subject: Should I Replace My Bath With A Walk In Shower? [print this page] Should I Replace My Bath With A Walk In Shower?
http://pottersbarlife.co.uk update from our forum:
As a local designer I get asked all the time about replacing a bath with a walk in shower. For many this a practical issue as sometimes we find ourselves unable to use a bath safely or comfortably. The one question I always get asked is 'will it reduce the value of my home if I get rid of my bath and replace it with a shower'?
The first evaluation is the type of property you live in, a small flat is unlikely to attract family buyers and often appeals more to the young working sector or those looking to downsize after retirement. In both of these instances a walk in shower may assist the sale as many in this sector prefer showering whether due to lifestyle or practicality.
If however you live in a family home or larger flat which would attract buyers with young children then replacing a bath with a walk in shower may have genuine sale repercussions and should be considered wisely.
There is however a further point which may be worth taking into account. If you are replacing a bath with a 'genuine' walk in shower ,i.e where the shower is of equal or greater size to a bath, then it is not a huge financial outlay to re-instate a bath should you decide to sell in the future and an estate agent feels a bath is a must for your home.
A walk in shower offers many the luxury and practicality to enjoy their homes and bathroom and I feel strongly that 'your' lifestyle in 'your' home should be the initial deciding factor when considering replacing your bath. The next factor is product type and with this there is no easy answer. Many retailers and fitters have their personal preferences, but among the most important considerations are , durability [waterproof properties] , practicality, ease of install and not to be overlooked environmental responsibilities. Your local retailer should be able to give you advice on whether wet zones [raised walk in showers] or wet rooms are more suitable and discuss your options thoroughly.
Design is not just about making best use of space it is about making the best use of space foryour client, considering all needs and lifestyle requests whilst providing the best possible products for the budget. The greatest compliment one can have when designing and overseeing any project is when a client not only loves the project upon completion, but, calls or pops round to tell you how much they really love it 6 weeks or 2 months later.
The decision to undertake a major project is never an easy one, often marred by conflicting opinions and ideas, but my final advice would be to ask your local experts - your estate agents, your builders, your retailers and your designers. These are the people who work in your local communities who know the value of local customers and word of mouth advertising.
