Most standard bathtub styles can be a safety hazard for many older adults and people with mobility issues. In fact, researchers have found that one in three adults in the U.S. has trouble getting in and out of a traditional bathtub. Thus, you should consider investing in a walk-in bathtub, which is a convenient and safe alternative. Not only is it easier to access, but it also offers increased relaxation. Some models come with water jets to help you relax as the jets massage your body and relieve your sore muscles.
If this is your first time shopping for a new walk-in tub, you need to get it right. South Shore Dream Bath, known for top-quality bathtub and shower replacement services, shares four common mistakes you should avoid when shopping for one.
1. Prioritizing Price Over Quality
Quality matters more than the price when purchasing a walk-in tub. It can be tempting to choose the cheapest one you find, but while it may offer savings upfront, it will cost you more later on. Instead, find a bathtub from a certified brand that has passed tests by the American National Standards Institute. This way, you can be sure that your new walk-in tub is made of durable materials and that all fixtures and fittings are reliable.
2. Forgetting to Measure the Bathroom
Since walk-in bathtubs come in varying sizes, you need to prepare carefully. Your bathroom, as well as your doorways and hallways, must have enough room to fit the tub. Not only that, but your walk-in tub should also fit the layout of your bathroom. Otherwise, you may find it difficult to transport it from the store to your home. In most cases, you can move your furniture or make adjustments to fit something as large as the walk-in tub. Sometimes, however, this is impossible, so it’s best to measure your bathroom properly. Also, don’t forget to prepare the electrical and plumbing connections for a seamless walk-in tub replacement.
3. Disregarding the Amount of Maintenance
Although walk-in bathtubs made with top-quality materials are guaranteed to last a relatively long time, they need proper maintenance to do so. If you use the wrong cleaning solutions, you may potentially damage the tub and ruin its finish. One common forgotten area to keep clean is the rubber seal around the door, which allows for the residue to build up. Over time, your door may be unable to seal properly when closed. On the other hand, there are walk-in tubs with self-cleaning UV features to eliminate bacteria, yeasts, algae, mold, and viruses.
4. Getting One Without a Warranty
As with any big investment, make sure your walk-in tub has a lifetime warranty or at least a 10-year warranty. In the event that something goes wrong, having no warranty or guarantee can place a huge amount of risk on your purchase, regardless of whether you went with a qualified brand or not. One common issue in most walk-in tubs is door seal failure. If this happens to your purchase, the repair or replacement cost will come out of your pocket if you don’t have a warranty.
With a walk-in tub, you don’t have to worry about slipping or falling while taking a bath. Get in touch with South Shore Dream Bath to install one! Our team also provides other bath services such as changing a tub to a shower and installing shower liners. Call us today at (781) 733-5405, or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.