Should I choose a bathtub or a walk-in shower for my bathroom remodel in Portsmouth, NH?
When it comes to remodeling your bathroom, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between a bathtub and a walk-in shower. Each has its own set of benefits, and what’s right for your home depends on your lifestyle, family needs, and long-term goals.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, we often get asked about the pros and cons of each option. We’ve put together this guide to help you decide between a bathtub or a walk-in shower for your bathroom renovation in Portsmouth, NH.
What are the pros and cons of having a bathtub vs. a walk-in shower?
The decision between a bathtub and a walk-in shower largely depends on how you plan to use your bathroom and your future needs.
Bathtubs are great for families with small children or pets, as well as those who enjoy soaking as part of their self-care routine. A long soak in the tub can be relaxing and help alleviate stress, muscle aches, and more. However, a bathtub can also take up valuable space, making it harder to maximize your layout, especially if your bathroom is on the smaller side. Furthermore, bathtubs generally use more water, and filling the tub can take time.
Walk-in showers, on the other hand, are popular for their modern, streamlined appearance and the convenience they offer. They are particularly favored for their accessibility and ease of use, especially for those planning to age in place. Showers tend to use less water and offer features such as rain showerheads, handheld wands, and even steam capabilities, turning the shower into a mini spa. However, some homeowners feel that without a bathtub, they lose the option for a deep, relaxing soak.
To break it down:
Pros of Bathtubs:
Great for families with young children or pets
Ideal for those who enjoy soaking baths for relaxation
Adds a sense of luxury to the space
Preferred by certain homebuyers, especially families
Cons of Bathtubs:
Takes up more space than a shower
Higher water usage per bath
Can be more difficult to enter and exit, especially for older adults
May not suit all bathroom layouts, especially smaller spaces
Pros of Walk-in Showers:
Easier to access, especially for those with mobility concerns
Sleek, modern look that can make the bathroom feel larger
More water-efficient than a bathtub
Customizable with features like rain showers, body jets, and steam options
Cons of Walk-in Showers:
Doesn’t offer the same relaxing experience as a bathtub
Not as practical for families with young children or pets
Might not appeal to all potential buyers, particularly those who prefer a tub
Which is more popular in modern homes: bathtub or walk-in shower?
In the world of bathroom design, walk-in showers are currently more popular, especially in master bathrooms. The sleek and minimalist look of a walk-in shower, particularly with frameless glass doors and custom tile, appeals to many homeowners who want a modern, luxurious bathroom.
However, bathtubs still hold their place, especially in homes with multiple bathrooms. Many homeowners choose to have at least one bathroom with a tub, either in the master bath or a secondary bathroom. While walk-in showers dominate modern home design trends, the decision comes down to personal preference and the layout of your home.
For many of our clients in Portsmouth, NH, we see a growing trend toward removing tubs in favor of large walk-in showers, especially in smaller spaces or where aging in place is a priority. That said, if you have the space, many homeowners opt for both a shower and a tub for the ultimate flexibility.
Will a walk-in shower or bathtub add more value to my home?
When considering your bathroom remodel from a resale perspective, it’s important to think about what potential buyers in your market value. In Portsmouth, NH, where many homes are higher-end and cater to luxury buyers, both walk-in showers and bathtubs have their place.
Generally speaking, if your home only has one bathroom, having a bathtub can be a selling point, particularly for families. However, if your home has multiple bathrooms, a luxurious walk-in shower in the master suite can be a big draw. High-end buyers tend to prioritize spacious, well-designed showers with modern features.
It’s also important to consider your neighborhood demographics. In Portsmouth and the surrounding seacoast region, many buyers may be older or downsizing into their forever home, making a walk-in shower a more appealing feature due to its accessibility. If your goal is to maximize resale value, you may want to consider including at least one tub in the home, even if you opt for a walk-in shower in the master bath.
Is a walk-in shower more expensive to install than a bathtub?
The cost of installation can vary depending on several factors, including the size of your bathroom, the materials you choose, and the scope of the remodel. However, in general, walk-in showers tend to be more expensive to install than bathtubs. This is largely due to the customization involved in designing and building a walk-in shower.
A standard bathtub installation is relatively straightforward, especially if you’re opting for a prefabricated tub. However, if you choose a high-end freestanding tub or opt for custom tile work around the tub, the cost can increase significantly.
On the other hand, walk-in showers often involve more labor and materials. Custom tile work, frameless glass enclosures, and multiple showerheads or body jets can all add to the overall cost. Additionally, you’ll need to ensure proper waterproofing, especially if your shower design includes custom elements like built-in niches or benches.
In the Portsmouth, NH area, bathroom renovations typically fall in the mid- to high-end range. If you’re looking for a ballpark estimate, a basic walk-in shower may start around $12,000, but high-end designs can easily reach $20,000 or more. By comparison, a standard tub installation might cost between $8,000 and $12,000, depending on materials and labor.
