Bathtub or Shower: Which Is the Best Choice for You?

Some bathrooms may look more elegant with a nice tub, while others may only have the space to permit a small shower. Even if space is not a concern, some people still prefer the convenience of a shower or the ability to relax in a bathtub. In case you’re planning on remodeling your bathroom and adding a tub or shower, the flooring and design experts at CMA Flooring in Carrollton, TX, have created this handy chart that covers a few of the advantages and disadvantages of both options.

SHOWERS

Space

If bathroom space is at a premium, showers leave a smaller footprint. Though showers can be as large as space allows, the typical configuration is at least 30 inches wide and between 34 and 36 inches deep.

Efficiency

A quick shower beats out a bath because it uses fewer gallons of water per minute. The average 5-minute shower will use up 12.5 gallons.

Access

Showers, especially walk-ins, provide easy access, which is convenient for the disabled and seniors who have limited mobility and difficulty getting in and out of tubs. A shower can also have roll-in or curbless features, offering more opportunities for independence than a bath.

Features

If you prefer a shower, foregoing a bathtub may allow you to install a larger standalone walk-in shower with special features like massaging showerheads.

Resale

According to the National Association of Realtors, potential homebuyers prefer at least one bathtub, but aren’t necessarily willing to give up having a shower, especially families with children. Though having only a shower or bathtub doesn’t reduce a property’s value, it may be slightly harder to sell or rent.

BATHTUBS

Space

The average bathtub is somewhere in the vicinity of 30 inches wide. However, a tub is usually about 72 inches long, taking up a lot more room than a normal shower.

Efficiency

If your showers tend to go long, a tub might be the better choice. A 10-minute shower uses 25 or more gallons, less than filling a bathtub.

Access

Manufacturers are developing access tools for both the disabled and seniors, including benches and taller walk-in tubs.

Features

Tubs offer the advantages of Jacuzzi features, opportunities to read quietly with a glass of wine, and many other things that make relaxing in water a wonderful experience.

Resale

According to the National Association of Realtors, potential homebuyers prefer at least one bathtub, but aren’t necessarily willing to give up having a shower, especially families with children. Though having only a shower or bathtub doesn’t reduce a property’s value, it may be slightly harder to sell or rent.

Once you’ve decided if you’re installing a tub or shower, your next consideration should be choosing new flooring for your bathroom. At CMA Flooring, we offer a wide variety of tile, vinyl, and laminate flooring Carrollton homeowners love. Stop by our showroom or give us a call at 972-418-6606 and one of our friendly and knowledgeable representatives would be happy to assist you.