Senior homeowners require certain home modifications to ensure their space is safe and suitable for their needs. There are several ways to achieve this. Bathrooms, in particular, are more prone to slips and falls, making them a key area that requires modification. Converting old bathtubs into accessible showers effectively improves safety and comfort for older adults. This process is relatively straightforward, and with professional help, the remodeling can be achieved efficiently within one’s budget.
Benefits of converting bathtubs to shower for seniors
Better access for seniors
Showers are especially beneficial for seniors with mobility issues. They enhance accessibility and safety and reduce the risk of slips and falls. Additions like built-in seating, grab bars, and handheld sprayers can make it easier to walk in barrier-free and make entry and exit easy, even for those who use wheelchairs. They can also make seniors feel more independent.
Increases the house value
A tub-to-shower conversion is a sought-after modification to a house. The addition attracts homebuyers and significantly increases the home’s value.
Efficient space usage
Bathtubs take up a large area of the bathroom, whereas showers free up the space and allow better maneuverability.
Ways to convert bathtub to shower for the elderly
Converting a bathtub to a shower involves some key steps.
- Remove the existing bathtub to create space for the new shower.
- Choose a conversion method and install it either with DIY kits or professional help. Seniors can enlist the help of a certified home safety specialist since they inspect the stability of the area and plumbing and are equipped to check all aspects of installation, including drainage, waterproofing, and secure fittings.
When it comes to the type of conversation, one has two main options to choose from, both of which are deemed convenient for seniors.
Walk-in showers
These types of showers are basically enclosures without a door. They provide easy access to the bathing area, eliminating the need to step over a high tub wall. Usually, they have a no-threshold entry point, which avoids tripping. Several walk-in showers have add-on elements that enhance the utility and safety of the bathroom space. This can include shower seats for a place to sit and take a bath, handheld adjustable shower heads, which control the water flow and direction, as well as no-slip flooring or anti-slip mats and handrails for stability and support.
Cost of walk-in showers
According to the International Residential Code (IRC), the minimum size for a walk-in shower should be 30 by 30 inches. But, to meet the accessibility standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it needs to be 36 inches minimum.
It also has several design options, like frameless or semi-framed, barrier-free, or curbed design, leading to a wider price range of about $1,000 to $15,000. On average, the walk-in showers can cost about $6,641 per bathroom.
The actual installation cost can vary depending on the size, materials, and components used. If one takes professional help, they must pay for both the installation process and equipment. Also, customization can significantly increase prices. So, choosing a walk-in shower that fits one’s existing bathing space is best to avoid redoing everything around it and save money. Similarly, the choice of materials, like tiles, marble, fiberglass, or acrylics, can also impact the price tag. If one’s looking for a budget-friendly option, tile is a great choice, with prices ranging up to $17 per square foot. For a touch of elegance, marble is a popular choice and can cost up to $65 per square foot. But those choosing fiberglass or acrylic may have to shell out anywhere between $400 and $2,000. Besides this, it’s important to factor in installation and labor costs, as they can significantly impact the overall pricing.
While the prices may seem steep, it’s best to enlist professional help to avoid structural damages, drainage problems, or leaks. Additionally, professionals are well-versed in the necessary permits, which homeowners often overlook and could result in hefty fines.
Bathtub cut-outs
As the name suggests, this senior-friendly shower option basically cuts off a portion of the bathtub to provide an easy entry and exit point for seniors. There’s a door that makes this access possible. The entryway is usually free of any threshold and can be stepped in to avoid tripping. This type is usually quicker to convert and install while being easy on the pocket since they do not require extensive remodeling of the bathroom area. There’s also minimal disruption to the aesthetics and functionality of the space, so one can keep most of their bathroom intact with tub cut-outs with the conversion.
Cost of bathtub cut-outs
This option can cost between $800 and $3,000, depending on the material, refinishing the exposed tub walls, and customization options.
Prefabricated kits or units that replace the bathtub with a shower enclosure are also an option. They come with walls, a base, and all necessary fixtures. Moreover, these comprehensive packages have all the essential components in different styles and designs. Some kits offer DIY options, while some may require professional help.
