While some people prefer bathtubs, others adore luxury showers. A walk-in shower may give the illusion that the bathroom is more extensive. In addition, it can make your bathroom look stylish and contemporary.
There are a variety of things homeowners should think about when deciding whether to keep a bathtub with showers or the possibility of a walk-in shower.
What Is a Walk-In Shower?
A walk-in shower is a shower that gets designed without any step or other barrier separating it from the additional bathroom. Walk-in showers are usually glass-enclosed or tiled and are suitable for bathrooms of all sizes due to their small requirements. Some walk-in showers could include a glass door or curtain to help retain heat or reduce the number of water splashes.
The Advantages of a Walk-In Shower
There are numerous benefits of installing a walk-in shower. Not just for the appearance but also for practicality and other features that can get used to customize your bathroom.
Bye-Bye Curtain
A walk-in shower doesn’t require curtains that are stinky or moldy. It also lets the shower be spacious and bright.
Drainage
You can pick the type of drain that best suits the design and size you’re looking to make. Most walk-in showers have an inclined floor that slopes towards a single drain. Unlike the conventional drain located in the middle of the storm, which requires four-sided slopes, a linear shower drain is simple to install and maintain due to its simplicity. In addition, you can make continuity between tiles as they can go through the floor and into the shower.
Shower Heads
Most shower/bathtub combinations have one spray nozzle on top of the head. A walk-in shower offers more flexibility and also the option of including rain showers and body jets.
The Disadvantages of a Walk-In Shower
Before you tear up the bathtub you have been using to install an outdoor shower, take some time to consider the adverse effects this could bring to your home’s worth or way of life.
Home Value
A walk-in shower could affect the value of your home because bathrooms without tubs are considered three-quarter bathrooms and are not considered complete. Suppose you’re planning to sell your house within the next few years. In that case, it might be worth contacting the local realtor to discuss whether the value of your home will be increased by upgrading your bathroom or diminished due to the bathtub removal.
Lifestyle
If you live in a home with kids or roommates, a walk-in shower signifies nothing to someone else who might get tempted to open the door to the bathroom. With no curtain or door to protect you, the walk-in shower can result in awkward moments or a lack of privacy.
Some parents also find it easier to bathe infants in the shower. However, this individual preference should remain with the homeowner to make the final decision. If there is another full bathroom in the house, then that problem is mitigated.
Design Choices
Suppose you’ve decided to switch from tubs to a walk-in shower. In that case, you need to consider the tiles you want and the color you’d like to incorporate into your remodel. Furniture like benches and shelves for soap or shampoo, along with various shower heads, are just a few choices you’ll need to make to create your ideal shower.
If you’re planning to build a walk-in shower into your bathroom and have questions, contact one of our designers. Ottawa Home Pros is always willing to discuss your ideas and assist you in transforming your bathroom ideas into reality. Call us today at (613) 288-9145 or mail us at info@ottawahomepros.com for your bathroom renovation project.
