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Post by lucyg on Dec 17, 2023 22:55:29 GMT
I have been so unmotivated to deal with this, but I really need to completely renovate both bathrooms. (Then I’ll be back later seeking advice on dealing with my 40yo kitchen.)  The house itself is a 40yo subdivision home. It’s nice, but there’s nothing historic or particularly gorgeous about it. I did partially remodel the bathrooms 20 years ago, but they basically need to be gutted at this point. Upstairs is connected to the master bedroom and is a bath tub-size shower only. I will replace with the same, only nicer looking. There is probably water damage under this one, so it may be a bigger project. Downstairs (with other bedrooms) has a tub/shower. I have thought about it for a long time, and I’m planning to replace the bath tub with just a step-in shower. I know that leaves me without a bathtub in the house, but I never use it anyway. It’s possible I’d want or need to move downstairs at some point, and I’d like an accessible shower at that point. So my question is, have any of you used Jacuzzi Bath Remodel to replace an aging bath tub? They advertise heavily on my left-leaning TV channel of choice (along with pharmaceuticals and other products that appeal to old people).  ETA Jacuzzi Bath Remodel would not involve installing an actual Jacuzzi. This company (or division) is just ripping out old bath tubs/showers and replacing them with more updated baths and shower enclosures, hardware, etc. Lots of different designs available. Also have a question about my master bath … the window is always open in there, pretty much year-round, and the door is always open unless there’s someone else hanging around. But the paint in that room gets moldy and/or starts lifting off. I don’t understand it at all. Do I need to install a fan even with all that fresh air coming through? Or is there something deeper going on, such as water damage in the walls? I live in a semi-arid climate with little rain and no humidity. Really, any advice on bathroom remodeling is welcome. Besides the showers, I need to replace the sink things (can’t remember what those are called at the moment), floors, and paint/paper. The toilets are almost new. I could also try a local bath remodeler. Have seen recommendations on NextDoor for that. I mean, I guess I’ll need one either way. Also, feel free to tell me if you think I’m insane to get rid of my only bath tub. thanks, peas. |
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seaexplore
Prolific Pea
Posts: 8,427
Apr 25, 2015 23:57:30 GMT
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Post by seaexplore on Dec 17, 2023 23:13:37 GMT
We have a jacuzzi in our master bath (90 gallon jetted) and I've used it exactly 2 times in the 20 years we've been here. I think my kids have used it more than me. Im just not a tub type of person. It sounded like a great idea when we built. Turns out it's just a collector for cat fur and clothes. LOL. We also have a walk in, no door, 2 shower head shower. Our hall bath has a tub/shower combo.
I'd think that you would want to keep a tub/shower combo in the downstairs bathroom (or guest/community bathroom) for resale value. A family with kids will want a tub for the kids.
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Post by lucyg on Dec 17, 2023 23:23:56 GMT
We have a jacuzzi in our master bath (90 gallon jetted) and I've used it exactly 2 times in the 20 years we've been here. I think my kids have used it more than me. Im just not a tub type of person. It sounded like a great idea when we built. Turns out it's just a collector for cat fur and clothes. LOL. We also have a walk in, no door, 2 shower head shower. Our hall bath has a tub/shower combo. I'd think that you would want to keep a tub/shower combo in the downstairs bathroom (or guest/community bathroom) for resale value. A family with kids will want a tub for the kids. I apologize because I didn’t clarify that Jacuzzi Bath Remodel would not involve installing an actual Jacuzzi. This company (or division) is just ripping out old bath tubs/showers and replacing them with more updated baths and shower enclosures, hardware, etc. Lots of different designs available. I got excited because they look so nice on TV.  Sorry, and thanks for the rest of your input. |
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Post by zztop11 on Dec 17, 2023 23:32:39 GMT
"I'd think that you would want to keep a tub/shower combo in the downstairs bathroom (or guest/community bathroom) for resale value. A family with kids will want a tub for the kids."
IMO, that is the old way of thinking. Enjoy your house and change it to a shower. At some point if you sell it just give them a credit.
