Author Topic: How important is a tub?  (Read 3728 times)

rothwem

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How important is a tub?
« on: April 10, 2017, 06:56:29 AM »
I'm getting ready to start renovating the bathroom in the other side of my duplex.  I renovated the other side of the duplex already and replaced the current cast-iron tube because it was original to the house (1951), worn out, and there was water damage under it.  I replaced it with another cast iron tub because the original had lasted for 65 years, but jeez, it was a hassle getting it in there. 

For the other side, I'm going to have to rip out the tub that's in there for similar reasons.  I was contemplating just making it a shower that's tiled all the way around.  I saw this house on redfin, and I can tell there was a bath there, and it doesn't look too bad to me. 



The question is: Is the absence of a tub a dealbreaker?  It would be the only bathroom in the unit, but the units are small 2/1's.  I'm not sure if that makes a difference. 

former player

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #1 on: April 10, 2017, 07:00:32 AM »
I think for renting its not so much of an issue - I rented a bungalow with a single shower room no problem.  For selling, my aunt's bungalow wouldn't sell without a bath, but sold instantly once £200 was spent on putting a bath back in.

Moonwaves

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #2 on: April 10, 2017, 07:03:05 AM »
For me having a bath is a must but I know loads of people who really don't care and even some who prefer not to have one.

One thing I would say, though, is that looking at that photo all I can see is the wasted space. So if you do decide to just have a shower, think about maybe doing the extra work to section off part of the space so that you could put at least a few shelves, or a cupboard or something in. If the units are not particularly big then any extra storage will be a bonus to renters. Not sure if it's done in the US but over here it's really common to have a washing machine in the bathroom and that's exactly what I picture looking at that space. Small washing machine and a still generously sized shower cubicle (YMMV, so make allowances for my European notions of generous sizing :) ).

rothwem

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #3 on: April 10, 2017, 07:10:58 AM »
For me having a bath is a must but I know loads of people who really don't care and even some who prefer not to have one.

One thing I would say, though, is that looking at that photo all I can see is the wasted space. So if you do decide to just have a shower, think about maybe doing the extra work to section off part of the space so that you could put at least a few shelves, or a cupboard or something in. If the units are not particularly big then any extra storage will be a bonus to renters. Not sure if it's done in the US but over here it's really common to have a washing machine in the bathroom and that's exactly what I picture looking at that space. Small washing machine and a still generously sized shower cubicle (YMMV, so make allowances for my European notions of generous sizing :) ).

Thanks for the input, that's a good point.

The tub is 60" long, and a washing machine is 27" wide.  A shower stall is 36x36" minimum, so I'm thinking that it probably won't fit.  A linen closet would probably work well there though. 

NeonPegasus

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #4 on: April 10, 2017, 07:16:46 AM »
If there is no other bathroom in the unit with a tub, then I would strongly consider whether to convert to shower only. I use our tubs mainly for bathing our kids so not having a tub may exclude potential renters.

Another angle is whether the cast iron tub adds to the charm of the unit. If so, is there a way to refinish it rather than replace?

rothwem

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How important is a tub?
« Reply #5 on: April 10, 2017, 07:25:04 AM »
If there is no other bathroom in the unit with a tub, then I would strongly consider whether to convert to shower only. I use our tubs mainly for bathing our kids so not having a tub may exclude potential renters.

Another angle is whether the cast iron tub adds to the charm of the unit. If so, is there a way to refinish it rather than replace?

Right, the units are really small (720sf), so I doubt they will attract families.  It is the only bathroom though. 

As for charm...it isn't a clawfoot or anything.  It looks just like a fiberglass tub, its just way more solid.  The tub that's in there has got to go due to water damage and if I'm pulling the tub, the cost of a refinish is almost exactly the same as a new tub.

Edit: I've attached a picture of the side that was renovated:

« Last Edit: April 10, 2017, 07:27:56 AM by rothwem »

Moonwaves

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #6 on: April 10, 2017, 07:34:01 AM »
For me having a bath is a must but I know loads of people who really don't care and even some who prefer not to have one.

One thing I would say, though, is that looking at that photo all I can see is the wasted space. So if you do decide to just have a shower, think about maybe doing the extra work to section off part of the space so that you could put at least a few shelves, or a cupboard or something in. If the units are not particularly big then any extra storage will be a bonus to renters. Not sure if it's done in the US but over here it's really common to have a washing machine in the bathroom and that's exactly what I picture looking at that space. Small washing machine and a still generously sized shower cubicle (YMMV, so make allowances for my European notions of generous sizing :) ).

Thanks for the input, that's a good point.

