Shower vs Tub: What's Best for Lakewood Homes?
Deciding between a shower vs tub is one of the biggest choices Lakewood homeowners face during a bathroom remodel. Whether you live near Belmar, Green Mountain, or Applewood, this guide breaks down the costs, resale impact, and lifestyle factors to help you pick the right option for your home.
In This Guide
Why Lakewood Homeowners Choose Walk-In Showers
The shower vs tub debate has shifted dramatically in Colorado. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), walk-in showers now rank as the most desired bathroom feature among homebuyers nationwide. Here in Lakewood, we see that trend reflected in 70% of our bathroom remodeling projects.
Key Advantages of Walk-In Showers
- Space optimization: A shower opens up floor space in smaller Lakewood bathrooms, especially in 1960s-1980s ranch homes common in Eiber and Morse Park neighborhoods.
- Modern aesthetic: Frameless glass panels and large-format tile create a clean, spa-like look that photographs well for listings.
- Lower water usage: An 8-minute shower uses approximately 16 gallons versus 36-50 gallons for a full bath, according to Energy.gov.
- Easier maintenance: Fewer grout lines and no tub caulk means less scrubbing and fewer mold-prone areas.
- Universal design: Curbless entry accommodates all mobility levels without looking clinical.
Walk-in shower with frameless glass and large-format tile — Lakewood project
Did You Know?
Homes in Bear Creek and Kendrick Lake neighborhoods with updated walk-in showers spend an average of 12 fewer days on market compared to similar homes with dated tub setups, based on 2024 Jefferson County MLS data.
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When a Bathtub Makes More Sense
While the shower vs tub trend leans toward showers, bathtubs still serve important functions for many Lakewood families. Here are scenarios where keeping or upgrading your tub is the smarter investment:
Top Reasons to Keep a Tub
- Young families: If you have children under 8, a tub is nearly essential for safe, easy bathing. Neighborhoods like Applewood and Green Mountain attract young families who prioritize this feature.
- Relaxation and wellness: A deep soaking tub or freestanding model offers therapeutic benefits that no shower can replicate. After a day on the ski slopes or hiking at Bear Creek, nothing beats a hot soak.
- Only bathroom with a tub: If removing the tub means your home has zero tubs, this can hurt resale value by 5-10% according to Houzz research.
- Guest or hall bathroom: A tub-shower combo in a secondary bath gives guests the flexibility of both options.
Important Consideration
Never remove the only bathtub in your home without carefully weighing the resale implications. In Lakewood family neighborhoods, homes with zero tubs can sit on the market 20+ days longer than comparable homes with at least one tub.
Modern Tub Options Worth Considering
| Tub Style | Best For | Price Range | Space Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alcove (standard) | Budget-friendly updates | $800 - $2,500 | 60" x 30" |
| Freestanding | Statement piece / luxury | $1,500 - $6,000 | 60" x 30" + clearance |
| Deep soaking | Relaxation / wellness | $1,200 - $4,000 | 60" x 32" |
| Drop-in / undermount | Custom surrounds | $1,000 - $5,000 | Varies |
Cost Comparison: Shower vs Tub in Lakewood (2026)
Understanding the true costs helps you budget accurately. Here is what Lakewood homeowners typically spend on each option, based on our project data from 200+ bathrooms completed in Jefferson County:
| Project Type | Budget Range | Mid-Range | High-End | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tub-to-Shower Conversion | $4,500 - $7,000 | $7,000 - $12,000 | $12,000 - $18,000+ | 3-5 days |
| Walk-In Shower (new) | $5,000 - $8,000 | $8,000 - $15,000 | $15,000 - $25,000+ | 5-7 days |
| Tub Replacement (same type) | $2,500 - $4,500 | $4,500 - $8,000 | $8,000 - $12,000 | 2-3 days |
| Freestanding Tub Install | $3,500 - $6,000 | $6,000 - $10,000 | $10,000 - $15,000+ | 3-5 days |
| Full Bath Remodel (shower + tub) | $12,000 - $18,000 | $18,000 - $30,000 | $30,000 - $50,000+ | 2-4 weeks |
Lakewood-Specific Pricing Note
Costs in Jefferson County typically run 8-12% higher than national averages due to local permit requirements and Colorado plumbing codes. Our quotes include all permits, disposal fees, and a 10-year workmanship warranty.
