It's one of the most common bathroom renovation questions we get: "Should I keep the bathtub or convert to a walk-in shower?"
The answer depends on your lifestyle, who lives in your home, whether you might sell, and personal preference. After 20+ years renovating Kelowna bathrooms, here's what we've learned about making this decision.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Category | 🚿 Walk-In Shower | 🛁 Bathtub | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $4,000-$12,000 Tub-to-shower conversion | $3,000-$8,000 Tub replacement | 🛁 |
| Daily Use | Faster 5-10 min average | Relaxation 20-30 min soak | Tie |
| Accessibility | Excellent Zero threshold, grab bars | Poor Step-over barrier, fall risk | 🚿 |
| Space Needed | 9-16 sq ft 3x3 to 4x4 minimum | 13-20 sq ft 5x2.5 standard tub | 🚿 |
| Cleaning | Easier Less surface area | Harder Scrubbing tub walls | 🚿 |
| Resale (Primary Bath) | Preferred Most buyers want shower | Less Common Unless soaker tub | 🚿 |
| Resale (Only Bath) | Risk Families need tub | Essential Required for families | 🛁 |
| Kids | Difficult Hard to bathe young kids | Essential Required for bathing kids | 🛁 |
Walk-In Shower: Full Analysis
Pros
- Accessibility: No step-over barrier, safer for all ages
- Space efficient: Can fit in smaller areas
- Easier to clean: Less scrubbing, better drainage
- Modern appeal: Buyers prefer in master bath
- Quick daily use: In and out in minutes
Cons
- ✗No soaking: Can't relax in a bath
- ✗Kids: Difficult to bathe young children
- ✗Resale risk: If only bathroom, families may pass
- ✗Higher cost: Quality showers cost more than tub replacement
- ✗Cold: Can feel cold stepping out in winter
Bathtub: Full Analysis
Pros
- Relaxation: Nothing beats a hot soak
- Essential for kids: Required for bathing young children
- Lower cost: Tub replacement cheaper than conversion
- Resale safe: Families need at least one
- Versatile: Can still shower in tub/shower combo
Cons
- ✗Fall risk: Step-over barrier dangerous for seniors
- ✗Harder to clean: More surface area, tub ring
- ✗Takes more space: Standard tub needs 13-20 sq ft
- ✗Dated look: Tub/shower combos feel less modern
- ✗More water: Filling a tub uses 35-50 gallons
Not Sure Which Is Right for You?
We can assess your bathroom and give honest advice based on your situation.
Get Free ConsultationTub to Shower Conversion Costs (Kelowna 2026)
Basic Acrylic
- • Acrylic wall surround
- • Standard shower base
- • Basic glass door
- • Standard fixtures
Mid-Range Tile
- • Ceramic/porcelain tile
- • Low-threshold entry
- • Semi-frameless glass
- • Quality fixtures
Luxury Custom
- • Custom tile design
- • Zero-threshold entry
- • Frameless glass
- • Rain head, bench, niche
Our Recommendation for Most Kelowna Homes
If you have 2+ bathrooms with tubs: Convert the master ensuite tub to a walk-in shower. Keep one tub elsewhere for kids/resale. This is the most popular configuration we install.
If you have only one bathroom: Keep the tub, especially if you might sell in the next 10 years. Consider a tub/shower combo with glass doors for a cleaner look.
If accessibility is a concern: Walk-in shower with grab bars and zero-threshold entry is the safest option. Worth the investment for aging in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a walk-in shower or bathtub better for resale value?
For most Kelowna homes, having at least one bathtub is important for resale, especially for families with children. However, converting a second tub to a walk-in shower typically adds value. The ideal setup: keep one tub (usually in main/kids bath) and have a walk-in shower in the master ensuite.
How much does a tub to shower conversion cost in Kelowna?
Tub to shower conversions in Kelowna cost $4,000-$12,000. Basic acrylic conversions start at $4,000-$7,000. Mid-range tile showers cost $7,000-$10,000. Luxury conversions with frameless glass and custom tile run $10,000-$15,000+. Timeline is typically 2-5 days.
Are walk-in showers safer than bathtubs?
Yes, walk-in showers are generally safer, especially for seniors. They eliminate the step-over barrier that causes falls. Add grab bars, non-slip flooring, and a zero-threshold entry for maximum accessibility. This is a major reason for the tub-to-shower conversion trend in Kelowna.
Do walk-in showers use less water than baths?
It depends on your habits. A typical 10-minute shower uses 25-30 gallons, while a bath uses 35-50 gallons. Quick showers save water, but long showers can use more than baths. Low-flow showerheads (2.0 GPM) significantly reduce shower water usage without sacrificing pressure.
Should I remove the only bathtub in my home?
We generally advise keeping at least one bathtub in your home, especially if you might sell in the next 10 years. Families with young children need tubs. If you have two bathrooms with tubs, converting one to a shower is a great move. If you have only one tub and no plans to sell, go with what you'll use.
What type of walk-in shower is best?
For most Kelowna homeowners, we recommend: tile walls (not acrylic) for longevity, a low or zero-threshold entry for accessibility, frameless glass for modern look and easy cleaning, and a built-in bench if space allows. Avoid fully enclosed stalls which feel cramped.
How long does a shower conversion take?
Most tub-to-shower conversions take 2-5 days. Day 1: Demo and prep. Days 2-3: Plumbing, waterproofing, and base install. Days 3-4: Tile or wall installation. Day 5: Glass, fixtures, and final touches. Complex custom tile work can extend to 7-10 days.
Can any bathtub be converted to a shower?
Most bathtubs can be converted, but we assess each situation. Key factors: adequate drain location, space for comfortable showering (minimum 32x32 inches), ceiling height, and ventilation. Some alcove tubs convert easily; corner tubs or those under windows may need creative solutions.
Related Resources
Canadian Precision Homes
Licensed bathroom renovation contractors serving Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley for 20+ years.
Last updated: March 2026