Walk-In Showers vs. Traditional Tubs: What’s Best for Olympia Homes?

When planning your next bathroom remodel in Olympia, one of the biggest decisions is choosing between a walk-in shower and a traditional tub. Both offer unique benefits—and what’s best for your home depends on your space, lifestyle, and long-term needs. Let’s break down the pros, cons, and local trends so you can make a confident choice.

Why This Choice Matters

The tub vs. shower debate isn’t just about aesthetics—it impacts your budget, daily routine, and even resale value. In Thurston County, where homes range from vintage craftsman to new builds, the right choice can also depend on the style and age of your home.

Walk-In Showers: Sleek, Spacious, and Modern

Walk-in showers are growing in popularity, especially among Olympia homeowners looking for a spa-like feel or aging-in-place functionality.

Pros:

• Open feel: Frameless glass doors or curbless designs make small bathrooms feel bigger.

• Accessibility: No stepping over tub walls—great for aging family members or those with limited mobility.

• Customization: Add niches, benches, rain showerheads, or vertical tile designs.

• Easy to clean: Fewer crevices and no tub ring to scrub.

Cons:

• No option for soaking: Showers don’t offer the relaxation of a hot bath.

• Less ideal for families with young kids: Bathing small children is easier in a tub.

Traditional Bathtubs: Timeless and Functional

Tubs are still in demand, especially for families or homeowners who value a good soak at the end of a long day.

Pros:

• Perfect for kids: Easier for bathtime routines.

• Soaking benefits: Helps with stress, sore muscles, and relaxation.

• Adds resale value: Many buyers expect at least one tub in the home.

Cons:

• Takes up more floor space: Not ideal in a tight layout.

• Can be harder to clean: Especially older alcove tubs with tile surrounds.

• Less accessible: High sides make entry and exit more difficult.

What’s Trending in Olympia Bathrooms?

As local remodelers, we’re seeing more Olympia clients lean toward walk-in showers—especially in master bathrooms. That said, many families still want at least one tub in the home, often in a guest or hall bathroom.

Popular combinations:

• Hall bath: Tub/shower combo for kids or guests

• Primary bath: Walk-in shower with full tile walls and bench

• Custom tile: Subway, large format, and stone-look tiles are in

• Niche storage: Integrated into the wall for soaps and shampoos

• Matte black and brushed nickel fixtures are leading the pack

Pro Tip: Consider a Tub-to-Shower Conversion

If you’re tired of stepping over an outdated tub but don’t need it anymore, a tub-to-shower conversion can give you a fresh, modern look without the cost of a full remodel.

We can remove the old tub, reroute plumbing if needed, and install a new shower system with custom tile, niches, and glass enclosures—all designed to fit your bathroom’s exact footprint.

Which One Is Right for Your Remodel?

Here are a few quick decision points:

Question	Choose a Tub If...	Choose a Shower If...
Do you love to soak?	✅ Yes	❌ No
Do you have young kids?	✅ Yes	❌ No
Are you aging in place?	❌ No	✅ Yes
Is your space limited?	❌ No	✅ Yes
Want a modern look?	❌ No	✅ Yes
Selling your home soon?	✅ Keep at least one tub	✅ Add wow factor

Cost Considerations

While costs vary based on layout, tile, and plumbing, here’s a ballpark comparison:

Remodel Type	Average Cost Range
Walk-in Shower (tile)	$8,000 – $15,000
Bathtub Replacement	$4,500 – $8,000
Tub-to-Shower Conversion	$6,000 – $12,000

If you want to go deeper, check out our previous post: How Much Does a Bathroom Remodel Cost in Olympia?