Do You Want A Hot Shower Or A Hot Bath?
Are you stuck trying to decide between a shower and a bathtub for your bathroom remodel? Do you ever wonder which one is the best choice for your unique situation?
Get ready to see what the pros and cons of showers and bathtubs are, as well as find out which one best suits your needs and your bathroom.
By the end of this post, you’ll know which option best suits your lifestyle, space, and budget!
Shower vs. Bathtub
| Feature | Shower | Bathtub |
|---|---|---|
| Space | Requires less space; ideal for smaller bathrooms | Requires more space; may not fit in small bathrooms |
| Water Usage | Generally uses less water; more eco-friendly | Typically uses more water; less eco-friendly |
| Accessibility | Easy access; suitable for those with mobility issues | Can be difficult to access; not ideal for those with mobility issues |
| Resale Value | Can be appealing in master bathrooms | At least one tub in the home is preferred by many buyers |
| Installation Cost | Can vary from affordable to expensive, depending on customization | Can also vary from affordable to expensive, depending on style and features |
| Therapeutic Benefits | Showerheads with massaging features and steam showers can be relaxing | Whirlpool tubs and air baths offer water or air jets for a massage experience |
| Family Needs | Bathing small children can be more challenging | Easier to bathe children; preferred by families |
| DIY Difficulty | Challenging DIY project; professional installation recommended | Also challenging DIY project; professional installation recommended |
| Design Options | Various styles, materials, and fixtures available | Various styles, materials, and fixtures available |
Commonalities
Style Variety
Showers and bathtubs are available in a wide range of styles, enabling you to design a personalized look for your bathroom.
Shower types can range from simple shower stalls to luxurious custom walk-in showers with multiple showerheads and body sprays.
Bathtubs also offer a range of options, such as a freestanding tub, whirlpool tub, and soaking tub.
These different styles cater to different needs and preferences, ensuring there’s a perfect design for everyone.
Multiple Material Choices
Showers and bathtubs can be made from a variety of materials, such as:
- Acrylic
- Fiberglass
- Natural stone
- Porcelain
- Copper
- Cast iron
Different materials offer unique benefits and drawbacks concerning durability, upkeep, and visual appeal. This gives you the flexibility to choose a material that fits your taste, budget, and overall bathroom design.
You’ll want to pick materials that work best in bathrooms. This way, they will look better for longer.
Therapeutic Options
For those who enjoy a relaxing hot bath or a soothing hot shower to relieve sore muscles, both options can provide therapeutic benefits.
Whirlpool tubs and air baths offer water or air jets that can massage your entire body, while showerheads with massaging features and steam showers can enhance your showering experience.
Differences
Cost
The cost of installing a shower or a bathtub can vary greatly. While a standard-sized tub or a simple shower stall can be affordable, custom showers or freestanding units can be more expensive.
Additionally, the choice of materials, fixtures, and features can significantly impact the overall cost.
Square Footage
Showers usually require less space than bathtubs, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms or those with limited floor space.
However, if you have the square footage, a bathtub can create a luxurious and spa-like atmosphere. In larger bathrooms, you may even have the option to include both a separate shower and bathtub.
Accessibility
A walk-in shower offers easy access, making them ideal for those with mobility issues or who require assistance. They often feature non-slip tiles, grab bars, and seating options to enhance safety and comfort.
Bathtubs, especially those with high sides, can be more challenging to enter and exit, which might require additional safety features such as grab bars or transfer benches.
You can use a walk-in bathtub if you want a tub that’s easier to enter and exit.
Resale Value
Having at least one tub in your home is important to many families and potential buyers, so it may increase the resale value of your property.
However, a well-designed shower, especially in the master bathroom, can also be appealing to home buyers. It’s important to consider the preferences of potential buyers in your area when deciding on a shower or just a bathtub.
Total Water Usage
Showers generally use less water than baths, especially if you opt for a quick shower instead of a long soak in the tub.
Installing a water-saving showerhead can further reduce your water usage. This practice can aid in conserving water, lowering your utility expenses, and promoting eco-friendliness.
DIY-ability
Installing a new shower or a bathtub can be a challenging DIY project. While some homeowners may be comfortable tackling it, others may prefer to hire a professional to ensure proper installation and prevent potential issues down the line.
