Should I get a walk-in shower or keep the tub in my Fredericton bungalow?

For most Fredericton homeowners, keeping at least one tub in the house is the smarter long-term choice — but a walk-in shower can absolutely work if it's not your only bathroom or if your specific needs make it the clear winner.

Your 1960s-70s Fredericton bungalow likely has that classic main bathroom setup with a tub/shower combo, and possibly a powder room. If this is your only full bathroom, keeping the tub maintains broader appeal when you eventually sell. Families with young children and many buyers still prefer having a tub option available, especially in a single-story home that's perfect for aging in place.

Walk-in showers excel for daily use and accessibility. They're easier to clean, feel more spacious, and eliminate the step-over barrier that becomes important as we age. In Fredericton's older homes, a walk-in shower renovation typically runs $8,000-$18,000 depending on whether you're doing a basic refresh or gutting down to the studs. That includes waterproofing, new tile, fixtures, and glass enclosure.

Here's what matters for your specific situation: Do you actually use the tub? Many homeowners discover they haven't taken a bath in years. If you have a second bathroom with a tub elsewhere in the house, or if mobility and safety are priorities, the walk-in shower makes perfect sense.

Consider your home's layout and your timeline. If you're planning to stay long-term, design for your needs. If you might sell within 5-10 years, the tub keeps more doors open. A compromise option is a low-threshold tub — easier entry than traditional tubs but still functional for bathing kids or soaking.

For permits in Fredericton, contact Development Services at (506) 460-2020 if you're moving plumbing lines or doing structural work. Most shower-to-shower conversions don't require permits, but tub-to-shower often involves moving drain lines in these older homes.

Next step: Measure your current bathroom and sketch out both layouts. Visit a few showrooms to see walk-in showers in person — the visual impact might help you decide.