Bath vs Shower: Which Adds to Home Value?

One of the first places potential home buyers will look in any home is the bathrooms. This includes the en-suite bathroom in the master bedroom. A full bathroom is comprised of a toilet, sink, bathtub, and shower. If space does not permit, then the choice between a shower or bathtub boils down to two factors – personal choice and resale value. The degree to which a shower or tub will influence the resale value of your home depends on what is in style that season as well. In recent years, walk-in, oversize, and double showers with seating have been all the rage. However, one thing that hasn’t changed is the need for parents with young children to have a bathtub. Bath vs shower is not an easy debate to have as they both have advantages.

Bath vs Shower: Which Adds to Home Value?

Shower Benefits

Less space

A regular walk-in shower measures 9 sq. ft. Meanwhile, a standard bathtub will take up 13 sq. ft. In a small bathroom, installing a shower makes more sense especially if there is a desire for a double vanity. It also leaves the option for a slightly bigger shower.

Water-wise

A regular size, no-frills tub will take 25 to 40 gallons of water to fill. Spa-type baths will take between 80 to 100 gallons of water to fill the tub. Conversely, an eight-minute shower, which is a long shower, will consume around 17 gallons of water. Assuming that an average shower is around five minutes, that would take about 10 gallons of water. As you can see, installing a show instead of a bathtub can help lower water usage in your home.

Ease of access

It’s easier to walk into a shower than climb in and out of a bath – especially if the water is a tad too hot. Nowadays showers have non-slip flooring and a grab bar too. This can be tremendously beneficial for older adults and children using the shower. Furthermore, bigger showers have a seat which is good for all ages to sit and scrub their feet or relax after a long day.

Nozzle experience

While spa-type baths offer jets, showerheads have a multitude of settings to suit different moods and needs.

Easy cleaning

Cleaning showers doesn’t require as much time on the knees to clean as baths do. In fact, showers are easy to clean while you’re in the shower, especially with the help of a handheld showerhead.

Bathtub Benefits

Cheaper installation

Installing a shower can cost anywhere from $600 to $12,000. Plumbing costs aside, there is the cost of matching tiles and customization if opting for a custom-size walk-in shower. On the other hand, installing a bathtub will cost anywhere from $500 for a basic, standard tub, to $8,000 for a large, spa-style tub with jets. Not to mention, labor costs are much lower for installing a bath.

Better resale value

There are two rooms that sell a house, especially where the ladies are concerned. One is the kitchen and the other is the bathroom. For the ladies, and some guys, a bath is a requirement for a bathroom. Of course, in smaller bathrooms showers are the only option. While large walk-in showers may be trendy, they are only so if there is a bathtub as well. From a resale point of view, a shower is an optional extra unless you are a bachelor.

Kiddie fun and safety

Tubs are easy to babyproof. There are gadgets and anti-slip rubber mats to keep the baby safe. There are also covers for protruding faucets. For the tots, bath time can be fun and is cost-effective. Put two or three tots in one bath together and add bath toys and liquid soap. Bathing is also more hygienic for the little ones as the water can get into all the areas it needs to, unlike a shower. As the kids get older, they can each take a turn and bathe in the same water.

Doggies

Bathtubs are very handy to wash the family dog in. Once you get your dog in the tub, they are somewhat trapped and can soak in water to loosen dirt and whatever else they might have been rolling in.

Health benefits

Research shows that a nice hot bath has similar benefits to exercising. Apart from helping us to relax, bathing can improve moods and help fight the common cold and seasonal flu. Furthermore, bathing boosts immunity to viruses.

Me time

With essential oils, candles, music, and perhaps a glass of vino, behind a closed door, bath time is one of the best ways to have “me time,” hey moms? That might even be the winning argument in the bath vs shower debate.

North Country Windows & Baths | Bathroom Remodel Contractor Lincoln, NE

At North Country Windows & Baths, our Windows are backed by a Lifetime Warranty giving our customers peace of mind. Each window is custom-made to fit your home with state-of-the-art engineering by design, and energy efficiency enhanced by style. Our windows are made to last for years of maintenance-free beauty.

Whether you want a soaker tub surrounded by subway tile or a low threshold shower with granite-like walls, you can customize your BathWraps space and even add accessories like soap dishes, caddies, seating, grab bars, and more Contact us today.