Table of Contents

Garden Tub Shower: Combining Relaxation and Practicality in Your Bathroom

The garden tub shower combination is gaining popularity among homeowners who desire both a luxurious soaking experience and the convenience of a shower. This design merges the deep, relaxing qualities of a garden tub with the everyday practicality of a shower, creating a versatile and appealing bathroom fixture. But is a garden tub shower right for your home? Let’s delve into the details, exploring the benefits, considerations, and design options available.

What is a Garden Tub Shower?

A garden tub shower is essentially a deep, freestanding tub that is also equipped with a showerhead and often an enclosure, such as a curtain or glass door. Unlike standard bathtubs, garden tubs are designed to be deeper and wider, allowing for a more immersive and relaxing bathing experience. The addition of a showerhead transforms this luxurious tub into a functional shower, making it a practical choice for smaller bathrooms or for those who prefer the option of both bathing and showering.

Benefits of a Garden Tub Shower

Space Saving: A garden tub shower combination can save space by combining two fixtures into one. This is particularly beneficial for smaller bathrooms where a separate tub and shower might not be feasible.
Versatility: Enjoy the relaxation of a deep soak or the convenience of a quick shower – the choice is yours. This versatility makes it a great option for households with varying preferences.
Enhanced Relaxation: The deep soaking depth of a garden tub promotes relaxation and can help relieve muscle tension and stress.
Aesthetic Appeal: Garden tub showers can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any bathroom, becoming a focal point of the design.
Increased Home Value: A well-designed bathroom with a desirable feature like a garden tub shower can increase the overall value of your home.

Considerations Before Installing a Garden Tub Shower

Before deciding to install a garden tub shower, there are several factors to consider:

Space Requirements: While a garden tub shower saves space compared to having separate fixtures, garden tubs themselves are larger than standard bathtubs. Ensure you have enough room in your bathroom to accommodate the larger footprint.
Water Heater Capacity: Garden tubs require a significant amount of water to fill. Ensure your water heater is large enough to provide a sufficient supply of hot water for a comfortable bath.
Floor Support: Garden tubs filled with water can be very heavy. It’s essential to ensure your bathroom floor can support the weight of the tub, water, and the person using it. Consulting with a structural engineer may be necessary, especially in older homes.
Installation Costs: Installing a garden tub shower can be more expensive than installing a standard bathtub or shower. The larger size and the need for additional plumbing can increase labor and material costs.
Accessibility: Garden tubs can be difficult for individuals with mobility issues to enter and exit. Consider adding grab bars or choosing a model with a lower entry point to improve accessibility.

Design Options for Your Garden Tub Shower

There are numerous design options available for garden tub showers, allowing you to customize the look and functionality to suit your preferences and bathroom style.

Tub Styles

Freestanding: Freestanding garden tubs are a popular choice, offering a sleek and modern look. They can be placed anywhere in the bathroom, provided there is access to plumbing.
Corner: Corner garden tubs are designed to fit snugly into a corner of the bathroom, maximizing space and creating a focal point.
Alcove: Alcove garden tubs are installed against three walls, similar to a standard bathtub. This is a good option for smaller bathrooms where space is limited.

Shower Enclosures

Shower Curtains: Shower curtains are the most affordable and versatile option for enclosing a garden tub shower. They come in a variety of colors, patterns, and materials to match your bathroom decor.
Glass Doors: Glass doors offer a more modern and sophisticated look. They can be sliding, hinged, or frameless, depending on your preferences and the layout of your bathroom.
Glass Panels: Glass panels provide a minimalist and open feel, allowing more light to enter the shower area. They are typically used in conjunction with a shower curtain or door.

Showerhead Options

Standard Showerhead: A standard showerhead is a basic and affordable option that provides a consistent spray of water.
Rainfall Showerhead: A rainfall showerhead provides a gentle, cascading shower experience, mimicking the feeling of standing under a waterfall.
Handheld Showerhead: A handheld showerhead offers more flexibility and control over the water flow. It’s ideal for rinsing specific areas of the body or for cleaning the tub.
Multiple Showerheads: For a truly luxurious experience, consider installing multiple showerheads, such as a combination of a rainfall showerhead and body jets.

Materials

Garden tubs are available in a variety of materials, each with its own unique properties and aesthetic appeal.

Acrylic: Acrylic is a lightweight and durable material that is resistant to scratches and stains. It’s also relatively affordable, making it a popular choice for garden tubs.
Cast Iron: Cast iron is a heavy and durable material that retains heat well, keeping your bathwater warm for longer. It’s also resistant to scratches and chips, but it can be more expensive than acrylic.
Copper: Copper is a luxurious and antimicrobial material that adds a touch of elegance to any bathroom. It’s also a good conductor of heat, keeping your bathwater warm.
Stone Resin: Stone resin is a composite material made from natural stone and resin. It’s durable, non-porous, and has a smooth, matte finish.

Installation Tips for Your Garden Tub Shower

Installing a garden tub shower is a complex project that typically requires the expertise of a professional plumber and contractor. However, here are some general tips to keep in mind:

Plan Carefully: Before starting the installation, carefully plan the layout of your bathroom and ensure you have all the necessary materials and tools.
Prepare the Space: Remove any existing fixtures and prepare the floor and walls for the new garden tub shower.
Install Plumbing: Install the necessary plumbing connections for the tub and shower, including hot and cold water supply lines and a drain.
Install the Tub: Carefully position the garden tub in its designated location and ensure it is level.
Install the Showerhead and Enclosure: Install the showerhead and enclosure, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Test the System: Once the installation is complete, test the system to ensure there are no leaks and that the water flows properly.

Maintaining Your Garden Tub Shower

Proper maintenance is essential to keep your garden tub shower looking its best and functioning properly.

Clean Regularly: Clean your garden tub shower regularly with a mild soap and water solution to prevent the buildup of soap scum and mildew.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the surface of the tub and shower enclosure.
Repair Leaks Promptly: Repair any leaks promptly to prevent water damage and mold growth.
Maintain the Showerhead: Clean the showerhead regularly to remove mineral deposits and ensure a consistent water flow.

Is a Garden Tub Shower Right for You?

A garden tub shower can be a wonderful addition to any bathroom, offering a combination of luxury and practicality. However, it’s important to carefully consider the space requirements, installation costs, and other factors before making a decision. If you’re looking for a versatile and aesthetically pleasing bathroom fixture that provides both a relaxing bathing experience and the convenience of a shower, a garden tub shower may be the perfect choice for you. [See also: Bathroom Remodeling Ideas] [See also: Types of Bathtubs] [See also: Shower Head Buying Guide]