Bathtub or Walk-In Shower: How to Choose for Your Knoxville Remodel

Choosing between a walk-in shower and a bathtub is more than an aesthetic decision — it affects daily routines, resale value, accessibility, maintenance, and your remodel budget. For Knoxville homeowners working with a trusted Knoxville home remodeling contractor like MEL Realty Repairs LLC, the right choice balances lifestyle needs, long-term planning, and practical constraints. This guide walks you through the factors that matter, with a real-world example to show how decisions play out on an actual project.

Who uses each option — match features to lifestyle

Think first about how you actually use the bathroom.

Walk-in shower fits people who:

• Prefer quick, efficient daily showers.

• Want accessibility and slip-resistant features for aging in place.

• Have limited space and want a high-performance, modern look.

• Value low-maintenance surfaces and easier cleaning.

Bathtub fits people who:

• Enjoy soaking, baths for relaxation, or bathing small children.

• Want a dual option (tub/shower combo) for flexibility.

• Are designing for resale in neighborhoods where tubs are expected by families.

• Prefer the classic, spa-like feel and are willing to maintain larger surfaces.

A middle ground is a walk-in shower plus a separate soaking tub if space and budget allow — a premium, industry-leading solution for both function and form.

Budget realities: install cost, long-term value, and ROI

Costs vary widely by size, materials, and features. A simple tiled walk-in shower typically costs less to install than a full bathtub plus surround, but premium options (frameless glass, steam features, custom tile) can push shower budgets above many tubs.

Consider:

• Upfront installation: plumbing changes, drainage work, and waterproofing. Converting a tub alcove to a curbless walk-in shower may require floor and drain rework.

• Long-term maintenance: showers with grout lines may need resealing more often; solid surface pans or large format tiles reduce upkeep.

• Resale: in many markets, a modern, accessible shower in the primary bathroom can be a selling point; however, in family neighborhoods buyers often expect at least one full bathtub in the home.

Work with a reliable contractor to get line-item estimates. A trusted, well-experienced contractor can provide transparent bids that show tradeoffs between affordable options and cutting-edge upgrades.

Space and layout considerations

Measure carefully. A comfortable shower needs at least 36 inches by 36 inches, though a more comfortable walk-in shower often starts at 42 by 60 inches. A standard bathtub is usually 60 inches long and 30–32 inches wide.

If you’re remodeling a small bathroom:

• A walk-in shower often frees up floor space and creates a feeling of openness.

• Curbless, user-friendly designs can visually expand the room.

• Glass panels instead of full enclosures help light travel, making even compact bathrooms feel larger.

In larger primary bathrooms:

• Consider a separate soaking tub and a spacious walk-in shower to deliver both relaxation and practicality.

• Positioning matters: keep plumbing runs efficient to control cost.

A scalable approach — plan for future changes in needs without tearing out major finishes.

Accessibility and aging-in-place

If you plan to stay in your home long term or want to make the space accessible for older family members:

• Walk-in showers (curbless or low curb) are safer and more user-friendly.

• Add built-in seating, grab bars, and anti-slip tile for a results-driven, safe bathroom.

• Thermostatic valves prevent scalding and enhance user safety.

These proven accessibility features not only improve everyday ease but also attract buyers seeking a home already adapted for later-life living.

Maintenance and durability

Showers:

• Easier to clean when designed with large tiles, fewer grout lines, or solid surfaces.

• Glass doors require routine cleaning; frameless options look premium but show water spots more easily.

• Drains and waterproofing are critical: choose a trusted contractor who follows industry-leading waterproofing practices.

Tubs:

• Require more surface area cleaning and can trap soap scum; the finish and material (acrylic, cast-iron, cultured marble) determine scratch and stain resistance.

• Tub-shower combos add more fixtures that may need maintenance.

A reliable, cutting-edge contractor will recommend materials that deliver high-performance and longevity while fitting your budget.

Aesthetic and design trends

Current trends favor spacious, user-friendly showers with minimal clutter and natural materials. But timeless design still wins: a well-installed tub in a classic surround can be a top-rated feature for staging and resale.

Consider:

• Tile patterns and grout color — large format tiles are user-friendly and give a clean, modern look.

• Glass enclosures for showers maintain an open feel.

• Freestanding tubs offer a focal point when space allows and can be a stylish, premium upgrade.

Design choices should align with the overall home style and the expectations of Knoxville neighborhoods where you may be reselling in the future.

Environmental and water considerations

Showers generally use less water than long baths if shower time is short. High-efficiency showerheads and low-flow fixtures help reduce water usage without sacrificing comfort. If water conservation is important to you, plan fixtures accordingly.

Permits, codes, and contractor selection

Plumbing and electrical work typically require permits in Knoxville. Hiring a local Knoxville home remodeling contractor who understands regional codes avoids costly delays and ensures safe installations.

Look for contractors who are:

• Licensed and insured.

• Transparent about permits and inspections.

• Proven and results-driven, with clear warranties on workmanship.

Ask for a portfolio, references, and a written scope of work with milestones so you can compare bids on an apples-to-apples basis.

Real-world case study — MEL Realty Repairs LLC (Knoxville)

Project brief: A midcentury bungalow in North Knoxville needed a primary bathroom remodel. The homeowners wanted modern accessibility for future use, but also wanted an occasional soaking tub for relaxation.

Assessment:

• Existing layout had a cramped tub/shower combo with limited storage.

• Structural floor framing was sound, but plumbing needed relocation to improve the layout.

Solution:

• MEL Realty Repairs LLC proposed converting the small tub area into a spacious walk-in shower with a low curb, bench seating, and grab bars for accessibility.

• To preserve soaking capability while staying within budget and space constraints, they installed a freestanding 54-inch soaking tub along the opposite wall where the vanity was expanded into a space-efficient double-drawer configuration.

• The plan included large format porcelain tiles (fewer grout lines), a frameless glass shower enclosure to maintain visual openness, and a thermostatic valve for safety.

Outcome:

• The remodel achieved both goals: a user-friendly, low-maintenance shower that supports aging-in-place, and a luxurious soaking tub for weekend relaxation.

• The homeowners reported that the combination felt both high-end and practical — a design that proved attractive when they later staged the house for sale.

• The project stayed within a clear, itemized budget thanks to MEL’s transparent communication, which clients cited as a key reason to recommend them as a reliable, trusted Knoxville home remodeling contractor.

Decision checklist: quick guide

Use this checklist to make your final call:

1. Do you take daily showers or prefer baths? (Showers if mostly showers; tubs if you love soaks.)

2. Are accessibility or aging-in-place features important? (Yes → walk-in shower, curbless.)

3. Is space limited? (Showers can be more space-efficient.)

4. Will you resell soon? (Consider neighborhood expectations — families may expect at least one tub.)

5. What’s your budget? (Request transparent quotes; prioritize waterproofing and quality fixtures.)

6. Do you want low-maintenance finishes? (Large tiles, solid surfaces, quality glass reduce upkeep.)

7. Want both? (If budget and space permit, a separate shower and soaking tub offers the best of both worlds.)

Final thoughts

There’s no single “right” answer — the best choice depends on your lifestyle, long-term plans, and the realities of your space and budget. Working with a knowledgeable, affordable, and well-experienced Knoxville home remodeling contractor helps you weigh tradeoffs clearly and choose a durable, high-performance solution. Whether you choose a sleek walk-in shower or a luxurious bathtub, prioritize proven waterproofing, accessible features if needed, and materials that balance style with maintenance.