Bathtub or Shower: Which is Better for Your Home?

When you’re ready for a bathroom renovation, the first choice you have to make is shower or bathtub? Both bathtubs and showers have their unique benefits, so it can be tough to decide which one is right for your home.

In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of each option and help you decide which one is best for you!

Industrial bath style with tub or shower

Bathtub or shower In The Bathroom?

First, let’s take a look at bathtubs. Bathtubs are a great choice if you want to relax in a bath after a long day. They can also be great for kids who want to play in the water. Additionally, bathtubs can provide extra space in your master bathroom. However, bathtubs can be difficult to keep clean and they can take up a lot of space in your bathroom.

Now, let’s take a look at showers. Showers are a great choice if you want to save time and water. They can also be more convenient than bathtubs for those with limited mobility.

Additionally, showers take up less space in your bathroom than a whirlpool tub for instance. However, showers can be uncomfortable for some people and they can be difficult to keep clean.

The benefits of having a bathtub in your home

There are many reasons why a bathtub might be a better choice for your home than a walk-in shower. For starters, at least one bathtub can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any master bathroom. They can also be a great place to relax after a long day.

The bathtub is often seen as the centerpiece in a bathroom, as it brings together almost the entire aesthetic style. It becomes the focus of attention and can be used to display beautiful tiles or a stylish bath mat.

A traditional tub is important for families. If there are a lot of people living in your house, it is especially important to have at least one tub so that everyone can have a relaxing time. Even the youngest and smallest members of the family will be able to enjoy their bath time.

When you have a bathtub, it is easy to bathe children and it is also great for them to play and have fun.

Bathtub Resale Value

The bathtub is an important factor that can affect your home value. According to the National Association of Realtors, bathtubs increase the value of a home by about $500 per square foot. That means that if you have a bathtub and your neighbor does not, then it will be worth more than their house. And if there are multiple bathtubs in the house, then it will be worth even more.

The bathtub is a great addition to any home and can increase its value if you decide to sell your house. If you have a bathtub in your bathroom, then it will make the room look nicer and be more attractive to home buyers.

Elegant bath with white tub and dark towel

The benefits of having a walk-in shower

If you want the luxury and convenience, but you have a small bathroom, a walk-in shower is an excellent alternative. Showers are often installed as part of bath and shower combinations, and having separate bathtub and shower areas may not be necessary.

Walk-in showers come in many different sizes, shapes, colors, and styles to match any bathroom decor. Some showers feature glass or tile walls, while others are made from PVC. No matter what you choose for your bathtub, it’s important to make sure that the bathtub and shower will fit together seamlessly to create a cohesive design that complements the rest of your home.

Shower Resale Value

Showers are one of the most popular features in a home and for good reason. They are convenient, easy to use, and can save time and water. If you’re considering a bathroom renovation and want to make your home appeal to as many buyers as possible, then a shower is a great choice.

According to the National Association of Realtors, showers increase a home’s resale value by about $450 per square foot. That means that if you have a walk-in shower in your bathroom, it will be worth more than a bathroom without one.

When you’re considering a bathroom renovation, make sure to include a shower that is accessible for all users. This will make your home more appealing to potential buyers and will make it easier for everyone in your family to enjoy a bath time.

A bathroom with walk-in shower and dark cabinets

Bathtub or shower: How to choose the right option for your needs?

When choosing between bathtub and shower, ask yourself the following questions:

The choice between bathtub and shower is not just about resale value. It is also about your lifestyle preferences and how you will use your bathroom. If you prefer to take a hot bath, then adding a bathtub to your master bath should be your top priority.

However, if you prefer showers, then you may want to consider installing a shower stall in your bathroom. Keep in mind that bathtubs typically have a higher resale value than shower stalls. So, if you are unsure about which option to choose when thinking of bathroom renovations, go with the bathtub. It is a more versatile option that can be used by all members of your family.

Bathtub or shower Time-wise

Showers are generally quicker than baths, making them a more desirable option if you’re short on time. They also use less water than baths, making them a more environmentally-friendly option. If you have young children, a shower is a safer option because it’s harder for them to slip and fall.

