Can’t Decide Between a Shower or Bathtub? Start Here
A bathroom remodel is your opportunity to create a space that works better for the way you live. One of the first and most important decisions you’ll face is whether to keep a bathtub or replace it with a shower. While both can be beautiful additions to your home, the right choice depends on far more than personal preference.
Do you want a bathroom that’s easier to navigate every morning? Are you planning to age in place? Do you have young children, limited space, or simply want a more modern, low-maintenance design? The answers to these questions can help determine whether a shower or a bathtub is the better long-term investment for your home.
At RIHI The Home Improvement Specialists, we’ve helped homeowners across New England reimagine outdated bathrooms since 1949. From replacing bulky tubs with spacious walk-in showers to creating bathrooms that are more comfortable, accessible, and stylish, we understand that every remodel should be tailored to the homeowner—not the latest trend.
In this guide, we’ll compare the benefits of showers and bathtubs, explore which option makes the most sense for different lifestyles, and share the key factors to consider before starting your bathroom remodel.
Ready to start planning your bathroom remodel? Call 401-739-1002 or contact us online today for a free consultation. We’ll help you evaluate your space, discuss your goals, and design a custom shower solution that enhances your home’s comfort, functionality, and long-term value.
Should You Choose a Shower or a Bathtub?
When planning a bathroom remodel, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is, “Should I choose a shower or a bathtub?” The truth is, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The best option depends on how you use your bathroom today, how you expect your needs to change over time, and what you want your remodeled space to accomplish.
As you weigh your options, consider factors such as:
- Your daily routine and lifestyle
- The size and layout of your bathroom
- The needs of your household, including children or aging family members
- Accessibility and long-term mobility considerations
- Your remodeling budget
- Your future plans for the home
Instead of focusing on whether a shower or bathtub is universally “better,” think about which option will provide the greatest comfort, functionality, and value for your household. Choosing a fixture that complements the way you live will help ensure your bathroom continues to meet your needs for years to come.
The Advantages of Choosing a Shower
For many homeowners, a shower has become the preferred choice for modern bathroom remodeling. Today’s shower systems offer far more than a place to rinse off. They create a spacious, low-maintenance environment that can improve accessibility, streamline daily routines, and elevate the overall look and feel of the bathroom.
Easier Accessibility
One of the biggest advantages of a walk-in shower is how easy it is to use. Unlike traditional bathtubs, walk-in showers eliminate the need to step over a high tub wall, making entry and exit safer and more comfortable for people of all ages.
Accessibility features can further enhance convenience and peace of mind, including:
- Low-threshold or barrier-free entry
- Built-in seating
- Grab bars
- Handheld showerheads
- Slip-resistant flooring
These features not only reduce fall risks but also help homeowners age in place without sacrificing comfort or style.
More Efficient Daily Routines
For most households, the bathroom is one of the busiest rooms in the home. A well-designed shower can help streamline morning routines by providing quick, convenient access while maximizing available space.
Busy professionals, growing families, and active households often choose a shower remodel because it makes everyday use more efficient without compromising comfort.
Endless Design Possibilities
Modern showers offer exceptional design flexibility, allowing homeowners to create a space that reflects their personal style while improving functionality.
Popular customization options include:
- Frameless glass enclosures
- Decorative wall surrounds
- Built-in storage niches
- Rainfall or multi-function showerheads
- Contemporary fixtures and finishes
Replacing an outdated bathtub with a custom shower can instantly make the bathroom feel more open, brighter, and more inviting, transforming it into a space that’s as beautiful as it is practical.
The Benefits of Keeping a Bathtub
While walk-in showers have become a popular choice in modern bathroom remodeling, bathtubs continue to offer advantages for many households. Depending on your lifestyle, family needs, and long-term plans, keeping a bathtub may be the right decision.
A Space to Relax and Unwind
For many homeowners, a bathtub offers something a shower can’t: the opportunity to slow down and enjoy a long soak. Whether it’s after a busy day, strenuous exercise, or simply as part of a self-care routine, a bathtub provides a comfortable space to relax.
Common reasons homeowners choose to keep a bathtub include:
- Stress relief and relaxation
- Soothing sore muscles and joints
- A spa-like bathing experience
- Personal comfort and wellness
If relaxation is an important part of how you use your bathroom, a bathtub may remain an essential feature.
Practical for Families
Bathtubs are often the preferred option for households with infants and young children, making bath time easier and more convenient. They can also appeal to future buyers, particularly families who value having at least one bathtub in the home.
