Bathroom and kitchen renovations, if done right, will add the most value to your home. And like a kitchen renovation, the layout of your bathroom is something you’ll want to consider if you’re looking to update it. If you’re tight on space or want to future-proof your bathroom, you might consider getting rid of the bathtub altogether. Here’s why:
The Pros of Installing a Walk-in Shower
I’m a fan of installing a shower over a tub (I think the pros far outweigh the cons). If you do decide to get rid of the bathtub, it will allow for a state-of-the-art walk-in shower that is sure to add value to your home. And with so many design options available, you’ll find something that meets your needs without compromising on luxury and design.
Related: Common Renovating Costs for the Kitchen and Bathroom.
Your Future Needs
Consider your future needs when renovating, especially if you’re planning on staying in your home for years to come. You don’t want to spend money on updating for the short-term only to realize it doesn’t meet your needs down the road. Renovating for accessibility is key, and for that, a shower is a much better choice than a bathtub.
Tubs can be difficult to get in and out if you have mobility issues. A walk-in shower is easy to access and, if it’s wide enough, can be easily accessible to those using wheelchairs or walkers. A curbless shower will increase accessibility without compromising on style. And adding a bench to the space is a great way to enjoy a relaxing shower and help if you have limited mobility. Grab bars and non-slip tiles are other great additions to make your shower safe and accessible.
Energy Efficiency
When you’re planning a renovation, you’ll want to consider energy efficiency and how your new renovation will affect your monthly bills. Taking a shower uses less water than running a bath. By installing an energy-efficient shower head, you can reduce water usage by 70 percent. That’s a lot of savings, both to the environment and to your water bill.
Related: Modern Shower Ideas to Turn Your Bathroom Into a Masterpiece.
Curbless Showers
I love curbless showers. You can install the exact same tile throughout the entire bathroom floor. This will maximize your space and increase accessibility without sacrificing style.
Point Drains
When you are installing a shower, think about the floor drain. The type of drain you pick depends on your tile selection and the design of your shower. You might have heard the term “grate drains”. They are often installed in the middle of the shower stall. There are so many grate styles to choose from nowadays, you can really pick one to match your style. I’ve seen patterned, floral and curved designs. Grates look great (pun intended) but they also provide a smooth finish that blends in with the tiles.
Design
Take a look at the latest in shower fixtures. From a rain shower head to massaging jets, you can still get that relaxing spa ambience without feeling like you’re missing out on soaking in the tub. And to help wash off the soap, I want a shower wand as well as a showerhead. Coloured lights will add to that relaxing atmosphere and give your bathroom that “spa-like” feel.
Related: 9 Major Mistakes to Avoid When Renovating Your Bathroom.
Creating Space
If you’re limited for space, installing a shower instead of a bathtub is an obvious choice. By scrapping the tub, you’ll be able to add an extra storage cabinet or drawers, creating room to store towels or other bathroom necessities. You can also use the extra space to store toiletries and keep countertops clutter-free. Or add a laundry hamper to the space for convenience.
A shower with a clear glass door will give the appearance of more space and will make the shower a focal point of the entire room.
Do Your Research
Planning a bathroom renovation is a big deal. Getting input from a professional designer and hiring a reputable contractor will ensure the job is done right the first time. Weigh in on the pros and cons of choosing a shower over a tub. Making it right means that your bathroom renovation will meet your needs for years to come.
If your bathroom renovation involves the only bathtub in the home, you’ll need to weigh out the pros and cons of scrubbing the tub to allow for a smarter design. Will the lack of a bathtub decrease the value of your home? A home without a tub may appeal to fewer buyers. Do you have young children, or are you considering starting a family? A bathtub is essential for families with young children.
Do you enjoy a relaxing soak in the tub? A bathroom should be a place that you can go to relax. But quite often, homeowners will keep the tub with the unrealistic expectation of making use of it. Meanwhile, the tub sits idle, taking up valuable space. Consider all of these things before making that final decision. Bathroom renovations are costly, so you’ll want to make sure you get it right the first time and don’t have any regrets.
Images courtesy of The Holmes Group and HGTV Canada
