Homeowners across New Hampshire and Massachusetts are rethinking their bathrooms. Maybe your tub hasn’t been used in years, or your shower tiles are starting to look a little worn. When that happens, most people face a familiar question:
Should you go for a tub-to-shower conversion, or dive into a full bathroom remodel?
There isn’t one right answer. The best choice depends on your home’s layout, your budget, and how much change you’re really looking for. Let’s take a closer look at both options so you can decide what fits your situation best.
1. The Tub-to-Shower Conversion — Fast, Practical, and Affordable
For many homeowners in Exeter, Merrimack, and Laconia, a tub-to-shower conversion is the perfect middle ground. It gives you a fresh, modern space without tearing apart the whole room.
Why Homeowners Choose It
- Speed: A typical tub-to-shower conversion can often be completed in as little as a day or two. That means less disruption to your routine and no long wait times.
- Cost: It’s usually far less expensive than a full remodel since plumbing stays mostly in place.
- Functionality: Many families no longer use their bathtubs. Converting to a spacious, walk-in shower makes daily life easier, especially for older adults or anyone with mobility issues.
Most modern systems use durable acrylic or composite materials designed to fit right over your existing structure. They’re easy to clean, resist mildew, and hold up beautifully against New England’s humidity.
If you’re dealing with an older home — and plenty of houses in Merrimack or Dracut fall into that category — a conversion also avoids the surprises that sometimes come with full gut remodels, like outdated wiring or plumbing hidden behind walls.
2. The Full Bathroom Remodel — Total Transformation
A full remodel is a bigger investment, but it gives you a blank slate. Instead of working around what’s already there, you can redesign the layout from the ground up.
When It’s Worth Considering
- You want to change the footprint. Maybe the shower is cramped, or the toilet is in an awkward spot. A full remodel lets you move fixtures and improve flow.
- Your bathroom needs serious updates. If the plumbing, wiring, or subfloor are showing their age, a remodel is the safer long-term choice.
- You’re planning to sell. Updated bathrooms are a major selling point, especially in competitive markets like Newburyport or Wilmington, MA. A full remodel can make your home more appealing and raise resale value.
Homeowners who go this route often incorporate heated floors, custom tile work, or built-in storage, turning the bathroom into a true retreat. It takes longer and costs more, but the results can be stunning — and built to last decades.
3. Comparing the Two: Cost, Time, and Value
| Factor | Tub-to-Shower Conversion | Full Remodel |
| Timeline | 1–2 days | 2–4 weeks |
| Average Cost (NH/MA) | $5,000–$12,000 | $15,000–$35,000+ |
| Disruption | Minimal | Moderate to High |
| Customization | Moderate | Unlimited |
| Resale Impact | Moderate | High |
Conversions shine when you need a fast, functional upgrade. Full remodels make sense if your home needs deeper improvements or if you plan to stay long-term and want a personal design statement.
4. What Local Homeowners Are Saying
In smaller New Hampshire towns like Laconia, homeowners often prefer tub-to-shower conversions for convenience and quick turnaround. But in Newburyport, where older coastal homes have more character, residents tend to invest in full remodels that align with the home’s style and long-term value.
No matter where you live, the trend is clear — people want bathrooms that feel open, bright, and easy to maintain. Both options can achieve that, but the right one depends on how much time and money you’re ready to invest.
5. Key Takeaways Before You Decide
- If your goal is simplicity, go with a tub-to-shower conversion. You’ll get an updated, modern space without the downtime.
- If you want a full refresh or layout change, a complete remodel gives you total control and higher resale potential.
- If your home is older, get a professional inspection before deciding. Sometimes what’s behind the walls can influence which route makes more sense.
Final Thoughts
Whether you live in a modern condo in Wilmington or a vintage home in Exeter, your bathroom should be a space that fits your lifestyle — not the other way around.
A tub-to-shower conversion can breathe new life into a dated bathroom quickly, while a full remodel offers the chance to build something entirely new. Either way, investing in your bathroom isn’t just about style; it’s about daily comfort and long-term value for your home.