Want to reconfigure the setup and functionality of your bathroom? This is your sign to renovate your shower area.
Walk-in showers continue to be one of the top remodeling trends for bathrooms. Before diving into this renovation project, we’ll help you determine if this feature is the best option.
In this article, we’ll share some of the pros and cons of walk-in showers.
Advantages of Walk-in Showers
Versatile
Having a custom-fitted walk-in shower can substantially enhance your bathroom’s visual appeal and value. It’s a versatile addition to your space because it can conveniently fit your bathroom’s layout and style.
If you wish to achieve a minimalist and contemporary bathroom aesthetic, consult an interior designer or invest in a zero-barrier walk-in shower unit. This unit type can blend into the rest of your bathroom because it has no threshold or door.
Easy to Maintain
Maintaining a stand-alone shower or shower with a tub can be quite challenging because of all the corners and crevices that should be thoroughly cleaned.
If you want your bathroom cleaning routine to take less time and effort, install a walk-in shower.
Part of the advantage of a walk-in shower is its flat surface. Since there’s no step or barrier, you don’t have to spend a lot of time scrubbing hard-to-reach areas.
We also recommend installing a nonporous tile or water-resistant flooring option to avoid mold and mildew buildup in the bathroom.
Accessible
If you have elderly or people with mobility issues living in your home, creating an accessible bathroom is a must. Since the unit is doorless and step-free, it can be easily accessed by people using wheelchairs.
Just note that you can still opt for walk-in shower units with barriers and shower doors. These add-ons can help keep the water in the shower area.
Disadvantages of Walk-in Showers
Lack of Privacy
Since most walk-in shower units have no doors or only have glass doors, lack of privacy is one of their apparent disadvantages. This may not be a big concern if you live alone.
However, if you’re sharing a bathroom or have kids, we recommend that you let an architect design a wall or barrier to separate the shower area from the rest of the bathroom.
With the right design and the help of a renovation contractor, you can still achieve the walk-in feature without compromising your privacy.
Chilly Airflow
A typical walk-in shower unit has no enclosure, so the humidity from the shower will easily circulate the space. Even if you’re using a water heater, there will still be a chilly airflow or airstream after you take a bath.
This factor may not be a problem if you have a proper ventilation system in your bathroom. You can also try installing heated floors to avoid this problem.
Requires Professional Installation
One of the main drawbacks of walk-in showers is the price for the installation. You see, compared to a traditional shower, this bathroom feature may require a different drain system, so you have to hire a plumber and contractor.
Moreover, you also have to get the help of an electrician if there are fixtures you need to move. Nonetheless, it’s still worth it in the long run, especially if you’ll consider the functionality upgrade it can offer to your home.
