Remodeling a bathroom is one of the most popular home improvement projects owners consider, and it’s easy to understand why. Bathrooms are often too small, and many are just plain inconvenient to use. Many property owners no longer like their home’s tub and consider replacing that tub and shower combination with a walk-in shower. However, home improvement experts and real estate professionals encourage homeowners to consider a number of issues before removing that tub.
How Much Space is Available?
When working with clients, Bathroom Remodelers review the existing spaces to determine what options homeowners should consider. In smaller spaces, tub and shower combinations make sense, but there are other factors to consider. If a bathroom has the only tub in the home, most experts recommend keeping the tub, as not having a tub often creates issues when selling a home. On the other hand, if there are multiple bathrooms with tubs, moving to a walk-in shower is certainly an option to look at.
If the existing bathroom is large or space can be taken from an adjacent room, it’s quite possible to have both a soaking tub and a shower. One of the current trends is wet rooms, where both a shower and tub share the same large, waterproof space. It pays to discuss your goals with a bathroom remodeling expert to see which options would best suit your needs.
Who Is Using the Room?
If you’re the type of person who enjoys a long, hot bath, removing the tub and replacing it with a walk-in shower may not be the best choice. While young, busy individuals may prefer a shower and don’t care about having a tub, others don’t share that sentiment. Make sure everyone is in agreement when making a bathroom remodeling decision.
If you’re older and planning to age in place, a walk-in shower or a walk-in comfort tub may be a better option. Again, if there are other bathrooms in the home, these types of decisions are easier to make. However, if there is only one full bath, take the time to consider not only your current needs but also what the future may hold.
What is Your Budget?
Replacing one tub with a similar one is not overly expensive, but completely altering a bathroom can become costly. When walls are moved, plumbing and electrical lines rerouted, or additional space is added to the home, the total cost of a project can get out of hand quickly. Homeowners are always encouraged to explore all the options with a contractor before making any important decisions.
Many times, a bathroom remodeling professional will provide ideas for ways to achieve your goals without going over the established budget. Careful measurements and planning make it possible to know exactly what will work for your bathroom remodeling project. During the planning stages, it also makes sense to contact plumbers or electricians to determine how many changes would be necessary for the project.
The Choice is Yours
Even though there are numerous factors to discuss when deciding to replace a bathtub with a walk-in shower, the ultimate decision is yours to make. However, take the time to get advice from the experts who know what it takes to see that a bathroom remodeling project is completed on schedule and meets your goals.