Where Can Walk-In Tubs Be Installed?

If you’re considering a walk-in tub to make bathing safer and more comfortable, you might wonder if your home can accommodate one. The good news is that walk-in tubs are remarkably versatile and can be installed in various settings, from spacious single-family homes to small townhomes and mobile homes.

While you may worry about space requirements, plumbing connections and structural support, Safe Step’s innovative design and professional installation process make it possible to install a walk-in tub or tub and shower combo in most properties.

Ready to discover if a walk-in tub will fit in your home? Let’s explore where it can be installed and what requirements you’ll need to consider.

Walk-In Tub Installation by Property Type

Walk-in tubs can be installed in many different properties, all with their own considerations. Whether you live in a single-family home, townhome or mobile home, there’s likely a walk-in tub that fits your space. Let’s examine the specific requirements and possibilities for each housing type.

Single-Family Homes

Whether you’re replacing an existing tub or renovating an entire bathroom, single-family homes typically offer the most straightforward installation process for walk-in tubs. With dedicated bathroom spaces and accessible plumbing systems, these stand-alone properties provide excellent flexibility for choosing and placing your new walk-in tub. Plus, most single-family homes already have the necessary electrical and plumbing infrastructure, making installation simple.

Townhomes

Townhome installations require careful planning to accommodate shared walls and plumbing with neighboring units. Our installation experts pay special attention to:

• Shared Wall Considerations: We work efficiently and quietly to minimize disruption to your neighbors. Most installations are completed in just one day, letting everyone return to their normal routines quickly.
• Water Pressure Optimization: Townhomes often share water supply systems with neighboring units, which can affect water pressure. Since walk-in tubs require adequate pressure for filling and operating the therapeutic jets, we’ll test your water pressure and plumbing setup during your free consultation and recommend any needed upgrades.
• Space-Efficient Design: Townhomes typically have standardized bathrooms with fixed layouts and shared walls. Safe Step Walk-In Tubs are designed to fit right where your current bathtub or shower sits, making them ideal for townhome owners who can’t modify their bathroom layout.

Mobile Homes

When it comes to mobile homes, installing a walk-in tub requires some special considerations. Our installation team has years of experience working with mobile homes and knows exactly what it takes to carry out a successful installation. Here’s what we look at:

• Structural Support: Unlike traditional homes with concrete foundations, mobile homes are built over crawl spaces or piers, requiring extra attention to floor support. Our experts will assess your mobile home’s structural needs during your free consultation and recommend any reinforcements needed to safely support a filled walk-in tub.
• Space-Saving Options: Every inch counts in mobile homes. Our walk-in tub and shower combo lets you enjoy relaxing soaks and quick showers without the extra square footage needed for separate fixtures.
• Custom Plumbing Solutions: Mobile homes often have special plumbing configurations that differ from traditional homes. Our installation experts understand these differences and can adapt your existing plumbing to guarantee proper function. This may include upgrading drain lines, modifying pipe configurations or installing additional water lines to work seamlessly with your walk-in tub’s features.

What Are the Requirements for Installing a Walk-In Tub?

Before installing your walk-in tub, several key requirements need to be met to ensure safe, proper operation. Here’s what our professional installation team will evaluate:

• Plumbing and Drainage Needs: Your home must have adequate water supply lines (typically 3/4 inch or larger) and proper drainage capacity. During your free quote appointment, our team will verify your water heater can supply enough hot water for comfortable bathing.
• Space and Doorway Measurements: We’ll measure your bathroom’s dimensions and doorways to determine a clear pathway for transporting your walk-in tub inside. Most Safe Step tubs can fit through standard 28- to 34-inch doorways, and we’ll help you select the perfect model for your space.
• Flooring Support and Reinforcement: A full walk-in tub requires proper floor support. Our team will assess your floor’s structure and recommend any necessary reinforcement to safely support the weight of the filled tub.
• Electrical Requirements: Your bathroom needs a dedicated 15-amp circuit for the tub’s features, such as the water pump and heater. Our installation experts will confirm that all electrical work meets local codes.

What If My Bathroom Doesn’t Seem to Fit a Walk-In Tub?

Don’t let space concerns prevent you from enjoying the benefits of independent bathing. Safe Step offers several alternative options for challenging bathrooms:

• Compact Walk-In Tub Models: For tight bathroom layouts where a standard-sized tub won’t fit, we offer compact tubs that measure 47 inches long by 28 inches wide. You’ll enjoy all the essential safety and therapeutic features you need while accommodating space constraints.
• Tub-to-Shower Conversions: If a walk-in tub isn’t feasible, consider converting your existing tub into a walk-in shower. All of our walk-in shower models come standard with the accessible, low-step base of your choosing, plus premium safety, therapeutic and convenience features.
• Custom Modifications: Older single-family homes, small bathrooms with unique layouts often require creative bathing solutions. Our experienced installers can suggest modifications such as relocating fixtures or adjusting plumbing to make your walk-in tub fit perfectly.

The best way to know your options is to request a free consultation. Our safe bathing experts will evaluate your space and recommend the perfect walk-in tub for your needs and bathroom configuration.

Install a Safe Step Walk-In Tub Today

No matter what type of property you have, Safe Step can help you enjoy the safety and comfort of a walk-in tub. You can count on a quick, seamless installation, with 95% of our projects completed in just one day to minimize disruption to your schedule. When you’re ready to reclaim your bathing independence, contact Safe Step for a free consultation and detailed quote. Our experts will help you find the perfect walk-in tub for your space and needs.