When you're planning a bathroom remodel, there’s one question we hear more than just about any other:
“Should we get rid of the tub?”
It's a fair question—and not an easy one. Some homeowners swear by a deep soaking tub to unwind. Others haven’t touched theirs in five years and are dreaming of a big, luxurious walk-in shower.
And then there's resale value. Will your home tank if you lose the tub? Will it be harder to sell? What if you have kids someday—or the next buyer does?
Let’s unpack it all. This post will walk you through the practical, aesthetic, functional, and resale factors at play when you’re deciding whether to remove your bathtub during a remodel.
Why Do People Remove Tubs During Remodels?
Let’s start with the "why." Here’s what most homeowners in Colorado Springs tell us:
1. They Never Use It
They’ve got a tub, but it’s basically a glorified laundry rack. They shower every day. Maybe their kids are grown. Or maybe they have a separate tub in another bathroom.
2. They Want More Space
Bathtubs—especially traditional alcove tubs—take up valuable square footage. Removing the tub can open up space for:
- A double vanity
- A larger walk-in shower
- More open floor space for accessibility
3. They Want a Spa-Like Shower
A large walk-in shower with frameless glass, custom tile, a bench, and dual shower heads? That’s the modern bathroom dream.
Pros of Removing the Tub
More Space + Better Layout
Without the tub, you can often reconfigure the whole layout. More counter space, better flow, more usable square footage.
Easier Access (Especially As You Age)
Stepping over a tub wall can be tricky as you get older. A curbless or low-threshold shower is safer, sleeker, and easier to clean.
Clean, Modern Look
Many high-end bathrooms these days ditch the tub entirely. A walk-in shower reads as modern, luxurious, and intentional.
You Might Not Need It (If You Have Another One)
If your home has at least one bathtub, removing the tub in your primary or hall bath often doesn’t hurt resale value. That’s key.
Reasons to Keep a Bathtub
Here’s the other side of the coin.
You’re Planning to Sell in the Next 3–5 Years
Buyers—especially families with young kids—look for at least one tub. In a one-bathroom home, removing it can narrow your buyer pool.
You Use It Occasionally (or Might Later)
Even if you're not soaking nightly, a tub can still come in handy. Think: bathing pets, recovering from surgery, or even as a backup when the water heater acts up.
Freestanding Tubs Still Sell Luxury
If you have the space, swapping a basic alcove tub for a freestanding one (especially in the primary bath) can actually increase your home’s value and appeal.
What About a Tub-Shower Combo?
Great compromise. A tub-shower combo is:
- Practical for resale
- Efficient with space
- Great for kids and guests
You can even make it look elevated with tile walls, glass panels, and niche storage—far from the builder-grade combos of the 90s.
Don't Forget: Storage and Function Matter More Than Just Fixtures
Sometimes homeowners focus so much on the tub-vs-shower debate that they forget about the rest of the bathroom. Our biggest remodel wins almost always include:
- Towel + linen storage
- Better lighting
- Handheld showerheads for function
- Wider walkways for aging in place
So if the only reason you’re keeping the tub is “just in case,” let’s look at the big picture.
Final Thoughts from Griff
At the end of the day, the tub question isn’t really about plumbing. It’s about lifestyle. How do you use your bathroom now—and how might you in the future?
If your current tub is unused, oversized, and sucking up valuable space, don’t feel guilty pulling it out. But if you’re unsure? Don’t rush the decision. There are creative ways to keep resale-friendly function and get the bathroom you actually want.
If you're in Colorado Springs and thinking about a remodel, we’ll help you weigh all the pros and cons—honestly. No sales pitch. Just straight answers.