If your home has only one full bathroom, keeping a bathtub may also help maintain broader appeal should you decide to sell in the future.
Flexibility for Different Needs
Homeowners with multiple bathrooms don’t always have to choose one over the other. Many opt to install a spacious walk-in shower in a primary bathroom while keeping a bathtub in a secondary or guest bathroom.
This approach offers the best of both worlds by providing:
- A modern, convenient shower for everyday use
- A bathtub for relaxation or bathing children
- Greater flexibility for changing household needs
- Broader appeal for future buyers
For many homes, combining both options creates a bathroom layout that’s practical, versatile, and designed to serve a variety of lifestyles.
Consider the Size and Layout of Your Bathroom
The amount of available space in your bathroom can have a significant impact on whether a shower or a bathtub is the better fit. Choosing a fixture that complements your bathroom’s layout can improve both functionality and the overall feel of the room.
Smaller Bathrooms
In a compact bathroom, every square foot matters. Replacing a traditional bathtub with a walk-in shower can open up the space, improve traffic flow, and create a cleaner, more modern appearance.
Benefits of a walk-in shower in a smaller bathroom include:
- A more open and spacious feel
- Easier movement throughout the room
- Less visual clutter
- Better use of limited square footage
Frameless glass enclosures can further enhance the effect by allowing natural and artificial light to flow freely, making the bathroom feel larger and brighter.
Larger Bathrooms
A larger bathroom provides greater flexibility and more design options. Some homeowners choose to incorporate both a walk-in shower and a freestanding bathtub, while others dedicate the extra space to an expansive custom shower with luxury features.
With more room to work with, you can create a layout that prioritizes your lifestyle, whether that means a spa-inspired retreat, improved accessibility, or a combination of both. The key is designing a bathroom that balances comfort, functionality, and long-term value.
Think About Long-Term Accessibility
A bathroom remodel isn’t just an opportunity to update the look of your space. It’s also a chance to make your home more comfortable and functional for the years ahead. If you plan to stay in your home long term, incorporating accessibility features now can help you avoid costly renovations later while supporting greater independence.
Walk-in showers are a popular choice for homeowners planning to age in place because they offer:
- Low-threshold or barrier-free entry
- Fewer tripping hazards than traditional tubs
- More open space for easier movement
- Better accessibility for changing mobility needs
- Compatibility with features like grab bars and built-in seating
Planning for the future doesn’t mean sacrificing style. By choosing accessibility-minded features during your remodel, you can create a bathroom that meets your needs today while remaining safe, comfortable, and functional for years to come.
Which Option Adds More Value?
When comparing a shower and a bathtub, many homeowners want to know which option will provide the best return on investment. The answer isn’t always straightforward, because resale value depends on factors such as your home’s layout, the expectations of buyers in your area, and how the bathroom functions within the home.
In general:
- Homes with multiple bathrooms often benefit from replacing one bathtub with a modern walk-in shower while keeping at least one tub elsewhere in the home.
- If your home has only one full bathroom, removing the only bathtub may not appeal to some future buyers, particularly families with young children.
- A professionally remodeled shower can increase a home’s appeal by improving accessibility, maximizing space, and giving the bathroom a clean, updated look.
Ultimately, buyers are typically looking for a bathroom that’s attractive, functional, and thoughtfully designed. High-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and a layout that complements the home’s lifestyle often have a greater impact on perceived value than choosing a shower or bathtub alone.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Bathtub?
An aging bathtub can do more than date the appearance of your bathroom. It can also make the space less comfortable, less functional, and more difficult to use every day. If your tub no longer fits your lifestyle, it may be time to consider an upgrade.
Signs it may be time to replace your bathtub include:
- Cracks, chips, or surface damage
- Stubborn stains or discoloration
- An outdated design that no longer fits your style
- Difficulty stepping over the tub wall
- Water damage or leaks around the tub
- Limited functionality for your household’s needs
Replacing an old bathtub with a custom walk-in shower can dramatically improve both the appearance and usability of your bathroom. In addition to creating a cleaner, more modern look, a shower remodel can increase accessibility, simplify daily routines, and make better use of your available space.
Why Homeowners Trust RIHI for Shower Remodeling
A great bathroom remodel starts with more than quality materials. It starts with a team that listens to your needs, understands your goals, and delivers craftsmanship you can count on for years to come.
