Starting the search for walk in bathtubs with shower compatibility reveals a multitude of options from economical conversion kits to luxury whirlpools, there seems to be no shortage of innovative walk in tub designs for shower lovers. Are you thinking about upgrading or replacing your current unit with something more accessible? This guide will help you begin.
Shower and Bath Combo Options
You dont have to compromise your preferences for the sake of accessibility; modern walk in tubs feature the best of both worlds. There are two types of combo walk in bathtubs with shower capabilities for those who want to retain the power of choice. The options range from the ordinary (traditional tubs with easy access doors) to the extremely unique like those sit-down tubs that reach to the mid chest area.
The traditional models look extremely similar to a regular tub, perfect for individuals who want accessibility without giving up the look for a “normal” bathroom. These tubs can be fitted with a bath chair for convenience while still allowing plenty of room to stretch your legs. The showerhead location generally comes down to choice: on the wall, or handheld.
On the other hand, chest-height walk in bathtubs already have a chair built in which can be great for those who want a full soak without worrying about struggling to stand up afterwards. The more advanced walk in bathtubs with shower sprayers also come with built-in water jets for comfortable, pain-relieving soaks. The only downside is that standing for a shower in one of these tubs can feel cramped.
Shower Only Bathtubs
If baths are unreasonable or unwanted, you can save quite a bit of money by switching to a shower-only tub, a wet floor shower stall, or you could even convert your existing tub in to a walk in model. Walk in bathtubs with shower only cost roughly the same amount as a regular ceramic tub and they can be equipped with a simple ramp or step to accommodate a wide variety of mobility needs.
A wet floor shower stall might require a big renovation project but they can accommodate flexible seating arrangements and multiple showerheads. A waterproofing consultation, sloping floor, drain, and ADA approved safety bars will cover most of the structural basics.
Conversions are the cheapest option and allow you to retain the original look and feel of your bathroom. An installation expert will come to your home and remove a part of your tub to replace it with an easy-step threshold or wheelchair-friendly ramp. These are usually shower-only, but some companies offer snap-on doors to convert walk in bathtubs with showers to bathing quickly.
There are plenty of options to suit any range of mobility needs when you consider walk in bathtubs with shower compatibility. You might want to start checking out some local showrooms or online outlets to see which options would complete your ideal accessible bathroom. Walk in bathtubs with shower capabilities are a safe, comfortable choice when choice really does matter.