this into consideration when deciding whether to go with a tub or a shower. Walk-in showers feature low thresholds, or sometimes no threshold at all, making it easy to enter and exit the shower with a walker or without having to step over a steep tub wall. Shower stalls can also be equipped with built-in seating so you can sit comfortably while bathing instead of having to remain standing on a slippery surface for an extended period. Another popular bathroom remodeling option for homeowners with mobility concerns is a walk-in tub. While traditional bathtubs can be difficult to get in and out of, walk-in tubs feature low thresholds, extra-wide doorways, and built-in seating that make bathing much safer and more accessible.
Make the Most of Your Space
If your bathroom is on the smaller side, then space is something you’ll certainly want to consider when choosing between a tub or shower for your bathroom remodel. A standard shower stall or enclosure usually takes up about nine square feet whereas a tub usually takes up about 13 square feet. While this may not seem like a big difference, consider the fact that the average bathroom is about 40 square feet. That means a shower will take up less than a quarter of the floor space while a bathtub would occupy about a third of the entire room.
Contact New Bath Today
If you’re ready to have a new tub or shower installed at your home, turn to the professionals at New Bath Today. We specialize in a variety of bathroom remodeling services including replacement showers, tubs, tub-to-shower conversions, and walk-in tub installation. Most of our bathroom renovations can be completed in just one day so you can get the beautiful bathroom you’ve always wanted without having to endure a long, complicated remodeling project.
Contact us today to schedule a complimentary design consultation!
Learn What a New Tub or Shower Costs in Your Area
The cost of replacing a shower or tub in your area can range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the materials, customization options, and installation requirements. Walk-in showers tend to be more expensive due to features like glass enclosures, premium tiles, and multiple showerheads. On the other hand, bathtubs, especially those with jets or other luxury features, can also require a significant investment. Local labor rates can influence the overall price as well. Whether you choose a shower or tub, understanding the preferences and needs of your household is key. Consulting with local contractors, like New Bath Today, can provide accurate pricing and help determine which option best suits your lifestyle. Learn more about New Bath Today’s pricing!