How do the maintenance requirements differ between a bathtub and a walk-in shower?
When planning your bathroom remodel, it’s important to think about the long-term maintenance involved with both bathtubs and walk-in showers.
Bathtubs typically have fewer surfaces to clean, but they still require regular upkeep, especially around the caulking and grout lines, which can develop mold or mildew over time. If you opt for a freestanding tub, cleaning around and underneath the tub may be more challenging, depending on its placement.
Walk-in showers often have more surfaces to clean, especially if you choose custom tile. Grout lines in tiled showers can require regular scrubbing, and glass doors may need frequent cleaning to prevent water spots or soap scum buildup. However, there are ways to minimize maintenance:
Large-format tiles can reduce the number of grout lines, making cleaning easier.
Opting for non-porous materials like quartz or Corian for shower walls can help cut down on maintenance.
Using frameless glass doors can reduce the buildup of grime around metal frames.
Both options will require regular cleaning, but if you choose the right materials and finishes, you can minimize the amount of upkeep needed.
Which option is more energy-efficient or water-efficient?
If water and energy efficiency are priorities in your home, you’ll want to consider how each option impacts your usage. Walk-in showers generally use less water than bathtubs, especially if you install a low-flow showerhead.
On average, a 10-minute shower uses about 25 gallons of water, whereas filling a standard bathtub can require 30-50 gallons. If you tend to take long showers, the savings may be minimal, but for most homeowners, a walk-in shower is the more efficient option.
In addition to water usage, consider the energy required to heat that water. Since showers typically use less water, they also consume less energy, making them the greener option overall. If sustainability is a key concern, a walk-in shower with water-saving features like low-flow fixtures can help you reduce your environmental footprint.
Will a walk-in shower work well for aging in place or accessibility needs?
For homeowners who are planning to age in place, a walk-in shower is typically the better option. It offers easier access than a bathtub and can be designed with accessibility in mind. Features like a curbless entry, grab bars, and a built-in bench can make it safer and more comfortable to use.
A curbless shower allows for easy entry, even for those with mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs. Handheld showerheads and non-slip flooring can also improve safety.
While it’s possible to retrofit a bathtub with accessibility features like a walk-in tub, most homeowners find that a walk-in shower is more convenient and offers more long-term flexibility.
Does a bathtub make more sense if I plan to sell my home in the future?
If you're considering resale value, the decision between a bathtub and a walk-in shower depends on your target market and the overall layout of your home.
If you have only one bathroom, it’s generally a good idea to include a bathtub, as many buyers with young children or those who prefer baths will see it as a must-have. On the other hand, if your home has multiple bathrooms, you have more flexibility to choose a walk-in shower in the master bath while keeping a tub in a secondary bathroom.
In the Portsmouth, NH area, many buyers are looking for luxury features, so including both a freestanding tub and a walk-in shower in your master bathroom could offer the best of both worlds. However, if space is limited, a well-designed walk-in shower with modern fixtures can still appeal to high-end buyers.
How much space will I need for a walk-in shower versus a bathtub?
Space is a big factor in your decision. The typical size for a standard bathtub is around 60 inches long by 30 inches wide, although freestanding tubs may require more space around them for visual impact and cleaning.
A walk-in shower, on the other hand, can vary more in size. The smallest can be around 32 inches by 32 inches, but for a comfortable shower experience, most homeowners opt for at least a 36-48 inch width and depth. Larger, more luxurious walk-in showers can go up to 60 inches by 42 inches or more, especially if you’re incorporating features like a built-in bench or dual showerheads.
If you’re working with a tight space, a compact shower may be easier to fit into your design, especially if you’re using a corner placement or going with a frameless glass door.
Which option is more practical for a small bathroom space?
In a small bathroom, maximizing every inch of space is essential. In this case, a walk-in shower is typically the more practical choice. It can be designed to fit into a tight corner or against one wall without eating up too much room. Opting for a frameless glass enclosure can make the space feel larger, and with the right design, you can even add features like built-in niches or shelves for storage without overwhelming the room.
A bathtub, by contrast, takes up more floor space and can make a small bathroom feel more cramped, especially if it’s a standard tub with walls built around it.
Do walk-in showers offer more design options compared to bathtubs?
When it comes to design, walk-in showers often offer more flexibility. You can choose from a wide range of tile options, glass enclosures, and showerhead configurations to suit your style. Want a rain showerhead with body jets? You got it. Prefer natural stone tile or sleek porcelain? The possibilities are endless. You can even add benches, built-in shelving, or steam features for an added touch of luxury.
