Walk-in tubs have grown massively in popularity and for good reason.
They not only help to increase the value of your home but have the ability to drastically improve your quality of life.
With so many tubs on the market today, the price of walk-in bathtubs drastically differs.
It is an investment that could change your life forever.
If you are looking to remodel your existing bathroom, or you are starting from scratch with your new home, installing a walk-in bathtub could be the most important decision you make.
The price of walk-in tubs could inevitably decide whether or not your bathroom is transformed into a haven of HYDROTHERAPY or not.
A New Bathing Solution
Walk-in tubs are a great invention and solution for seniors and individuals with mobility problems.
With the arrival of these tubs, the bariatric design brings water therapy into your home.
It also provides a luxurious bathing solution for those looking to increase the value of their homes with a bathroom investment.
But with so many options available today, choosing one can be quite challenging.
It is important to understand what your requirements are so that you don’t end up overspending on your budget.
Now you don’t need to overspend on something you won’t end up using anyway.
Here are a few things to consider before you buy.
1. Hidden Cost
The price for walk-in bathtubs you initially get inevitably differs from the price you finally pay.
There could also be many potential hidden costs and extras you didn’t even consider when making the purchase.
2. Installations
Installation charges could be included in your price, or as an additional extra.
Your bathroom floor may need extra structural support to handle the extra weight of a walk-in tub when filled to capacity.
It’s important to enquire about ALL the charges involved when purchasing a new walk-in tub.
2. Size Matters
Depending on your bathroom layout, the size of the walk-in tub you choose matters more than you realize.
You may need to have your door frames removed to even get the tub into your bathroom, which drastically adds to the overhead price for walk-in tubs.
Fortunately, they come in many different sizes, shapes, and designs, and with some luck, you may find one that fits through your doorways without any hassle.
3. Low Threshold
The entrance to your walk-in tub generally varies between just under 4”, or just over 6”.
Some of the industry’s leaders even offer an ultra-low step-in level of under 4”.
The question, however, still remains whether or not there is a massive difference between 4” and 5” that justifies the hike in price for walk-in baths.
In truth, the difference of 1″ is nearly irrelevant when considering the installation of your walk-in tub.
Your existing tub will be removed, which leaves 0.75″ – 1.25″ for the new tub to be recessed in.
This will naturally lower a 5″ step-in access to a 4″ anyway.
Depending on your specific needs, a low threshold may not be as important as saving the extra money.
4. Materials
A walk-in bathtub’s price will vary depending on the material you choose.
A fiberglass walk-in tub is usually more affordable, but more prone to be affected by mold.
Acrylic tubs will cost you more.
5. Water Bills
Be assured that you will notice an increase in your monthly water bill.
The average walk-in tub can take anywhere from 40 – 80 gallons of water at a time.
This will ad long-term costs to the walk-in tub’s price.
6. Warranty
Always query the tub’s warranty.
Some manufacturers offer a lifetime limited warranty while others offer none at all.
A warranty is essential on all mechanical parts, tub body, and frame, door seal, and other accessories.
This is a necessary cost that may increase the walk-in bath’s price.
7. Made In America
Purchasing a tub produced in the United States is far better than purchasing one designed abroad.
Ordering parts from overseas will naturally take longer to arrive.
Prices for walk-in bathtubs could be drastically underestimated when considering replacement parts that are not locally produced.
8. Options vs Essential
Some manufacturers consider some very essential items as optional extras.
Essential is, of course, a matter of opinion, but when considering your unique requirements, many items deemed optional actually become essential.
Essential extras may include:
Prices for walk-in baths will increase when adding an in-line heater, but they are definitely essential.
The in-line water heater regulates the water temperature.
It allows you to finish up without feeling rushed so you’re not left shivering in the tub.
Without an in-line heater, your bathing could turn into a very unpleasant experience.
You may also have to update your water heater, and this requires an additional electrical outlet.
Be prepared for an increase in utility costs too.
9. Faucets etc…
Prices for walk-in tubs sometimes do not include essentials like safety grab-bars, faucets, waste and overflow kits, and shower sprayers.
Be sure to check out what isn’t included with your new walk-in tub before you decide to make the payment.
Many tubs from trusted manufacturers do come standard with these features included in the price.
10. Jetting Options
Tubs are often available as normal SOAKER, but the top manufacturers also offer their tub models in AIR massage, HYDRO jetted, or DUAL combo massager.
Walk-in tubs have taken HYDROTHERAPY to new heights, and if you are purchasing a tub for some much-needed therapy, jets are essential.
These features are amazing, and they help to treat joint pain, depression, diabetes, and several other conditions with well-documented results.
If you have the extra cash, adding these spa-like features to your walk-in tub is a must.
11. Overall Cost
Depending on the features you want, walk-in bathtub prices will vary considerably.
In the end, it’s all about personal preference, and of course your budget.
It’s extremely important to understand exactly what your unique requirements are before you commit to purchasing a tub.