Resale Value: What Lakewood Buyers Actually Want
The shower vs tub debate often comes down to one question: what will buyers pay for? Here is what Denver-metro real estate data tells us about Lakewood specifically:
Key Resale Statistics
- Walk-in showers return 60-70% of their cost at resale according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
- Tub-to-shower conversions can increase home value by $5,000 - $12,000 when done professionally
- Homes with zero tubs in family-oriented neighborhoods (Applewood, Green Mountain, Morse Park) may see 5-10% reduction in buyer interest
- Luxury master showers are the #1 most desired bathroom feature among buyers aged 30-55 in the Denver metro area
Best for Resale: Shower
- ✓ Master bath in home with 2+ bathrooms
- ✓ Condo or townhome (Belmar area)
- ✓ Aging-in-place communities
- ✓ Modern/contemporary style homes
Best for Resale: Keep the Tub
- ✓ Only bathroom with a tub
- ✓ Family neighborhoods (Applewood)
- ✓ Hall/guest bath with tub-shower combo
- ✓ Homes marketed to young families
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Accessibility & Aging-in-Place Considerations
Lakewood has a growing population of homeowners aged 55 and older, particularly in Morse Park, Eiber, and Kendrick Lake. The shower vs tub decision carries extra weight when planning for long-term mobility.
Accessibility Comparison
| Feature | Walk-In Shower | Standard Bathtub |
|---|---|---|
| Entry threshold | 0-2 inches (curbless available) | 14-16 inches (high step-over) |
| Fall risk | Low (with grab bars and non-slip tile) | High (slippery surfaces, standing in tub) |
| Wheelchair accessible | Yes (roll-in design available) | No (requires transfer bench) |
| Grab bar compatibility | Easy to install at any height | Limited placement options |
| Bench seating | Built-in or fold-down options | Not applicable |
Plan Ahead
Even if you do not need accessibility features today, installing blocking behind tile walls during your remodel allows grab bars to be added later without tearing into the wall. A $200 investment during construction saves $2,000+ down the road.
Project Timeline Comparison
Understanding how long each project takes helps Lakewood homeowners plan around work schedules, family needs, and Colorado weather considerations.
| Phase | Walk-In Shower | Bathtub Install/Remodel |
|---|---|---|
| Demo & prep | 1-2 days | 1 day |
| Plumbing rough-in | 1-2 days | 1 day |
| Waterproofing | 1-2 days (critical step) | 1 day |
| Tile installation | 3-5 days | 1-3 days (surround only) |
| Glass/fixtures | 1-2 days | 1 day |
| Total project time | 7-13 days | 5-7 days |
Pro Tip: Best Time to Remodel in Lakewood
Schedule your bathroom remodel between March and May or September and November. Colorado summers are peak season for contractors, meaning longer wait times and sometimes higher prices. Spring and fall offer the best balance of availability and weather for material deliveries.
Water Usage & Maintenance Costs
Denver Water serves Lakewood residents, and with Colorado facing ongoing drought conditions, water efficiency matters. Here is how the shower vs tub decision impacts your utility bills and long-term maintenance:
| Factor | Walk-In Shower | Bathtub |
|---|---|---|
| Water per use | 17-25 gallons (8 min shower) | 35-50 gallons per fill |
| Annual water cost | ~$180-$240 | ~$300-$420 (daily use) |
| Grout maintenance | More grout lines to seal annually | Less grout exposure |
| Glass cleaning | Weekly (hard water spots) | N/A or curtain replacement |
| Drain issues | Linear drains easier to maintain | Standard drain, prone to clogs |
According to Energy.gov, water heating accounts for about 18% of home energy use. Shorter showers with efficient showerheads can reduce both water and energy bills significantly for Lakewood homeowners.
Not Sure Which Option Fits Your Home?
Our design team will evaluate your space, plumbing, and lifestyle needs to recommend the ideal solution. Free 3D renderings included.
Neighborhood-Specific Advice for Lakewood
Different Lakewood neighborhoods have different buyer demographics and housing stock. Here is how location can influence your shower vs tub decision:
Belmar & Alameda
Younger professionals and couples dominate these areas. Modern walk-in showers with frameless glass align with buyer expectations. A tub-to-shower conversion here often adds immediate value.
Green Mountain & Bear Creek
Family-oriented neighborhoods where keeping at least one tub is strongly recommended. Consider upgrading the master to a shower while maintaining the hallway tub for kids.
Applewood & Morse Park
Established homes with aging-in-place potential. Barrier-free showers with grab bars and bench seats are popular here. Safety features add both functionality and resale value.
