Shower vs. Bathtub: Which One is Best For Your Remodel?
When planning a bathroom remodel, few decisions spark more debate than the classic question: Shower or bathtub? This choice isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about how you live, how your space functions, and how it will support your needs in the future. Whether you’re upgrading a master suite or modernizing a guest bath, weighing the pros and cons of a Shower Vs. Tub Remodel is essential to getting it right.
At Anderson Tile & Granite, we’ve worked with hundreds of homeowners in Houston to design bathrooms that deliver both comfort and lasting value. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the right fit for your remodel, based on space, lifestyle, design trends, and resale considerations.
Showers: Sleek, Space-Saving, and Modern
Today’s walk-in showers offer much more than convenience—they’ve become a symbol of sleek, spa-inspired design. With clean lines, frameless glass, and custom tile finishes, showers now serve as both functional and aesthetic centerpieces.
Pros of Installing a Shower:
Saves Space: Ideal for smaller bathrooms where a tub might overwhelm the layout.
Faster Routines: Showers are efficient and time-saving, making them perfect for busy households.
Design Versatility: From rainfall heads to steam options, showers come with countless customization opportunities.
Accessibility: Step-in and curbless showers make them ideal for aging in place or those with mobility concerns.
Water Efficiency: On average, a 10-minute shower uses less water than filling a bathtub.
Design Options to Consider:
Frameless glass enclosures
Textured tile for anti-slip flooring
Wall niches for built-in storage
Multiple showerheads for a spa feel
Linear or center drains for style and function
We help homeowners craft custom showers using materials like porcelain, marble, ceramic, or glass tile—each contributing to a distinct look and performance profile.
Bathtubs: Comfort, Relaxation, and Resale Value
Bathtubs are timeless. Whether it’s a traditional alcove tub or a sculptural freestanding piece, a tub brings a sense of comfort and luxury into any bathroom. It's not just about looks—it’s about experience.
Benefits of Choosing a Bathtub:
Soaking Experience: Great for relaxing muscles, unwinding, or enjoying a peaceful soak.
Family-Friendly: Essential for families with young children who need a tub for bath time.
Design Focal Point: Freestanding tubs add elegance and visual interest, especially in large master bathrooms.
Resale Potential: Homes without at least one bathtub may be less appealing to certain buyers.
Dual-Purpose Use: A tub-shower combo offers versatility in small spaces.
Tub Styles to Explore:
Alcove Tub: Space-saving and budget-friendly; perfect for guest baths.
Freestanding Tub: Luxurious and visually stunning for master suites.
Drop-in or Undermount: Clean-lined installations that pair well with built-in cabinetry or custom tile.
Whirlpool Tub: For hydrotherapy or muscle relief after long days.
Our team at Anderson Tile & Granite can help you select and install the perfect tub, matched with beautiful tile surrounds and high-performance plumbing.
Tub-to-Shower Conversion: The Best of Both Worlds
If you currently have a traditional tub but find yourself wishing for something more practical, a Tub-To-Shower Conversion might be the solution. It's one of the most requested upgrades we handle—and it offers immediate benefits.
Why Convert:
Maximize Floor Space: A walk-in shower makes the room feel larger and more open.
Easier to Clean: Fewer nooks and edges to scrub compared to a tub.
Modern Appeal: Showers align with today’s aesthetic and lifestyle preferences.
Accessibility Benefits: Curbless showers accommodate wheelchairs or limited mobility.
We handle everything from demolition and waterproofing to tile selection and plumbing, ensuring your conversion is seamless, safe, and stylish.
Design Considerations: Matching Style to Function
The choice between a shower and a tub should also reflect your home’s layout and your long-term goals.
Choose a Shower If:
You rarely take baths.
Your bathroom is small or narrow.
You want to age in place or improve accessibility.
You’re updating a guest bathroom with space constraints.
Choose a Bathtub If:
You enjoy soaking or hydrotherapy.
You’re renovating a family home with small children.
You have enough square footage to accommodate both.
You want to maintain traditional resale value.
At Anderson Tile & Granite, our design experts help you visualize layouts, select materials, and make remodeling decisions that serve you today and tomorrow.
Cost Comparison: What You Can Expect to Spend
Understanding the investment involved in either option is essential to your Bathroom Remodel Decisions. While prices vary based on design, labor, and material choices, here’s a general guide.
Shower Installation Costs:
Standard Walk-In Shower: $6,000 – $10,000
Custom Tile Shower: $10,000 – $15,000+
Luxury Wet Room with Dual Heads: $18,000 – $25,000+
Bathtub Installation Costs:
Standard Alcove Tub: $3,000 – $6,000
Freestanding Soaker Tub: $5,000 – $9,000
Tub/Shower Combo: $6,000 – $10,000
Tub to Shower Conversion:
Basic Conversion: $7,500 – $12,000
Custom Tile Conversion with Glass Enclosure: $12,000 – $18,000+
Our team provides accurate, transparent estimates to ensure your remodel aligns with your expectations and budget.
Resale Perspective: What Buyers Want
From a resale standpoint, the debate around Shower Vs. Tub Remodel remains highly context-dependent. While a luxury shower appeals to modern buyers, most real estate professionals recommend keeping at least one bathtub in the home, especially in family-friendly neighborhoods.
What We Recommend:
In a master bathroom, opt for both if space allows—a freestanding tub and a walk-in shower are a winning combo.
In a guest or hallway bathroom, a tub/shower combo may offer the best of both worlds.
In a compact space, a walk-in shower with smart storage and lighting may be more functional and attractive.
At Anderson Tile and Granite, we design bathrooms that support both your lifestyle and future resale potential.
Our Expert Advice: Combine Style, Comfort, and Practicality
Sometimes, the answer isn’t choosing between a tub or a shower—it’s designing a layout that gives you both. We’ve helped clients transform cramped spaces into spa-inspired bathrooms by creatively rearranging plumbing, optimizing square footage, and choosing multi-functional elements.
And if you’re unsure, we’ll guide you through the process using 3D renderings, material samples, and curated design concepts. Our goal is to create a bathroom that fits your life, not just your floor plan.
Start Your Bathroom Remodel With Confidence
The choice between a shower and a bathtub doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right planning, you can make a decision that reflects your needs, improves your home’s function, and enhances its beauty.
At Anderson Tile & Granite, we specialize in delivering high-quality bathroom remodels, custom-tailored to your goals. Whether you're interested in a luxurious new shower, a classic bathtub installation, or a complete overhaul, we’re here to help.
Get in touch today to start your remodel. Contact Us for a free consultation. Visit our Homepage for more services. Explore our full Bathroom Remodeling Offerings.
Let’s create a space you’ll love to use every day.