Shower Pros And Cons
Pros
- Showers use less water than baths, making them more eco-friendly.
- They require less space, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms or those with limited floor space.
- Walk-in showers are easy to access and can accommodate those with mobility issues or who require assistance.
- Showers can be easily customized with various fixtures, materials, and features to create a unique and enjoyable experience.
- They are generally quicker to use than baths, making them more convenient for everyday use.
Cons
- Showering may not be as relaxing as soaking in a tub, especially for those who enjoy long, leisurely baths.
- Bathing small children can be more challenging in a shower, as it may require additional equipment or a more hands-on approach.
- Some people find it difficult to keep shower doors and enclosures clean and free from soap scum and hard water stains.
- The shower resale value might not be as high as a bathtub in some markets, as many families still prefer a full bath for bathing small children.
Bathtub Pros And Cons
Pros
- Bathtubs offer a relaxing, spa-like experience that many people enjoy after a long day.
- They can provide health benefits, such as relieving sore muscles with hot water, reducing stress, and improving circulation.
- Bathtubs make it easier to bathe children, especially if you have a handheld shower attachment for rinsing.
- Having a bathtub in your home can increase its resale value, as many home buyers prefer at least one tub in the house.
- Freestanding tubs can serve as a beautiful and luxurious focal point in your bathroom design.
Cons
- Tubs require more space and may not fit in smaller bathrooms or those with limited floor space.
- They typically use more water than showers, which can be a concern for those looking to conserve water and save on utility bills.
- Bathtubs can be more difficult to access for those with mobility issues or who require assistance.
- Cleaning and maintaining a bathtub can be more time-consuming, especially if it has intricate designs or hard-to-reach areas.
What To Consider When Choosing To Install A Shower Or A Bathtub
When deciding between a shower and a bathtub, it’s important to consider the following factors:
Space
Evaluate the size of your bathroom and determine whether a shower or a bathtub would be a better fit. If space is limited, a shower might be the more practical option.
The right bathroom layout can help you make the most of whatever space you do have.
Lifestyle
Consider your daily routine and preferences. If you enjoy quick rinses or have mobility concerns, a shower might be more suitable. However, if you love to relax in a hot bath, a bathtub could be the better choice.
Family Needs
If you have small children or plan to have a family in the future, a bathtub might be essential for bathing the little ones.
Resale Value
There doesn’t seem to be much difference or proof that a shower or bathtub resale value is that different. It mainly comes down to what kind of homeowner you are trying to sell to.
If you want to sell to a family, include a bathtub for small children. For couples, it may be best to stick with a shower.
Budget
When deciding whether to install a shower or a bathtub, remember to factor in your budget, as costs can greatly differ based on the chosen style, materials, and features.
You Can Have Both
If you have enough space and budget, you can enjoy the best of both worlds by installing a separate shower and bathtub in your master bathroom. This allows you to cater to the preferences of all family members and potential buyers, while also creating a luxurious and versatile space.
You can also opt for the shower-bathtub combination if you really want both but don’t have the space or budget.
Which Is Best For You?
The decision between a shower and a bathtub ultimately relies on your specific needs, desires, and situation.
If you enjoy the feeling, speed, and design of a shower, that’s the one you should definitely choose. If you want relaxation, have time, and like the look of bathtubs, go that route.
By taking the above-mentioned factors into account, you can arrive at an informed decision and create a bathroom that aligns with your lifestyle.
Find Expert Advice And Remodeling With Brucksch & Sons Contracting
Showers and bathtubs each have their strengths and weaknesses, and the optimal choice for your bathroom renovation hinges on your distinct requirements and preferences.
It is our hope that this post has offered valuable insights to assist you in making a well-informed decision. Remember to consider your space, lifestyle, family needs, resale value, and budget when deciding between a shower and a bathtub.
If you’re ready to start your bathroom remodel, Brucksch & Sons Construction is here to help. Our team of remodeling professionals can guide you to help you find what you need to make your bathroom best fit your lifestyle.
Fill out our contact form today, or give us a call to get started on creating the bathroom of your dreams!