Walk-in Tub vs Standing Shower: How to Choose the Right One for Your Bathroom

Over 40% of homeowners who remodeled their bathrooms recently said that they wanted to use the space for rest and relaxation. If you’re hoping to create a spa-like space in your own home, start by thinking about your bathing area. More specifically, you’ll want to consider the advantages of a walk-in tub vs a standing shower. 

Need help deciding whether a walk-in tub or shower makes more sense for your home? Continue reading to learn more about what to consider and the advantages of both options so you can make the best decision for your family’s needs. 

Important Questions to Consider

First things first, there are a few questions you should consider when making your decision:

What Is the Current Layout of My Bathroom?

It’s a good idea to start by thinking about how much you want to change about your current bathroom. For example, if you already have a shower in your bathroom and you don’t want to do a full-scale renovation, replacing it with a new standing shower is a great option. To replace an existing shower with a walk-in tub that has a larger footprint will be a bigger endeavor. 

Who Will Use the Bathroom the Most?

Next, think about how your updated bathroom will be used and by who. If you’re renovating your bathroom because you’re entering your retirement years and you want to age in place, a walk-in tub could give you a safe bathing option if you start to experience mobility restrictions. If you plan to renovate a teenager’s bathroom, on the other hand, you might opt for a standing shower instead. 

Walk-in Tub vs Standing Shower

Now that you’ve given thought to some of the logistics behind your renovation, you can take a closer look at the advantages of each option. 

Advantages of a Walk-in Tub

benefits of a walk-in tub

Unlike a traditional bathtub, a walk-in tub is much deeper and comes with a built-in door and seat to make bathing easier than ever. Many of the homeowners we work with opt for a walk-in tub because it’s a safe and accessible option, particularly for those with mobility restrictions. 

With a walk-in tub, you won’t have to worry about tripping and falling when stepping over a high threshold and you can add extra safety measures like handrails and non-slip flooring for extra protection. 

Aside from the safety features, a walk-in tub also offers a truly luxurious experience since it allows you to fully immerse in the warm water. Many walk-in tub models also come with heated seat options and hydrotherapy jets to help soothe aching muscles after a long day. 

Advantages of a Standing Shower

bathroom remodel upgrades

A modern standing shower is another popular option with our customers. Because they are usually smaller than a tub, a standing shower is perfect for smaller bathrooms, because it can free up some square footage. Standing showers are often very easy to clean too, especially if you choose an option with a detachable shower head. 

Additionally, standing showers are available in a variety of different styles and colors, so you can create a space that fits your desired aesthetic with ease. And, they also have available safety features like built-in seating and grab bars, so you can feel comfortable while you bathe.

Perhaps best of all, standing showers are great for increasing your home value, because they appeal to buyers looking for a Pinterest-worthy bathroom. 

Let Express Bath Transform Your Space

When it comes to a walk-in tub vs standing shower, the truth is that there is no wrong answer. It’s all about what works best for your family and your needs. We hope that after reading this blog post, you have a little more clarity on which option is right for you. 

When you’re ready to move forward with your bathroom remodel, the Express Bath team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our walk-in tubs and showers and to get your renovation project on the books!

5 Factors to Consider When Hiring a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor

Renovating your home has a reputation for being a stressful experience. However, who you hire for the job can often mean the difference between a stressful project and an easy one. So, how do you go about choosing the right bathroom remodeling contractor?

We’re here to help make your decision an easier one. Keep reading to learn about the most important factors to consider when choosing a bathroom renovation company so you can get through the project with ease. 

1. Services

First things first, you need to make sure the company hire specializes in the types of services you need. For example, if you have your heart set on installing a new Jacuzzi® shower in your bathroom, you need to find a contractor that sells and installs Jacuzzi® products. 

Or, maybe you want to make your bathroom safer as you get older? In that case, installing a walk-in tub is a great option. However, you need to look for a remodeling contractor with experience installing aging-in-place features to ensure your new bathroom can fit your needs. 

