Are Home Walk-In Bathtubs Practical?
Residential walk-in bathtubs are said to be age-proof, can improve home value, and maximize the ability to shower independently. How practical are they in regular homes?
Installation Costs
How do the installation costs of residential walk-in bathtubs compare to regular bathtubs? Home walk-in bathtubs are more expensive to install. These bathtubs average $2,000 to $20,000 uninstalled. The installation cost will increase based on size, complexity, and time spent.
Since residential walk-in bathtubs are expensive, it makes sense to install one if you have long-term uses for it. For example, if you're injured, recovery and therapy might take months or years. This means spending months struggling to perform tasks such as bathing and cleaning.
A walk-in bathtub can make bathing easier for people with disabilities or limited mobility due to injuries. Similarly, walk-in bathtubs can maximize bathing comfort if you or your parents are approaching your gray years.
Water Usage
Residential walk-in bathtubs are thought to be bigger than standard bathtubs. This is why homeowners rarely consider installing them because of space considerations. Interestingly, most walk-in bathtubs are 60 inches long and 32 inches wide, which is comparable to a standard bathtub. This means that water usage should be similar.
Additional Features
Standard bathtubs have basic features, and you are often forced to spend more to enjoy features such as non-slip flooring, handrails, and over tub seats. Fortunately, these are features you can get as part of a package if you choose to buy a walk-in bathtub.
Benefits for Seniors
For a child or adult with no disability or injuries, a residential walk-in bathtub isn't practical. You will spend too much on a bathtub upgrade and features that you don't necessarily need. However, seniors could use the upgrade and most of the features offered.
For example, home walk-in bathtubs come with handrails and non-slip flooring. These features make baths more convenient and comfortable for seniors. The non-slip flooring helps avoid slipping, which often plagues most seniors. The handrails make it easy for seniors and caregivers in and out of the walk-in bathtub.
Should You Install a Residential Walk-In Bathtub?
As seen above, these walk-in bathtubs offer many benefits, especially to seniors, people living with disabilities, arthritis, or recovering from injuries. These residential walk-in bathtubs are practical and can be a great addition to your bathroom.
For more information about home walk-in bathtubs, contact a company such as We Improve For You.
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