To Tub or Not to Tub? The Great Bathroom Debate

 To Tub or Not to Tub? The Great Bathroom Debate

I have posed this question on social media in the past and it was truly a heated debate.  People are passionate about their tubs - or lack there of!  It’s a question as old as indoor plumbing itself: should you have a tub in your primary bathroom? This bubbly debate has soaked many a homeowner in dilemma. As we dive into the frothy waters of bathroom renovations, let’s splash around some ideas about why this might be a good—or a dripping wet—idea.

**The Case for the Tub:** There’s nothing quite like a long soak in a tub after a taxing day. Tubs are not just bathroom fixtures; they are mini retreats. Imagine easing into warm, sudsy water, perhaps with a glass of wine or a good book (just don’t drop it!). For families with young kids, a tub is almost non-negotiable—good luck convincing a toddler that a quick shower is as fun as a bubble bath with their armada of rubber ducks.

**The Splash-Free Argument:** On the flip side, many modern homeowners argue that tubs are real estate dinosaurs. They take up precious square footage, aren't environmentally friendly (think of all that water!), and let’s be honest—how often are you actually taking these mythical leisurely baths? Showers are quick, efficient, and can be just as luxurious with the right showerhead and a bit of mood lighting.

**Marketability:** Here’s where it gets slippery. Homes with at least one bathtub tend to have a better resale value. Removing all tubs could make your home a tougher sell. However, if your primary bathroom is your only bathroom, keeping the tub might be a wise choice.

**The Compromise:** If space and budget allow, why not both? A shower-tub combo offers the best of both worlds in a secondary bathroom and you can save the party shower for the primary bathroom. You can maintain the functionality of a shower while keeping the option for an occasional soak, ensuring that your bathroom remains a selling point without compromising on daily convenience.

**In Conclusion:** Whether you choose to install or remove a tub, make sure it reflects your lifestyle, if resale will be important to you and what your home needs. After all, whether it’s tubs or showers, we’re all just looking for a little peace and cleanliness at the end of the day. Or, you could go rogue and opt for a hot tub in the backyard—now that’s a splashy idea!