Homeowners usually remodel their bathrooms to update the look or replace old and worn-out fixtures. Others remodel because they want their bathrooms to be more accessible to an older family member. In this case, it’s common for homeowners to get rid of their tub completely and install a shower in its place.
There are various reasons why people opt to replace an outdated tub or convert it into a shower, and each option has its pros and cons.
Questions to Ask Before Planning Your Bathroom Renovation
Do You Prefer the Tub or the Shower?
Your preferred way of bathing is often the main consideration when choosing between bathtub replacement and shower conversion. Bathing in a tub is pleasurable and calming because you can relax with water surrounding your body. On the other hand, a shower can help you conserve water and is a great investment if you plan on aging in place.
Is an Older or Physically Challenged Loved One Living With You?
Older adults will find showers more accessible than bathtubs. It’s usually harder to get in and out of the tub, especially if a person has limited mobility. Moreover, filling it up and cleaning it can be difficult and laborious. While you can opt for a walk-in tub to accommodate the needs of older family members, a shower with grab bars and anti-slip flooring is often the more practical and safer choice.
What Is Your Remodeling Budget?
Your bathroom designer can provide excellent bathtub and shower installation services and add or replace several features suitable for your needs. However, it all depends on your budget. Make sure to let your contractor know how much you’re willing to spend for the entire remodel and what specific features you’re willing to splurge on or save.
Important Things to Know About Bathtub Replacement
Bathtub replacement is typically done if a tub is too old or doesn’t work anymore. It is also considered if the home has poor plumbing design. A good bathtub makes each bathtime a relaxing experience, and it can serve as the centerpiece of your bathroom.
Often, it’s also a symbol of a luxurious bathing experience. Bathroom users can soak themselves for long periods in a warm bath, relaxing their aching muscles and senses after a tiring day.
Homeowners have a wide variety of bathtubs available to them. Each of these tubs has different features that highlight their comfort, durability and style. If you’re unsure which tub to choose, ask your remodeling contractors for suggestions. They will greatly consider your needs and budget to find the perfect tub for your needs.
Tub replacement also offers an excellent opportunity for full-service remodeling from renowned bathroom remodeling specialists like The Bathroom Store. With this type of remodel, experts will remove the tub, walls, flooring, plumbing and other accessories in your bathroom. Then, they can change the entire design based on your needs.
Important Things to Know About Tub-to-Shower Conversion
You will notice the large space your old tub will leave behind after builders remove it. By converting this area into a shower, you can add more features and aesthetic improvements to your bathroom. Shower conversions are also better for people with mobility issues because they can bathe while standing or place a shower chair and sit down. Anti-slip flooring is crucial in tub-to-shower conversions to ensure safety in the room.
Shower areas are helpful if you’re always on the go. You can have a quick and relaxing shower and get out of the bathroom fast during workdays. Tubs require more time and a more meticulous method. Filling a tub already takes time, so you won’t be able to maximize its benefits if you rarely have time for a long bath.
Converting your tub to a shower doesn’t mean your bathroom’s aesthetic appeal will be reduced. Reputable bath renovation companies can use various design elements to maintain or enhance the look you want for your new bathroom. They can also recommend certain window styles to let more sunlight and air inside your bathroom.
If you’re remodeling your entire home, a tub-to-shower conversion can be helpful if you’re reducing bathroom space. A shower doesn’t need as much space as a bathtub. Consider a shower conversion if you want to reallocate some of your bathroom’s floor space to your living room or master’s bedroom.
How to Make Your Bathroom Remodel a Success
You’ve got a reliable bathroom remodeling team helping with the design and implementation of your project, but they aren’t the only ones you’ll need to achieve exceptional results. Here are a few more tips to keep in mind to ensure the success of your bathroom remodel:
Design Limitations
It helps to accept the possible adjustments and limitations you and your designer might face during the project. Sometimes, adjustments and compromises would have to be made, and these can affect the outcome of your project. For example, if stone flooring is part of your ideal bathroom design, you need to be prepared for any challenges that may occur if you do decide to install stone flooring. However, if you think those obstacles aren’t worth your time and effort, you can opt for a more practical choice instead. Discuss your options with your contractor so that you can make the best decision for your project.
Technical Aspects of the Project
Bathtub replacements and tub-to-shower conversions require the knowledge, expertise and equipment of experienced professionals. They can replace your tub or install a shower properly, so it’s always best to leave the job to the experts. Your bathroom remodel will likely involve some technical aspects, such as electrical rewiring for lights, plumbing, ventilation and more. Make sure to take these additional expenses into account and prepare for delays that may result from these technical updates. It usually helps to have a buffer in your budget and timeline to allow for unexpected scenarios.
Waterproofing
Bathroom waterproofing is essential in preserving the lifespan and durability of its components. Everything in your bathroom must have no gaps to prevent moisture from leaking or building up.
The Bathroom Store has everything you need to achieve a top-notch bathroom renovation. Check out our portfolio to learn more about our accomplished projects. To schedule a free consultation, call us at (701) 223-1008, or fill out this contact form.