However, if you enjoy relaxing in a bathtub, there are plenty of bathtubs that come with built-in jets that can massage your body. If you have sore muscles or joints, consider a bathtub with water jets.

Soaking in hot water helps to ease the pain while relaxing the body in a tub can reduce stress. At the same time relaxing in a bathtub is also good to soothe sore muscles and equally great for the soul.

A Touch Of Luxury

If you want to add a touch of luxury to your master bathroom, have both a tub and shower and make it look like the ones in a remodeling magazine. A bathtub is a great way to relax after a long day, while a shower is perfect for quickly getting clean. Having both options in your bathroom will make it more convenient for you and your family.

When choosing fixtures for a luxury bathroom, don’t scamp on features. For example, a freestanding tub provides an eye-catching centerpiece for any bath. Freestanding tubs come in many different styles and sizes, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs. They are also easy to clean and maintain, making them a popular choice for busy homeowners.

Another luxurious option is a double vanity. A double-sink vanity provides plenty of space for you and your partner to get ready in the morning. It also adds extra storage space to your bathroom, which is always helpful. If you’re looking for a luxurious full bathroom that will stand out from the rest, consider adding a bathtub with air jets and a custom shower to your renovation plans.

A luxurious double vanity with cabinets

If you’re looking to add luxurious features to your bathroom, don’t forget about the shower. A luxurious shower can be just as elegant as a bathtub giving that spa-like experience right at home. Consider installing a glass shower door, rain shower heads, or a steam shower. These high-end features will add extra luxury to your bathroom and will make it stand out from the rest.

Create Convenience For Specific Groups

If you or anyone in your household has mobility issues, a curbless walk-in shower with a bench and grab bars, makes getting in and out of the shower easier. This type of shower is also great for children and the elderly, who may have trouble stepping over a traditional bathtub. A curbless walk-in shower is easy to clean and maintain and it adds convenience to your bathroom.

If you have young children, consider installing a tub with a built-in seat. This will give your child a place to sit while they take a bath. It also provides extra stability, making it less likely for them to fall over. A bathtub with a built-in seat is perfect for toddlers and small children.

Including a bathtub in your bathroom renovation plans is a great way to ensure that young families are among potential home buyers for your home. A bathtub is a versatile option that can be used by all members of your family, making it a desirable feature for potential buyers.

Water Use

Only a shower is a more efficient way to use water than a bath because you’re using just two-thirds the amount of water. This is important not only from an environmental standpoint but also because it can save you money on your water bills.

If you decide to go with a shower, you may need to upgrade your home’s water heater to accommodate such significant water use. A bathtub, on the other hand, can use more gallons of water per bath, so make sure your home’s water heater is up for the challenge if you decide to go that route.

If you have a bathtub and use it, you are likely spending more money on water than your shower-using friends. The typical bath uses about 36 gallons of water, compared to just 17 gallons for the average shower. If you take one bath a day, that’s roughly 13,000 extra gallons of water used annually.

Keep The Fixtures Clean

No matter what you choose, or what kind of fixtures you have for your bathroom, you have to keep it clean. This means cleaning the shower and bathtub regularly and making sure that any grout is sealed.

Cleaning the bathtub

If you choose a bathtub, you must take the time to clean it regularly. A standard tub can be difficult to keep clean. If not cared for properly, it may have grime and dirt on it, or even mold growth. You should also make sure that any bath salts in your bath are thoroughly dried off before you start cleaning the tub. To keep your tub clean, use a mild cleaner with vinegar and baking soda.

If you choose an open bathtub, make sure that it drains properly so that water doesn’t get trapped in the pores of the bathtub surface and cause mold or other issues over time. Cleaning bathtubs can be a laborious task, but when it’s done right, it makes it more enjoyable and more sanitary.

