What is a Walk-In Tub?
The chief feature of the walk in bathtub is the side door, allowing the bather easier access by simply walking into the tub. While commonly associated with the elderly, the walk-in tub is popular with anyone who has difficulty making it over the hurdle of a regular bathtub’s wall. Persons coping with disabilities and young children also can benefit from walk-in tubs.Construction of Walk In Tubs
The walk-in tub is constructed as a solid unit. A stainless steel frame ensures a strong and durable tub and eliminates flux, a common cause of leaks.Extra wide for added comfort, the doors swing either inward or outward and seal tightly to keep water in. Outward-swinging doors make it easier for the bather to enter. Also, door openings can either be right hand, or left hand, depending on your preference. Since walk-in bathtubs have the same dimensions as standard size bathtubs, installation is relatively painless and can be performed in short order.
Most walk-in tubs offer a grab bar, as well as a non-slip floor. One aspect that distinguishes the walk-in tub from standard tubs are the unusually deep depths, typically between 37 inches and 47 inches. This allows the bather to be fully engulfed in water, which eases joint or arthritis pain.
While most walk-in tubs come in standard white or biscuit colors, custom finishes are also available. Typically, the tubs are finished in a fiberglass, gel coat, making the tub extremely durable, and easy to clean. They are also finished with a second high-end gel coat to exude shine.
Do Walk In Tubs Leak?
Because standard bathtubs have solid sides, and walk-in tubs have a door, there is the potential for leakage. Most walk-in tub manufacturers have solved the problem, but to make sure your tub will not leak, check that the door has a double gasket and that the hinge runs the entire length of the door.Walk-In Tub Cleaning and Extras
Most manufacturers recommend that you clean the tubs with water, but if you are looking for an extensive wash, you can use mild dish soap and water.Some walks in bathtubs also offer heated air jet hydrotherapy, whirlpool water jet hydrotherapy with heaters, or a combination of the two.
A special thanks to Simply Bathtubs for insider information about walk in bathtubs.
