Shower or Bathtub: Making an Informed Decision

A common question among those renovating their bathroom is whether to opt for a bathtub or shower. While the initial focus is often on space constraints, there are other factors that come into play when making the final decision. So, what exactly are these factors? Keep reading to find out!

Bathtub or Shower: Factors to Consider

1) Price of a shower

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As with any renovation project, budget is always a huge concern, especially so when it comes to a bathroom remodelling project. Usually, the price of a bathtub is deemed to be greater than that of a shower. So, how much are we talking about, here? Well, for a shower, prices can vary anywhere from $300 to $4,800, which attests to the wide selection of models and characteristics available. 

Would you prefer to settle for a standard shower stall, or would you rather have a modular, one-piece, or ceramic tile shower? Besides the desired features, keep in mind that the material choice also has a significant impact on the final price point.

What about a bathtub? When purchasing a bathtub, consider that in all likelihood, it’ll cost between $240 (for a basic enamelled steel model) and $6,000 (for a high-end acrylic model). Although the price point is roughly similar to that of a shower, note that a top-of-the-line bathtub is more expensive than an equally good shower.

2) Particular needs of various household members

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Most people are happy to just shower, and don't feel compelled to soak in a bath for any length of time. However, there are other considerations beyond the simple pleasures of taking a bath that may come into play. First off, any parent would know that bathing a young child is much simpler in a bath than in a shower, which is also true when it comes to washing a pet.

Naturally, we can't afford to overlook the specific needs of persons with impaired mobility, especially that of older generations. The majority of this demographic can find it difficult to stand for extended periods of time, which explains why an adapted bathtub may be the best option if you plan on hosting an older family member at your home in the near future.

However, stepping into a bathtub can be quite a gamble. Therefore, it's important to adapt the bathtub accordingly, meaning opting for a model with a lateral walk-in, for example. Is the space too restricted to install a bathtub? In this case, all's not lost! Provided the shower is big enough, you can always install a shower seat to allow anyone with insufficient energy to bathe while comfortably seated.

Looking for insight into the various shower models available on the market? Check out this article. (French only)

3) Added value

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Whether you decide to sell your property now or in a few years, when it comes time to pack up and leave, surely you’ll want a return on the money invested in your bathroom renovation project. To this end, installing a bathtub is a much wiser choice, assuming, of course, that your budget and bathroom dimensions allow for it.

4) What about green living?

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While it may not be the very first thing you think about when choosing whether to install a shower or a bathtub, it's nevertheless an important factor. Interestingly enough, the majority of a household's water consumption occurs in the bathroom (approximately 75%).

Thus, looking for ways to reduce water use in the bathroom will greatly improve your household’s overall water consumption. The question remains: which of these two uses less water, the tub or the shower? On average, a shower uses up to 50 litres of water, while a bathtub uses up to three times that amount, approximately 150 litres.

Additionally, note that water use from a shower can be reduced to 15 litres if you choose to install a low-flow showerhead. Also, for a bathtub, keep in mind that since it requires a large amount of water to fill up, you may have to purchase a bigger water heater to cope with the demand at hand.

Looking for ideas on the different shower sizes available to help you make up your mind? Check out our article: Showers: How to Choose the Right Size.