6 Easy Steps To Install a Walk-In Tub

At some point, decreased mobility touches nearly everyone’s life. Everyday tasks that once felt effortless can become more difficult with age—and sometimes, more dangerous. Nowhere is that risk greater than in the bathroom. Stepping over a high tub wall or navigating a slippery shower can quickly turn into a serious fall.

One of the best ways to retain your independence and age in place is by installing a walk-in bathtub–shower combo that includes features that allow for improved safety. For example, many such bath–shower combos have special doors in the tub side that are sealed when closed but can be opened so that users don’t have to step over steep sides and risk a fall. Even though such tub–shower combos may look complex, they are simple to install with a little know-how. Keep reading to learn a few easy ways to install a walk-in tub.

1. Remove the Old Tub

Obviously, the first step that must be undertaken is removing the old tub so that the existing tub space and plumbing can be utilized with your new walk-in unit. This can be challenging if you have a heavy cast-iron tub, but it should otherwise be a simple task with the right tools. If the tub is heavy or unwieldy, it may need to be dismantled with a sledgehammer or cutting tool prior to removal. Take care not to damage plumbing as you remove the tub.

2. Prepare the Space

Once you’ve pulled the old tub, you’ll be left with an empty space and the appropriate plumbing where there were once fixtures. If you have a walk-in tub with special features that require electricity, you may need an electrician to help install that infrastructure. Make sure there are no issues in the subfloor that should be remediated before the new tub is put into place.

3. Bring in the Walk-In Tub

Once you’ve made sure the proper infrastructure is established, it’s time to bring the tub in and place it in the designated space. First, measure the width of the tub and compare it to your door frame. Some walk-in tubs are wider than standard door frames, so you may have to disassemble the frame to get it in the bathroom. Once the tub is in the bathroom, position it in the proper space. Make sure the tub and the drain are in alignment.

4. Level the Tub

Many walk-in tubs come standard with feet or shims that can be used to level the tub, since some bathroom floors aren’t level. Before installing the faucets, consider leveling the tub to prevent complications or additional leveling once the fixtures are installed.

5. Install the Fixtures

Once the tub is in place and leveled, install the tub’s fixtures. The faucet apparatus for some walk-in tubs can look quite complex since there may be additional bars and swing arms that allow for a greater range of articulation for the faucets. Be sure to read the installation instructions as you assemble the fixtures and their supporting structures.

6. Finish the Fit

Finally, once the tub is in place and connected to the plumbing, you can use special panels included with many walk-in tubs to retrofit the space. For example, if you had a standard shower–bath combo, there may be unused space if you install a walk-in tub that doesn’t match in terms of size. Use the panels to fill the gaps and provide a presentable appearance. Also, some walk-in tubs come with moldings and trim that can cover seams and corners and provide a more uniform and polished look.

Safe Step’s Expert Installation Services

Upgrade your bathroom the easy way! Safe Step’s professional walk-in tub and shower installation services make it simple to install a walk-in tub or shower. Our local installers will handle your installation from start to finish in as little as one day.

To learn more about how a bathing solution from Safe Step can help you retain your independence and enjoy your daily routine, connect with one of our design specialists to schedule a no-obligation, free quote today.