A bathroom is as much a place for rejuvenation as it is for cleanliness. The integral part of this amenity is the bathing arena. Many homeowners and interior designers are now gravitating towards the shower tub combo. Combining a shower and a bathtub creates a unique sense of style, extends the utility and maximizes space. This article takes you through extensive details about shower tub combos, a brilliant setup that can transform your bathroom into a luxury spa!
Understanding the Concept of a Shower Tub Combo
A shower tub combo is a bathroom feature whereby a shower is incorporated into a bathtub. This design gives you the flexibility of either a quick shower or a long soak in the tub, all within the same space. The accessibility and versatility of this flagship idea make it an exceptional concept for all types of bathrooms - small or large.
Reasons to Choose a Shower Tub Combo
Several reasons can compel you to install a shower tub combo in your bathroom. Here are some primary drives:
- Space Management: Shower tub combos are perfect for small spaces as they allow you to have both a shower and a bathtub without taking up too much space.
- Increased Property Value: The ability to offer the option of a quick shower or a relaxing bath can enhance the appeal and increase the value of your property.
- Versatility: It comes in a variety of designs, materials, and finishes that can effortlessly match any bathroom décor.
- Comfort: It adds ease of use, especially for families with kids or elderly members, where a bath is often easier than a shower.
Fundamentals to Consider When Choosing a Shower Tub Combo
When it comes to selecting the ideal shower tub combo for your bathroom, several factors must be taken into account.
Right Size and Shape
Taking accurate measurements of your bathroom's space is crucial. The shower tub combo should not cramp your bathroom or make it difficult to maneuver. Also, consider the shape that would best fit with your bathroom style and layout.
Material
Shower tub combos are available in different materials each with unique characteristics:
- Acrylic: Lightweight, durable, available in various colors.
- Fiberglass: Affordable, lightweight but less durable.
- Enamel on Steel: Classic appearance, durable but heavier.
- Cast Iron: Luxurious, ultra-durable, retains heat well, but very heavy and often expensive.
Installation and Maintenance
Consider the ease of installation. Some models are easy to install, while others may require professional help. Additionally, ponder on ease of cleaning and maintenance needed.
Popular Shower Tub Combo Designs
Here are some widely-admired shower tub combo designs:
- Alcove Shower Tub Combo: An alcove combo is a tub installed in a three-wall enclosure. It’s a perfect space saver, offering simplicity and value.
- Drop-in Shower Tub Combo: This design offers a bathtub that is 'dropped' into a frame or platform and then a separate shower area.
- Freestanding Shower Tub Combo: These offer a sleek minimalist design with the bathroom shower head often installed separately over the tub.
- Corner Shower Tub Combo: Makes excellent use of corner space in the bathroom. The shower is typically installed above the tub, with a diagonal access area.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shower Tub Combo
What are the Different Types of Shower Tub Combos?
There are several types of shower tub combos available on the market. The most common are the alcove, corner, and drop-in designs. Alcove models have three walls and are usually installed in smaller bathrooms due to their compact nature. Corner shower tub combos are designed to fit snugly into a corner to maximize space. Drop-in designs are typically set into a larger bathroom unit or platform, providing a more luxurious and spa-like feel.
What is the Ideal Size for a Shower Tub Combo?
The average shower tub combo measures about 60 inches in length, 30-34 inches in width, and 14-20 inches in depth. However, these dimensions can vary depending on the style and make of the unit. Always remember to measure your bathroom space before deciding on the size of the combo.
How Much Does a Shower Tub Combo Cost?
The cost of a shower tub combo can greatly vary based on a variety of factors including the material, style, brand and where and how it's installed. On average they can cost from $500 to $2000, excluding installation costs.
Is it Easy to Install a Shower Tub Combo?
It's recommended to have a professional install your shower tub combo, as the installation process can be tricky and involves plumbing work. Some people with experience might opt to do it themselves but it's generally not advisable.
Can I Customise My Shower Tub Combo?
