The most common bathroom project is converting a bathtub to a walk-in shower stall. At this point, alcove bathtubs are almost a thing of the past. While homes still have them, a lot of people simply do not use them. They are a boon for families with small children and it’s never wise to ditch the tub in favor of a shower unless you have a bathroom in the home with a bathtub.
However, if you have more than one bathroom there is nothing holding you back from converting that old tub into a walk-in shower.
Of course, it would be remiss of us not to highlight the popularity of stand-alone or soaker tubs. They are an entirely different story from the standard alcove tub and these are commonly installed in homes all over America. The reality of the matter is that while a lot of people love to soak in a hot bubble bath with a chilled glass of wine, they rarely have the time or opportunity to do so. As we age and bad knees, sore backs, and arthritis sets in it becomes much more difficult to get in and out of the tub. So, a bath is a luxury. A shower is a necessity.
The Pros of a Walk-in Shower
Larger shower
Once the tub has been removed, you will have far more space to create a spacious walk in shower. This isn’t just a benefit for the here and now, it’s also a bit of future-proofing. As you age you will likely need a bit of assistance with showering and there’s plenty of room for that.
Space for a bench
Speaking of assistance, a larger space for a larger shower means there’s enough room for a bench. There is nothing more frustrating than not having enough space for all of your toiletries, a bench offers additional storage space. And, of course, provides a nice spot to have a seat when you’re looking to steam a little longer.
Ease of mobility
It’s far easier to walk in and out of the shower than it is to climb in and out of the bathtub.
Stunning focal point
When a large walk in shower is installed and professionally tiled it can become the most beautiful aspect of your bathroom, providing you with a stunning focal point to wow any guest or potential buyers.
Modern Space
What better way to modernize your bathroom space by ditching the tub in favor of a gorgeous walk in shower.
Resale Feature
A walk in shower is incredibly appealing to potential buyers, especially if the job has been done well.
The Cons of a Walk In Shower
While it can be a selling point, it could put many buyers off if it’s the only bathroom in the home. You should always keep at least one bathtub so that young families aren’t immediately turned off when viewing your home in the future. Of course, if you live in an area that caters to older people, you won’t need to worry about that!
It can be a big project which means it can be expensive if you want to do the job right. Be prepared for heavy financial investment.
Final Thoughts
So, that’s that. Do the pros outweigh the cons? Or, do you need more time to think? Ultimately, it’s a personal choice. However, if you have multiple bathrooms and you love the idea of a walk in shower, then there is no reason for you to not take the step to upgrade now. It’s your home and you should enjoy it in the way that you want to. Plus, with so many options available, it’s possible to make it work within your budget by making wise decisions.
Are you going to leave behind the dated tub and opt for a luxurious walk in shower?