We briefly discussed how significant bathtubs increase a home’s resale value. Of course, your number of features is a big part of that.
But before we proceed, let’s get something out of the way. When talking about bathtubs with companies and potential buyers, you may encounter the terms “¾ bath” and “full bath.” The confusing part is that people often mention any of these terms but are referring to the other.
To avoid any confusion, let’s break down what each one comprises.
Full Bathroom
A full bathroom comprises four components: a bathtub, a toilet, a shower, and a sink. Without these key items, a room has no right to be called a full bathroom.
Three-Quarter Bathroom
A ¾ bath comes with three of the previously mentioned components. You have a ¾ bath if your bathroom consists of a toilet, tub, and sink. If you take that same bathroom and replace the tub with a shower, you still have a ¾ bath.
So which one provides more value?
Since a full bathroom is often bigger than a ¾ bath, many think it’s the more expensive one. In reality? Not really. The value of a bathroom depends on so many factors, regardless of whether it’s a full bath or a ¾ bath. Most notably, the preferences of potential buyers.
Most of the time, it comes down to whether a potential homebuyer prefers one or the other.
Best value products
If you are remodeling your bathroom, we spent 20 hours finding THE best options for you to install in your home. They will increase their value no matter whether you’re installing a value or a high-end option shower or tub.
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DreamLine Cornerview
Here’s a better look at the DreamLine
Pros
- We love the chrome enclosure.
- It’s great for saving space.
- It’s easy to install.
- The sliding door works really well.
Cons
- There are more budget options out there. However, they’re not as nice.
- Higher-end models have sturdier metal.
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American Standard
Pros
- It’s a great budget option.
- You’ll get what you need.
- Great value
- It’s sturdy.
Cons
- It’s just over 60″.
- There are higher-end tubs out there.
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Steps to Converting a Tub to a Shower
So you’ve decided to convert your bathtub into a shower? Good on you! But before you do, make sure that you know the proper procedures. Converting it into a shower is not easy and involves many mini-projects.
Some of the things include plumbing and insulation. However, people often forget about demolition. But if done well, the myriad of benefits you get more than makeup for the time and effort spent on the project.
The easiest way is to install gorgeous prefab options, although we’ll go through the steps for a custom one underneath.
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Let’s get to installing a custom option, shall we? Here are the steps to converting a bathtub into a shower.
Steps to Converting a Shower into a Bathtub
Now, what if it’s the other way around? There are many ways to convert a shower into a bathtub, and the type of conversion you want to do will depend on many factors. But to give you some idea about the scope involved, here’s a standard procedure you can follow as you deem fit:
1. Get the area’s dimensions.
The first order of business is to measure the area. You have two approaches to choose from. Either you demolish the area and install a bathtub as a replacement or modify the area to be converted.
2. Check if it will fit.
A standard tub measures 60 inches (length) x 30 inches (width) x 14 1/4” (height). Now, look at the area’s dimensions. Is it big enough to accommodate standard-sized options? If not, you’ll need to carry out a demolition so that it can fit inside the area for installation. If you don’t want a full demolition, you can choose a smaller model.
3. Build a wall.
To build the wall, cut a rectangular frame and place support boards every 10 inches along its length. Attach the frame in the front and secure it by drilling long screws to the floor and adjacent walls.
3. Screw the concrete backer board into the wood frame.
4. Tile the new wall.
Install the first tile to the adhesive and put a spacer next to it before installing the next tile. Continue doing this until you get to the other end. Use a cutter if some of the tiles don’t fit.
5. Apply bullnose tile pieces on the top of the wall using the adhesive.
6. Start grouting.
You can use premixed grout or prepare dry mix grout. Word of caution: make sure you wear safety gear to protect your eyes and skin from grout. The rubber float must be used at a 46-degree angle for the best results. It ensures that the grout is spread smoothly across the tiles and into the gaps. Wipe away any excess grout by using a sponge.
7. Clean up.
Clean the tile after the grout has hardened. Then apply some water-soluble caulking along the part of the tile that meets the walls and the edge.
8. Grout it up.
Wait a week before applying grout sealer on the joints and the grout lines. Make sure you get the finishes right.