Yes, most manufacturers offer a range of customizable options for shower tub combos. You can select from different materials, colors, styles, and designs to match your bathroom decor. Additionally, many companies offer both left and right-hand drain options.
What Materials are Shower Tub Combos Made Of?
Most shower tub combos are made from acrylic or fiberglass, due to their durability and ease of maintenance. However, there are more luxurious options available, like cast iron or cultured marble, depending on your budget and the look you're going for in your bathroom.
How Long Can I Expect My Shower Tub Combo to Last?
With the right care and maintenance, a high-quality shower tub combo should last between 10 to 15 years. This can vary depending on the material of the combo and how frequently it's used.
Pros of Shower Tub Combo
Space Efficiency
One of the primary advantages of a shower tub combo is its space-efficient design. A shower tub combo takes up the exact area as a standalone bathtub, making it perfect for smaller bathrooms or more cramped configurations where every inch counts.
Versatility
The combination of a shower and tub in one unit offers excellent versatility. You can take quick showers when you're in a hurry and draw a long, leisure bath when you want to relax. This combo makes it possible to accommodate different preferences within one household.
Cost Effectiveness
A shower-tub combo typically costs less than buying and installing separate units. If you're on a tight budget or simply want to save as much as possible, this option is worth considering. The savings extend to the installation and maintenance costs as well.
Ideal for Families
For households with children, a tub is crucial for bath time. Equally, it's much simpler to wash pets in a tub than a shower. The same goes for households where members have mobility issues, as stepping into a tub is often easier than stepping into a standalone shower unit.
Resale Value
Homes that contain at least one tub, usually in the form of a shower-tub combo in the main bathroom, tend to have a higher resale value. Many prospective homeowners, particularly those with or planning to have young children, seek homes with bathtubs.
Cons of Shower Tub Combo
Size Limitations
Shower tub combos can sometimes feel rather cramped, especially if you're taller or larger. You may find that there's not as much room to move around as you'd like. Again, the exact size will depend on the specific model and your bathroom.
Access Difficulties
Shower tub combos often have high walls, making it difficult for people with mobility issues to get in and out. Even with accessibility features like grab bars, the high step can pose a challenge.
Style Limitation
Some people find shower tub combos to be less modern and aesthetically pleasing than separate showers and tubs. If you're aiming for a luxury or spa-like look in your bathroom, a shower-tub combo might not meet that aesthetic.
Shower Curtain Hassles
If you're using a shower curtain rather than a glass door for your combo unit, there can be associated inconveniences. Shower curtains tend to attract mold and mildew and require frequent cleaning. Plus, they can billow out during showers, making for a less enjoyable experience and potential water leaks.
Difficulty in Cleaning
Accessibility becomes an issue when it's time to clean. The high walls of a tub make it more challenging to reach every corner, especially the tub's far end. It requires more effort and time compared to a standalone shower, where all areas are relatively easy to reach.
Less Efficient Water Usage
While not as significant, it is worth noting that shower-tub combos tend to use more water than separate showers due to the larger area that needs to be covered by the showerhead. If you're concerned about water conservation, this could be a drawback for you.
Myths and Misconceptions About Shower Tub Combos
Myth 1: Shower Tub Combos are Only for Small Spaces
A common misconception is that shower tub combos are exclusively meant for small bathrooms. While it is true that these fixtures can be particularly useful in small spaces, they can also be an excellent choice for larger bathrooms. Some homeowners with sizable bathrooms choose this option to dedicate more room to other functionalities or decoration.
Myth 2: Shower Tub Combos are Outdated
Some people believe that shower tub combos are a thing of the past, and that modern designs only include separate tubs and showers. This is not the case. Shower tub combos have evolved over time, and present-day designs are sleek, modern, and functionally crafted. They can fit seamlessly into any contemporary bathroom decor while offering the option of a quick shower or a long, relaxing soak in the tub.
Myth 3: Shower Tub Combos are Uncomfortable
The myth of discomfort lies in the assumption that merging two fixtures into one compromises comfort. However, modern shower tub combos come with ergonomic design and comfort technology such as spa jets, built-in seating, adjustable shower heads, and more. Preferences and comfort levels may vary, but many people find shower tub combos comfortable and practical.
