Can You Put A Shower In A Bathtub?

Picture this: a bathtub that allows you to soak in tranquil bubbles and a shower that gently awakens your senses with cascading droplets. That’s what you get with a shower in a bathtub!

If you don’t want to choose between a soothing soak and a quick shower, let us whisk you away on a journey to transform your ordinary bathtub into a magical oasis where soothing baths and refreshing showers harmonize in perfect melody.

Yes, it is possible to install a shower in a bathtub, and it can be a practical solution for those who have limited bathroom space or prefer the versatility of having both a shower and a bathtub in one unit.

Factors to Consider when Installing a Shower in a Bathtub

Most likely, you already have a bathtub installed and would like to add a shower.

When considering the option of having a shower in a bathtub, there are a few important factors to take into account:

1. Structural Suitability

You want to first assess the existing bathtub structure to ensure it can accommodate a shower installation.

Check if the bathtub has enough space and proper support to accommodate a showerhead, shower curtain, or screen, and any necessary plumbing modifications.

Also, note that adding a shower to a bathtub will mainly require modifications of the wall area surrounding the tub. Some of these modifications will include:

(a) Showerhead Placement: The showerhead needs to be installed on the wall above the bathtub, or mounted on the ceiling.

This requires drilling or mounting a shower arm and ensuring it is securely attached to provide proper water flow and stability during showering.

(b) Shower Enclosure: Depending on your preference and the layout of your bathroom, you may choose to install a shower curtain rod or a shower screen as part of the shower enclosure for more privacy.

A shower curtain or screen will also prevent water from splashing onto the bathroom floor.

While the shower curtain rod can be mounted on the wall, a shower screen may require additional installation work and hardware.

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(c) Plumbing Connections: To accommodate the shower installation, you may need to make plumbing connections or modifications.

This can involve adding a diverter valve to control the water flow between the tub spout and the showerhead.

The existing tub spout might also need to be replaced with a combination tub spout and showerhead unit.

(d) Waterproofing: It’s also essential to ensure proper waterproofing in the shower area to prevent water leakage and damage to the walls.

Your contractor should install a shower liner or waterproofing membrane on the walls surrounding the tub, depending on the local building codes and best practices.

While the modifications primarily focus on the walls and plumbing, it’s worth mentioning that the condition of the bathtub should also be assessed.

Ensure that the bathtub is in good condition, without any cracks, leaks, or damage that could affect its functionality or compromise the shower installation.

2. Shower System Selection

Now, determine the type of shower system you want to install.

• First, look into your personal preferences and bathing habits. Do you prefer a traditional standing shower experience or the flexibility of a handheld showerhead?

• Next, evaluate the existing structure and layout of your bathroom.

Take into account the available space and the configuration of your bathtub to determine whether a wall-mounted showerhead, a handheld showerhead with a slide bar or wall bracket, or a combination showerhead is more suitable. A ceiling-mounted showerhead is also an option.

Be sure to also evaluate the height and positioning of the showerhead to ensure comfortable use for everyone in the household.

• Now, think about the functionality and convenience you desire.

A wall-mounted showerhead provides a fixed position and is ideal for those who prefer a consistent water flow.

On the other hand, a handheld showerhead offers more flexibility, allowing you to direct the water where you need it and providing ease of use for tasks like rinsing the tub or washing pets.

• Lastly, take into account your budget and any specific requirements or restrictions.

Different shower systems have varying costs, and your budget may influence your decision.

Plus, if you have any accessibility needs, consider features like adjustable height, anti-scald protection, or ease of use for individuals with limited mobility.

Overall, common options include a wall-mounted showerhead, a handheld showerhead with a slide bar or wall bracket, or a combination showerhead with both fixed and handheld options.

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3. Water Pressure and Temperature Control

Now, ensure that the water pressure and temperature control are appropriate for both bathing and showering.

After all, you want a comfortable showering experience with adequate water flow and temperature consistency, right?

To do this:

(a) Check the existing water pressure in your home to ensure it is adequate for a shower.

Insufficient water pressure can result in a weak or unsatisfactory showering experience.

If you have concerns about low water pressure, consult with a professional plumber to assess and potentially address any underlying issues.

They can recommend solutions such as installing a pressure-boosting system or adjusting the plumbing system to optimize water flow.

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(b) Assess the capacity of your plumbing system to handle the demand of both the bathtub and the shower.

Adding a shower may require adjustments to the plumbing system, such as installing a diverter valve to control the flow of water between the tub spout and the showerhead.

Again, consult with a plumber to ensure that the plumbing modifications will not negatively impact water pressure or cause any other issues within your plumbing system.

(c) Consider the temperature control mechanisms in place to ensure consistent and comfortable water temperature during showering.

If your bathtub already has a single-handle faucet that controls both hot and cold water, it may be necessary to adjust the temperature limit to prevent scalding or extreme temperature fluctuations.

Have your plumber properly set the temperature limit or install a thermostatic mixing valve to regulate and maintain the desired water temperature automatically.

(d) Evaluate the capacity of your water heater to accommodate the increased demand when using the shower.

Adding a shower to the bathtub may require more hot water, especially if you have a larger bathtub or prefer longer showers.

