Separate Shower and Tub Enclosures vs. Tub-in-Shower Combos
Upgrading your bathtub or shower with a brand-new surround is the perfect way to remodel your bathroom without any major structural changes. There’s no need for plumbing work or demolition, and this bathroom remodel project can be very affordable.
However, you’ll need to decide whether you want combined or individual enclosures. This is an important decision, so we are here to help you!
The Pros and Cons of Individual Shower and Tub Enclosures
There are numerous benefits to keeping tubs and showers separate. From adding value to your home to an air of luxury, understanding the advantages of choosing individual shower and tub enclosures will help you create the best master bathroom.
Individual Enclosures Give You Better Space Distribution
One benefit is that separate enclosures can be spread across multiple bathrooms, dependent on preference. For example, parents who prefer showers to baths might opt for a shower enclosure in the master bath and a tub enclosure in the kids’ bathroom.
Individual Enclosures Are Straightforward Solutions
An individual enclosure can be the right option for homeowners who prefer just to shower or take a bath. They give you what you want and need without extra expenses. Furthermore, they are easier to install than tub and shower combos.
Individual Enclosures Add Value to Your Home
According to real estate and architecture professionals, separate enclosures can convey an air of luxury. This enhanced luxury in your bathroom makes your home more desirable to potential buyers.
Cons of Individual Enclosures
There are, of course, some challenges you should keep in mind when considering separate enclosures. For instance, installing two separate surrounds in one bathroom requires more space.
You’ll also need to clean and maintain each surround separately rather than being able to clean both the tub and shower at the same time. Open tub enclosures are also more susceptible to splashing outside of the tub, especially if you have young children.
Is a Tub-and-Shower Better?
For some homeowners, acrylic bath and shower combo enclosures are an ideal alternative that can bring many benefits. They are slightly more expensive than individual models but can be excellent additions to homes with limited space.
Tub and Shower Combos Save Space
Combining the two gives you the option of taking baths or showers in a single bathroom. A single combined enclosure is also a space saver, as it has a smaller footprint than placing separate enclosures side-by-side.
Tub and Shower Combos Are More Efficient
Another benefit of a combination surround is that it allows for simultaneous use of both shower and bathtub features—like rinsing your hair in the bath with a detachable shower head. Plus, the barrier of the shower curtain or shower door prevents hot water from splashing out of the tub and creating water damage.
Drawbacks of Tub and Shower Enclosures
Tub and shower combos pose their own challenges. Because combined enclosures are usually larger than individual enclosures, there may be a greater initial investment. If the tub is occupied and the only one in the house, you may be left waiting for people to finish their baths before you can access the shower.
Accessibility can also be a problem for those with limited mobility, as most combos don’t provide easy access for everyone. The only way to fix this situation is to install a shower stall and tub combo designed with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.
Find the High-Quality Acrylic Tub and Shower Enclosures That Work for You
We would like to be able to give you a clear and definitive answer to the question of which is better. However, the truth is that the best type of enclosure is the one that best fits your needs and preferences. Still trying to figure out which kind of enclosure that is? Call (888) 228-4925 and let American Bath Enterprises, Inc. experts help you make an informed decision.