Tub vs Walk-In Shower: What’s Best for Your Bathroom Remodel in East Valley?
December 31st, 2025 | by Nick Kayser
If you’re planning a bathroom remodel in the East Valley, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to keep a bathtub or replace it with a large walk-in shower. Homeowners in Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, Ahwatukee, and Scottsdale ask us this question every week — and the right answer depends on lifestyle, layout, resale goals, and how the bathroom will actually be used.
At Mustache Approved Remodeling, we help homeowners make smart, long-term bathroom decisions that balance design, function, and durability. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of tubs versus walk-in showers and explains why proper waterproofing is the most important part of any bathroom remodel.
Learn more about our East Valley bathroom remodeling services
Watch a Real Tub-to-Shower Conversion in Gilbert, AZ
Before diving into the details, watch this real tub-to-walk-in-shower conversion in Gilbert, Arizona. This project shows demolition, waterproofing, tile installation, and finished details — giving you a clear picture of what a professionally built shower should look like.
View the full Gilbert tub-to-shower project details here
Option 1: Removing the Tub and Building a Large Walk-In Shower
Across the East Valley, the most requested bathroom upgrade — especially in primary bathrooms — is removing an outdated tub and replacing it with a custom walk-in shower.
Why walk-in showers are so popular in Arizona homes
- Clean, modern design with timeless appeal
- Low or zero-threshold entry for aging in place
- More usable floor space in smaller bathrooms
- Custom tile layouts, niches, benches, and linear drains
- Frameless glass for an open, spa-like feel
Best for: Primary bathrooms, homeowners planning to stay long-term, accessibility-focused designs
Who a Walk-In Shower Is Best For
- Primary bathrooms used daily
- Homeowners planning to stay in their home long-term
- Aging-in-place or accessibility-focused designs
- Bathrooms where maximizing open space is important
- Homeowners who prefer low-maintenance, modern layouts
Not sure if a walk-in shower will work in your space? Layout, drain location, framing, and waterproofing details all matter.
Schedule a consultation to review your bathroom layout
Option 2: Keeping a Tub and Adding a Freestanding Bathtub
If soaking is part of your routine or you’re designing a luxury primary bathroom, a freestanding bathtub can be both functional and visually striking.
- Creates a luxury focal point
- Pairs beautifully with a separate walk-in shower
- Strong appeal in Scottsdale and custom homes
- Works best in larger bathroom layouts
Option 3: Tub Decks and Alcove Soaking Tubs
Not every bathroom can support a freestanding tub. In many cases, a tub deck or alcove soaking tub is the smarter and more efficient solution.
- Tile or stone tub decks
- Alcove tubs with finished skirts
- Deep soaking tubs designed for comfort
The Most Important Part of Any Bathroom Remodel: Waterproofing
Tile, fixtures, and finishes are what you see — but waterproofing is what makes a bathroom last.
S.W.A.N. Plan – Sleep Well At Night Waterproofing
- Surface-applied waterproofing systems
- Properly sloped shower pans
- Flood testing before tile installation
- Manufacturer-approved installation methods
LATICRETE Hydro Ban System – 25-Year Warranty
We proudly use the LATICRETE Hydro Ban waterproofing system, backed by a 25-year manufacturer warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bathroom Remodels
1. Should I keep a tub or switch to a walk-in shower in my primary bathroom?
For most East Valley homeowners, a large walk-in shower is the preferred choice in a primary bathroom due to accessibility, ease of cleaning, and modern design.
2. How much does a large walk-in shower or tub-shower combo cost in the East Valley?
In the East Valley, a professionally built large walk-in shower or custom tub-shower combo typically ranges from $25,000 to $35,000.
3. Is keeping a bathtub bad for resale?
Not necessarily. Many buyers with children prefer at least one bathtub in the home.
4. How long does a bathroom remodel usually take?
Most East Valley bathroom remodels take between 2 to 4 weeks.
5. What makes a professionally built walk-in shower different from a basic remodel?
Professional walk-in showers use surface-applied waterproofing, proper slope, flood testing, and manufacturer-approved systems that prevent long-term failures.
Proudly Serving the East Valley
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Mustache Approved Remodeling — bathrooms built to last, so you can truly sleep well at night.