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Post by littlemama on Dec 17, 2023 23:52:16 GMT
I would keep the tub/shower. If needed, there are shower chairs that go over the outside rim of the tub so you can sit on it from outside the tub and then scooch over.
If I had a small child and a house didnt have a tub, I wouldnt buy it. Buying a new house is very expensive, especially if it your first time and you have to buy EVERYTHING for it from furniture to yard equipment to spices. Most first timers arent going to be able to afford to put the tub back in.
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twinsmomfla99
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,987 
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Post by twinsmomfla99 on Dec 18, 2023 0:08:49 GMT
We have a huge jacuzzi tub that takes up so much space, and I would be seriously surprised if it has been used more than a dozen times during the 12 years we have lived here. I hate it, and with my knee/hip issues, I have never felt comfortable climbing in and out of it.
It’s coming out next summer, and the space that removal will free up will allow us to install a dry sauna and free-standing tub. We will reconfigure the shower and powder room and get rid of the ugly linen closet with those slatted bi-fold doors. This house was built in 2001, but the master bath just screams 1970s, 1980s.
ETA The jacuzzi tub was placed in such a way that it left a lot unused, wasted space. DH’s plans for the remodel will make better use of the bathroom space.
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Post by littlemama on Dec 18, 2023 0:12:07 GMT
We have a huge jacuzzi tub that takes up so much space, and I would be seriously surprised if it has been used more than a dozen times during the 12 years we have lived here. I hate it, and with my knee/hip issues, I have never felt comfortable climbing in and out of it. It’s coming out next summer, and the space that removal will free up will allow us to install a dry sauna and free-standing tub. We will reconfigure the shower and powder room and get rid of the ugly linen closet with those slatted bi-fold doors. This house was built in 2001, but the master bath just screams 1970s, 1980s. ETA The jacuzzi tub was placed in such a way that it left a lot unused, wasted space. DH’s plans for the remodel will make better use of the bathroom space. Lucy clarified later that Jacuzzi is the company name, but they are not installing a jacuzzi tub |
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Post by katlady on Dec 18, 2023 0:19:53 GMT
We eventually want to rip out the jacuzzi tub we have, replace it with something smaller and hopefully that means we can enlarge the shower a bit. The tub and shower are right next to each other. We have a second bathroom that we want to take out the tub completely and just have a large walk-in shower. There will still be a tub in the Master, and we aren't worried about resell value. We plan to live in this house for awhile yet. As for your mold/paint peeling issue, I feel like there is something going on. If you have fresh air circulating, and I know you live in a non-humid area, so there should not be paint peeling. Maybe it is just cheap paint. I would have someone look at it. I've seen the ads for the shower/tub enclosures. It seems fast and less expensive. I would have to do research and check out reviews before I went that route. I would keep the tub/shower. If needed, there are shower chairs that go over the outside rim of the tub so you can sit on it from outside the tub and then scooch over. My MIL did not like this. She still had to maneuver onto the chair and get her legs over the bathtub sides. She did not have the mobility to lift her legs high enough to get over the tub walls while sitting down. We did replace her tub with a walk-in shower. |
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snyder
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,956
Location: Colorado
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Post by snyder on Dec 18, 2023 0:23:02 GMT
I have been thinking of doing something similar. I don't think tubs are such a big deal any more.
If you have kids and need a tub, move onto the next home for sale. I do not think it would affect the resale value enough to blink about not having a tub. I say go for it.
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Post by Delta Dawn on Dec 18, 2023 0:28:50 GMT
Do you have an iPhone? I can show you the ensuite we have complete with new shower and jacuzzi.