Here at Express Bath, we specialize in bathtub and shower replacements, Jacuzzi® products, walk-in tubs, and more to help you design the bathroom of your dreams. 

2. Previous Work

Before you decide which bathroom remodeling contractor to hire, you should look at examples of their previous work to get a better sense of what you can expect. At Express Bath, we’re proud of the work we’ve done for our customers and we love to show it off. 

We recommend taking a look at our before-and-after transformations, which show real examples of the projects we’ve completed for homeowners just like you. If you like what you see, be sure to save some of the photos as inspiration for your project that you can show us during your initial consultation. 

3. References and Reviews

The easiest way to learn what to expect when you hire a remodeling company is to read through reviews from previous customers. This gives you an unbiased look into how a company operates, straight from the mouths of the people who know best. 

At Express Bath, we love to let our customers do the talking for us and encourage you to read through our reviews to get a better sense of who we are as a company. 

4. Material Choices

When you’re planning a renovation project, it’s important to choose high-quality materials that are designed to last. So, you want to hire a contractor that believes in using the best possible materials. 

The reason we install acrylic showers and bathtubs is that the acrylic we use is durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean. Unlike other materials, this acrylic will never crack, fade, or peel, so it looks great even years after installation. It’s also easy to clean, so you can spend more time enjoying your new bathroom and less time scrubbing it. 

5. Pricing

Finally, when looking for a bathroom remodeling contractor, be sure to choose a company that offers fair, transparent pricing. When a contractor quotes you an unusually low price, it could be a sign that they are cutting corners, which will ultimately lead to higher costs down the line. Similarly, if a contractor gives you a very high quote, this could be a sign that they’re trying to take advantage of you. 

Instead, look for a contractor like Express Bath that offers competitive pricing. Our team believes that everyone should be able to afford a new bathroom, which is why we offer special offers that can help you get the bathroom of your dreams at a price that fits your budget. 

Trust Express Bath as Your Bathroom Remodeling Contractor

After reading this guide, you know what to consider when choosing a bathroom remodeling contractor. We hope you’ll agree that the Express Bath team is the right choice for your project! We use only the best materials, have a great reputation with our customers, and offer fair pricing, no matter what. 

When you’re ready to start planning your bathroom remodel, don’t hesitate to contact our team to request a free quote.

Bathroom Remodeling Projects That Can Increase Your Home’s Value

Here in Alabama, a mid-range bathroom remodeling project has an average return on investment of nearly 74%, making it a great way to increase your home’s value. While a general remodel is great, there are a few specific upgrades you can do within your bathroom to really maximize your investment. 

Keep reading to learn which bathroom remodeling projects have the biggest impact on your home’s value. 

Bathtubs and Showers

By far, the highest-value upgrade you can do in your bathroom is replacing your bathtub and/or shower. Updated bathing areas appeal to more potential buyers and can fetch you more money should you decide to sell your home. 

For the best possible value, make sure you have at least one bathtub in your home, which is an important feature for potential buyers with young children. In your other bathrooms, consider installing a chic and luxurious shower in a neutral color that won’t look dated in a few years. 

If you live in an area that’s popular with retirees, you might consider adding aging-in-place features like a walk-in tub. Not only will you get to enjoy it for yourself, but if you decide to sell your home, it will appeal to people looking for their forever home.

And, don’t forget to add some customizations to your tubs and showers by opting for built-in shelving, seats, dual showerheads, etc. to make your bathing area more functional.  

bathroom remodel upgrades

Vanity Area

Take a closer look at your vanity area. Is the countertop dull, faded, cracked, or chipped? If so, replacing it with high-quality quartz is an easy way to boost your home’s value. Choosing a material that is durable and easy to keep clean is key. Again, be sure to choose a timeless, neutral color instead of something that may not appeal to potential buyers. 

