Walk-In Showers or Bathtubs: Which Is Right for You?

January 30th, 2020

walk-in-showers-and-bathtubs

Many homeowners prefer having both a walk-in shower and a bathtub if they have the budget and space. But for most of us it’s one or the other.

Each has its pros and cons. For instance, bathtubs may not be suitable for the elderly or people with mobility issues.

If you’re not sure which is best for you, this post will help you make an informed decision by revealing their differences.

How Walk-In Showers Differ from Bathtubs

Let’s go over their key differences first and then elaborate them in more detail.

Walk-In Showers Bathtubs
 Best for a quick shower Best for long bath
Suitable for older adults and people with mobility issues Appropriate for children and adults without mobility problems
Takes up less space and can fit in any size bathroom Requires a lot of space; may not be suitable for small bathrooms
Budget-friendly Can be expensive
Easy to clean and maintain Can be difficult to clean
Incurs lower water and energy costs Involves a comparatively higher water and energy bills
Available in a wide range of designs with framed and frameless glass shower doors. Available in unique shapes, designs and styles, including standalone ones

 

Important Factors to Consider Before Choosing One

Wondering which one to choose? Consider these factors:

  1. Cost 

The cost of installing a walk-in shower varies based on the design or type you choose. For instance, if you’re looking for a shower with steam and multiple jets, it will be more expensive than a regular one. Purchase and installation of bathtubs cost you something between $1,000 and $5,000.Hence, both walk-in showers and bathtubs can vary in price depending on what customization you choose.

  1. Installation

You may think that installing a bathtub is easier than a walk-in shower but it’s not. Though bathtubs are generally prefabricated, they need to be moved into the bathroom. This involves a lot of labour and increases its overall cost. Similarly, to install a walk-in shower you need to hire a plumber, carpenter and tile craftsmen (optional). With their guidance, you can create your dream shower space.

  1. Space

Do you have a small bathroom? Then a walk-in shower is your best option. Bathtubs take up a lot of space and make sense for bathrooms where there’s enough room to move around. Even small tubs require a lot of floor space.

  1. Appearance

Both bathtubs and walk-in showers can create a style statement that will uplift your bathroom’s overall interior. While showers act more like a focal point in a bathroom, bathtubs add grandeur to the space as they come in different styles, shapes and types including standalones.

  1. Convenience

Many of us lead busy lives where long, luxurious baths are not always convenient. Walk-in showers make cleaning ourselves easier and faster.

  1. Maintenance

Keeping a shower clean is easier than a bathtub. Tubs are generally huge and deep, and grime accumulates on the sides and hair clogs the drain. This means vigorous cleaning is required. Keeping your custom shower door spotless is not easy but easier.

  1. Return on investment

Bathtubs look luxurious which is why installing one can increase a home’s resale value more than a shower. That’s why homeowners often prefer having a tub in their master bath, or both if there’s enough space.

So, which will you choose for your bathroom? Consider all the above-listed information, especially how much available space you have in your bathroom. For instance, if it’s spacious then opting for a bathtub is ideal as it will also increase your home’s resale value. On the other hand, for smaller bathrooms, choosing a walk-in shower is wiser.