Walk-In Tub Costs: Everything You Need to Know

Walk-in tubs are becoming increasingly popular for those looking to age in place, but the cost of buying and installing one can be daunting. It's important to understand walk in tub costs before you make a purchase so that you don't get stuck with an unexpected bill down the line.

In this guide, we'll explore average costs for different types of walk-in tub models from American Standard, Kohler, Lowes, Home Depot and Amazon as well as additional expenses associated with purchasing and installation.

Armed with this knowledge, you'll be equipped to make a well-informed decision when walk-in tub shopping.

Table of Contents:

• Walk-in Tub Cost Overview
• Buying a Walk-in Tub:
• Average Costs for Walk-in Tubs
• Additional Costs To Consider:
• Permits & Inspections:
• What are the disadvantages of a walk-in tub?
• What a walk-in tub should cost if you're over 65?
• Conclusion

Walk-in Tub Cost Overview

Walk-in tubs are a great way to maintain independence and safety in the bathroom. The pricing of a walk-in tub can be quite varied, depending on the kind, size and specifications you select.

Before settling on a purchase, ensure you are familiar with all of your options so that you can make an educated decision within your budget.

Walk-in tubs typically cost between $2,000 and $10,000 or more depending on the features selected. Basic models may be priced at the lower end of the spectrum, while more extravagant choices featuring add-ons like air jets or aromatherapy could cost up to $10K and beyond.

You should also factor in additional costs such as installation fees which could add another few hundred dollars onto the total price tag.

Ways to Shop:

There are two common ways to buy a walk-in tub – through retail stores or online retailers like Amazon or Wayfair. When buying from a store, it's essential to inquire about warranties and returns since these items typically can't be sent back after installation.

Peruse customer reviews prior to buying online so that you can be certain of the quality of the product.

Average Costs for Walk-in Tubs

Bathroom renovations offer an excellent solution for those with limited mobility to make bathing easier. The cost of walk-in tubs varies depending on the manufacturer, features, and installation costs.

• American Standard has a selection of walk-in tubs, with the base price ranging from $3,000-$7,500.
  
  Their most basic model is the American Standard Walk-In Tub, which comes with an air spa system that provides hydrotherapy massage jets and adjustable temperature settings. It also includes a built in seat and grab bar for added safety while entering or exiting the bathtub.
  
  
• Kohler has several walk-in tub models available, with prices ranging from $2,400-$8,000 depending on size and features included, such as heated surfaces or Chroma therapy lighting options.
  
  Their most popular model is the Kohler Safety Bath which offers all of their standard safety features plus additional comfort options like aromatherapy oils or whirlpool jets for extra relaxation during your soak time.
  
  
• Lowes carries many different brands at similar price points as Home Depot. Prices range anywhere from $2k -$12k+ depending on what type of walk-in tub you are looking for (standard vs luxury).
  
  Lowes' selection tends to offer more affordable options than purchasing directly from a brand due to special promotions they have running throughout the year.
  
  
• Amazon is another great place to check out when shopping for a new walk-in tub because they carry multiple brands at various price points ranging from $2k -$15k+.
  
  They usually have good deals going on throughout the year so it’s worth checking back periodically if you don’t see anything that fits your budget right away.

Additional Costs To Consider:

In addition to the base price, there are some additional costs associated with bathroom renovations, such as:

• Plumbing fees (which can range anywhere from several hundred dollars up into thousands).
• Labor charges if hiring someone else to do this work instead of doing it yourself. 
• Electrical hookup fees.
• Delivery/shipping charges (if purchased online).
• Tile repair/replacement.

When considering purchasing new walk-in bathtubs, there are several factors involved that will affect the overall cost including size and style preference, along with additional accessories desired such as heated seats or Chroma therapy lighting systems.

Keep in mind potential installation and ongoing maintenance fees associated. Always factor these into the total budget when planning ahead financially.

Buying a Walk-in Tub

For those looking to purchase a walk-in tub, the choice is typically between buying directly from the manufacturer or through a retailer such as Lowes or Home Depot.

Buying directly from the manufacturer is often more expensive but offers more customization options and better customer service. Retailers may offer discounts on certain models, but they generally don’t provide as much support for installation and maintenance.

Before committing to a purchase from the manufacturer, be sure to thoroughly investigate all aspects of the transaction. Read reviews online, compare prices between different manufacturers and ask questions about warranties and guarantees before making your purchase.

You should also inquire about delivery costs since some manufacturers require additional fees for shipping their products. Documenting the details of your walk-in tub purchase is essential to ensure you make an educated choice.

Finally, remember that safety is always paramount when considering any home improvement project involving water, especially those involving elderly family members or individuals with mobility issues.

Ensure proper measures are taken throughout all stages of installation including testing for leaks after setup has been completed successfully.

Permits & Inspections:

Some jurisdictions require special permits or inspections before installing certain types of medical equipment such as walk-in tubs. If this applies in your area, then it could mean added paperwork and extra fees that must be taken care of prior to installation day arriving.

Make sure you check with local authorities about these requirements before committing to buying one so there aren’t any unexpected delays down the line.

In addition, some companies offer financing options for those who want them which can help spread out payments over time instead of having them all due up front. This is something worth looking into if you need affordable options but still want a quality product like a walk-in bathtub installed in your home soon.

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of a walk-in tub?

Compared with standard tubs, walk-in bathtubs can be expensive and require a significant investment. Walk-in tubs occupy more space than regular bathtubs, thus being incompatible with some bathrooms. Finally, walk-in tubs typically require professional installation that adds additional cost as well as time for the job to be completed.

What a walk-in tub should cost if you're over 65?

The cost of a walk-in tub can vary depending on the type, size, and features you choose. Generally speaking, for those over 65 years old it is recommended to look at models with safety features such as grab bars and anti-slip surfaces which could increase the overall cost.

On average, traditional bathtubs without any extra options can cost anywhere from two to five thousand dollars; however, more advanced models that include safety features could be priced up to ten grand or even higher. It is important to research different models and compare prices before making a purchase.

Conclusion

Walk-in tubs can be a great investment for those looking to age in place and remain independent. They are designed to provide a safe, comfortable bathing experience that is tailored to the individual’s needs.

The expense of a walk-in bathtub can vary depending on the size, features chosen, and any additional charges for setup or bathroom renovation. Basic models start around $3,000 while more luxurious designs can run upwards of $10,000 or more depending on options such as air jets or heated seats. 

By doing thorough research beforehand and comparing prices from various vendors, individuals can ensure they get the best value out of their investment while still enjoying all of its safety features and comfort amenities designed specifically for aging adults looking to remain independent at home.