You also might want to consider replacing your fixtures, especially if they look dated. Installing a new faucet is fairly inexpensive and easy to do yourself, but it can have a big impact. 

If your bathroom has a standing sink instead of a full vanity area, consider replacing it with a larger model. Choosing an option with built-in cabinetry will give your bathroom more storage space, increasing your home value even more. 

Lighting

Another easy and low-cost update that makes a big impact is to replace the lighting in your bathroom. If you still have the original over-mirror lighting, for example, you might replace it with a more modern fixture. 

Or, you can get creative! Consider installing small sconce lighting on either side of your mirror for a unique lighting setup. To give your bathroom a more luxurious feel, you can even install a lighted mirror that looks and feels high-end. 

The options are nearly limitless, but good lighting will always boost your home’s value. 

bathroom remodel upgrade costs

Schedule Your High-Value Bathroom Remodeling Project Today

After reading about the different bathroom remodeling projects that can have the most impact on your home’s value, it’s time to start thinking about your own home. Whether you want to install a new tub or shower, add more safety features to your bathroom, or anything in between, the Express Bath team is up to the task. 

Contact us today to tell us more about your project ideas and to learn how we can bring them to life. 

The Benefits of a Walk-In Tub

Each year, around 3 million seniors end up in the emergency room for treatment after falling. For many of these seniors, the bathroom is where these dangerous falls occur. One way to make bathrooms safer is by installing a walk-in tub. Interested to learn more about the benefits of a walk-in tub? You’ve come to the right place. 

Keep reading to learn more about why a walk-in tub could be the perfect addition to your bathroom. 

They’re Specifically Designed With Safety in Mind

As we mentioned above, walk-in tubs are a safer bathing option, particularly for seniors. But what makes them so safe? Well, they come with a convenient door, so you can easily climb inside without having to step over a dangerous threshold. 

They also have textured seats and floors, so you won’t have to worry about slipping when standing or sitting down. They also have other safety features like grab bars and detachable spray spouts, making bathing much easier for those with limited mobility. 

A Walk-in Tub Can Help You Maintain Your Independence walk-in tub low threshold

As you get older, it’s only natural to start thinking about your plans for the future. Many of us hope to age in place, staying in our own homes even as our mobility decreases. Walk-in tubs can help you maintain your independence, making it easier for you to bathe yourself without assistance. 

If you have trouble sitting upright for long periods of time, for example, you might enjoy that a walk-in tub allows you to recline in the water, helping you stay comfortable while you bathe. 

They Offer Hydrotherapy Benefits

While walk-in tubs prioritize safety, they’re also luxurious. You’ll love the water jets that help soothe sore muscles and reduce chronic pain. Beyond that, the warm jets can also increase blood flow, aiding in circulation issues. 

And, soaking in a warm tub can also benefit your mental health. By taking time out of your day to unwind in a soothing walk-in tub, you might find yourself feeling less stressed and more at ease. 

It Typically Fits in Your Existing Space

Many homeowners are concerned that they don’t have the space for a walk-in tub. However, the truth is that most walk-in bathtubs can fit within the space of your traditional bathtub, so you won’t have to completely renovate your space. 

Some walk-in tubs even take up less space than traditional bathtubs, allowing you to add in extra features like shelving and storage. 

They May Increase Your Home Value

Finally, if you live in an area that’s popular with those who are nearing or in retirement, adding a walk-in tub to your home could increase your home’s value. If someone with mobility issues is comparing your home with a walk-in tub to a similar home without one, your home will likely be more attractive to them. 

If you’re planning to sell your home in the next few years, keep that in mind!

Enjoy the Benefits of a Walk-In Tub for Yourself

Now that you know more about the many benefits of a walk-in tub, you can decide whether it makes sense to add one to your home. If you need help making your decision, the Express Bath team is here for you.

Contact us today to talk to us about your bathroom remodeling ideas and to learn more about how our team can bring them to life.