The tub is 60" long, and a washing machine is 27" wide.  A shower stall is 36x36" minimum, so I'm thinking that it probably won't fit.  A linen closet would probably work well there though.
Aha. A standard washing machine here is 60cm (23.6"), so that's why it looks big enough to me maybe. Also the fact that my spatial recognition skills are, er, not good. :)

swick

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #7 on: April 10, 2017, 08:32:28 AM »
It really depends on the rental market where you are, if there aren't a lot of vacancies, it might not be an issue. It'd be a deal breaker for me.

geekette

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #8 on: April 10, 2017, 08:38:16 AM »
I have been told that in our area, a tub is required. Seems silly, but check the code.

We have a similar shower to the picture in our master bath but we put a bench at the far end from the shower head. Under the bench, accessible from outside the shower, is a deep drawer for toiletries.



(Yes, we added a shower curtain - glass would have been over $3k).

eta:  the shower is deep enough that the curtain has never been a problem (although I've had the clingy shower curtain effect in many a hotel bath!)
« Last Edit: April 10, 2017, 09:11:06 AM by geekette »

marielle

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #9 on: April 10, 2017, 08:40:23 AM »
I use a tub to wash random large things that don't fit into a sink. Like coolers, storage bins, hookahs etc. I can imagine it would be a deal breaker for some.

Is there access to an outdoor water source? If so you could mention it and it might not be a big deal to some people.

NeonPegasus

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #10 on: April 10, 2017, 08:48:30 AM »
If there is no other bathroom in the unit with a tub, then I would strongly consider whether to convert to shower only. I use our tubs mainly for bathing our kids so not having a tub may exclude potential renters.

Another angle is whether the cast iron tub adds to the charm of the unit. If so, is there a way to refinish it rather than replace?

Right, the units are really small (720sf), so I doubt they will attract families.  It is the only bathroom though. 

As for charm...it isn't a clawfoot or anything.  It looks just like a fiberglass tub, its just way more solid.  The tub that's in there has got to go due to water damage and if I'm pulling the tub, the cost of a refinish is almost exactly the same as a new tub.

Edit: I've attached a picture of the side that was renovated:



Fair point.

If you do a shower only, include a ledge for sure. Ladies shave their legs in the shower and it is difficult to do without something to prop your foot on.

I have used bathrooms with a shower and no glass doors. I'm not a huge fan. Water seems to get everywhere and the shower curtain sticks to you. You can get a curved shower curtain bar but that won't help if you have a shower like the one in the picture above because the curtain won't stay in.

Papa bear

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #11 on: April 10, 2017, 08:53:36 AM »
Replace with a tub. I've done a few bathrooms like this with identical layouts for my 2/1 rentals. I went with a steel tub at around $180.  I've had to replace fiberglass tubs at rentals where large individuals must be jumping up and down on pogo sticks and putting holes in them...


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Fishindude

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #12 on: April 10, 2017, 09:02:58 AM »
Nothing wrong with sticking with just a shower.  Can't imagine that would be a problem for most renters.
I'd do something with glass doors rather than just a curtain, to protect the floors from water damage.

ysette9

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #13 on: April 10, 2017, 01:58:10 PM »
I vote for a tub.

We live in a rental house with a shower only. Sometimes I really want a bath. When i go on a business trip I really look forward to a hotel room with a tub so I can do some soaking. More importantly though is we had a baby a few years back, and she is still too  young for a shower. Bathing babies in the kitchen sink is awesome, but my almost-three-year-old is getting big for the kitchen sink. At some point she is ging to be tall enough that she will hit her head on the cabinets above when she stands in her bath. Hopefully we will be out of this rental before then.

It is a bit of a joke, but we ask ourselves sometimes when we will move out of this rental, as the price is so good. Our usual answer is whenever the kid no longer fits in the kitchen sink.

Villanelle

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #14 on: April 10, 2017, 09:38:01 PM »
It will be a deal breaker for some, but I doubt that "some" constitutes a significant minority.  If the unit were more the type to attract families, it would be a bigger deal.  I'd go with whichever is cheaper, but that would probably include the cost of a glass door factored in. 

Nudelkopf

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #15 on: April 10, 2017, 11:06:11 PM »
If you're worried about the shower looking too long, you could make it a 'double shower'. I love double showers. Although in a small unit, the linen cupboard idea would probably be better.

I hate bathtubs. I never use one, even if my place has one. I hate still having to clean one when I don't even use it.

galliver

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #16 on: April 10, 2017, 11:54:50 PM »
I'm like Marielle; I use the tub to wash large bulky items sometimes. Or fill large containers with water quickly. I think what's going on on the bottom (shower or tub) is less significant to me than whether there is a tap as well as a showerhead. Also, I don't think I've ever seen a shower that didn't splash or drip more water on the floor than a tub. Maybe the secret is squeegeeing the glass door? But the last 2 glass door showers I've used, no squeegee was made available (cousin's home, hotel).

I vote for a tub.

