When planning your bathroom remodel in Prescott, AZ, one of the most important design choices you’ll make is deciding between a walk-in shower or a bathtub. Each option offers unique benefits in comfort, functionality, and overall home value, and the right choice depends on your space, lifestyle, and long-term needs.
This guide explores the bath vs. shower pros and cons, cost considerations, and the design factors that can help you choose the ideal option for your next Prescott bathroom remodel.
A custom walk-in shower design eliminates the need to step over a high tub wall, which makes it a great choice for aging-in-place bathroom remodels or anyone planning for long-term accessibility. A low or zero-threshold entry reduces tripping hazards and allows for easy entry, even for those using mobility aids.
Spacious and visually open
Walk-in showers can instantly make a bathroom feel larger. With frameless glass enclosures and open layouts, they allow light to flow freely through the space, creating a sense of airiness that many homeowners appreciate in a modern bathroom remodel.
Easier to clean and maintain
Because walk-in showers have fewer surfaces and fixtures than bathtubs, they are often simpler to maintain. Choosing materials like large-format tile or solid-surface panels can minimize grout lines and make upkeep even easier.
Flexible design options
From rainfall showerheads and handheld sprayers to built-in benches and recessed niches, walk-in showers offer almost endless possibilities for personalization. A design-build bathroom remodel allows homeowners to create a space that reflects their unique style while improving functionality.
Potential water and energy savings
Showers generally use less water than filling a bathtub, which can reduce both water and heating costs. For those interested in sustainable living, this is an appealing advantage when planning a Prescott, AZ home remodeling project.
For those who love the comfort of a long, warm soak, a shower may not offer the same experience.
Temperature control
Because walk-in showers are more open, they can sometimes feel cooler, especially during Prescott’s colder months. Adding radiant flooring or a partially enclosed glass design can help maintain warmth.
Water containment issues
If the slope or drainage is not correctly designed, water can escape the shower area. Hiring an experienced bathroom remodeling contractor in Prescott ensures proper layout and waterproofing for lasting performance.
Cost considerations
A fully customized, curbless shower can increase your bathroom remodel cost in Prescott, AZ, especially with tile work, glass walls, or premium fixtures. However, these features often add long-term value and aesthetic appeal.
A bath offers a level of comfort and rejuvenation that is hard to match. Many homeowners opt for deep soaking or hydrotherapy tubs to create a spa-like retreat at home.
Family-friendly
Bathtubs are ideal for families with young children or pets, making bath time easier and more convenient.
Adds character and charm
A well-chosen tub can elevate a space’s design, especially in homes with traditional or craftsman-inspired architecture. It can become the centerpiece of a luxury bathroom remodel Prescott homeowners are proud to show off.
Resale appeal
Many homebuyers still expect at least one bathtub in the home. For families or buyers who value relaxation, having a tub can enhance resale potential.
Traditional tubs can be harder to step into and out of, increasing the risk of slips or falls. Homeowners considering retirement bathroom remodeling ideas might prefer a walk-in tub or low-threshold shower for easier use.
Space requirements
Bathtubs take up more floor area, which can make smaller bathrooms feel crowded.
Higher water and energy use
A full bath can use significantly more water than a shower, leading to higher utility bills.
Additional maintenance
Over time, tubs can require resealing or repairs to maintain appearance and prevent leaks.
When comparing a walk-in shower vs bathtub, the right answer depends on your household needs, available space, and long-term plans.
Walk-in showers tend to be more practical for daily use. They are quicker to use, easier to maintain, and safer for people with limited mobility.
Bathtubs, on the other hand, offer a space for relaxation and are especially useful for families with children or pets.
In smaller bathrooms, showers help maximize floor space and make the room feel larger. In master suites with more square footage, many homeowners opt for both — a spacious walk-in shower for convenience and a soaking tub for relaxation. This balance is common in Prescott bathroom remodel projects focused on comfort and style.
As more retirees move to the Prescott area, aging-in-place bathroom remodels have become increasingly popular. Walk-in showers with built-in seating, grab bars, and adjustable showerheads create safe and functional spaces for long-term living.
Walk-in tubs are another option, but they often take longer to fill and drain, making showers the more practical choice for daily use.
A common question homeowners ask is whether a shower or a bathtub adds more value. The answer depends on your market.
In family-friendly neighborhoods, buyers often expect at least one bathtub in the home. In retirement or luxury communities, a high-end walk-in shower can be just as appealing. The greatest value comes from thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and materials that align with your home’s overall style.
Another frequent question is which is more affordable: a walk-in shower or a bathtub?
Working with a qualified bathroom remodeling contractor in Prescott helps balance your desired design with your budget.
Homeowners across Arizona are blending style, comfort, and practicality in new ways. Some of the most popular bathroom renovation ideas Arizona residents are embracing include:
Whether you are updating a guest bathroom or undertaking a full Prescott Valley bathroom remodel, these trends provide a foundation for creating the perfect space.
So, is it better to have a walk-in shower or a bathtub? The answer depends on your lifestyle and how you want to use the space.
At Crosby Home Services, our team takes a design-build approach to every project, combining creative planning, skilled craftsmanship, and reliable communication to bring your vision to life.
If you’re comparing a walk-in shower vs. bathtub or looking for practical bathroom renovation ideas in Arizona, we’re here to guide you through each step with transparency and care. Let’s design a bathroom that fits your style, supports your needs, and enhances the value of your Prescott home. Contact Crosby Home Services today to start planning your remodel.