Should you go with a shower or bath for your bathroom remodel? When you decide between a shower and a bathtub, you’re balancing function vs. luxury, daily use vs. resale, and family needs vs. style. Many homeowners feel stuck between loving the idea of a spa‑like walk‑in shower and worrying they’ll regret removing an existing tub.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what belongs in your bathroom — and what doesn’t. Whether you’re planning a full bathroom renovation, converting an old tub, or simply exploring the best layout for a future bathroom remodel, this guide simplifies the decision so you can move forward with confidence.
What You’ll Learn
Shower or Bath— Pros and Cons for Every Homeowner
The answer to this question isn’t always obvious— especially if you’re someone who prefers to shower one day and soak in the tub the next day. The truth is that there really isn’t a wrong answer— it all depends on your own needs, preferences, space availability, and lifestyle. Below is a practical comparison of both options to help you decide what works for your lifestyle and your space.
| Factor | Shower | Tub |
|---|---|---|
| Lifestyle | Fast, convenient daily use | Relaxation, soaking, kids’ bathing |
| Age factors | Ideal for aging, easy entry | Higher step over, risk for mobility challenges |
| Space | Creates an open feel | Requires a defined footprint |
| Resale | Buyers favor modern walk‑in showers | Families with young children prefer a tub |
| Maintenance | Easier cleaning, less mildew | More grime and caulk over time |
If you’re planning to age in place or want an accessible shower, converting a tub can enhance safety while modernizing your bathroom layout.
Shower Options for Your Bathroom Remodel
Walk‑In Showers
A walk‑in shower offers design freedom and accessibility. With the right shower door or open enclosure, it creates a spacious feel and modern look that transforms your bathroom.
Frameless Showers
Frameless glass delivers a luxury appearance, but requires routine cleaning to avoid water spots and mold and mildew buildup.
Curbless Showers
Curbless designs are ideal for aging and wheelchair access. These require careful drain planning, a properly sloped shower pan, and waterproof installation to prevent leaks.
Prefab Shower Units
Acrylic and fiberglass prefab options are cost‑effective and fast to install, but offer less customization compared to tiled showers.
Steam Showers
Steam showers deliver a spa experience with body sprays and specialized showerheads, but come with higher labor costs and electrical requirements.
Bathtub and Tub Options for Your Bathroom
Before choosing a tub style, think about how you actually use your bathroom day to day. Some homeowners want a dramatic focal point, others want the easiest bath possible for kids or aging parents, and some just want something practical that fits smaller bathrooms. Your tub choice should match how you bathe, how much space you have, and how long you plan to stay in your home.
Freestanding Tubs
Freestanding tubs are a true statement piece. They work best in larger bathrooms where the bathtub can stand alone without crowding the room. These tubs emphasize style and soaking over storage or practicality, and they pair beautifully with floor‑mounted faucets for a spa‑like feel.
Find out if freestanding tubs are better for home value when compared to built-in tubs by reading the blog.
Alcove Tubs
Alcove tubs are the most common option in residential bathrooms. They fit neatly between three walls, making them cost‑effective and space‑efficient. If you want a tub with a shower, this style offers the easiest installation and works well in one‑bathroom homes.
Soaking Tubs
Soaking tubs are designed for comfort rather than speed. They are deeper than standard tubs, allowing you to fully soak and relax sore muscles after a long day. They’re ideal if baths are part of your regular routine and comfort matters more than quick use.
Jetted Tubs
Jetted tubs provide water‑powered massage but require ongoing upkeep. Their internal plumbing can collect residue if not cleaned properly, and repair costs are usually higher. While they once boosted resale value, many modern renovations now favor simpler, easier‑to‑maintain tubs.
Walk‑In Tubs
Walk‑in tubs are built for accessibility and safety. With low‑entry doors, built‑in seating, and grab bars, they support older adults and homeowners with mobility concerns. These tubs are especially useful in multi‑generational households where safety is just as important as comfort.
A guide on the blog— 3 Benefits of Walk-In Tubs: Is a Walk-In Tub Right for You?
Bathtub to a Shower: What a Tub‑to‑Shower Conversion Costs
A tub to shower conversion is a major project that involves gutting the existing tub, possibly moving some water lines, and installing the type of shower you choose. All of these factors will add to the total price you end up paying.
| Level | Shower | Tub |
| Budget | $3,000–$6,000 (prefab shower unit) | $2,500–$5,000 |
| Mid‑Range | $6,000–$10,000 (tile, new shower base) | $5,000–$8,000 |
| Luxury | $10,000–$18,000+ (steam, curbless) | $8,000–$15,000 |
Resale Value: How Showers vs Bathtubs Affect Selling
A tub‑to‑shower conversion often improves resale value of in master bathrooms, while keeping at least one bathtub in the home benefits families. Buyers prefer updated fixtures, clean tile, and modern plumbing — small upgrades that impact listing performance.
Bathroom Renovations: Showers, Baths, and What’s Trending
In: curbless entry (low‑threshold or curbless showers that improve accessibility and create a seamless look), large‑format tile (fewer grout lines for a cleaner appearance and easier maintenance), matte finishes (modern, fingerprint‑resistant hardware), niche storage (built‑in shelving for shampoo and soap inside the shower), spa lighting (layered lighting with dimmers or LED accents)
Out: plastic enclosures (cheap visual impact and poor longevity), outdated jets (high maintenance with little resale appeal), overly ornate trim (dates quickly and clashes with modern renovation styles)
Walk‑In Shower Accessibility and Bath Safety
Prioritize grab bars, slip‑resistant flooring, integrated benches within the shower, and low‑threshold entries to enhance safety. These features reduce fall risk, improve balance support, and make daily use easier for older adults, people with mobility challenges, and households planning to age in place.
Proper placement of bars near the shower entrance and seating area, textured tile or non‑slip coatings, and a barrier‑free entry also make the space safer for children and guests while preserving a clean, modern aesthetic.
Replace Your Tub or Install a Shower: Making the Right Choice
A bathtub to shower conversion makes sense when the existing tub is damaged or rarely used. Converting a bathtub requires verifying necessary plumbing, assessing the shower drain position, and selecting the right shower base. A professional contractor ensures correct waterproofing and installer‑grade finishing.
Plan Your Bathroom Upgrade With Confidence
Ready to take the next step from planning to transforming your space? If you’re considering a tub-to-shower conversion, installing a new walk-in shower, or upgrading your bathtub, getting professional input now can save time and costly mistakes later.
Get free remodeling quotes from professionals near you. Compare multiple contractors to find the best pricing, design options, and timeline for your bathroom remodel.
Common Questions Homeowners Asked
What’s the average cost to convert a tub into a walk-in?
Most tub-to-shower conversions range from $3,000 to $10,000 depending on tile choice, plumbing changes, shower door style, and drain relocation. Prefab units cost less, while custom tile showers with curbless entry and premium fixtures increase total project cost.
How do I choose the right fixtures and finishes for my bathroom remodel?
Choose fixtures based on durability, water efficiency, and style consistency. Prioritize quality faucets, non-slip flooring, waterproof wall materials, and finishes that fit your lifestyle. Neutral colors, timeless tile, and easy-clean surfaces deliver better resale value and long-term satisfaction.
How long does a bathroom remodel take?
Simple updates may take one to two weeks, while full bathroom renovations often require three to six weeks. Layout changes, custom tile work, permits, or plumbing relocation can extend timelines. A professional contractor provides a realistic schedule based on your project’s complexity.
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Standards & Expertise
All information reflects remodeling best practices, design trends, plumbing standards, and contractor installation guidelines used in modern bathrooms.