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When it comes to remodeling your bathroom, choosing between a mobile home shower and a bath can be a tough decision. While there is no right or wrong answer, most people have strong opinions on the matter. However, the most important factors to consider are functionality, appearance, and potential resale value. Out of all the decisions you’ll make during your renovation, your selection of a tub or shower (or both) is the most important. In this article, we will guide you through the key factors to consider when deciding, allowing you to make an informed choice that meets your needs and preferences.
Bathroom Layout and Space
The first thing to assess is your bathroom’s current layout and available space. Mobile homes often come with limited bathroom space, so making the most of what you have is essential. Take measurements and evaluate the layout to determine if it can accommodate a bathtub or if a shower would be a more practical choice.
If your current bathroom layout already includes a bathtub, it might be more straightforward to replace it with another bathtub. This can save you time and money on plumbing adjustments.
On the other hand, if your bathroom is limited in space or lacks the necessary plumbing for a bathtub, installing a shower may be the more practical choice. A standard tub is around 30 inches wide by 72 inches long, whereas a shower stall averages 36 inches wide to 48 inches long. Showers generally require less floor space and are easier to fit into smaller mobile home bathrooms.
Switching to a Mobile Home Shower or Bathtub
While it might be tempting to change your bathroom’s floor plan altogether, it’s crucial to remember that, in a mobile home, space and structural limitations might offer less flexibility. If you’re remodeling a mobile home bathroom and your plans include removing a load-bearing wall, altering plumbing and electrical systems, or dealing with anything related to the sewer, you will likely need a permit. Since these modifications can significantly impact the well-being and safety of the home’s residents, an inspection of the completed work by a local authority will be required.
Therefore, it’s best to keep the current bathroom layout to cut down on costs.
Installation of a Mobile Home Shower vs. Bathtub
When installing a bathtub or shower in a mobile home, the plumbing and fortification process is usually the same. The floor is fortified, and the piping is prepared before installing the tub or shower. However, the installation process for a mobile home bathtub and shower can vary in complexity and cost.
Here’s what you should know:
Mobile Home Bathtubs
If you’re considering installing a bathtub in your mobile home, keep in mind that this may require extensive plumbing work and structural adjustments.
Additionally, bathtubs are heavy and difficult to move into place without the help of another person. The awkward shape and size of the fixture can also make it challenging to move around objects in your home. For a successful installation, it’s best to consult with a professional.
Mobile Home Showers
Showers are generally easier to install and require less structural modification. The pieces are broken down into smaller sizes, making them easier to maneuver, and only one person is typically needed to move them around. This can lead to a quicker installation and less need to move furniture and fixtures around.
Personal Preference
Personal preferences matter. Consider your daily routine and bathing habits. Are you someone who values a quick, efficient shower to start your day, or do you enjoy relaxing in a soothing bath at the end of a long day? Understanding your family’s bathing habits and what will best suit your daily routines can help guide your decision.
Shower vs. Bathtub Water Use
Water usage is important, especially if you’re conscious of your environmental footprint and utility bills.
Here’s how showers and bathtubs compare in terms of water use:
Mobile Home Shower Water Use
Showers are known for their water efficiency. A typical 10-minute shower can use around 25 gallons of water with a standard showerhead. But modern showerheads with low-flow settings can reduce water consumption by 5 gallons more.
On the other hand, a bathtub uses the same amount of water no matter how long you stay in it. So, if you take hour-long showers until the hot water runs out, you may actually save water by using a bathtub instead.
However, if you’re looking for a quick rinse, a shower takes less time to prepare and uses much less water overall.
Mobile Home Bathtub Water Use
Bathtubs generally require a substantial amount of water to fill, which can lead to higher water bills. Depending on the size of the bathtub, filling it can use 30 to 50 gallons of water or more. However, if you enjoy relaxing in a warm bath and see it as a relaxation ritual, you may be willing to overlook the higher water consumption.
Upfront Cost of a Mobile Home Shower vs. Bathtub
Any remodeling project that adds value to your home can help offset its up-front cost. But you must still consider your up-front costs, especially if your renovation budget is small or limited.
For instance, showers are often more budget-friendly, making them an attractive option for those looking to keep costs down during their mobile home renovation. Depending on the material, components, and size, you can find a wide range of shower units priced as low as $160 up to $1,100.
On the other hand, bathtubs tend to have a higher upfront cost due to additional materials, plumbing requirements, and installation complexity. Acrylic or fiberglass tubs are more affordable, ranging between $370 to $1500, while cast iron or freestanding tubs can be considerably more expensive. However, they can add a touch of luxury and relaxation to your bathroom.
Resale Value for a Mobile Home
When you’re upgrading your mobile home, it’s wise to think about how the changes will affect the resale value. While it might seem like installing a shower is the obvious choice, bathtubs are considered to be more valuable in resale. Bathtubs are more difficult and expensive to install, so potential buyers know they will have to pay more for the home to accommodate the luxury.
However, while bathtubs may be more valuable, people tend to use showers more frequently. They’re faster and require less preparation time. For this reason, it may make sense to install a shower-tub combo. This way, you can enjoy the luxury of a tub while still having the convenience of a shower.
Of course, personal preferences vary, and some potential buyers may have a strong preference for one or the other. If maximizing your mobile home’s resale value is your goal, then it’s a good idea to do some research to see what’s most preferred in your area. This will help you make the best decision for your renovation.
Still Can’t Decide? Consider a Shower-Tub Combo Instead
Suppose you’re torn between a shower’s convenience and a bathtub’s luxury. In that case, a shower-tub combo might be the perfect compromise. These versatile units provide the best of both worlds, allowing you to shower quickly when needed and enjoy a soothing bath when you have the time. Shower-tub combos are available in various styles and sizes to suit your preferences and space constraints.
Mobile Home Showers and Bathtubs
When it comes to deciding between a shower or bathtub for your mobile home bathroom, it’s essential to weigh various factors such as space, installation complexity, personal preferences, water usage, upfront costs, and potential resale value. Each option has its merits, but ultimately, the choice should align with your specific needs and priorities.
Regardless of your choice, Mobile Home Parts Store is your go-to destination for high-quality parts and supplies to make your mobile home bathroom renovation a success. Our wide range of shower and bathtub options and expert advice ensure you’ll find the perfect solution for your needs. So, when it’s time to make that decision, shop with confidence at Mobile Home Parts Store and transform your mobile home bathroom into a space you’ll love.
Tags: bathroom, bathtub, mobile home bathroom, mobile home bathtub, Mobile Home Parts Store, mobile home shower, mobile home shower pan, shower, shower surround
