Shower Stall: Install New or Repair?

While you can make your bathroom more inviting by changing accessories and perhaps switching out your old southwestern metal wall artwork for new cityscape metal wall decor, some changes are more than simply decorative. Remodeling your bathroom takes a lot of time, energy, and effort, and this includes answering tough questions. From the ceiling to the floor, you have to decide which bathroom components should be replaced, repaired, or remodeled, depending on a variety of factors. This cheat sheet will help you decide between repairing your shower stall and installing a new one. Keep in mind that this type of decision can be big, and if you have any questions you should go see an expert at your local home improvement store for the most professional and cost-efficient answers.

Choosing To Repair

• Pros

Repairing the shower stall is likely the cheapest option, so if budget is your primary concern, it is likely the best choice. A simple repair can also be a fast fix to your renovation project, ensuring that the shower stall works correctly even if it is a bit dated. Repairing that old shower stall is often as simple as calling a professional plumber to come and do the work for you, so you have time to finish other remodeling or renovation projects in your bathroom. Basic plumbing repairs, new tile and a new showerhead are projects that you may be able to do yourself, saving money while giving your bathroom an updated look.

• Cons

Hiring a professional can cost quite a bit of money, but you should never attempt this type of repair job, especially a potentially complicated repair, without at least consulting with someone who knows what they are doing. Unless you have plumbing experience, you could wind up making the problem much worse. In addition, repairing that old dated shower stall may still leave you with the same old eyesore in what would otherwise be considered a modern and stylish bathroom. Although this is the cheaper option, it is not always the best option, especially if you are hoping to sell your house someday.

Installing New

• Pros

Installing a new shower stall can be a great way to modernize your bathroom, whether it is a guest bathroom or your master bath. A modern and stylish bathroom is inviting and sophisticated, adding value to your home. Installing new can also be a great opportunity to expand your current shower space or downgrade to a smaller shower, with some help from a carpenter and plumber. This can create more room for other needs or wants in this area, such as additional vanity space, storage for bathroom-related items, a bathtub, or simply reduce wasted space.

• Cons

Obviously, the biggest drawback is that it can cost a lot of money to install a new stall, and if budget is your deciding factor, this is likely not the best option. You will be forced to pay for the new shower stall, installation, labor, delivery, and other charges from some companies, unless you choose to purchase the new stall, and then take it home and install it yourself. Unless you have extensive plumbing experience, this is likely not a good idea, because it can lead to more expense, not to mention wasted time and effort, in the long run.