In a Nutshell
pros
- Simple user interface
- Promotes small to mid-sized home-grown businesses
- Contractors contact you directly via phone or text
cons
- No blog or FAQ section
- No comprehensive list of vendors
Walk-in Tubs for Seniors at a Glance
Products
Safety Features
Therapeutic Features
Customization Options
Offers
Walk-In Tubs for Seniors at a Glance
Best for
Comparing quotes from multiple local vendors
Average price range
$10,000 - $15,000 (with installation)
Warranty
Depends on the contractor
Therapy types
Hydrotherapy, chromotherapy, air jets
Main safety features
Low step-in threshold, handrails, wide door, built-in seat, anti-slip flooring
Tub Types
Tub models vary across companies. The contractor you choose will give you a thorough breakdown of the different walk-in tubs they manufacture based on your requirement and budget. Here’s a general understanding of the various tubs you will likely encounter in the market.
Standard walk-in tubs
These are the most basic and affordable soaking walk-in tubs, and include the bare minimum features. You’re looking at two major features—a watertight door with a low threshold and an anti-slip coating on the tub floor.
Hydromassage walk-in tubs
These tubs come at almost double the price of standard models and offer the added benefit of therapeutic massage. A combination of hydro jets and air bubbles helps improve blood circulation and mobility. Hydromassage tubs are highly recommended for seniors who suffer from aching joints and muscles.
Combination walk-in tubs
Combine two or more therapeutic benefits, like aromatherapy and chromotherapy, and you have a combination tub. You can also opt for premium features like a heated backrest, control panel, fast drains, and a handheld shower.
Wheelchair-accessible bariatric tubs
Many bathtub companies have started designing heavy-duty walk-in baths for large bathers. Though the basic design of these tubs is similar to standard models, they are equipped with wider frames, doors, and seats. The spacious design model also allows easy wheelchair accessibility for those with mobility impairments.
Pricing
Once you fill out the form on the website, Walk-In Tubs for Seniors will send your contact information to the available contractors in your area. Within a day, you will likely receive a text or call from up to four contractors for an in-home consultation, following which you will get a free price quote. Some companies may even ask you to fill out a short survey and attach photos of your entire bathroom before the consultation.
While every manufacturer has a unique price structure, the ballpark figures for walk-in tubs across various companies tend to be similar to maintain competitive rates. For your reference, below is Kohler's price structure for their tubs.
Tub Type
Price Range (excluding installation costs)
Standard walk-in tub
$2000-$5000
Hydromassage walk-in tub
$5000-$10000
Combination walk-in tub
$10000-$15000
Bariatric Tubs
$10000-$25000
In addition to these price points, you will have to factor in the cost of extra accessories, labor, and installation.
Walk-in Tub Features
Bathing can be a strenuous task if you are older or have mobility impairments, and that’s why safety features are crucial components of walk-in tubs. They provide easy accessibility and lower the risk of falls when bathing. While most walk-in tubs come with basic safety features, you will have to pay a greater price for more high-end features. Some safety features include the following.
Low step-in threshold: With lower thresholds, you won’t have to bend your knees to get into the bathtub, lowering the risk of tripping. Some companies like Kohler offer thresholds as low as 3 to 4 inches.
Handrails: For extra stability, handrails are attached to the interior of the bathtub. You will even find tubs with indented side frame handrails for added support while getting in and out of your seat.
Built-in seats: These seats eliminate the need to sit all the way down in the tub, making for a more comfortable bathing experience. A built-in seat also reduces bathroom injuries that occur due to slips.
Anti-slip flooring: Provides a strong and secure grip for your feet, lowering your chances of falling.
Walk-in Tub Installation
The manufacturer you choose will assign a certified specialist to install a new walk-in tub. Many walk-in tubs can be set up within a day, but the installation period ultimately comes down to your bathroom’s layout, plumbing, and electrical outputs. Note that including additional features like hydrotherapy and air jets may prolong the installation due to the extra plumbing work. Plus, you may have to pay a labor fee to remove your old tub.
Warranty
While most industry-leading names like Kohler, American Standard, and Independent Home offer a lifetime warranty on their walk-in bathtubs, a handful of companies carry only a limited 10-15 year warranty. Either way, opt for dealer-provided installers for repairs and maintenance, as this tends to be a condition of the warranty with most companies.
Summary
Walk-In Tubs for Seniors is a website that gives you access to multiple contractors on a single platform. This service facilitates a quick price and feature comparison to choose the most suitable walk-in bathtub for your home.
Once you’ve keyed in your details, it directs you to a page with a list of walk-in tub manufacturers in your location. The website also sends your contact information to these contractors so that they can get in touch with you for a price estimate via email or telephone.