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Post by Linda on Dec 18, 2023 0:30:32 GMT
honestly I think if you want just showers, put in just showers, especially if they'll be accessible- THAT will be a selling point and honestly - kids can use a shower just fine. Yes - you might lose buyers in the future for whom not having a bath is a dealbreaker but you'll gain buyers who want a lower floor walk-in shower (esp. if you have a bedroom on the lower floor)
The ground floor bathroom in this house was not a selling point for us - we were hoping for a walk-in shower but there were enough other pros to the house that we're making do. I do have and use a transfer bench in the shower though
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seaexplore
Prolific Pea
Posts: 8,427
Apr 25, 2015 23:57:30 GMT
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Post by seaexplore on Dec 18, 2023 0:32:49 GMT
I would keep the tub/shower. If needed, there are shower chairs that go over the outside rim of the tub so you can sit on it from outside the tub and then scooch over. If I had a small child and a house didnt have a tub, I wouldnt buy it. Buying a new house is very expensive, especially if it your first time and you have to buy EVERYTHING for it from furniture to yard equipment to spices. Most first timers arent going to be able to afford to put the tub back in. Yep- especially in CA! |
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Post by chedanemi on Dec 18, 2023 0:58:13 GMT
Whichever bed/bath combination you intend to use for yourself as you age, I would change to a walk-in shower. I'd probably keep a tub/shower combination in the lesser used bathroom.
I know nothing about the company you are referencing, but I strongly advise you to find a local contractor who has lots of experience in bathroom remodels. The waterproofing alone requires someone who really knows what they are doing; not a place advertised by some potential fly-by-night TV ad. Get suggestions from your local plumbing supply stores or even Home Depot/Lowes/Menards. Most of them keep lists of local contractors. Ask your neighbors or friends who have had bathroom work done for references.
For your tub/shower combination, I also highly recommend installing a one-piece unit with absolutely no seams for potential leaks. We had one of these in a prior house and loved it. Very easy to keep clean!
Additionally, have your contractor put blocking between the studs and install grab bars at the same time you do the remodel. You don't have to be old to appreciate the grab bar.
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Post by Basket1lady on Dec 18, 2023 3:02:45 GMT
Whichever bed/bath combination you intend to use for yourself as you age, I would change to a walk-in shower. I'd probably keep a tub/shower combination in the lesser used bathroom. I know nothing about the company you are referencing, but I strongly advise you to find a local contractor who has lots of experience in bathroom remodels. The waterproofing alone requires someone who really knows what they are doing; not a place advertised by some potential fly-by-night TV ad. Get suggestions from your local plumbing supply stores or even Home Depot/Lowes/Menards. Most of them keep lists of local contractors. Ask your neighbors or friends who have had bathroom work done for references. For your tub/shower combination, I also highly recommend installing a one-piece unit with absolutely no seams for potential leaks. We had one of these in a prior house and loved it. Very easy to keep clean! Additionally, have your contractor put blocking between the studs and install grab bars at the same time you do the remodel. You don't have to be old to appreciate the grab bar. I’d hesitate to leave myself without a tub. I’m not a bath-taker, but I use the tub for soaking dirty garments, quilts, washing, the dog, and hanging rain-wet, dripping clothes to dry. Whichever contractor you use, you’ll want to get 3 quotes. If one quote is particularly high or low, ask why. If you don’t have a usual contractor, ask your neighbors or on your local neighborhood app for recommendations. |
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Post by mom on Dec 18, 2023 3:14:26 GMT
I would keep the tub/shower. If needed, there are shower chairs that go over the outside rim of the tub so you can sit on it from outside the tub and then scooch over. If I had a small child and a house didnt have a tub, I wouldnt buy it. Buying a new house is very expensive, especially if it your first time and you have to buy EVERYTHING for it from furniture to yard equipment to spices. Most first timers arent going to be able to afford to put the tub back in. I agree. There is no chance I would buy a home without a tub (and I am not a first time home buyer). Yes, I can totally get a new one put in if I wanted it. But I wouldn't want to deal with that headache (it's never 'just' installing a new tub, you know?). |
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Post by quietgirl on Dec 18, 2023 3:33:58 GMT
About the paint lifting off /moldy thing... We had our bathroom re-modeled 3 yrs ago. Local contractor, really happy, for the most part. There was some water damage in the walls, which were fixed. They did install an exhaust fan That's always used. We saw that the paint lifting moldy looking thing was starting again. Just on the ceiling. My husband just re-painted the ceiling and used A high quality paint made for bathrooms. The contractor will use regular run of the mill paint. My husband researched and we ll see.
