A walk-in bathtub can be an easy solution to an age old problem. Traditional bathtubs often present a risky situation for aging seniors and people with mobility issues. These special tubs normally have doors that open and close. They appear at senior living centers and retirement communities across the globe.
If you are worried about bathroom safety, consider installing a walk-in tub during your next bathroom remodeling project.
How do walk-in bathtubs work?
Walk-in tubs typically come equipped with a door that opens and closes on the front or side of the bathtub. The door allows the user to enter the tub without having to lift their legs over the threshold, as with traditional bathtubs.
Thanks to the sealing on these doors, water stays in the tub without flooding the floor. Walk-in bathtubs are have fast draining capabilities that are included with many of these tubs. This means that users don’t need to sit in the tub too long for it to drain all the water.
Walk-in tubs usually require professional installation. The tubs can include a variety of features, including adjustable bubble jets, handrails, adjustable shower heads and inside-the-tub seating.
Most walk-in bathtub vendors offer a variety of models. Look around for door designs, as the shape and size can affect access and the look of a room.
You can expect to pay roughly R25 000 for a lower-end model and up to R100 000 for one with extra features.
If you cannot hire a professional to install a walk-in bathtub, you might need to consider a portable model. These models hook up to an existing faucet, but do not require the installation and remodeling involved in installing a permanent walk-in tub.
What is good about walk-in tubs?
If a walk-in bathtub is on your wish list, a quick review of the advantages and disadvantages will be in order. The first and most obvious advantage is that a walk-in bathtub makes bathing easier for people with mobility issues.
In addition to the door, these bathtubs are design to prevent slipping. They feature handrails, seats and textured pads that help users keep their heads above water.
Walk-in tubs also remove the need for a sliding shower door, which is a danger to seniors.
Installing a walk-in bath is not only safer but it also raises the value of your home, especially if it is located in a retirement community.
What is the bad side of walk-in bathtubs?
There are some disadvantages to using walk-in tubs. First, you must enter the tub and shut the door before you can turn on the water.
It could be difficult to get the right temperature while you are getting impatient and even chilly.
Waiting for the tub to drain before you get out, is another factor to consider. Even though many of the walk-in bathtub manufacturers have addressed these problems with fast-filling faucets, fast-moving drains and temperature controls, these features add a lot to the total cost of the project.
Due to the size of the tubs,some people require new, powerful water heaters in order to use the tub properly.
If that applies to you, you need to add the expense of a new water heater to the total cost of your project.
