Just like all the other fixtures and appliances around your home, your bathtub or shower will eventually reach the end of its natural lifecycle. Many homeowners think that they can try and get by with an under-performing product, but an outdated tub or shower poses more than just an issue around aesthetics—delaying a much-needed shower or tub replacement could result in structural damage and even decrease the resale value of your home.
Bath Center of Seattle is a trusted bathroom remodeling company that's been delivering high-quality solutions to homeowners throughout Seattle and the surrounding region since 1995. We understand that oftentimes homeowners don't know what to look for to determine if their bathtub or shower is due for replacing, so below are our top 5 signs that it's time to invest in a new fixture.
1. Chipped or Cracked Surface
When the outermost layer of your bathtub or shower begins collecting scratches, chips or cracks, it's time to schedule a bathtub or shower replacement. These types of blemishes are more than just eyesores—these are breaches in the waterproofness of your fixture. Cracks and chips allow for water to seep through, potentially leading to water damage down the line. Additionally, you may be able to feel the chip or crack while utilizing your tub or shower, making your experience much less comfortable!
2. Visible or Hidden Water Leaks
If you notice water pooling around the base of your tub or shower or constant dripping from the faucet, you most likely have a water leak. Water leaks can be disastrous, oftentimes leading to serious headaches if left unattended, like:
- Damage to Floors or Ceilings
- Mold and Mildew Growth
- Rotted Drywall or Support Beams
- Increased Water Bills
Sometimes, water leaks are hard to pinpoint. One way to check for leaks is to fill your bathtub and see if water begins slowly draining while the plug is still in.
3. Difficult to Keep Clean
A brand-new tub or shower should be able to stay clean with minimal maintenance on your end. When you find yourself constantly scrubbing your tub or shower but stains still persist, it may be time to schedule a shower or bathtub replacement. As the protective finish on your fixture begins wearing off, the material becomes more porous, allowing for bacteria, dirt and grime to start settling into your tub or shower.
4. Presence of Mold or Mildew
Mold and mildew thrive in wet or moist areas, making your bathtub or shower a potential breeding grounds for these unwanted fungi. Mold and mildew can cause a variety of personal health issues as well as problems with your home's structure, such as:
- Allergic Reactions
- Respiratory Issues
- Rotted Wood
- Damaged Drywall
- Weakened Flooring
If mold and mildew continually return to your bathroom despite regular cleaning and scrubbing, it's time to contact a trusted bathroom remodeler.
5. Issues with Accessibility
If you worry about slipping and falling while stepping into or out of your tub or shower, you may want to consider scheduling an ADA-compliant remodel, such as a walk-in bathtub or a barrier-free shower. These specialized products can make any bathroom instantly feel safer and more accessible through design features like:
- Little-to-No Threshold
- Built-In Seating
- Non-Slip Flooring
- Anti-Scald Technology
- Grab Bars
- Accessible Controls
Bath Center can complete a wide variety of remodeling solutions, from standard bathtub and shower replacements to bathroom conversions to accessible bathroom remodels. We install Luxury Bath products, which come with many impressive benefits, including resistance to chipping, cracking, staining, and the growth of mold or mildew. Reach out to our expert crew today for a free estimate on any of our one-day bathroom remodeling services, and to learn more about all that we can do for your Seattle area home.
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