We live in a rental house with a shower only. Sometimes I really want a bath. When i go on a business trip I really look forward to a hotel room with a tub so I can do some soaking. More importantly though is we had a baby a few years back, and she is still too  young for a shower. Bathing babies in the kitchen sink is awesome, but my almost-three-year-old is getting big for the kitchen sink. At some point she is ging to be tall enough that she will hit her head on the cabinets above when she stands in her bath. Hopefully we will be out of this rental before then.

It is a bit of a joke, but we ask ourselves sometimes when we will move out of this rental, as the price is so good. Our usual answer is whenever the kid no longer fits in the kitchen sink.

If you'd rather stay, could you get a large, sturdy storage tote (20gal? maybe more) and fill it in the shower? (They seem to be available for $5 but I bet it's not very strong.)

Villanelle

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #17 on: April 11, 2017, 01:09:59 AM »
I'm like Marielle; I use the tub to wash large bulky items sometimes. Or fill large containers with water quickly. I think what's going on on the bottom (shower or tub) is less significant to me than whether there is a tap as well as a showerhead. Also, I don't think I've ever seen a shower that didn't splash or drip more water on the floor than a tub. Maybe the secret is squeegeeing the glass door? But the last 2 glass door showers I've used, no squeegee was made available (cousin's home, hotel).

I vote for a tub.

We live in a rental house with a shower only. Sometimes I really want a bath. When i go on a business trip I really look forward to a hotel room with a tub so I can do some soaking. More importantly though is we had a baby a few years back, and she is still too  young for a shower. Bathing babies in the kitchen sink is awesome, but my almost-three-year-old is getting big for the kitchen sink. At some point she is ging to be tall enough that she will hit her head on the cabinets above when she stands in her bath. Hopefully we will be out of this rental before then.

It is a bit of a joke, but we ask ourselves sometimes when we will move out of this rental, as the price is so good. Our usual answer is whenever the kid no longer fits in the kitchen sink.

If you'd rather stay, could you get a large, sturdy storage tote (20gal? maybe more) and fill it in the shower? (They seem to be available for $5 but I bet it's not very strong.)

A possible compromise, OP, would be to get a shower head that has the detachable head on a cord, so it could be taken down and used for cleaning and filling things, since that seems to be something people use a tub for, maybe?

Cranky

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #18 on: April 11, 2017, 05:31:47 AM »
Does the unit have a laundry room/laundry sink?

When we remodeled, we had the shower taken out of the main bathroom, because it never got used. Nobody misses it, except when the baby comes to visit.

rothwem

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #19 on: April 11, 2017, 07:33:22 AM »
Does the unit have a laundry room/laundry sink?

When we remodeled, we had the shower taken out of the main bathroom, because it never got used. Nobody misses it, except when the baby comes to visit.

Lol no.  No laundry room.  This could probably go into the "silly things you lust after thread", but we would really really like a laundry room (and I'd really like a garage too, but that's a topic for a different thread).  The stacked washing machine is currently in the kitchen next to the fridge. 

I think I'm going to end up with a tub again.  It seems like a tub is one of those things that some people can't live without, but people rarely hate having one.  Also, it seems like installing a tile shower is a bit more complicated that I anticipated.  I'd rather just slap a new tub in and call it a day, even if the damn tub weighs 400lbs. 

Landlady

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #20 on: April 11, 2017, 01:15:41 PM »
I know getting bathtubs in is awful, but creating and tiling a shower pan is also a pain in the rear unless you are an experienced tiler. I just did two showers and installed a bathtub in a third and I'd prefer to install a bath tub, but that's me. Maybe you can get a pre-made shower pan in the size you need so you can avoid the complications of the shower pan slope. Or install an acrylic tub since that would be easier to move into place than a steel or cast iron.
Good luck, brave home-doer!

MayDay

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #21 on: April 11, 2017, 01:16:48 PM »
We currently rent a four bedroom house with one bathroom. The bathroom clearly used to have a tub, that was converted to what your picture shows, presumably because the former owners were elderly and needed something easy to get in and out of.

In our rental market it didn't matter a bit, because people are trampling down the door to find a house for rent. My kids were 5 and 7 when we moved in.

That said we do miss having a tub. When I had the flu last year I would have killed for a hot bath. The kids would prefer a bath. Etc.

It's a factor, but a fairly minor one.

JLR

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #22 on: April 11, 2017, 09:46:28 PM »
I think it depends on your target market. As a family with young children we wouldn't consider a rental without a tub. As our children are getting older I am finding it is my husband who is most keen for a tub these days! I think the only thing that would sway him to go "no tub" would be if that shower had a second showerhead on the opposite wall.

Rural

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Re: How important is a tub?
« Reply #23 on: April 12, 2017, 06:07:01 AM »
We're starting to look for a grad school apartment for my husband, and anything without a tub is automatically off the list regardless of its other features. No kids. In fact, that may be our only deal breaker.

 

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