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Deciding what to do with the corner tub in a 1990s or 2000s primary bath.

Article · by Aleksey Kushchuk

Garden Tub or Big Shower? Planning a Puyallup Primary Bath

Deciding what to do with the corner tub in a 1990s or 2000s primary bath. Last updated 2026-11-03

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The quick answer

If you rarely use the corner garden tub in your Puyallup primary bath, turning that space into a large walk-in shower usually gives you more value every day. If you love baths, a freestanding tub takes less visual space than a deck tub and can sit beside a bigger shower.

Option 1: walk-in shower takes the tub space

The most common choice. The old shower stall can become storage or a larger vanity area, and the new shower can include a bench and niches.

Option 2: freestanding tub plus better shower

A freestanding tub on a tiled floor looks lighter than a deck tub. Pair it with a rebuilt shower if the room is large enough.

Option 3: wet room

In larger primary baths, a glassed-in wet area with a tub inside the shower zone is possible. It needs careful waterproofing across the whole floor.

Questions to answer first

  • How often does anyone take a bath?
  • Is there another tub in the house?
  • Are you planning to sell soon?
  • Do you need easier access now or later?

Planning a Puyallup bathroom?

White Saber is based next door in Edgewood. Call or text 253-269-8610 for a free quote.

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Questions

Three quick questions

Does removing the only tub hurt resale?

If no other tub exists, it may matter to some buyers. A tub elsewhere solves it.

Are freestanding tubs hard to clean around?

Leave enough room around them and they are easy to keep clean.

What is a wet room?

A waterproofed zone where the tub and shower share one enclosed space.