Bathtubs, while still offering plenty of variety, are typically more limited in their design options. Freestanding tubs, for example, can be stunning focal points, but they don’t offer the same level of customization as a walk-in shower. You may have fewer options for wall finishes around the tub, but many homeowners still love the visual impact a freestanding tub can create in a larger bathroom.
Will I regret not having a bathtub if I choose a walk-in shower?
This is a common concern among homeowners. The answer depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. If you’re someone who loves long, relaxing baths and views your bathroom as a space for self-care and relaxation, you might regret not having a bathtub.
However, if you rarely take baths and prioritize convenience, a walk-in shower could be more practical and enjoyable for daily use. Keep in mind that while a walk-in shower offers a spa-like experience with features like rain showerheads and body sprays, it doesn’t quite replicate the calming, immersive experience of a bath.
Are there any safety concerns I should consider for either option?
Safety is an important factor in choosing between a bathtub and a walk-in shower, particularly if you have concerns about mobility or are planning to age in place.
Bathtubs can be difficult to enter and exit, especially for older adults or those with mobility issues. The high sides of the tub can create a tripping hazard, and slipping is a real risk when getting in or out. If you choose a bathtub, consider adding grab bars and a non-slip mat for extra safety.
Walk-in showers, particularly those designed with curbless entries, are generally much safer. They offer easier access, especially if you install grab bars or a built-in bench. Non-slip tile flooring and handheld showerheads are also great additions for improving safety in a shower.
Which option is better for relaxation—soaking in a tub or using a shower with multiple features?
For pure relaxation, it’s hard to beat the experience of soaking in a bathtub. Whether you enjoy aromatherapy baths or just want to unwind after a long day, bathtubs offer a peaceful, immersive experience that showers can’t quite replicate.
However, if you’re not a bath person, a walk-in shower with features like a rainfall showerhead, body jets, or steam options can offer a luxurious and soothing experience. It may not be as meditative as a bath, but a well-designed shower can certainly help you relax and wash away the stress of the day.
If I have young children or pets, would a bathtub be more practical?
If you have young children or pets, a bathtub is typically more practical. Bathing small children is much easier in a tub, where they can sit safely and play with toys. Pets, especially dogs, are also easier to bathe in a bathtub where you can keep them contained.
That said, some homeowners install low-threshold showers with handheld showerheads, which can work for pet washing in a pinch. But for families with small children, a bathtub is generally the preferred option.
How long does it typically take to install a walk-in shower compared to a bathtub?
The installation timeline for a bathtub versus a walk-in shower can vary depending on the complexity of the project.
A standard bathtub installation can be completed in as little as one or two days, assuming no major plumbing changes are required and you’re using a prefabricated tub.
Walk-in showers, especially custom designs, may take longer. The installation can range from four to seven days or more, depending on the complexity of the tile work, waterproofing, and the addition of custom features like benches, niches, or multiple showerheads. If you’re opting for a more intricate design with specialty materials, the timeline could extend further.
What materials should I consider for a walk-in shower or bathtub for durability and style?
When it comes to choosing materials for your bathroom renovation, durability and style are key considerations for both walk-in showers and bathtubs.
For a walk-in shower, ceramic or porcelain tiles are popular choices because they’re durable, water-resistant, and available in an array of designs. Natural stone tiles, like marble or slate, offer a high-end look but require more maintenance to prevent staining or water damage. For a modern, seamless look, you might consider large-format tiles or solid surface materials like quartz, which minimize grout lines and are easier to clean.
For bathtubs, acrylic is a durable, budget-friendly option that comes in many shapes and sizes. Cast iron tubs, though heavier, offer incredible durability and heat retention, making them ideal for long, relaxing soaks. If you’re opting for a freestanding tub, consider materials like enameled steel or composite stone, which offer a high-end, luxurious appearance with great durability.
Does one option allow for better storage and shelving within the bathroom?
When it comes to maximizing storage in your bathroom, walk-in showers typically offer more options. You can integrate built-in features like shower niches or shelves for storing toiletries, keeping your bathroom neat and organized. With custom design work, you can even add benches or extend shelving into unused corners for extra storage.
With bathtubs, you’re more limited in terms of built-in storage. You may need to rely on freestanding shelves or cabinets placed around the tub, which can take up more space in the bathroom. However, if you prefer a freestanding bathtub in a larger bathroom, you could still have room for shelving units or built-in cabinetry along the walls.
Final thoughts
Deciding between a bathtub and a walk-in shower for your bathroom renovation in Portsmouth, NH, is a big decision. Both options come with their own set of benefits and considerations, and the right choice for you depends on your lifestyle, family needs, and the layout of your bathroom.
At Rothrock Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, we’re here to help you navigate this decision. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious soaking tub or a modern, spa-like walk-in shower, we can help you create a bathroom that fits your needs and enhances the beauty and value of your home.
