Walk-In Shower vs. Tub: Which Adds More Value in Florida?

The Tub vs. Shower Debate

It’s one of the most common questions we get: “Should we keep the bathtub or replace it with a walk-in shower?” The answer depends on your bathroom count, lifestyle, and plans for the home.

The Case for Walk-In Showers

Why Homeowners Love Them

• More usable space — a curbless or low-threshold shower opens up the bathroom
• Easier to clean — no tub ledge to scrub, fewer grout lines with large-format tile
• Accessibility — aging-in-place friendly without looking institutional
• Luxury feel — frameless glass, rain showerheads, and body jets create a spa experience
• Daily use — most adults shower, few take baths regularly

Cost

• Basic walk-in shower: $5,000 – $10,000
• Custom tile shower with frameless glass: $8,000 – $18,000
• Luxury wet room: $15,000 – $25,000+

The Case for Keeping a Tub

Why It Still Matters

• Families with young kids — bathing small children in a shower is impractical
• Resale value rule of thumb — most real estate agents recommend keeping at least one tub in a home with 2+ bathrooms
• Relaxation — some homeowners genuinely use and love their tub
• Buyer expectations — some buyers will pass on a home with zero tubs

Cost

• Standard alcove tub replacement: $2,000 – $5,000
• Freestanding soaking tub: $3,000 – $8,000 (plus plumbing relocation)
• Drop-in tub with deck: $5,000 – $12,000

The Data on Resale Value in South Florida

Here’s what Broward County real estate data tells us:

• Homes with zero bathtubs sell for 2-4% less than comparable homes with at least one tub
• A luxury walk-in shower in the master is expected by most buyers in the $400K+ range
• The ideal setup for resale: walk-in shower in the master bath, tub in a secondary bathroom

Our Recommendation by Scenario

One-Bathroom Home

Keep the tub — or install a tub/shower combo. Removing the only tub hurts resale value.

Two-Bathroom Home

Shower in the master, tub in the second bath. This gives you the luxury daily experience while preserving resale appeal.

Three+ Bathroom Home

Go all-out on the master shower. With a tub elsewhere in the house, you have full design freedom. Consider a freestanding tub in the master only if you’ll actually use it.

Aging in Place

Walk-in shower, no question. A curbless shower with a bench, grab bars, and handheld showerhead is safer and more practical. A tub becomes a liability as mobility decreases.

Popular Walk-In Shower Features in Fort Lauderdale

• Curbless entry — seamless transition from bathroom floor
• Linear drain — sleek, modern, allows large-format floor tile
• Built-in niche — recessed shelving for shampoo and soap
• Frameless glass — makes the bathroom feel twice as large
• Dual showerheads — rain head plus handheld
• Bench seating — practical and luxurious

Let’s Design Your Perfect Bathroom

Whether it’s a walk-in shower, freestanding tub, or both — we’ll help you make the right call for your home and lifestyle.

Schedule your free bathroom consultation today.