Do Walk in Bathtubs Have Design Flaws?

Not all walk-in bathtubs are created equal. Without realizing it many walk in bathtub manufacturers have created their products with design flaws. Purchasers need to be aware of those design flaws.

Step in height

This is a safety issue. Most walk in bath tubs have a high step into the tub of 6 to 7 inches. This height is actually dangerous for people with limited mobility. The reason they buy a walk in bathtub is because they can’t climb stairs or take large steps. Remember the purpose of the walk in bathtub is making bathing possible for those who cannot get in or out of a regular bathtub.

Tile Flange

A tile flange is the lip that extends above the bath tub by about an inch and a half. This allows the finishing material (tile, tub surround, etc) to hang over the lip to protect the drywall backing from getting wet and deteriorating. Most building codes require a tile flange. Many walk in bathtub manufacturers have neglected to add a tile flange to their bathtubs.

Bathtub size

Bigger is not always better. While manufacturers’ attempt to impress would-be purchasers by the size of their bathtubs, there are two things to keep in mind. If you are putting your bathtub in an existing bathroom it needs to fit, not only in the bathroom, but through the door. Secondly, the larger the size, the more water the bathtub will hold, making for a longer fill and drain time. Some people think that they want a bathtub where they can be immersed in water. That’s a great idea; but think how long it would take to fill and drain that tub while you sit inside waiting - that’s why such a bathtub does not exist. Remember too that when sitting in a traditional bathtub, your body is never immersed so why would you expect it to be in a walk in bathtub.

For further information regarding bathing safety and walk in bathtubs visit www.safetybath.com

Safety Bath?… I’m Confused

Walk in bathtubs are everywhere on the internet. The walk in bathtub concept is relatively new. In 1992, when the concept first began, they were impossible to find, however, since that time the concept has grown exponentially as have the number of companies offering them online.

A walk in bathtub is a bathtub with a door that allows accessible bathtub entrance. There are a variety of styles, prices and manufacturers. Walk in bathtubs have become a popular item with seniors and baby boomers alike. Installed in private homes, retirement residences, assisted living facilities or long term care facilities, the walk in bathtub provides safe and comfortable bathing for those who want to remain independent. Although somewhat costly, the price of a walk in bathtub is less than what it might cost to stay in a care home for a month or two.

Because the walk in bathtub is a relative new comer to the market, many people have not even heard of such an item and those who have are not sure what to call them. Arising from the fact that a walk in bathtub is a safety item, many have come to calling a walk in bathtub “safety bath”. The name “Safety Bath” has come to refer to any type of walk in bathtub just as tissues have become known as Kleenex, adhesive bandages are commonly called Band Aids and snow machines are Skidoos.

Interestingly enough, the name Safety Bath, though synonymous with the walk in bathtub, is the name of the company that originated the walk in bathtub. That company began in Saskatchewan, Canada in 1992 when the inventor of the walk in bathtub, Ladimer Kowalchuk built such a tub for his dad who could not use a regular bathtub.

While other companies use the name with abandon, and it has become generic through suggestion, there is really only one true Safety Bath and that is this one.

Confused? … not any more.

The Idea for Walk in Tubs Came From Saskatchewan

Article by Ron Petrie... Regina Leader Post