We only have one bathroom, its an old cape cod. But we did get rid of the tub. The contractor advised us to do what we wanted and not worry about a re sale value. We re 7-10 years out from moving anyway. Good luck on your renovation!
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Post by **GypsyGirl** on Dec 18, 2023 4:21:57 GMT
lucyg - Unless you are planning to sell the house in the next couple of years, do what you want to the bathrooms that fits your life for now and takes into account aging in place. There is no point in living in a house that doesn't fully work for you just to keep features that a hypothetical future buyer may or may not want. This is the viewpoint we finally developed after spending a chunk of the past 10 years remodeling our own ranch home with aging in place in mind - and we have no regrets about that. As for suggestions here are some of the things we did: a zero entry walk-in shower with free standing bench, low voltage lighting under the cabinet toe kicks, ADA height toilet. The zero entry to the shower has paid for itself more than once since we remodeled in 2017. DH has had 3 serious illnesses/hospitalizations in the past 2 years and that shower made life so much easier. I suggest you use a wall mounted head and a hand held head on a slider bar which allows you to use while seated on a bench or in a shower chair.
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Post by lucyg on Dec 18, 2023 7:41:47 GMT
Thanks, all of you, for the input. It’s very helpful.
Sorry I posted and ran. My mom has been ill and life has been crazy. But I’m finally motivated to get moving on these renovations.
I’ll check back again sometime tomorrow.
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Post by mammajamma on Dec 18, 2023 9:13:10 GMT
As for your peeling /moldy paint issue, I’m wondering if they didn’t use hardiback or seal properly behind the shower tile and moisture is getting in the drywall and wall interior. Sounds like something else going on.
I agree with thinking about ways to make the shower wheelchair / walker accessible with a low curb and wider shower door.
Make sure they use real wood or tile trim and not MDF in the bathroom. The MDF will swell with moisture.
I also really like a shower wand in addition to the shower head. It helps for cleaning the shower and easier to control the water if you have a surgery to avoid getting a body part wet. And it just feels nice to have water hitting you from 2 locations. So, if gutting a bathroom, I would try to have a wand. You will need to know this early in the process so the plumber can rough-in the plumbing for the shower head and wand both. You can have one diverter, or two different handles which will allow you to have 2 different temps.
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caangel
Drama Llama
Posts: 5,461
Location: So Cal
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Post by caangel on Dec 18, 2023 15:26:22 GMT
As for suggestions here are some of the things we did: a zero entry walk-in shower with free standing bench, low voltage lighting under the cabinet toe kicks, ADA height toilet. The zero entry to the shower has paid for itself more than once since we remodeled in 2017. DH has had 3 serious illnesses/hospitalizations in the past 2 years and that shower made life so much easier. I suggest you use a wall mounted head and a hand held head on a slider bar which allows you to use while seated on a bench or in a shower chair. Why a freestanding bench vs built in? We need to reno our two down stairs bathrooms, one is a 2nd main suite, definitely wanting to do a zero entry shower, grab bars and wand head option. Not sure if we will do/have space for a swinging door or keep the sliding door. |
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Post by katiescarlett on Dec 18, 2023 15:42:44 GMT
my advice is to get multiple bids on these projects. My dad wanted a tub/shower combo replaced with a walk in shower. The first bid he got from a company that "specializes" in this was $26,000. He recently got the job done for $3,000 by a local contractor.
We recently renovated both our bathrooms at our lake house. We put a large soaking tub in our master bath as both DH and I like soaking in the tub. We put a walk in shower in our other bathroom. I love our tub but I can foresee the day that it will be difficult to get in and out of it.
