Reasons to Consider Converting Your Tub into a Shower
Walk through a recently remodeled bathroom and you might notice something—the bathtub’s missing. In fact, 60% of homeowners prefer a shower over a tub, according to the National Association of Realtors. Once the centerpiece of countless bathroom designs, many homeowners find that a traditional tub feels dated and underutilized. For that reason, among others, more homes than ever before are being upgraded with tub-to-shower conversions.
Especially in homes where each square foot is precious, ditching the tub can be a great solution for the perfect full or even partial bathroom remodel. More than a simple replacement, modern showers are an artistic blend of form and function. Beautiful designs and materials, slip and mold resistant finishes, and an array of shower door options make showers feel more spa-like than utilitarian.
But is this trend of throwing the tub out with the bathwater a smart choice for you? Here are five reasons to consider:
1. Showers Are Easier to Get In & Out Of
For more mature adults and those with limited mobility, getting into and out of a traditional tub can be difficult, A tub-to-shower conversion is ideal for homeowners who want to maximize their bathroom’s comfort and safety. When combined with modern grab bars and seating accessories, walk-in showers (like this one) are safer and easier to access and navigate. Slip resistant technology helps lower the risk of accidental injury so you can feel more confident getting into and out of the shower.
2. Showers Are Easier To Maintain
Less upkeep means less work! The wet, humid conditions in a bathroom make it the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Rather than spend your weekend scrubbing the bathroom, take back some of your free time by replacing your old tub. A new shower built with grout-free, mold-resistant wall surrounds reduces the amount of maintenance your bathroom requires. Imagine never having to re-grout or scrub away mildew again!
3. Bathtubs are outdated
Modern bathrooms are more than just a utilitarian space. In fact, the privacy a bathroom affords, along with new products, design elements, and accessories can turn this space into an in-home spa you’ll enjoy spending time in.
Replacing an old tub with a sleek shower instantly creates the minimalist vibe of an expensive spa. Luxurious materials like stone, wood, or tile makes the shower not only functional, but eye-catching, as well. The addition of accessories like seamless bench seating, frameless shower doors, and built-in shelving add a level of uncompromising convenience and style.
Upgrade your lighting, and add a basket of spa essentials such as scented soaps, lotions, and candles for an aromatherapy experience you can’t wait to come home to.
[Get 24 Design Tips for Your Bathroom from the World’s Most Luxurious Spas]
4. Showers Maximize Space
The average bathroom has a footprint of just 35-40 square feet. In a room this small, every square inch is valuable real estate. Replacing a bathtub with a shower gives homeowners back an average of five square feet of space. That’s enough extra storage for towels, soaps and lotions, and other essentials.
As an added bonus, replacing your tub with a glass-enclosed shower can create the illusion of space, making your bathroom feel larger than it is. Speak to a design professional to see what your best options are for making the most of your bathroom’s footprint.
5. Showers Add To Home Value
Updated bathrooms are at the top of homebuyers’ wish lists and walk-in showers remain popular, especially for buyers with limited mobility or thinking about safety needs as they age. According to Remodeling‘s Cost vs. Value Report, a midrange bathroom remodel has a 64% ROI. You don’t need to undergo a complete bathroom remodel, but a tub and shower update is a great idea if you want to woo potential buyers.
Tub-to-shower conversions are increasingly popular in remodels. It’s no wonder; ditching the traditional bathtub in favor of a modern, easily maintained, aesthetically pleasing shower adds value and space to a home.
The ability to design and install your new shower in days, not weeks, is unique to the Re-Bath process. By custom-fitting your new shower into the space where your bathtub resides, your bathroom is “under construction” for the shortest possible amount of time. Contact your local Re-Bath showroom to learn more about tub-to-shower conversions.