A walk-in shower is a solid choice for a bathroom remodel.
Remodeling a bathroom can feel overwhelming – there are many choices to make from function, style, space, cost, and how those elements come together. Bathrooms are tricky because even small decisions can lead to unexpected expenses or extra work if things go wrong. With careful planning and informed choices, you can tackle the process confidently and achieve lasting results.
Of all the choices you’ll make, whether to have a shower/tub combo or a walk-in shower remains one of the great debates in remodeling. Each option comes with its own set of pros and cons, as well as lots of design possibilities.
Things to think about before you start
- What do you really need from your bathroom?
- How much space do you have to work with?
- What’s your budget?
- Will your space and budget actually cover your needs and wants?
- Which features can you live without if you must make trade-offs?
Taking time to answer these questions will help you start your bathroom remodel with confidence, making sure your choices match your needs and personal style.
Figuring out what you really need
Before choosing colors or styles, it’s advisable to identify the functional requirements of the bathroom space, especially in smaller spaces. Once you identify essential needs, it’ll be easier to make decisions that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical for your lifestyle.
If you or someone in your household requires better accessibility due to age, injury, or disability, a walk-in shower can make daily routines simpler and safer. It’s also a great option if you want to plan and make your home easier to live in for years to come. Of course, walk-in showers aren’t only about accessibility. Many people just prefer showers over baths for their convenience.
If you have kids or think you might need a tub for guests or future family, a shower/tub combo might be practical. Bathtubs make washing little ones much easier, and most homebuyers expect at least one tub in the house. Baths aren’t just practical – they’re relaxing and can even help with stress, sleep, or heart health. Newer tubs are designed with comfort in mind, so you don’t have to put up with cramped, shallow models anymore.
Material and style options
Modular Units: Modular shower or tub/shower inserts have always been popular because they’re easy to install and keep clean. While fiberglass used to be the go-to, you can now choose from acrylic or Vikrell (a super-durable blend of acrylic and fiberglass). These come in various styles, from ones with built-in shelves or benches to accessible designs. You can even find inserts with modern tile patterns for an upgraded look.
Tile Choices: Tile adds creativity without requiring the elimination of a tub. There are countless styles, colors, and patterns, and plenty of ways to pair drop-in, modular, and freestanding tubs with tiled walls. If cleaning grout sounds like a hassle, the good news is that grout has come a long way; stain-resistant and epoxy options make maintenance much easier. If you prefer fewer grout lines, you can install large sheets of stone composite or porcelain. The main drawbacks are that tile is more expensive to install and harder to change later, and some materials, like natural stone, may need more upkeep.
Natural stone and quartz slabs: A newer trend is using large slabs of natural stone or quartz for shower walls or tub surrounds, rather than lots of small tiles. Companies like Cambria offer thin quartz slabs perfect for these spaces, creating a bold, elegant look and making cleaning simple. With the right sealant, natural stone will last for ages. Just keep in mind that these slabs are heavy and tricky to install, so you’ll want a pro to handle them. And they’re usually more expensive. If you love this look but want something simpler, porcelain slabs are a good alternative.
Things to keep in mind
Whether you go for a shower/tub combo or a stand-alone shower, you’ll have plenty of options to make your bathroom feel luxurious, energy-efficient, and valuable for your home. Features like whirlpool tubs, body jets, or rainfall shower heads can turn your bathroom into a spa-like retreat, and water-saving fixtures help keep utility costs down.
Photo: courtesy Tracy Tesmer Design/Remodel
