When it comes to showers and bathtubs in the home, the most common type of fixture you will see is the shower/ tub combo. This is because they are very practical due to the fact that you have both options in the same place. A common trend for those with the space and the money is to get a free standing tub and a separate glass paneled shower. Realistically many people do not have the budget or the space for such a project. So the question when you are doing a bathroom remodel is bath, shower, or a combo? Here we are going to take a quick look at the pros and cons of a bathtub and shower.
Bathtub Pros
- Great for bathing small children.
- They are available in a variety of sizes to suit differing needs.
- Perfect for relaxation.
- Various special features such as whirlpool and air jets.
- There are free standing units that are finished on all sides. This means they can be placed just about anywhere.
- Many different styles of design to choose from.
Bathtub Cons
- Takes up a lot of space.
- Difficulty for elderly and people with injuries to gain access.
- Requires more water to get clean.
- More time consuming to fill the tub with water.
- You will require a water heater that can heat enough water to fill the tub. Most water heaters hold 30-50 gallons of hot water. A tub can require 30 gallons to bathe.
Shower Pros
- Uses less water than a tub. The average shower uses about 20 gallons of water vs 30 for a tub.
- Small foot print.
- Easier access for elderly and people with mobility issues. Showers can be equipped with non-slip surfaces, grab bars, and benches.
- A shower is quick and convenient.
Shower cons
- Shower doors can require a lot of cleaning to keep them from getting visible lime or calcium stains.
- Not practical for people with children.
- They can be more expensive to install.
When it comes to a return on investment, keep in mind that you may be selling to a family you may be better off keeping at least one tub in the house.