It’s here – 2020. Wow, time is flying by. If you’re like so many homeowners, you have your list of goals set to accomplish for your home. For many, it’s time to upgrade the bathroom, out with the old and in with the new. Maybe you’ve already explored your options and decided on removing the dingy, dated bathtub and are considering replacing it with a walk-in shower. Well, let me remind you, you’re not alone. The American Institute of Architects’ 2015 Home Trends Survey stated that 65% of homeowners prefer a walk-in shower without a bathtub. That’s up 56% from 2014. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), showers use 10 to 25 gallons of water, compared to a bath that takes up to 70 gallons. Whether a shower provides better hygiene is also up for opinions. Some experts say that it is better hygiene, while others say it doesn’t matter.
What You Can Expect From Your Walk-In Shower
The bathroom is probably one of the smallest rooms in the house, yet, most of us start and end their day in the bathroom. Once you decide to move forward, there’s a lot to consider when you start — everything from the plan to who will construct it. “Will you use a contractor?” or “Will you be an owner-builder?” That’s the first decision to make. If you’re remodeling more than one bathroom or are considering it down the road, make sure you weigh your options carefully. Some real estate agencies suggest keeping at least one tub, even if it’s not in the master bath. If you ever decide you want to sell, it’s a good idea to have at least one bathroom with a tub. When making the final decision, consider what you can expect from your walk-in shower in terms of enjoyment in the years that you plan to spend in your home.
Establishing A Budget Is Paramount
If you’re remodeling a bathroom in an old home, which is usually the case, there are some considerations when installing your walk-in shower. Establishing a budget is paramount for most homeowners. But you should take into account some of the unknowns for your budget.
Considerations When Installing A New Walk-In Shower:
- Will you need to change out the pipes? Copper pipes last 40 to 50 years. While your old tub and showers are being removed, consider repiping that area.
- Is there dry rot or other issues around the tub space? Depending on the age of your bathroom fixtures, even the slightest leak can cause dry rot.
- What type of fixtures will you use? Fixtures vary in cost, and you may want to enhance your experience by upgrading your shower head.
- What kind of tile will you install? Tiles have a huge range in cost anywhere from $1.50 to $20 afoot.
- Select the right shower door. There is a large selection of shower doors. Some sliding doors range from $100 to $300 while others such as textured or tinted can get up there in cost. Also, you’ll want to select one that can open or slide.
The Right Contractor Can Give You Peace Of Mind
A well-established plan should be in order before you start your remodel. Take careful attention to every detail if you choose a contractor to work with. Stay connected. It’s easy to spend other people’s money, so watch the budget. The right contractor can provide you the peace of mind while increasing your confidence in a job well done.