Why Buy Your Shower or Bathtub from a Specialty Store?
When undertaking a bathroom renovation project, choosing where to buy your shower or bathtub is crucial. While big-box stores may seem convenient, specialty stores offer significant added value.
According to a 2024 CIBC survey, 49% of Canadians planning renovations said that 39% of those renovations involved the bathroom. It is essential to make informed choices from the very beginning.
1. Expert advice for your bathroom project
Buying a shower or bathtub isn’t just about choosing a model you like. There are several factors to consider: dimensions, plumbing, installation, materials, and the layout of the room.
At a specialty store, you’ll receive personalized assistance. In fact, 83% of American homeowners have hired a professional to help them renovate their main bathroom. [statista.com]. This shows that this type of project requires real expertise.
👉 The result: fewer mistakes, better product choices, and a more effectively planned project.
2. Superior Quality for a Long-Term Investment
A bathroom renovation is a significant investment, often costing $15,000 or more.
Given this, choosing high-quality products is essential. Specialty stores select showers and bathtubs designed to last, featuring durable materials and high-quality finishes.
In contrast, big-box stores often offer standardized products that are less durable in the long run.
👉 Good to know: A bathroom renovation typically recoups between 60% and 70% of its cost when the home is sold, depending on the type of project and the local market [buildwithrr.ca]
3. A shower or bathtub customized to fit your space
Today, the bathroom has become a true space for relaxation.
At a specialty store, you can customize your shower or bathtub:
- Custom dimensions
- Choice of materials
- Colors and finishes with Inspira
- Types of glass and accessories
- Choice of wall
👉 Unlike at big-box stores, you adapt the product to your needs—not the other way around.
4. Avoid costly renovation mistakes
Renovation projects often exceed estimates:
- 34% stay within their budget, while 39% go over it. Houzz, U.S. Houzz & Home Study 2024
- Unforeseen expenses account for a significant portion of the costs
Choosing the wrong shower or bathtub can lead to:
- Costly adjustments
- Additional delays
- Installation issues
👉 In-store assistance helps prevent these mistakes from the start.
5. See and compare products before buying
One of the major advantages of a specialty store is the in-store experience.
You can:
- See the actual materials
- Compare finishes
- Verify quality
This is particularly important given that many consumers prioritize durable, low-maintenance materials.
👉 A detail that’s hard to assess online or at a big-box store.
6. Reliable and personalized customer service
A renovation doesn’t end with the purchase.
At a specialty store, you’ll enjoy:
- Personalized support
- Efficient customer service
- Direct contact with experts
👉 A key advantage in a project involving multiple steps and collaborators.
Conclusion: Specialty Store or Big-Box Retailer?
Choosing between a big-box retailer and a specialty store for your shower or bathtub shouldn’t come down to price alone.
With:
- Higher budgets
- Technical considerations
- A direct impact on your comfort
👉 A specialty store stands out as the strategic choice.
You’re investing not only in a product, but also in expertise, superior quality, and peace of mind.
Quickly find a store near you using the online store locator.
