When planning a bathroom renovation, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is whether to install a bathtub or a shower. 🚿🛁 Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your lifestyle, space, budget, and long-term goals.
Let’s dive into the details and help you make the best decision for your home, whether you’re planning a small bathroom upgrade or a full-scale bathroom remodel in Chicago.
🚿 Showers: Sleek, Space-Saving & Modern
Modern walk-in showers have become increasingly popular for their sleek design, efficiency, and space-saving advantages. They’re ideal for smaller bathrooms or for homeowners seeking a contemporary look.
✅ Benefits of Showers:
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⏱️ Time-saving – Quick and convenient for daily use
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🏠 Space-efficient – Perfect for small or narrow bathrooms
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🧹 Easy to clean – No tubs to scrub or maintain
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👵 Accessible – Great for seniors or people with limited mobility
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🧱 Customizable designs – From glass doors to tile walls and rainfall heads
With the right tile work and fixtures, a shower can become a stunning focal point of your modern bathroom design.
❌ Drawbacks of Showers:
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🚫 No option for soaking – Not ideal for bath lovers or families with young kids
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📉 May affect resale value – Some buyers expect at least one tub in the house
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💧 Waterproofing is essential – Poor installation can lead to leaks
🛁 Bathtubs: Relaxation, Value & Family-Friendly
There’s nothing like a long soak in a warm tub after a stressful day. A bathtub isn’t just about bathing — it’s about self-care, relaxation, and tradition.
✅ Benefits of Bathtubs:
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🧖 Perfect for relaxation – Ideal for spa-style bathrooms
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👶 Great for families – Easy to bathe small children
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💵 Adds resale value – Especially in homes with multiple bathrooms
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🛁 Variety of styles – Freestanding, alcove, corner tubs, and more
If you’re doing a full bathroom renovation and want to create a luxurious escape, a bathtub may be the better fit.
❌ Drawbacks of Bathtubs:
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🧽 Takes longer to clean – More surface area and standing water
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🚿 Less efficient – Takes more time and water than a shower
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👵 Not as accessible – Stepping in and out may be hard for some people
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🏠 Takes up more space – Not ideal for compact bathrooms
💸 Cost Comparison: Bathtub vs. Shower
Cost is a key factor in any bathroom remodeling project. Let’s look at how the two options compare financially.
| Feature | Bathtub | Shower |
|---|---|---|
| Average Cost | $3,000 – $6,000+ | $2,500 – $7,000+ |
| Installation | Moderate | Often faster (unless custom tile) |
| Maintenance | More upkeep (especially jets) | Easier to maintain |
| Water Usage | Higher (40–70 gallons per use) | Lower (10–25 gallons per use) |
🧠 Tip: The total cost varies depending on materials, plumbing, and the complexity of the project. For accurate estimates, contact local professionals like Easy Remodeling in Chicago.
🏡 What About Resale Value?
If you’re remodeling with resale in mind, think like a buyer.
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In homes with only one bathroom, a bathtub is typically preferred — especially by families with small children.
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In homes with two or more bathrooms, having at least one walk-in shower and one bathtub offers the most flexibility and appeal to future buyers.
According to real estate experts, homes with a combination of both tend to attract a broader audience and sell faster.
🧩 Why Not Both? Combo Solutions
Can’t decide? Why not install a tub-shower combo?
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🛁🚿 Combines the relaxation of a tub with the convenience of a shower
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💰 More budget-friendly than installing two separate fixtures
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🏠 Great for small homes or apartments with limited space
Tub-shower combos are a smart choice for budget-conscious bathroom renovations that don’t compromise on versatility.
🧠 Questions to Ask Before Choosing
Before you make your final decision, consider:
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How do you use your bathroom daily?
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Do you have small children or plan to in the future?
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How long do you plan to live in this home?
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Do you want a spa-like retreat or functional space?
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What’s your renovation budget and space availability?
🏁 Final Thoughts: Which Is Better for You?
There’s no universally “better” option — only what’s best for your lifestyle, space, and goals. Here’s a quick recap:
| Choose a Shower If: | Choose a Bathtub If: |
|---|---|
| You have a small bathroom | You enjoy soaking baths |
| You want a modern, minimalist look | You want to boost home value |
| You prioritize accessibility | You have young kids or a large family |
| You need a quick daily routine | You’re designing a luxury bathroom |
Combining both in your home — if space and budget allow — gives you the ultimate flexibility.
🧰 Ready to Renovate?
Whether you’re leaning toward a luxurious soaking tub or a sleek walk-in shower, our team at Easy Remodeling is ready to help you plan and build the perfect space.
📞 Book your free consultation today and let’s create a bathroom you’ll love — functional, stylish, and tailored to your life in Chicago!
