Shower vs. Bathtub: Which Is Best for Your Remodel?

When planning a bathroom remodel, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is choosing between a shower and a bathtub. Both offer distinct advantages depending on your lifestyle, space, and long-term goals. Whether you’re leaning toward a sleek walk-in shower or holding onto the comfort of a classic soaking tub, making the right call comes down to understanding your priorities.

Here’s everything you need to know when navigating the Shower Vs Tub Remodel debate.

Lifestyle and Daily Routine

Start by thinking about your daily habits. Do you rush through a quick rinse before work, or do you enjoy a long soak to unwind after a busy day? If your schedule leans more toward efficiency, a shower might better suit your routine. But if relaxation is a priority, a bathtub offers that spa-like escape.

This distinction plays a huge role in Bathroom Remodel Decisions. Choosing a shower aligns well with fast-paced lifestyles, while tubs are favored by homeowners who prioritize comfort and self-care.

Space Considerations

Space can heavily influence the shower vs. tub debate. Showers generally require less room and can be customized to fit tight or awkward layouts, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms. A Tub-To-Shower Conversion can dramatically open up the space and improve accessibility.

Tubs, on the other hand, typically need more square footage. If you're working with a compact bathroom and need to maximize functionality, installing a shower can be a smart solution that doesn’t compromise usability.

Accessibility and Aging in Place

Accessibility is becoming a bigger consideration for homeowners as they plan for the future. Walk-in showers, particularly curbless models, are safer and easier to navigate than traditional bathtubs, making them an excellent choice for aging in place.

Many Bathroom Remodel Decisions are influenced by a desire to reduce fall risks and increase independence. For households with elderly family members or those planning to stay in their home long-term, a shower offers practicality without sacrificing modern design.

Resale Value and Market Trends

If you’re thinking about selling your home down the line, resale value matters. According to real estate agents, many buyers—especially families with young children—prefer at least one bathtub in the home. Tubs are seen as essential for bathing kids and pets.

However, in urban areas or homes targeting professional couples or empty nesters, walk-in showers may be just as attractive. Market preference plays a big role in remodeling decisions, and in some cases, keeping both a shower and a tub in different bathrooms offers the best of both worlds.

Water Usage and Environmental Impact

Water conservation is another factor that can tip the scales. Showers generally use less water than baths, especially when fitted with low-flow showerheads. A standard bath can consume 35–50 gallons of water, while a 10-minute shower uses about 20–25 gallons, depending on flow rate.

Environmentally conscious homeowners may find that installing an efficient shower is the better choice. Plus, many municipalities now offer rebates for eco-friendly fixtures, adding even more incentive for this option.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Tubs and showers each have their maintenance demands. Bathtubs require regular cleaning of the basin and surrounding surfaces. Showers—especially those with glass enclosures—need frequent attention to prevent soap scum and water spots.

However, a simple tile design with a built-in niche and minimal grout lines can make a shower nearly effortless to maintain. For those who want to reduce cleaning time, this may tip the scales in favor of a walk-in shower.

Aesthetic and Design Appeal

Modern bathroom remodels often lean into clean, minimalist designs, and walk-in showers fit this aesthetic perfectly. Frameless glass panels, sleek tilework, and rainfall showerheads create a high-end look that elevates the space.

That said, today’s bathtubs can be equally stunning. Freestanding soaking tubs, clawfoot classics, and deep Japanese-style tubs offer bold design statements. If your remodel is more about creating a spa-like environment, a bathtub might still win your vote.

Cost Differences: Tub vs. Shower

In terms of costs, showers and bathtubs can be surprisingly similar, depending on materials and features. A basic bathtub installation might cost less than a luxury tiled shower, but that equation flips if you’re considering a standard shower kit.

A Tub To Shower Conversion typically falls between $3,000 and $7,000, depending on plumbing changes, tile choice, and enclosure style. A new bathtub can cost between $1,500 and $4,000 on average.

Ultimately, the cost is driven more by customization and finish than by the choice between the two.

Still Can’t Decide?

Many homeowners end up blending the best of both worlds. If you have a two-bathroom home, consider keeping a bathtub in one and installing a luxury shower in the other. This combo appeals to a broader range of buyers and ensures you have the flexibility to enjoy both options.

No matter which side you land on in the Shower Vs Tub Remodel debate, the key is making a choice that reflects your lifestyle, long-term goals, and design preferences.

Work with Bathroom Remodel Experts

At The Repair Gurus, we help homeowners make confident, informed Bathroom Remodel Decisions. Whether you're interested in a modern walk-in shower, a classic tub, or a full Tub To Shower Conversion, our team brings years of craftsmanship and insight to every project.

Explore more about our Bathroom Remodeling Services, or Contact Us to schedule your consultation and get expert guidance tailored to your home.