Remodeling? A Tub-to-Shower Conversion Can Be a Great Option

There was a time when every house had at least one bathroom with an alcove bathtub. While nothing is quite as relaxing as a warm bubble bath, we have busy lifestyles, and having the time to take a bath can be a luxury. Unfortunately, when we get older and have the time for a luxurious bath, getting in and out of the tub can be more difficult with sore backs, knees, or arthritis.

Here at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel, we have recently seen more homeowners requesting a tub-to-shower conversion. With any renovation, there are both pros and cons to consider. There are a lot of benefits to converting your bathtub and some drawbacks. In this post, we will examine the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision on why a tub-to-shower conversion makes sense when remodeling.

The Benefits of a Tub-to-Shower Conversion

Enhanced looks, better functionality, and increased home value are just a few benefits you'll enjoy with a tub-to-shower conversion. Here's a closer look at seven key benefits:

The Shower Becomes A Focal Point

So, when you walk into your current bathroom, what do you see? If you're like most of us, you've probably never thought about it. There's no doubt that a large walk-in shower is a focal point when expertly tiled, and can become a beautiful focal point in your design.

Modernizes The Space

Today, most of us take showers rather than baths. Converting the tub to a shower is a great way to modernize your bathroom. Just imagine a stylish glass shower with beautiful tile, a rainfall shower head, or multiple heads. It will transform your entire bathroom and give it a modern look.

Adds Room for a Shower Bench

A large walk-in shower gives you plenty of room to put in a bench. It's a great place to sit back, relax, shave your legs, or sit down and enjoy the steam and hot water. Plus, it looks great!

A Shower is Better for Mobility Issues When Aging in Place

For older homeowners or those with mobility issues, having a shower instead of a tub is a much safer option. A tub requires you to get in, sit down, stand up, and step out, giving you many chances to fall and injure yourself. A low or no-thresh hold shower will avoid these issues making a shower a much safer option.

A Lot More Space

Taking out an alcove tub can give you the space to create a five-foot-wide walk-in shower. This gives you plenty of room if you have mobility challenges and need a walker or help getting into or out of the shower. There's even plenty of room for another person to help out.

Lower Energy Costs

Studies have shown that showers are more energy-efficient than baths. A tub-to-shower conversion means more people will be taking showers in your home, so you could start to see savings on your energy bills. In today's world, who doesn't want to live a more sustainable life?

A Tub-to-Shower Conversion Can Add Value

Renovating your bathroom is a great way to add value to your home. Including a tub-to-shower conversion is a modern upgrade that buyers will love! For older home buyers planning on aging in place, a walk-in shower is an in-demand feature, and an oversized shower is an appealing feature for many buyers.

Learn The Cost Of A Bathroom Renovation in Greater Madison, Wisconsin

The Drawbacks of A Tub-To-Shower Conversion

While there are plenty of benefits to including a tub-to-shower conversion in your bathroom remodel, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. 

• A tub-to-shower conversion is not a great option if it's the only tub: If you only have one tub in your home, it could hurt the resale value of your home. Younger buyers with kids often need a tub for the kids. If you replace the tub with a walk-in shower, you may eliminate that demographic of potential buyers. This might not matter if you live in a neighborhood that doesn't attract younger buyers. You might want to consult a real estate professional before making any decisions.

• It's a time commitment and a bit of an investment: Obviously, a bathroom remodeling project that includes a tub-to-shower conversion takes a little time and requires a financial commitment. Before you make any commitment, you need to make absolutely sure that this is the right choice to meet your needs. 

Should You Convert Your Bathtub?

When looking at the pros and cons of making the transition to a walk-in shower, consider the following, if you're planning on staying in your home for at least ten years, or are planning on aging in place, then make the decision based on your current and future lifestyle, and what best meets your needs. You should enjoy your home and the time you live there, so if you want a tub-to-shower conversion, just do it! While you should always consider your home's resale value, it's important to do what makes you happy and meets your family's needs.

If you're considering a bathroom remodeling and a tub-to-shower conversion as part of your project, and live in the Greater Madison area, call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We can help you to take your home to the next level of comfort, design, and function! Ready to learn more? We're always happy to answer your questions.