Since 1949, RIHI The Home Improvement Specialists has helped beautify more than 50,000 homes, earning a reputation for quality workmanship, honest service, and lasting customer relationships. As a family-owned business, we believe every customer should be treated like family, which means providing personalized guidance, clear communication, and dependable service from your first consultation through the final installation.
Whether you’re replacing an outdated bathtub, creating a more accessible bathroom, or upgrading to a modern walk-in shower, we’ll help you design a solution that fits your lifestyle, budget, and long-term needs.
Our custom shower remodeling services include:
- Beautiful, custom-designed walk-in showers
- Durable, low-maintenance materials
- Modern colors, styles, and finishes
- Accessibility features for greater comfort and convenience
- Professional installation by experienced craftsmen
- Industry-leading warranty protection for added peace of mind
When your project is complete, our commitment doesn’t end. Every shower remodel is backed by our No Hassle, Non-Nonsense Warranty, reflecting our belief that the best advertising comes from delivering results homeowners are proud to recommend. From timeless craftsmanship to exceptional customer care, RIHI is dedicated to creating bathrooms you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Find the Bathroom Solution That’s Right for Your Home
The decision between a shower and a bathtub ultimately comes down to how you want your bathroom to function. Whether your priority is improved accessibility, a more efficient daily routine, a modern new look, or long-term comfort, the right remodel should reflect your lifestyle and add lasting value to your home.
At RIHI The Home Improvement Specialists, we’ve been helping homeowners create beautiful, functional bathrooms since 1949. From replacing outdated tubs with custom walk-in showers to designing spaces that are easier to use and built to last, our team is committed to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and a remodeling experience you can feel confident about.
Ready to transform your bathroom? Call 401-739-1002 or contact us online today to schedule your free consultation. We’ll help you explore your options, design a shower that’s tailored to your needs, and create a bathroom you’ll enjoy for years to come.
FAQ: Shower vs. Bathtub
Q: Is a shower or bathtub better for a bathroom remodel?
The best option depends on your lifestyle, available space, and long-term goals. Walk-in showers are ideal for homeowners seeking improved accessibility, modern design, and efficient daily use, while bathtubs remain a popular choice for families with young children and those who enjoy soaking baths.
Q: Does replacing a bathtub with a shower increase home value?
It can. A professionally designed walk-in shower is a desirable feature for many buyers because it improves functionality and gives the bathroom a modern appearance. However, if your home has only one full bathroom, it’s often recommended to keep at least one bathtub to appeal to a broader range of future buyers.
Q: Are walk-in showers easier to maintain than bathtubs?
Generally, yes. Walk-in showers typically have fewer hard-to-reach areas where soap scum and mildew can accumulate. Many modern shower materials are also designed to resist stains and simplify routine cleaning, making maintenance easier for busy homeowners.
Q: Is a walk-in shower a good choice for aging in place?
Yes. Walk-in showers are one of the most popular bathroom upgrades for homeowners planning to age in place. Features such as low-threshold entry, grab bars, built-in seating, handheld showerheads, and slip-resistant flooring can improve accessibility and help reduce fall risks while maintaining a stylish appearance.
Q: Should I replace my old bathtub with a walk-in shower?
If your bathtub is outdated, difficult to enter, damaged, or no longer fits your lifestyle, replacing it with a walk-in shower may improve both the appearance and functionality of your bathroom. A professional consultation can help determine whether a shower remodel is the right solution for your home.
Q: Can a walk-in shower fit in a small bathroom?
Absolutely. Walk-in showers are often an excellent solution for smaller bathrooms because they can make the space feel larger, brighter, and less cluttered. Features like frameless glass enclosures and custom layouts maximize available space while creating a more open design.
Q: What should I consider before choosing a shower or bathtub?
Before making your decision, consider your household’s needs, bathroom size, daily routine, accessibility requirements, long-term plans for your home, and remodeling budget. Choosing the option that best supports your lifestyle will provide the greatest long-term value.
Q: Why choose RIHI The Home Improvement Specialists for shower remodeling?
Since 1949, RIHI The Home Improvement Specialists has helped beautify more than 50,000 homes with high-quality home improvement solutions. As a family-owned company, we design custom shower remodeling solutions tailored to each homeowner’s needs, using durable materials, expert craftsmanship, and professional installation. Every project is backed by our No Hassle, Non-Nonsense Warranty, giving you confidence that your investment is built to last.