Traditional bathtubs can pose a serious risk for older adults and those with mobility issues.
Adding grab bars can help, a non-slip tub floor can help to reduce the risk of a slip and injury, but these measures may not be enough for some.
That’s why converting bathtubs into walk-in tubs or showers is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity for safety and independence in one’s own home.
But the conversion process can be extremely expensive.
If you’re a bath person and want safer access into and out of your bathtub, let’s take a look at tub cut outs as an alternative.
Tub Cut Out For Elderly Adults
A tub cut out is when you cut a part of the bathtub wall to make a low opening for easy access. It helps to make the tub safer and easier to use, especially for seniors with limited mobility.
These cut outs are compatible with a wide range of existing bathtubs. It can be , encompassing materials like fiberglass, steel, and cast iron.
Bathtub Cutouts and Cleancut Steps
Bathtub cutouts and products like the Cleancut Step or the Z Step Tub are popular options. They are designed to fit the exact contour of your tub, ensuring a seamless and safe transition from a traditional tub to a step-in version.
I recommend that you contact several and of course, check their references as you would with any home remodeling project.
How Much Does It Cost To Convert A Bathtub To A Walk-In?
The starting installation costs for a tub cut out ranges from $800 to $1200. That may or may not include the sliding door and the project is usually completed in one day.
But also know that there are “tub cut kits” available as well so if you are handy or know someone who is, purchasing a kit can make the project even less expensive.
Tub Cut Out kits usually run around $400.00. You can buy them online or at a hardware store.
The Pros and Cons Of Tub Cut Outs
Pros of Tub Cut Outs:
- Enhanced Safety: Reduces the risk of slips and falls by providing a lower threshold for entry, crucial for the elderly or those with mobility issues.
- Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than a full bathroom renovation or installing a brand-new walk-in tub.
- Quick Installation: Can often be completed in a day, minimizing disruption in the home.
- Preserves Existing Tub: Allows the use of the current bathtub, maintaining the bathroom’s familiar layout and aesthetics.
- Improves Accessibility: Makes bathing more accessible for those who struggle with high tub walls, promoting independence.
- Adaptable: Suitable for most existing bathtubs, including fiberglass, steel, and cast iron.
Cons of Tub Cut Outs:
- Permanent Alteration: The modification is permanent, which might not be ideal for those who might want to revert back to a traditional tub.
- Water Leakage Risks: If not properly installed, there can be risks of water leakage, leading to potential bathroom damage.
- Limited Resale Value: Some potential homebuyers might view the modification as a disadvantage, impacting the home’s resale value.
- Aesthetic Concerns: The appearance after conversion might not appeal to everyone and can look out of place in some bathroom designs.
- Not a Full Solution: While it improves accessibility, it doesn’t provide the full features of a walk-in tub, such as therapeutic jets.
- Size Limitations: The cut out may not be large enough for some users, particularly those who need wheelchair access or more space to maneuver.
Our Recommendations
As Senior Home Safety Specialists, we ask you to consider the following before you make your decision as to whether to choose a walk-in tub or the tub cut out option.
- If you plan to age in place in your home then the investment into a walk in bathtub may be worth it.
- The tub cut out option is good and you may have no trouble getting into and out of the bathtub now but a few years from now that may not be the case any longer.
- Discuss the decision with a realtor for their expert opinion on which option would be better for resale value of your home when and if the time comes to sell it.
