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Are you considering a bathroom remodel and wondering if you can put a free-standing tub in a shower, walk-in or not? The answer is yes, it is possible.
Combining a tub and shower in one space can be a great way to save space and create a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom.
While it may seem like an unusual combination, a free-standing tub in a shower can provide a luxurious and functional space.
This design option is becoming increasingly popular for bathrooms with a contemporary feel.
It can result in a great focal point for the bathroom, whether it is a corner tub, plinth, or recessed tub. Plus, it can be a great way to add value to your home.
Reasons to Love the Tub-in Shower
Having a tub-in shower is a practical and stylish solution that enhances your bathing experience and improves the functionality of your bathroom.
Some of its advantages include:
1. You can rinse off before and after a shower without going across the bathroom
One of the great things about having a tub-in shower is the convenience it offers.
Instead of having to go back and forth across the bathroom to rinse off before or after your shower, you can simply step into the tub area within the shower enclosure.
This eliminates the need for multiple trips and saves you time and effort.
Whether you want to quickly rinse off before hopping into the shower or clean up after a relaxing bath, everything is within reach in one designated space.
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2. When you get out soaking wet from the tub, you are in a drained area
Have you ever experienced the frustration of stepping out of a tub and finding yourself in a puddle of water? With a tub-in shower, this becomes a thing of the past.
The tub area is designed to be within the walk-in shower, so when you finish your bath, any excess water from the tub will drain directly into the shower area.
This eliminates the mess and potential slipping hazards that can occur when stepping onto a wet floor, providing a safer and more convenient bathing experience.
3. They can create a perception of spaciousness.
A tub-in shower combination can create a sense of spaciousness and openness in your bathroom.
When you incorporate a freestanding tub inside a shower, it eliminates visual interruptions and creates a seamless and continuous design.
Without any obstructions like walls or curtains separating the tub and shower areas, your eyes can roam freely, perceiving the entire space as one cohesive unit.
This uninterrupted sightline gives the impression of a larger and more open area.
Integrating the tub within the shower also allows you to extend the visual boundaries of the shower enclosure.
When you step into the shower, your line of sight extends beyond the shower walls to include the tub area.
Such an expanded view can trick the eye into perceiving a larger space, as it encompasses more than just the immediate shower area.
Furthermore, the sleek and minimalistic design often associated with tub-in showers can contribute to the perception of spaciousness.
Specifically, with a freestanding tub and a simple, open shower design, you create an uncluttered and airy ambiance.
This minimalist approach allows light to penetrate the space more effectively, further enhancing the feeling of openness and spaciousness.
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4. Traffic flow becomes much easier to plan
With a tub-in shower setup, organizing the traffic flow in your bathroom becomes simpler and more efficient. By centralizing the bathing area, you can easily plan the layout of fixtures and fittings around it.
This means you can strategically position items like vanities, toilets, and storage cabinets in a way that optimizes the flow and functionality of the space.
Whether you’re sharing the bathroom with family members or guests, having a well-organized traffic flow ensures a smoother and more comfortable experience for everyone.
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5. Efficient Space Utilization
A freestanding tub inside a shower maximizes the efficient use of space in your bathroom.
With this setup, you can optimize the available square footage by combining two essential elements into one compact area.
This is particularly beneficial for smaller bathrooms or those with limited space, where every square inch counts.
Structural Considerations
When considering installing a freestanding tub inside a shower, there are several structural considerations you should keep in mind to ensure a successful installation.
1. Ensuring Adequate Space
Before installing a freestanding tub inside a shower, you need to ensure that you have enough space.
The tub should be placed in a location that allows for adequate clearance around it, so you can easily get in and out of the tub.
Standard building code recommends a minimum of 30 inches of walking space between bathroom fixtures, so leave adequate room to walk between the new shower and the vanity or commode.
Create a floor plan for your bathroom to help you determine the best location for your tub.
2. Supporting the Weight of the Tub
Freestanding tubs can be quite heavy, especially when filled with water and occupants so you need to ensure that your bathroom floor can support the weight of the tub.
To avoid any structural issues or accidents, ensure that the floor beneath the tub is adequately reinforced.
If you’re not sure whether your bathroom floor is strong enough to support the weight of a freestanding tub, consult with a professional contractor or structural engineer before proceeding with the installation.
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Plumbing Considerations
Then, look into these plumbing considerations also to not only ensure a seamless installation process but also guarantee the functionality and durability of your new bathing oasis.
1. Water Supply and Drainage
Before installation, you need to ensure that your water supply and drainage systems can accommodate a freestanding tub in a shower.
Typically, freestanding tubs require a separate water supply and drainage system, which means you may need to install additional plumbing.
When it comes to water supply, you need to ensure that the water pressure is sufficient to fill the tub in a reasonable amount of time.
If the water pressure is too low, it may take a long time to fill the tub, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.
A professional plumber should help assess your plumbing system, identify any underlying problems, and provide tailored solutions to improve water pressure specifically for filling the tub.
In terms of drainage, you need to ensure that the drain can handle the amount of water that the tub will hold.
Freestanding tubs typically hold more water than regular tubs or basic showers, so you need to ensure that the drain can handle the extra volume.
2. Ventilation
Proper ventilation is essential when installing a freestanding tub in a shower. Without proper ventilation, moisture can really build up in the bathroom, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.
To ensure proper ventilation, you need to install an exhaust fan that is powerful enough to remove moisture from the bathroom.
You may also need to install additional ventilation if your bathroom is particularly large or if the tub is located in a corner or alcove.
In addition to exhaust fans, you can also consider installing windows or skylights to help circulate air and reduce moisture buildup.
Overall, by ensuring that your water supply and drainage systems can handle the tub and that you have proper ventilation, you can enjoy your new bathroom addition without any issues.
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If looking to maximize the utility of the bathroom, this dual-purpose design is particularly advantageous for homeowners who have limited square footage or who prioritize efficient use of their bathroom space.
Check out more tub-in shower ideas for your upcoming bathroom remodel:
A tub in a walk-in shower offers a unique and appealing combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal that homeowners find irresistible.
If the convenience of having both a spacious shower area and a luxurious bathtub in the same space appeals to you, why not incorporate a tub in your shower?