Cleaning the shower

The shower is another fixture in your bathroom that needs to be kept clean. This can be done by using a squeegee to remove the water after each use, and using a bath mat to prevent water from seeping onto the floor. If you have a glass shower door, it’s important to keep it clean so that it doesn’t become cloudy and difficult to see through. You can clean it by using a vinegar and water solution, or a commercial glass cleaner.

It’s also important to clean the grout between the non slip tiles on your shower walls and floor. This can be done by using a bleach and water solution, or a commercial grout cleaner. Be sure to read the directions carefully, as some grout cleaners contain bleach, which can be harmful to your skin.

If you have a bathtub with a shower, cleaning the bathtub will take more time than if you only had a tub or a shower. It’s important to clean both the bathtub and shower at least once every week in order to keep them sanitary and clean.

A man cleaning a shower glass panel with a special tool

Cost

The installation of a bathtub is generally more expensive than the installation of a shower. This is because bathtubs require more space and tend to be heavier and more difficult to install. Additionally, bathtubs often require the installation of a tile surround, which can add to the overall cost of the project.

If you want to transform an existing room into a new bathroom or add new fixtures in place, the costs for installing a shower average between $815 and $930. This price includes the cost of materials and installation. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these prices can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project.

A bathtub will usually cost you around $1,100 to $1,800. This price range can vary depending on the size and complexity of the bathtub. When it comes to bathtubs, there are two main types: customized and prefabricated. Customized bathtubs are designed and built specifically for your home. This means that they often require more space and are more expensive than prefabricated bathtubs.

Prefabricated bathtubs, on the other hand, are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are generally less expensive than customized bathtubs and can be installed relatively easily.

What can affect the cost?

Installing a tub or shower can be a daunting task, and if it’s not done correctly, can end up costing you more in the long run. For example, if the plumbing isn’t installed properly, you could end up with water damage.

Additionally, incorrect installation of a tub or shower can lead to leaks and mold growth. If you’re not confident in your ability to install a tub or shower yourself, it’s best to hire a professional. This will ensure that the job is done correctly and that your bathroom looks and functions exactly the way you want it to while increasing your home’s value as well.

Round mirror with yellow sconce lights

Shower-Bathub Combination

If you’re looking for a way to save space in your bathroom, consider a shower bathtub combination. A shower bathtub combination is a bathtub that also includes a shower head. This allows you to take baths and showers in the same space.

A shower bathtub combination is perfect for homes that don’t have a separate space for both a bathtub and a shower. It’s also great for small bathrooms, as it saves on space. Additionally, a shower bathtub combination is often more affordable than the installation of two separate fixtures.

When choosing a shower bathtub combination, be sure to choose one that has a good water flow rate. This will ensure that you have enough water pressure when taking a shower. Additionally, be sure to choose a bathtub that has a good drainage system. This will help prevent water from pooling on the floor.

A combination of a bathtub or shower with black fixtures

Which is better for your home?

The decision between a bathtub and shower is often a personal one, but there are some factors to consider when making this decision. If you’re looking for a fixture that will increase the resale value of your home, consider installing a bathtub. While bathtubs are more expensive than showers and can be difficult to install, they are generally considered to be a better investment than showers because they add value to your home.

If you’re looking for something that is functional and affordable without being too flashy, a shower is the way to go. Showers are easier to install than bathtubs and don’t require as much space. Additionally, they are less expensive than bathtubs.

When it comes to choosing between a bathtub and shower, there is no wrong answer. It all depends on your needs and what you’re looking for in a bathtub or shower.

Conclusion

When it comes to bathtubs and showers, there are a lot of factors to consider. Cost, installation, functionality, and resale value should all be taken into account when making this decision. In the end, the best option for your home will depend on your specific needs and wants. So, what’s the best option for you- a bathtub or shower? It depends on your needs and preferences. If you want to save water and have an easy-to-clean bathroom, a shower may be the better choice for you. If you prefer soaking in a warm bath or like to take long baths, then a bathtub is probably the right option for you. No matter what type of bathing option you choose, our team at Mortise & Miter can help upgrade your bathroom with new tubs, showers, and other accessories. Give us a call today!