One of the biggest design decisions when it comes to bathroom remodels is whether to install a shower or a bathtub. Both options offer unique benefits and can significantly impact your bathroom’s functionality, aesthetic, and resale value.
So how do you decide between the two? The answer depends on your lifestyle, available space, budget, and long-term goals for the home. Let’s break down the pros and cons of showers vs tubs to help you make the best choice.
Showers work especially well in homes where space is limited. A walk-in shower can make a small bathroom feel larger and more open. Glass doors, tile work, and low thresholds also add to the modern, clean look that many homeowners want in their bathroom remodels.
Functionally, showers are fast and convenient. They use less water than baths, making them more eco-friendly and cost-efficient. For individuals with mobility issues, walk-in showers with grab bars and seating can offer safe, accessible solutions. Plus, if you’re short on time in the mornings, a shower simply fits into a busy routine better than a long soak in a tub.
However, showers aren’t always the best choice for families with small children. Also, if you enjoy long, relaxing baths, giving up a tub might feel like a sacrifice in comfort.
Bathtubs are ideal for those who enjoy a spa-like experience at home. Soaking tubs, whirlpool tubs, and freestanding designs can elevate your bathroom remodel from basic to luxurious. For families, a tub is often a must-have. It allows for easy child bathing and can serve as a convenient pet-washing station too.
From a real estate perspective, homes with at least one bathtub often appeal more to buyers, especially families. If resale value is important to you, consider keeping or installing a tub in at least one bathroom.
However, tubs take up more floor space and use more water than showers. They also require more time to fill and clean. If you rarely use a bathtub, it might become more of a decorative feature than a practical one.
The decision between showers vs tubs ultimately comes down to how you use your bathroom and what you want from the space. If you have a second bathroom, you might not need a tub in both. Many homeowners opt for a luxurious walk-in shower in the master bath while keeping a tub in the guest or hall bathroom.
Some people even choose to include both in larger bathrooms. This combination gives you the best of both worlds: the speed and modern style of a shower with the comfort and resale appeal of a bathtub.
Ready to elevate your home? The Viking Craftsman offers exceptional bathroom remodels in McKinney, TX, catering to both grand and compact spaces. Whether you’re debating showers vs. tubs or dreaming of a complete bathroom and kitchen remodel, our contractors help homeowners increase their homes’ aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Call now to learn more.
The Viking Craftsman, Inc. Proudly serving since 2002, we specialize in custom woodworking, built-ins, and full home renovations. With a commitment to detail and quality, we bring your ideas to life with expert craftsmanship and care.
