If you’re staring at an outdated bathtub and wondering if it’s time to trade it in for a modern walk-in shower, you aren’t alone. For many homeowners in the Fargo-Moorhead area, the “Tub vs. Shower” debate is the starting point for every bathroom renovation.
Choosing between the two isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality, home value, and how much time you want to spend scrubbing grout. Here is how to decide which option wins for your North Dakota home.
The Case for the Walk-In Shower
In modern home design, walk-in showers have become the gold standard. Here is why Fargo homeowners are increasingly opting for conversions:
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Accessibility & Safety: As we think about “aging in place,” removing the high ledge of a tub eliminates the #1 trip hazard in the bathroom. Zero-threshold entries are a game-changer for long-term safety.
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Space Optimization: Most standard Fargo bathrooms are tight. Replacing a bulky alcove tub with a glass-enclosed walk-in shower instantly makes a small room feel double its actual size.
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The “Onyx” Advantage: In Fargo, our water can be tough on surfaces. By choosing a walk-in shower with an Onyx Collection surround, you eliminate grout entirely. That means no mold, no scrubbing, and a lifetime guarantee against leaks.
The Case for Keeping the Tub
While showers are trending, the bathtub still has its place in specific scenarios:
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Young Families: If your home is in a neighborhood like Horace or West Fargo with lots of young families, having at least one bathtub in the house is essential for resale value.
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The “Soaker” Lifestyle: If a hot soak is your primary way to relax after a long ND winter, a modern freestanding tub or a deep soaking basin might be your best bet.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Walk-In Shower | Standard Bathtub |
| Ease of Entry | Excellent (Low or No Threshold) | Difficult (14″–20″ Step-over) |
| Cleaning | Easy (Especially with Onyx panels) | Hard (Deep bending/reaching) |
| Water Usage | Generally Lower (Average 12 gal) | Higher (Average 25–40 gal) |
| Resale Value | High (Highly desired by buyers) | Essential (If it’s the only one in the home) |
The Fargo Resale Myth: “Will removing my tub hurt my home value?”
This is the most common question we hear. The short answer? Usually, no.
As long as your home has one other bathtub (typically in a second bathroom or the basement), converting your primary or master bath into a luxury walk-in shower actually increases marketability. Most modern buyers in the Fargo market prioritize a high-end shower experience over a tub they’ll rarely use.
Considering a conversion? Learn more about the cost of a tub-to-shower conversion in North Dakota.
The Best of Both Worlds: The Onyx Collection
Whether you choose a walk-in shower or a new tub, the material you use matters. At The Bathroom Store, we recommend the Onyx Collection for Fargo homes because it bridges the gap between luxury and low maintenance.
With over 50 colors and a non-porous surface, you can have the look of a high-end stone spa without the maintenance nightmare of traditional tile.
Which Is Right for You?
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Choose a Walk-In Shower if: You want a safer bathroom, hate cleaning grout, or want to modernize a cramped master suite.
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Choose a Tub if: You have small children, or this is the only bathroom in the house and you plan to sell soon.
Get a Professional Opinion
Not sure if your current layout supports a walk-in shower? We’ve performed hundreds of tub-to-shower conversions in Fargo and can help you visualize the best use of your space.
Schedule Your Free Design Consultation Today
Jayden Chuppe is the General Manager and Owner of The Bathroom Store, North Dakota’s premier bathroom remodeling specialist. With nearly two decades of experience in the home improvement industry, Jayden has built a reputation for excellence, overseen by his commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design. From tub-to-shower conversions to full-scale renovations, Jayden ensures that every project at The Bathroom Store meets the highest standards of durability and aesthetics. His goal is to help North Dakota homeowners transform their outdated bathrooms into functional, beautiful sanctuaries they can enjoy for a lifetime.
