Is It Time to Ditch the Tub and Shower Combo?

As a long-time remodeler, I've seen almost every way you can upgrade a bathroom and give it an entirely new feel. Although I don't pick favorites, I have to admit I have a soft spot for a particular bathroom upgrade: replacing the generic tub-and-shower combo.

Homebuilders often install acrylic tub showers because they're affordable and quick to install. However, they have plenty of drawbacks for homeowners, especially those who want a luxury feel for their homes.

In this post, I'll explain the ins and outs of tub showers and go over the most impactful alternatives that you can choose from when remodeling a bathroom.

What Is a Tub and Shower Combo?

At the most basic level, a tub-shower combo is exactly what the name says it is. It's a compact unit with a tub as the base, a showerhead up top, and matching walls that form a surround. The surround typically provides three walls, and then the homeowner puts up a curtain on the open side.

These products are made with non-porous and lightweight materials like acrylic, fiberglass, or composite. They may be sold as one piece or with three to four pieces that attach together during installation.

A tub-shower has no grout lines, which means a smooth, shiny surface. That said, some models today are made to mimic the look of subway tile (albeit poorly, in my professional opinion).

Why Do Homebuilders Like to Install Tub and Shower Combos?

Homebuilders like tub showers because they are a low-cost and time-efficient way to build out a bathroom that's functional and visually neutral. Easy handling and simple installation mean a quicker construction schedule. Some people also like these products because they are simple to clean.

What Are the Downsides to a Tub-Shower Combo?

Although a tub shower works as a place to wash up, it leaves a lot to be desired. Some of the main drawbacks include:

• Low durability: Although there is some variation based on the actual materials used, most of these products scratch easily. The tub or walls may also develop discoloration over time.

• Limited visual appeal: I won't pull any punches here; tub showers typically look cheap because they are cheap. They are generic, offering virtually no color, texture, personality, or visual interest to your bathroom.

• Noisy: Standard tub showers often create louder reverberations from water hitting the walls or from footsteps in the tub. This can be bothersome if the bathroom is right next to or above a bedroom.

• Potential mold around the joints: If not properly installed, mold can build up in or behind the joints that connect the different parts of the tub shower. Unfortunately, this mold may not be immediately visible, causing it to build up over time.

• Mobility challenges: Having to step into a tub is an issue for many people with limited mobility. Acrylic and fiberglass materials can also be slippery, making it harder to keep your footing in the shower.

I don't want to imply that there's absolutely no place for tub showers. Are they a cost-effective way to build a house? Yes. Can they fit the bill for a rarely used bathroom or a kids' bathroom? Sure. But do they meet the visual and performance standards that I value in a custom or high-end home? Definitely not.

What Are the Alternatives to a Tub-Shower Combo?

In most remodels, the best alternative to a tub shower is a walk-in shower either with or without a freestanding bathtub.

In the shower, tile walls deliver excellent performance while allowing you to select a style that you love. For the floor, you can put in a tile or opt for a waterproof shower pan.

Tiling the walls can transform your bathroom because there's such a wide selection of tile patterns, colors, and sizes. No matter whether you're into classic elegance or a modern look, there's a high-quality tile that fits the bill. And modern grout is far easier to clean and maintain than older products.

Putting in tile instead of pre-formed acrylic also gives you more flexibility to customize your shower. For example, you can add dual showerheads at your ideal spacing and height. The same goes for niches and shelves. Having a customized, integrated storage space ensures that your bath essentials fit in a handy spot that also looks great.

If having a tub is important to you, you can opt for a high-quality standalone bathtub made of enameled cast iron. During a remodel, we can give the tub a custom tile surround to create an elegant, spa-like experience.

Expanding your design choices with tile also lets you coordinate other standout features in your bathroom, including light fixtures, your vanity, mirrors, and faucet hardware.

FAQ: Bathroom Remodels and Shower and Tub Combos

Should you replace all the tubs in your home with standalone showers?

While a standalone shower works great in most bathrooms, it's usually a good idea to keep at least one tub somewhere in your home. Not only can a tub be useful (and even luxurious if you pick the right one), but having a tub is often a priority for home buyers, especially those with kids. As a result, having at least one tub can help bolster your home's value if and when you decide to sell.

Can you use the existing space where you pulled out the tub-shower combo for a new custom bath?

In a remodel, you can probably just put a custom shower into the existing space occupied by a tub shower. However, it's worth considering the possibility of redesigning the layout. For many bathrooms, modifying the floor plan can enhance both functionality and visual appeal. A layout change may also enable you to install a separate shower space and a freestanding tub.

Should you replace the tub-shower combo with a new one?

Swapping out your old tub shower for a new one is certainly an option when remodeling. But if you want a more durable and stylish alternative, a custom tile shower with or without a separate bathtub is the way to go.

In my experience, if a project is worth doing, it's worth investing in a higher-quality result. But I recognize that everyone's circumstances are different. Putting in a new tub shower may be the most logical option if you're operating on a tight budget or remodeling a space where design and durability are less important, such as a kids' bathroom or a little-used guest bath.

A Design-Build Solution for Your Bathroom Remodel

If you're thinking about a bathroom remodel, it's important to work with the right partner who has a proven and dependable process. At Compelling Homes, we follow the design-build model, which means that we handle the entire renovation from start to finish.

Our talented designers work closely with you to develop the perfect plan that suits your space and your preferences. Then our production team carries out the remodel, and all the while, you have a dedicated project manager to guide you through each step of the schedule.

We've been serving the Des Moines area for over 15 years and would love to learn what you envision for an upgraded bathroom. Give us a call, send us an email, or check out our portfolio of bathroom projects.