Choosing a Walk-In Tub Amy Smith, January 9, 2023September 21, 2023 What to Consider When Choosing a Walk-In Tub for Your Home Image Source: Freepik When choosing a walk-in tub for your home, there are many things to consider. Some of these are safety concerns, the amount of money you must spend, and the installation process. It would help if you also looked into financing options and other considerations. Financing Options When choosing a walk-in tub for your home, financing options are available from both manufacturers and sellers. Depending on the brand, there may be rebates throughout the year, or you may be able to apply for financing through a third-party lender. Walk-in tubs are designed to make bathing safer. They have a lower step threshold and built-in safety features and can help reduce the risk of falls and injuries. However, they can also be expensive. If you cannot afford a walk in tub installation on your own, many non-profit and government resources can help. Non-profit organizations can offer financial assistance, free labor, or grant funding. One program that can offer financial assistance is Rebuilding Together. It provides programs to help low-income individuals and older adults upgrade their homes. Another program is Habitat for Humanity. These affiliates partner with construction specialists and offer free labor and grants. Other options for financing include personal loans and reverse mortgages. Some lenders require credit checks and monthly income. Personal loans can be a quick and easy process and are a great way to reduce the cost of a walk-in bathtub. Many states have Medicaid programs. You will need to contact the agency in your state for more information. In some cases, Medicaid will pay for the costs of a new walk-in tub. This is particularly helpful when transitioning from a nursing facility to your home. Safety Concerns Many people choose walk-in tubs for their homes for many reasons. Besides convenience, they offer safety features. They also improve the value of your home. If you or a loved one is at risk of falling or you are a caregiver, a walk-in tub is a great option. While it is true that walk-in tubs are safer than traditional baths, there are some hidden issues that you need to know about. The best way to avoid them is to purchase your tub from a certified installer. Make sure they are experienced in remodeling and plumbing work. Also, they should install your tub according to local building codes. The door is one of the essential parts of your new walk-in tub. A poorly designed one can cause flooding. In addition, the controls may be difficult to reach from a seated position. Other safety features include low threshold entry, handrails, and a built-in seat. These features make your bathing experience much more comfortable. Another feature that makes walk-in tubs safer is their non-slip flooring. It’s essential to ensure that your new tub is made of a slip-resistant material. Walk-in tubs can be purchased directly from a manufacturer or various online retailers. Once you have a model in mind, you can start the ordering process. Some manufacturers will send a representative to your home to measure the space in your bathroom. They’ll help you choose the best model for your needs. Often, they will also recommend a contractor to install the tub. Cost and Installation If you are thinking about installing a walk-in tub in your home, there are many factors that you should consider. Depending on the size of the tub and the number of fixtures you wish to install, the cost can vary significantly. For a standard, full-size walk-in tub, the cost can range from $500 to over $1000. It depends on the brand you choose and the degree of customization that you require. The installation costs can also increase depending on the plumbing upgrades you need. Walk-in bathtubs can help people who have trouble getting in and out of conventional tubs. A walk-in tub is usually placed in an alcove where an existing tub is already installed. However, it is essential to note that not all homes have the plumbing and electrical systems to support these tubs. You may need to make substantial changes to your plumbing and electrical systems to accommodate a walk-in tub. Electrical changes can run hundreds to thousands of dollars. This is especially true if you are attempting to fit a jetted or whirlpool tub. Some home improvement stores and online retailers sell walk-in bathtubs. If you plan on buying a tub from these sources, be sure to get multiple quotes. Alternatively, you can purchase a walk-in bathtub directly from a manufacturer. Many manufacturers offer a warranty on their door seal and other parts. These warranties can vary from retailer to retailer, however. Options for Seniors or People with Mobility Issues You have many options if you’re looking for a walk-in tub for your home. You can choose from different styles and features, such as whirlpool or aromatherapy models. Walk-in tubs have built-in features that make them safe and easy to use. They have textured flooring to reduce the chance of slipping. Some models feature a shower and a handheld shower. The doors on these tubs have a swing-out feature that makes them easier to enter and exit. In addition, they are watertight. This feature is a big help for people with disabilities. Many walk-in tubs have a built-in seat. These chairs are usually soft, but some come with a heated feature. The seat is a safety feature for older adults who cannot stand for long periods. You can also purchase a model that has a built-in handrail. A handicap-accessible walk-in tub has a wide, swinging door that makes it easy for the elderly to get in and out. Share on FacebookTweetFollow usSave For the Home