The worse thing about getting older is the problem with mobility. It gets tougher and tougher to get around the house, particularly the bathroom, as it is one of the places with a difficult range of movement. That's why many people are looking towards bathroom remodeling by fitting in walk in bathtubs and shower. Creating a better bath experience can give people a sense of security since they are afraid of slipping in the bathtub. Plus, a bathtub installation takes as much time as any traditional bathtub would. Fitted with safety handles, bars, and sealed entry door system, the risk of falling (for old people) can be lowered tremendously. Find helpful information from the following article while you're researching about walk in bathtubs installation.
Now it depends entirely on you if you wish to work on the installing the bathtub yourself or hire a professional plumber. As you research online or personally visit stores, you will find that there are various types of walk in tubs available and the installing process will depend on which model, size, and dimensions you choose for your bathroom. There are certain retailers/stores that provide installation services or recommend a specialist as they can be tough to install on your own. I would always suggest hiring a plumber or contractor from your locality, or search through yellow pages. If you haven't had any prior experience installing or haven't done any home improvement projects, it would be wise not to install the tub on your own. While searching for a plumber/contractor and/or purchasing the tub (from the store), make sure to ask the following questions regarding installation: Does the store provide installation? If yes, then is the cost of installation included while purchasing the tub or not? Does the walk in bathtub come with installation instructions? Will it be possible to install the tub on my own? Can you suggest an experienced/professional/trust-worthy plumber? How long does an installation take? Will one day suffice? Install a Walk in Bathtub
This section is for those who wish to go through with the installing process themselves (and also for those who may be curious as to how it is done). There are several types of materials a walk in bathtubs for the elderly come in. Fiberglass (gel-coated and porous) and acrylic (non-porous) are the two popular materials people opt for their bathrooms. Now, let's take a look at what are the steps towards installing a walk in bathtub.
Step #1
Measure your bathroom to make sure the size of the bathtub you wish to purchase will have enough room. If you have a tub in the bathroom already, you will need to remove it first. Consult a contractor before you remove the old bathtub. Also, finding the access hole to the plumbing on the wall is important (it will be directly behind the tub). Some bathrooms might not have an access hole; in that case, you will have to cut a hole into the wall for one.
Step #2
Before you remove the fixtures, turn the water to the entire house off. Take the external plumbing next. With a pair of channel locks or adjustable wrench, unscrew the drainage plug which is inside the tub itself. Now comes the part where you'll break the caulk seal (all around the tub) with a razor knife.
Step #3
The layout of piping will need some inspection as you will have to drain the plug of the new bathtub. The reason is, perhaps your new walk in bathtub piping does not match with the old tub. In that case, you will have to adjust the plumbing before the new tub goes into place.
Step #4
Above the old bathtub, you will need to take out a row of tiles. With a crowbar, take the old tub apart from the bathroom wall. Place a block of wood in-between the crowbar and the bathroom wall. This will assure you don't damage the tub much. Ask for someone's help and pull the old tub straight out (it should come out easily).
Step #5
Now it's time to slide your new walk in bathtub in its place. Line up the plumbing and drain holes properly, or else you'll have some serious issues while showering. Adjust the plumbing and install the fixtures to the new tub. Turn the water back on and do a water test to make sure there aren't any leaks and the water pressure is optimal.
Always read the reviews before selecting a specific brand. Sometimes, when people try installing one themselves, there's occasional drywall damage. If this happens to you, just repair the drywall and tile before you lay the fresh caulk around your new bathtub. Again, I would like to suggest you calling for help from an experienced plumber (or family member) for a spot on job with your new bathtub.
