Essential Guide to Combining Soaking Bathtub & Walk-In Shower
A soaking tub inside a walk-in shower creates the ultimate home spa experience. This ingenious layout fuses the tranquility of a bath with the versatility of an open shower, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing soak or invigorating rinse in one convenient space.
Below we cover everything you need to know about integrating a freestanding or built-in bathtub into a shower enclosure. From clever tub-shower combos to costs and customization options, discover how to design your dream bathroom oasis.
Overiew of Tub-Shower Combinations
A tub-shower combo seamlessly incorporates a soaking bathtub within a walk-in shower area, typically in the center. This creates an open wet room with easy access to both bathing options.
Placing a tub inside a shower stall provides bather flexibility while maximizing space. The layout works well even in modestly sized bathrooms by consolidating the tub and shower into one unified zone.
Benefits of Tub-Shower Combinations
- Enjoy a bath or shower in the same space
- Perfect for small bathrooms
- Creates a spa-like ambiance
- Convenient and accessible
- Luxurious features like body sprays
- Customizable with storage nooks
Typical Use Cases
Tub-shower combos work for all types of homes and budgets:
- Primary bathrooms
- Small powder rooms
- Secondary bedrooms
- Master bathroom retreats
- Vacation homes
Soaking Tub Design Considerations
Choosing the right tub is key for properly incorporating it within a shower enclosure.
Tub Types for Showers
The most common tubs used are:
- Japanese soakers: Typically smaller and deeper to allow body immersion while seated.
- Freestanding: Statement contemporary tubs placed on finished flooring.
- Corner tubs: Space-savvy angular tubs to tuck into corners.
Ideal Tub Dimensions
Look for compact tubs 60 inches or less to fit in shower stalls. Extra deep tubs allow full body relaxation. If stand-alone, ensure accessible pump location.
Tub Features
Consider tubs with textured, anti-slip bottoms. Curved ends provide ergonomic support. Some models have built-in seating for added comfort.
Walk-In Shower Design Factors
Choosing shower finishes, layout, accessories, and waterproofing are vital for a unified look.
Open Access and Doorless Entry
A hallmark of walk-in showers is easy open access without doors or curtains. This free-flowing style works well for tub integration.
Shower Size and Layout
Freestanding tubs need larger showers. Consider wet room styles for whole-bathroom waterproofing or curbless for accessibility.
Waterproofing Points
Proper moisture barriers, drainage slopes, and vapor barriers prevent leaks and mildew buildup in high humidity zones.
| Tile, stone, or synthetic waterproof shower pan | Sloped floor carries water to drain |
| Grout sealants | Prevent water seeping through |
Customizing Your Tub & Shower
With endless options for finishes, fixtures, and layouts, easily personalize your tub-shower zone.
Tub & Shower Finishes
Select tub and wall finishes in coordinating styles. Favorites include:
- Freestanding wood tub with stone tile walls
- White porcelain tub with glass shower enclosure
- Oval acrylic tub with acrylic walls
Storage & Seating Ideas
Built-in tub surround benches or recessed shelves for towels and toiletries maximize unused space.
Glass Wall Partitions
Frameless or metal-framed glass partitions separate the showering and bathing zones while maintaining visibility and light.
Tub-Shower Plumbing & Installation
Proper planning alleviates headaches during tub and plumbing installation.
Drainage Slope & Water Flow
Gravity moves water towards the centered drain. Correct degree of floor slope prevents standing water.
Recirculating Pumps
Optional pumps recycle water between the tub faucet/spout and shower fixture for efficient bathing.
Supply Lines & Fixtures
While tubs and showers can share hot and cold supply lines, separate valve controls allow customization.
Operating & Maintaining Your Tub-Shower
Follow these tips for easy upkeep of your glamorous new tub-shower sanctuary.
Cleaning Techniques
Wipe down shower walls and tub surfaces after every use with a squeegee to limit soap scum and mineral deposits.
Grout & Caulk Inspections
Periodically check between tiles and tub edges for deterioration allowing moisture intrusion.
Ensure tub overflow drains and waterproof sealants work properly to prevent flooding issues.
Costs & Return on Investment
While installing a soaking tub inside a walk-in shower costs more upfront, it adds long-term property value by creating a spa-worthy oasis that all homeowners crave.
Average Costs
With high-end finishes and custom work, project costs often range from $4,000 - $15,000. The tub itself starts around $2,000.
Increased Resale Value
Remodeled spaces integrating tubs into showers allow sellers to command higher prices. Many consider the layout a premium feature.
Inspiring Tub-Shower Combo Ideas
These exquisite designs can jumpstart your custom tub-shower plans:
- Corner tub with stone tile surround and overhead tropical rain shower
- Japanese soaker inside frameless glass shower with dual showerheads
- Freestanding oak barrel tub complementing curbless stone shower space
Tub-shower combinations merge the best of bathing worlds into one efficient space. This guide covered the many advantages of installing a soaking bathtub within a walk-in shower enclosure, from leveraging small footprints to infusing hotel-style luxury.
By following the design, customization, installation, and maintenance tips, you can create a relaxing yet functional bathroom oasis with both tub-soaking and shower benefits in one.