Getting in and out of the bathtub shouldn’t be a struggle. Many of Hawaii’s seniors are finding it more difficult to walk over the high sides of their bathtubs, a situation which presents a risk to safety and the ability to live independently.
Bathtubs present slick and uneven surfaces, creating unsafe conditions for those with limited mobility and 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.
With service to all the islands, this 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, an accessible bathtub can be created much more affordably and quicker 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 are involved. Additionally, the conversion process 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 that 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 4 inches high for easy step in access. Combined with wall mounted grab bars, concerns of tripping and falling are washed away.
In addition to the bathtub conversion, customers can also choose to refinish their bathtub for a nicer and cleaner appearance, while also incorporating a nonskid surface that’s built right into the finish. Island Bath Works also installs folding tub benches, which are permanently mounted to the wall and fold up for easy storage — considered to be one of the most stable seats on the market.
Island Bath Works provides a 10 year structural warranty, as well as a five-year warranty on refinishing. For more information, 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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