Put home safety first
As Hawaii’s middle-aged and older population increases, members of the community are taking a more proactive approach to ensure a safer and longer future.
Helping seniors live independently within their own homes, Island Bath Works offers bathtub conversions, which is an innovative service that cuts out a portion of the bathtub side to create a low and safe entryway. Walk-in tubs enable safe entry and exit in and out of the tub, without major demolition or construction hassles.
As the only business in the Islands to offer bathtub conversions, Island Bath Works has become particularly well known within the older communities. Thomas Watanabe, who lives in Pearl City and cares for his aging mother, recently took preventative measures against a potential accident and created a walk-through bathtub with the company.
“I had noticed that my mother was having increasing difficulty getting access into our cast-iron soaking tub, and realized that something needed to be done before an accident occurs,” he said. To remedy his concerns, Watanabe called Eric Thompson, CEO of Island Bath Works, to schedule a bathtub conversion.
“The finished product and workmanship was impressive, and functionally, just what we needed,” said Watanabe. “It’s such a relief to not have to worry about Mom’s safety in the tub. I just wish we did this earlier.”
Bathtub conversions can be easy to install and inexpensive
Island Bath Works aims to complete each job as efficiently as possible with minimal interference to the homeowner’s personal lives. Because the conversion consists of converting the existing bathtub, major reconstruction or demolition of the bathroom is not necessary. The entire process typically requires only one day to complete, and customers may start using their new showers that next day.
Residents have the freedom to choose where to place the bathtub entryway for any desired size, up to three feet. The conversion can be done on any type of bathtub, whether it is made from fiberglass, cast iron or steel.
Those who may be weary of moving forward with bathtub conversions due to price concerns can take comfort in knowing that the process is substantially inexpensive compared to alternative options. “I had several quotes for going the traditional route of removing my bathtub and having a shower built in its place” said Watanabe. “I chose Island Bath Works because their tub conversion offered a cost saving’s value and quick turnaround time that nobody else could offer.”
“While most other companies will quote you anywhere between $12,000 to $15,000 to install a walk-in shower or sit-in bathtub, our services achieve the same result with a high-quality finish for approximately 80 percent less,” said Thompson.
Island Bath Works also offers grab-bar installation, as well as tub and tile refinishing, which restores worn tubs to new condition. Refinished tubs also have an integrated non-skid bottom for added safety.
Furthermore, the durability of walk-in conversions are guaranteed with a 10-year warranty. A five-year warranty is included with tub and tile refinishing.
ISLAND BATH WORKS
contact // 927-9228