Kendrick Lake & Eiber
Mixed demographics with homes ranging from starter to upgraded. A sleek shower conversion helps these properties compete with newer builds in neighboring Belmar developments.
The One-Tub Rule
Real estate agents in Jefferson County consistently recommend keeping at least one bathtub in your home. If your home has two or more bathrooms with tubs, converting one to a walk-in shower is almost always a smart investment. If you only have one tub, keep it unless you are certain you will stay long-term and have no need for a bath.
Making Your Final Decision
After helping over 200 Lakewood homeowners navigate this exact choice, we have developed a simple decision framework:
showerChoose a Walk-In Shower If:
- ✓ You have another tub in the home
- ✓ Accessibility is a priority now or in 5+ years
- ✓ You want a spa-like daily experience
- ✓ Your bathroom is under 50 sq ft
- ✓ You prefer low-maintenance fixtures
- ✓ You live in Belmar, Alameda, or Applewood
bathtubKeep or Upgrade Your Tub If:
- ✓ It is the only tub in your home
- ✓ You have children under 8 years old
- ✓ You enjoy soaking baths regularly
- ✓ You plan to sell within 2-3 years in a family area
- ✓ Your bathroom has space for a separate tub and shower
- ✓ You live in Green Mountain or Bear Creek
Frequently Asked Questions
Does removing a bathtub decrease home value in Lakewood?
Not if you maintain at least one tub in the home. In fact, converting a second tub to a high-end walk-in shower typically increases value by 3-5% in Lakewood neighborhoods like Belmar and Alameda where buyers prefer modern amenities.
How much does a tub-to-shower conversion cost in Lakewood, CO?
A standard tub-to-shower conversion in Lakewood ranges from $5,500 to $12,000 depending on materials, size, and complexity. Premium conversions with frameless glass, custom tile, and multiple shower heads can reach $15,000-$18,000. We provide free detailed estimates for every project.
How long does a tub-to-shower conversion take?
Most conversions take 5-8 business days from demolition to final walkthrough. Simple conversions with prefab bases can be completed in 3-4 days, while custom tile work with linear drains may take up to 10 days. We provide a detailed timeline before starting.
Is a walk-in shower safer than a bathtub?
Yes. The CDC reports that bathrooms are the most dangerous room in the home, with tubs contributing to a significant portion of fall injuries. Walk-in showers with zero-threshold entry, non-slip tile, grab bars, and bench seats dramatically reduce fall risk for all ages.
Can I convert my tub to a shower without replacing plumbing?
In many cases, the existing drain and supply lines can be reused or minimally modified. However, if you want to relocate the shower head, add body jets, or install a linear drain, some plumbing work will be needed. Our team evaluates your existing setup during the free consultation.
What shower size should I choose for my Lakewood bathroom?
The minimum comfortable shower size is 36 x 36 inches, but we recommend at least 48 x 36 inches for a standard conversion and 60 x 36 inches if space allows. Many Lakewood homes built in the 1970s-1990s have 60-inch alcove tubs that convert perfectly into spacious walk-in showers.
Do I need a permit for a tub-to-shower conversion in Lakewood?
Yes. Jefferson County requires a building permit for plumbing modifications and structural changes. Our team handles all permit applications and inspections as part of our service. Permit costs typically range from $150-$400 depending on scope.
What is the best shower floor material for Colorado homes?
Porcelain tile with a textured finish is the top choice for Lakewood homes. It handles temperature extremes well, resists moisture, and offers excellent slip resistance. Large-format tiles (12x24 or bigger) minimize grout lines and make maintenance easier.
Should I choose a prefab shower base or custom tile?
Prefab bases are more affordable ($800-$1,500 installed) and faster to install, but limit your design options. Custom tile bases ($2,500-$5,000 installed) offer unlimited design freedom, better aesthetics, and can be shaped to fit non-standard spaces. Most of our Lakewood clients choose custom tile for its premium look and durability.
Will a walk-in shower use more or less water than a bath?
A standard 8-minute shower uses about 16-20 gallons of water, while a full bathtub requires 36-50 gallons. With a low-flow 2.0 GPM shower head, you can reduce shower water usage to just 16 gallons per session, saving approximately 7,000 gallons annually if you switch from daily baths to showers.
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Related Reading
- 2026 Bathroom Remodel Costs in Lakewood, CO
- Tub-to-Shower Conversion Services in Lakewood
- Custom Shower Installation in Lakewood
- Full Bathroom Remodeling Services