Bath vs. Shower: Which One Should You Choose for Your Home?
Bathtubs and showers are the most basic fixtures for personal hygiene, but many homeowners wonder which one to choose for their bathrooms. There are many factors to consider when looking at bathtub designs, shower designs, or maybe even a bath and shower combo to get the best of both worlds. So, in this article, we’re looking at the pros and cons of selecting a shower or bath for your bathroom, as well as which option is best for your home’s resale value.
Pros and Cons of a Bathtub Only
Bathtubs are the ultimate symbol of relaxation and "me time" allowing you to soak sore muscles and rejuvenate your body and mind. They can be outfitted with air jets and whirlpool features for added luxury as well. Bathtubs are also great for safely bathing small children.
However, bathtubs do take up a substantial amount of space in the bathroom and they use a lot of water. They can also be difficult for older people or those who have injuries to get into and out of safely. Yet there are many different bathtub designs to choose from, including freestanding tubs, tubs attached to the wall, traditional rectangular tubs, and round tubs with a spa-like feel.
Pros and Cons of a Shower Only
For very small bathrooms, it may make the most sense to install a shower only without a tub. Showers are easier to use for the elderly and for people with disabilities, especially when they are equipped with a shower seat and grab bars. Showers typically use less water and they’re quick and convenient for daily use. Modern shower designs can be equipped with rain showerheads, multiple showerheads, and built-in storage for toiletries.
However, having only a shower in the house isn’t the most practical option for families with young kids and they don’t promote the same sense of relaxation as bathtubs do. Showers also often require more maintenance in terms of leaks and cleaning away stains.
A Bath and Shower Combo
To get the best of both worlds, many homeowners choose a bath and shower combo so that they have the option of both long baths and quick showers. These are practical and efficient options for many families, but they can put older adults and individuals with mobility issues at risk of falling while stepping in and out.
When making the bath vs. shower choice, it’s typically a good idea to have at least one bathtub in the house to increase the resale value of your home. These are preferred by families; however, an adapted and accessible shower can also be very attractive to empty nesters who may be interested in buying your home in the future.
Bathtub to Shower Conversion Options
A bathtub to shower conversion is one of the best bathroom designs to achieve a practical and stylish update. You can convert a tub into a walk-in shower with a specialized kit designed for corners and alcoves. The kits are usually made with fiberglass and acrylic materials and have pre-made slides, hinged glass doors, and a curbed floor pan to collect water. You can make this a DIY project or hire a contractor to customize the tiles and fixtures with a bit more detail and precision. It’s very important to choose the correct size for your bathtub to shower conversion kit, to really focus on the flooring to prevent leaks, and to replace old pipes and fixtures as needed to accommodate the new shower design.
Our five Grand Central Showrooms of New York are open to the trade and to homeowners, allowing you to browse hand-selected decorative products and plumbing supplies to suit your ideal bathroom design. Whether you want a tub, shower, or combo, stop by the showroom closest to you for inspiration and to create a bathroom that suits your needs and personal tastes!