Do You Really Need a Tub in a Primary Bathroom?

So, you’re ready to update your primary bathroom, but there’s one decision holding you back: the tub. Should it stay or should it go? Many homeowners struggle with whether to remove the tub, upgrade it, or swap it for a walk-in shower during a master bathroom remodel. The answer is not always straightforward, but there are a few key factors that can help guide your decision. Before you start contacting bathroom remodelers near you, here are some questions to consider when deciding if a tub still belongs in your space.

Do I Want a Bathtub in the Bathroom?

One of the most important questions to ask yourself is simple: Do you actually want a bathtub in your primary bathroom?

If the answer is yes, then keep the tub. If the answer is no, it might be time to remove it and make room for a walk-in shower.

But if you are somewhere in between, you are not alone. Many homeowners feel indifferent. You might enjoy the occasional bath but feel satisfied with just a shower most of the time. Or you might be trying to upgrade an outdated tub-shower combination but feel unsure which way to go. No matter where you stand, there are other key factors to consider when deciding if a tub still makes sense in your space.

Does a Bathtub Fit?

The size of your bathroom will naturally help dictate what is possible. If you have a large bathroom, you may have the luxury of including both a freestanding tub and a walk-in shower. In smaller bathrooms, it might make more sense to skip the tub and focus on a spacious, luxurious shower that maximizes the available space.

Do Bathtubs in Columbus, Ohio Affect Property Value?

Whenever you make changes to your bathroom, consider how it might impact your home’s resale value down the road. Even if you are not planning to sell soon, it is smart to think about what future buyers might want.

The influence of a tub on property value depends on your home’s location, size, and the audience it attracts.

Family-Friendly Homes

If your home is ideal for families (think multiple bedrooms, good school district, parks nearby), it is important to have at least one bathtub in the house. Even if it is in the kids’ bathroom, a tub is often considered a must. Skipping it can limit your pool of potential buyers.

Homes in Retirement Communities

If your home is in a retirement community or is more likely to appeal to older adults, a bathtub could work against you. A tub-to-shower conversion in Columbus, Ohio, with added accessibility features like in-shower seating, lets people in this demographic age in place safely and comfortably. 

Luxury Properties

Luxury homes often come with high expectations. In high-end properties, it is often expected to have both a spacious, walk-in shower with premium fixtures and a freestanding soaking tub that serves as a focal point of the bathroom. Removing the tub entirely in a luxury home could make the space feel incomplete or even hurt resale value.

Young Professional Markets

Homes located in trendy, urban areas that attract young professionals may not need a bathtub at all. This demographic often prefers sleek, modern showers and high-end fixtures over traditional bathtubs.

Consult A Professional

Still on the fence about keeping the tub? The good news is you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our Design Consultants can help you weigh your options, explore creative layouts, and find the right balance between style, function, and future value. Schedule a consultation today at Simple Bath + Kitchen and let’s make your primary bathroom work for you.