Myth 4: Shower Tub Combos Compromise Water Pressure
There is a common belief that shower tub combos might compromise water pressure because of the dual functionality. But the plumbing systems for the shower and bathtub are generally separate, even if the fixtures are combined. Thus, there should be no noticeable effect on water pressure.
Myth 5: Shower Tub Combos are Difficult to Clean
The myth that shower tub combos are more difficult to clean because they have more surface area compared to standalone showers or tubs is false. With proper maintenance and regular cleaning, shower tub combos are just as easy to keep clean as standalone fixtures. Moreover, many modern models are designed with easy-clean features allowing for low-maintenance care.
Myth 6: Shower Tub Combos are Unsafe
The notion of shower tub combos being unsafe often stems from the risk of slipping when stepping over the tub wall, making them appear less desirable for older adults or those with mobility issues. However, this is not universally true as there are various safety options available, like grab bars, non-slip surfaces, low-step entries and walk-in designs that make these fixtures safe for individuals of all ages and abilities.
Myth 7: Shower Tub Combos are More Expensive
Another misconception about shower tub combos is that they're more expensive because they offer two functionalities in one. In reality, the cost can vary widely based on the selected model, materials, and features. Overall, a shower tub combo can often be a more cost-effective choice, as installing separate shower and tub fixtures can involve more extensive plumbing work and materials.
Myth 8: Shower Tub Combos are not Eco-Friendly
Some people believe that because you have the option to take a bath—which typically uses more water than a shower—shower tub combos are less environmentally friendly. While it's true that tubs can use more water, many contemporary shower tub combos come with water-saving technology, such as low-flow showerheads and smaller tubs, making them just as eco-friendly as standalone showers.
Myth 9: Shower Tub Combos Limit Design Options
The notion that there is a design limit with shower tub combos is not accurate. Nowadays, these combinations come in a myriad of design options, materials, and finishes. From the ultra-modern and sleek to the vintage and classic, from minimalistic to opulent, you can find a shower tub combo that perfectly matches your bathroom's style.
Myth 10: Shower Tub Combos are Hard to Install
Some people are under the misconception that due to their dual functionality, shower tub combos are harder to install than standalone showers or tubs. Indeed, installation can be complex and will require expert plumbing and renovation skills, but this is the case for any bathroom fixture. Therefore, it's always recommended to hire a professional to ensure any bathroom fixture, including a shower tub combo, is installed correctly and efficiently.
Summary
So, what's the final word on the shower tub combo? It's an ingenious invention that gives you the best of both worlds. A quick, refreshing shower for your everyday hygiene routine or a soothing bath for when you need some indulgent, alone time, the shower tub combo satisfies all your needs. Who said you can't have your cake and eat it too?
What's more, a shower tub combo offers extreme convenience in terms of space, making it an excellent choice for small bathrooms. People living in apartments or houses with limited space no longer need to compromise on comfort or luxury. Just install a shower tub combo and enjoy a cozy, spa-like experience right within your home. And that is pretty much what it all boils down to.
Every bathroom remodel or renovation can truly benefit from a shower tub combo. Offering a blend of practicality and style, these bad boys seriously streamline your morning routine. Ultimately, investing in a shower tub combo is about embracing flexibility. And given the hectic lives that we lead today, a little bathroom multi-tasking can be a real sanity-saver!
About US Quality Construction
US Quality Construction is a premier construction company based in Kansas City, MO. With a solid reputation for integrity and quality, we have been serving clients in the greater Kansas City area for several years. Our expert team specializes in a variety of construction services such as remodeling, home additions, kitchen and bathroom upgrades, and custom build projects. We continuously strive to exceed client expectations with our exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Working with us is not just about building structures but also about building long-lasting relationships grounded on transparency, respect, and extraordinary customer service. Your dream home is within reach with US Quality Construction.
Tags: bathtub, shower, bathroom,
