Getting in and out of the bathtub shouldn’t be an arduous struggle. Many of Hawaii’s seniors are finding it more difficult and risky to walk over the high sides of their bathtub, a situation which presents much risk to both safety and the ability to live independently.

Bathtubs present slick and uneven surfaces which create unsafe conditions for those with limited mobility, often resulting in slips and falls. To prevent such accidents, Island Bath Works offers walk-through bathtub conversions, an innovative process in which the existing bathtub is modified by cutting out a portion and custom fabricating a seamless entryway allowing for an easy and safe step into the tub.

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With service to all the islands, Island Bath Works’ bathtub conversion is a popular option for those wishing to remain independent. “Many homeowners commit to doing a walk-through bathtub conversion only after having an accident,” said Eric Thompson of Island Bath Works. “Our goal is to help people take the necessary preventative measures before it’s too late.”

Oftentimes, the high cost of labor and materials is the reason why many choose to hold off on accessibility modifications. However, with Island Bath Works’ unique tub modification system, an accessible bathtub can be created much more affordably and quickly than ever before. “Traditionally, to build a walk-in shower or sit-in bathtub, the construction process can range anywhere from $12,000 to $15,000 on average, and take over a week to complete,” said Thompson. “Our unique tub conversion service will save approximately 80 percent of the traditional cost, while achieving a seamless, high-quality finish and maintaining a one-day turn around time.”

A walk-in tub modification involves one full day of work, with the tub ready for use the following night. No water shutoffs, demolition or extended downtime involved. Additionally, the conversion process is advantageously versatile, as it can be done on any type of bathtub ranging from fiberglass to cast iron and steel materials. “Most homes in Hawaii were built with high-quality cast iron bathtubs, so for those homes it makes no sense to replace a functioning bathtub which was made to last for generations,” said Thompson.

Converted bathtubs offer a new level of safety for all users. The original high sides of the tub will be reduced to a curb as low as four inches high for easy step-in access. Combined with wall mounted grab bars, concerns of tripping and falling are quickly washed away.

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In addition to bathtub conversion, customers can also choose to refinish their bathtub. Unlike bathtub replacement, which would involve removing and replacing all components as well as redoing the plumbing configuration, bathtub refinishing resurfaces existing surfaces to achieve a nice and clean appearance, while incorporating a nonskid surface that’s built right into the finish.

Island Bath Works ensures the durability of walk-in tub conversions by guaranteeing a 10-year structural warranty as well as a five-year warranty on refinishing.

For more information, or to arrange an appointment, call Island Bath Works at 927-9228 or visit www.IslandBathWorks.com.

ISLAND BATH WORKS
contact // 927-9228
web // www.islandbathworks.com

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