We’re all trying to save money. Yet we also need work completed on our house. Sometimes, in the process of determining the best way to remodel our home, we have to consider the factors that might affect things like pricing – not just function.
For example, if you’re remodeling a bathroom – particularly a smaller bathroom – you’re going to need to choose between a shower-only or a shower and a bathtub combination. There is a functionality component to this decision, of course, but if you are remodeling on a budget you may also want to consider the price differences between the two.
You would think that a shower would, by default, be the less expensive option because it doesn’t require a bath. But that’s not always true.
The Prices of Bathtubs vs Showers
Showers use less plumbing and overall technology, certainly. If you already had a shower in place without a bathtub, then replacing the shower may be cheaper depending on what you’re installing. If you need to expand a wall, then certainly a bathtub of any kind will be more expensive.
Stand-up showers, however, can become more costly depending on the materials and design. A prefabricated shower stall is generally comparable to a tub/shower combo in price. But when homeowners opt for a tiled stand-up shower with custom glass doors, the costs can increase significantly. This is largely due to labor, as tile work and glass installation require more time and precision.
A bathtub/shower combination, on the other hand, can be sold for the same or even a cheaper price – at least the premade ones. Often they’re sold together and for an inexpensive price, but you are limited in design.
Of course, like all things, this is case by case. On paper, these often appear less expensive at first because they use standard-sized tubs that are mass-produced, widely available, and relatively simple to install. Prefabricated tub/shower kits can be purchased for a reasonable price and reduce labor time, which lowers overall project costs.
But if you need something custom and made in a higher quality, costs can be more expensive there as well.
Factors That Affect Cost Differences
There are a variety of details that can shift the price in either direction.
- Materials – Acrylic or fiberglass tubs are less costly, while stone resin or cast iron raise expenses. For showers, tile, stone, or frameless glass are more expensive than prefabricated units, and the costs can very considerably depending on the materials.
- Plumbing Adjustments – Moving drains, faucets, or water lines can add to the total cost for both options, so it also depends on what you currently have in place and if you plan to keep those items in place.
- Space Constraints – Smaller bathrooms sometimes require customized solutions, such as altering the layout or trimming materials, which may increase costs. Or they could already be fitted for standard sizing, which decreases costs and allows for these prefabricated units.
- Installation Complexity – Bathtubs are heavier and may require reinforcement, while showers with tiling require more specialized labor.
These details mean that the “less expensive” choice is not always straightforward. A simple tub/shower combo often saves money, but a basic prefabricated shower may cost about the same or even less. The deciding factor usually comes down to how customized or upgraded the design is.
Making the Right Choice for Your Budget
If your priority is cost savings, a tub/shower combination or a prefabricated shower are the most budget-friendly options. Once you begin adding higher-end finishes, such as custom tile or frameless glass, a stand-up shower can easily surpass the cost of a standard tub.
Homeowners that want both affordability and functionality often lean toward the tub/shower combo, while those prioritizing style or accessibility may accept the higher costs of a walk-in shower.
However, all of this is entirely based on your current bathroom, your vision, and so much more. Let’s start a conversation. If you’re looking for a bathroom remodel in New York City, especially in Staten Island where our team is based, reach out to Christian Construction today.