If necessary, consider upgrading your water heater or exploring options like tankless water heaters that provide continuous hot water on demand.

4. Don’t Forget about Aesthetics and Functionality

Considering the overall aesthetics and functionality of your bathroom, you want to choose a showerhead, fixtures, and accessories that complement the existing style of your bathroom.

You may also think about adding safety features like grab bars or non-slip mats for enhanced safety and convenience.

Now, you can ensure a successful and satisfying shower installation in your bathtub.

Just remember to employ the services of professionals, such as plumbers or bathroom remodeling specialists, to guide you through the process and ensure a safe and efficient installation.

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FAQ 1: Can You Just Shower in a Walk-in Tub Instead of Installing a Shower in a Tub?

Yes, you can certainly shower in a walk-in tub. Walk-in tubs are designed to provide both bathing and showering functionality, making them a popular choice for individuals with mobility issues or those who prefer the convenience of a combined bathing and showering experience.

Walk-in tubs typically come equipped with features such as built-in seats, handrails, and non-slip surfaces to enhance safety and comfort while showering.

They also have strategically placed showerheads and handheld shower wands for easy access and flexibility during showering.

When using a walk-in tub for showering, it’s important to ensure that the tub’s drain and overflow system can handle the increased water flow.

Additionally, some walk-in tubs may require adjustments to the water temperature control and pressure settings to suit your showering preferences.

It’s worth noting that walk-in tubs are specifically designed to accommodate individuals with limited mobility, so they may not offer the same spaciousness and freedom of movement as traditional standalone showers.

However, they provide the added benefit of a watertight door for easy entry and exit, minimizing the risk of slips and falls.

If you’re considering showering in a walk-in tub, let a professional or a walk-in tub manufacturer help ensure that you select the right product for your requirements.

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FAQ 2: Can You Just Go For a Tub-Shower Combo, Instead of Installing a Shower in a Tub?

Yes, you can go for a tub-shower combo instead of installing a shower in a tub.

A tub-shower combo, also known as a bathtub-shower combination, is a bathroom fixture that combines a bathtub and a shower in a single unit. It is a versatile solution that allows you to have both bathing options in one space.

The tub-shower combo typically features a bathtub with a built-in showerhead, allowing you to switch between taking a shower and using the bathtub for bathing or soaking.

The design of a tub-shower combo can vary. It usually consists of a bathtub with a surrounding enclosure or curtain rod for the shower area.

The enclosure may include sliding or hinged doors, a shower curtain, or a combination of both to prevent water from splashing outside the tub.

Tub-shower combos come in different styles, sizes, and materials to suit various bathroom layouts and personal preferences. They can be found in acrylic, fiberglass, porcelain, or other materials, each with its own benefits and aesthetic appeal.

The tub-shower combo offers convenience and flexibility, as it caters to different bathing preferences within a household.

It is especially useful in bathrooms where space is limited, as it eliminates the need for separate shower and bathtub installations, optimizing the use of available space.

The combination of a tub and a shower in one unit also tends to be a cost-effective option compared to installing separate fixtures.

Overall, the tub-shower combo provides a practical and versatile bathing solution that combines the benefits of both a bathtub and a shower in a single space.

FAQ 3: Is it Better to Have a Tub-Shower Combo or a Walk-in Shower with a Tub?

The decision between a tub shower and a walk-in shower depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and specific needs.

To determine which option is better for you, consider:

(a) Space and Accessibility

If you have limited bathroom space, a tub-shower combo can be a practical choice as it combines both functionalities in a single unit.

It allows you to maximize the available space by avoiding the need for separate areas for a shower stall and a bathtub.

If you have a ton of space, however, walk-in showers with a tub allow for easier maneuverability, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those who use mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers.

(b) Convenience and Versatility

A tub shower combination provides the versatility of both bathing and showering options.

If you enjoy taking baths or have children or pets that require bathing, a tub shower may be more convenient as it offers the flexibility to choose between a quick shower or a leisurely soak in the tub, depending on your preferences.

(c) Safety

Walk-in showers are designed with safety features in mind, such as grab bars, non-slip flooring, and low thresholds, making them a popular choice for individuals concerned about slipping or falling in the bathroom.

If safety is a primary concern, a walk-in shower’s design may offer added peace of mind.

(d) Maintenance and Cleaning

Walk-in showers generally have fewer nooks and crannies compared to tub showers, making them easier to clean and maintain.

With a walk-in shower, you typically won’t have to deal with cleaning the inside of a bathtub or grout lines around the tub.

(e) Resale Value

The preference for tub showers versus walk-in showers can vary depending on local real estate trends and buyer preferences.

In some markets, having at least one bathtub in a home may be seen as a desirable feature for resale value.

However, in other markets, walk-in showers may be more popular, particularly for accessibility reasons.

Ultimately, the better option between a tub shower and a walk-in shower is subjective and depends on your individual needs and preferences.

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Before making the decision to install a shower in a tub, a tub-shower combo, or a walk-in shower with a tub, always consider factors such as space, accessibility, convenience, safety, and maintenance.

It will also be helpful to consult with a professional or a bathroom remodeling specialist to explore the best option for your specific circumstances.