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Gravity
Pearl Clutcher
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Jun 27, 2014 0:29:55 GMT
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Post by Gravity on Dec 18, 2023 16:28:02 GMT
I would remodel for your needs, not those of a future buyer. If you have room to do it and the cost isn’t prohibitive, widen your downstairs bathroom door to accommodate a walker and/or wheelchair. My SIL uses a wheelchair. Since he has been in our family, my eyes have been opened to lack of accessibility in most homes.
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CeeScraps
Pearl Clutcher
~~occupied entertaining my brain~~
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Post by CeeScraps on Dec 18, 2023 21:41:01 GMT
First off if you don't use your tub don't put another in. Make it a walk in shower. We had a small shower and a soaker tub. We got rid of the tub, made that area the shower. The former shower area became a wonderful closet for towels, vacuum, meds and whatever else we needed in there. It was the absolute best money we spent on our former house.
You really only need one tub in a home. Keep that one and get rid of yours.
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Post by crazy4scraps on Dec 19, 2023 15:13:59 GMT
I’m on the bench of do what works for you now vs. the hypothetical family who might buy your house someday years from now. When our kid was little we mostly used one of those plastic baby tubs inside the tub up until she was big enough to stand on her own without slipping, and it would have worked just as well (if not better) in a walk in shower as in a bathtub. In fact, that thing was such a PITA to use when I had to lean over the side of the tub to bathe my kid, especially in this house because the bathtub in her bathroom has shower doors vs. a curtain and the soaking tub in the master has a wide side wall that’s hard to lean over. I also disagree with needing a tub for washing or soaking things, washing a dog, hanging wet stuff. All of that can also be done in a large shower. I soak things all the time in a big plastic tub in the main floor 3/4 bath which only has a shower. We wash our dog at the lake cabin—in the large walk in shower, which is actually MUCH easier to do than in a bathtub (ask me how I know ). My toy poodle is small enough for a bath in the laundry room sink, so again, no tub is needed for her. And I installed a tension rod with sliding shower curtain hooks across the end wall of our walk in at the lake cabin specifically for hanging up wet swimsuits. Works perfectly. As for your peeling paint lucyg my guess is that it’s probably a surface prep issue or something going on with the wall itself such as the wrong type of wallboard for a bathroom. Those are the things I would specifically ask about. |
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Post by Spongemom Scrappants on Dec 19, 2023 16:16:03 GMT
I know nothing about the company you are referencing, but I strongly advise you to find a local contractor who has lots of experience in bathroom remodels. The waterproofing alone requires someone who really knows what they are doing; not a place advertised by some potential fly-by-night TV ad. Get suggestions from your local plumbing supply stores or even Home Depot/Lowes/Menards. Most of them keep lists of local contractors. Ask your neighbors or friends who have had bathroom work done for references. my advice is to get multiple bids on these projects. My dad wanted a tub/shower combo replaced with a walk in shower. The first bid he got from a company that "specializes" in this was $26,000. He recently got the job done for $3,000 by a local contractor. Local contractor for sure -- the one that multiple people rave over when you start canvassing everyone for their recommendation. We intended to get multiple quotes when we remodeled our master bath last summer, but the highest recommended contractor came first and gave such a great price and a great timeline, we went with him and ended up very very happy. We took out a soaker tub to expand the shower to a his-and-hers. We each have our own end with a bench and handheld shower in the center. Best thing we ever did. We do have two other tub/shower combos in the house so taking the tub out of the master wasn't an issue. I may be old-school about it, but I'd be reluctant to not have a tub at all in a house. My view on this is definitely colored by the fact that I've moved soooo many times in my life and can't help but think about resale value. |
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Post by lurker on Dec 19, 2023 19:22:14 GMT
We've had the tub removed in every home. No problem selling. In our current home, when we had the main bath redone, we had a tiled shower installed. If I were doing it today, I would use a one-piece unit with grab rails, a shower wand, and some kind of seat. We're not getting any younger and those things would make showering so much easier.
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ETA Jacuzzi Bath Remodel would not involve installing an actual Jacuzzi. This company (or division) is just ripping out old bath tubs/showers and replacing them with more updated baths and shower enclosures, hardware, etc. Lots of different designs available.
