The quick answer: Both add value, so the question is which bathroom you are changing. A walk-in shower is the upgrade most Ottawa buyers want in a main or ensuite bathroom, and a tub-to-shower conversion runs $13,000 to $15,000 CAD. The one case where it is the wrong call is when you have small children or it is the only tub in the house, because that narrows your pool of future buyers.
Ask ten people whether a bathroom should have a bathtub or a walk-in shower, and you’ll probably get ten different answers. Some insist every home needs a tub for resale. Others say walk-in showers are the upgrade buyers want today. After 20 years of working in bathroom renovation across Ottawa, this mixed advice is exactly why many Ottawa homeowners struggle with the decision during a bathroom renovation. The bathtub may not fit their lifestyle anymore, but removing it can still feel like a risky move, especially with so many opinions about what future buyers might expect. The reality is that both walk-in showers and bathtubs can add value. Below, I’ll break down how each option works, its pros and cons, and what you should consider if resale value is part of your decision.
What is a Walk-In Shower?
A walk-in shower is a modern shower setup designed for easy entry without the need to step over a bathtub wall. Instead of a traditional tub-and-shower combination, the space is dedicated entirely to showering, usually featuring a low or level threshold, glass panels, and streamlined fixtures. This design creates a clean and open look while making the shower easier to access. Over the years, walk-in showers have become increasingly common in bathroom renovations across Ottawa. Many homeowners choose them because they offer a more contemporary feel and better suit daily routines that revolve around quick showers rather than baths. The shift toward simpler and more functional layouts has made walk-in showers a popular upgrade in both small and large bathrooms.Pros of Walk-In Showers
Modern and Open Appearance
Walk-in showers often make bathrooms feel brighter and more spacious. Glass enclosures and minimal framing reduce visual barriers, helping the room appear larger and more contemporary compared to traditional tub surrounds.Easier Accessibility
With a lower entry point or barrier-free design, walk-in showers are easier to step into than bathtubs. This makes them a practical option for homeowners who want a safer and more accessible bathroom setup as they age.Designed for Everyday UseFor households that primarily take showers, a walk-in design focuses entirely on that function. The dedicated space allows for more comfortable movement, better showerhead placement, and a more practical daily routine.Flexible Design OptionsWalk-in showers can be customized to fit a wide range of bathroom layouts. They can be installed as corner units, compact stalls, or larger open designs, which allows homeowners to maximize available floor space.Cons of Walk-In Showers
May Not Suit All Households
Families with young children often prefer having at least one bathtub in the home. Without a tub, bathing small children can be less convenientNo Soaking Option
Unlike bathtubs, walk-in showers do not provide the ability to soak and relax. Homeowners who enjoy baths for relaxation may miss that feature after convertingResale Considerations in Some Homes
In houses with only one bathroom, removing the bathtub can sometimes limit appeal for certain buyers. Many real estate professionals recommend keeping at least one bathtub somewhere in the home to maintain broad buyer appeal.What is a Bathtub?
Bathtubs remain a traditional fixture in many Ottawa bathrooms. Most are installed as a tub-and-shower combination, allowing homeowners to either take a bath or use the space for daily showers. Because of this dual function, bathtubs have long been a standard feature in residential bathrooms.Despite the growing popularity of walk-in showers, bathtubs still play an important role in certain homes. Families with young children, homeowners who enjoy soaking baths, and buyers looking for versatile bathroom features often see value in keeping at least one tub in the house.Pros of Bathtubs
Convenient for Families with Children
Bathtubs make bathing young children much easier compared to shower-only setups. For many families, having at least one tub in the home provides a practical solution for everyday routinesRelaxation and Comfort
A bathtub allows homeowners to soak and unwind, which can be difficult to replicate with a standard shower. Many people appreciate the option to take a bath as a way to relax after a long dayDual-Purpose Functionality
A tub-and-shower combination provides flexibility by allowing homeowners to use the same fixture for both bathing and showering. This setup works well in homes where space is limited or where a second bathroom is not availableFamiliar Feature for Many Buyers
Many homebuyers still expect to see at least one bathtub, particularly in family-oriented homes. Keeping a tub in the house can appeal to a broader range of potential buyers.Cons of Bathtubs
Requires More Floor Space
Standard bathtubs typically measure around five feet in length, which can limit layout options in smaller bathrooms. Their size can also make the room feel more crowded compared to a walk-in shower.Higher Step for Entry
The raised wall of a bathtub can make stepping in and out more difficult, particularly for older adults or anyone with mobility concerns.May Be Used Less OftenMany homeowners primarily use their bathtub as a place to stand while showering rather than taking baths. In these cases, the full soaking function of the tub may not be used very frequently.Walk-In Shower or Bathtub: Which Boosts Resale Value in Ottawa?
The resale debate often comes down to one question: Will removing a bathtub hurt the home’s value? In Ottawa’s family-oriented neighbourhoods, homes that still include at least one bathtub often appeal to a broader range of buyers. In most cases, the impact on resale depends on the overall bathroom layout and how many bathrooms the home has. Many homeowners also worry about resale, even if they don’t plan to sell anytime soon. In practice, renovation decisions should balance everyday comfort with broader buyer appeal. A practical approach often includes:- Keeping at least one bathtub for families and buyers who want a soaking option.
- Adding a walk-in shower to another bathroom for daily convenience and accessibility.
- Choosing a neutral and timeless design that appeals to a wide range of buyers.
