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10 Key Factors That Impact Your Walk-In Tub Installation
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Choosing the right walk-in tub involves more than just picking a model — it’s about finding the perfect fit for your space, budget, and lifestyle. Here are ten important factors that can influence the cost and quality of your installation.
Don’t worry if it feels overwhelming — at Integrity Walk-in Tubs, we handle everything from consultation to installation. Our experienced team meets you at home, walks you through every detail, and ensures a smooth, professional experience from start to finish.
1. Space Requirements
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At Waterman Fine Plumbing, one of our expert contractors can visit your home to take precise measurements of your bathroom. We’ll make sure you have all the details you need to choose a tub that fits your body, mobility needs, and available space.
Tub Dimensions:
Walk-in tubs come in various sizes, so it’s important to measure both the width and length of your bathroom area. A larger tub may be more comfortable for those who need extra room, but space must be available for safe entry and exit.
Door Opening Size:
Make sure the tub’s door is wide enough for easy access—especially if mobility is limited. Outward-swinging doors need extra clearance, so be sure there’s enough room for the door to open fully.
Turn Radius:
If the installation area requires turning to access the tub, confirm there’s adequate space for safe movement and navigation within the bathroom.
20+
Years Experience
2. Plumbing Requirements
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At Waterman Fine Plumbing, every walk-in tub installation is handled by a licensed plumber with over 20 years of experience. Our team knows how to inspect your home’s plumbing system to make sure it’s fully prepared to support the tub you choose—no surprises, just smooth installation.
- Water Heater Type: Tankless water heaters typically have slower flow rates than traditional tanks, which can affect how quickly your tub fills. Our plumber can advise and adjust accordingly.
- Water Heater Size: Walk-in tubs often require between 40 to 80 gallons of hot water. If your water heater isn’t large enough, you might end up with a lukewarm bath. We'll help ensure you have the right capacity.
- Drainage Needs: Walk-in tubs use different drain systems than regular tubs. Depending on your setup, we may need to modify your existing drain line to ensure fast and efficient emptying.
3. Installation Expertise
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At Waterman Fine Plumbing, every installation is led by a licensed plumber with 20+ years of experience in plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and remodeling. Our team members each bring a minimum of five years of hands-on expertise to ensure your project is handled with precision and care.
Demolition & Prep:
Installing a walk-in tub often involves removing the existing tub or shower. Larger tubs may require repositioning toilets, widening doorways, or moving drain lines. We take careful steps to protect your home during teardown and keep disruption to a minimum.
Electrical Setup:
If your tub includes jets, heaters, or air systems, a dedicated electrical line may be needed. Our team can safely install new wiring to meet all power requirements.
Skilled Installation:
Proper installation ensures your tub functions safely and efficiently. From secure plumbing connections to a clean finish, our professionals deliver quality you can trust.
20+
Years Experience
4. Safety & Accessibility
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At Waterman Fine Plumbing, we prioritize safety and independence. We only install high-quality walk-in tubs from trusted manufacturers, and our team brings over 20 years of experience in retrofitting bathrooms for accessibility. From grab bars to custom shelving, every feature is installed with precision—so nothing feels out of reach or awkwardly placed.
- Non-Slip Floors: Prevent slips and falls with textured flooring designed for safe entry and exit.
- Sturdy Grab Bars: Strategically placed for maximum support where it matters most.
- Low Step-In Threshold: Typically 4–7 inches, minimizing the risk of tripping for safer access.
- Comfortable Seating: Elevated and contoured seats make bathing easier and more relaxing.
- Accessible Controls: Easy-to-reach dials or remote options tailored for individuals with limited mobility.
5. Jet Systems & Hydrotherapy Options
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Waterman Fine Plumbing is an authorized dealer of premium walk-in tubs from American Tubs and Ella’s Bubbles—two industry-leading manufacturers known for their superior jet systems and lifetime-backed components. We’ve chosen to work with these brands because of their proven reliability and exceptional performance.
Air vs. Water Jets:
Air jets offer a gentle, bubbly massage ideal for relaxation and circulation. Water jets provide a deeper, targeted massage perfect for muscle relief and hydrotherapy.
Therapeutic Benefits:
Choosing the right system depends on your needs—air jets are soothing for sensitive skin and nerves, while water jets are more intense and great for sore muscles. Many tubs combine both for a customizable experience.
Reliable Pumps:
Every tub we install features durable pump systems designed for long-term use. We also ensure they’re easy to maintain and clean, minimizing any risk of buildup or odor over time.
20+
Years Experience
6. Internal Water Temperature Control
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At Waterman Fine Plumbing, we help you get the most out of your walk-in tub without overpaying for features you don’t need. We work with trusted manufacturers like American Tubs and Ella’s Bubbles—offering a range of built-in heating options—and our licensed plumber brings over 20 years of hands-on experience to every install.
- Built-in Water Heaters: In-line heaters keep water warm throughout your bath, especially useful since walk-in tubs take more time to fill compared to standard tubs.
- Thermostatic Control Valves: These valves maintain a steady, safe water temperature, reducing the risk of sudden temperature shifts or scalding.
7. Additional Comfort & Wellness Features
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At Waterman Fine Plumbing, all walk-in tubs we install are fully modular—allowing you to personalize your tub with a wide range of comfort and therapy upgrades. Each tub comes with a detailed spec sheet outlining all available add-ons, so you can make an informed decision based on your needs.
Chromotherapy & Aromatherapy:
Enjoy calming lights and relaxing scent diffusers that enhance your bath experience and support overall well-being.
Waterproof Headrests & Pillows:
Designed for comfort and easy maintenance, these accessories add extra support for your neck and back.
Heated Backrests & Seats:
Built-in seat warmers deliver soothing relief to sore muscles while elevating overall comfort during each soak.
20+
Years Experience
8. Style & Aesthetics
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At Waterman Fine Plumbing, we partner with trusted local vendors to offer premium tile and cultured marble surrounds that are both elegant and practical. These finishes are selected for their durability, easy maintenance, and ability to complement your bathroom’s overall look.
- Fit and Finish: Walk-in tubs are available in a variety of styles, materials (like acrylic or fiberglass), and color options. We help you select a model that not only meets your functional needs but also blends beautifully with your space.
- Surround Solutions: Replacing an existing tub or shower often means redoing the surrounding walls. While some tubs come with pre-made panels, we recommend upgrading to tile or cultured marble surrounds for a more polished, long-lasting finish that resists moisture and wear.
9. Maintenance
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All walk-in tubs offered by Waterman Fine Plumbing are finished with smooth, gel coat surfaces that make cleaning simple and help maintain long-term durability. These high-quality finishes resist dirt, grime, and bacterial buildup—keeping your tub looking and feeling fresh with minimal effort.
Cleaning & Hygiene:
Choose tubs with non-porous surfaces that are easy to wipe down and disinfect. Our models are designed for hassle-free cleaning, ideal for maintaining hygiene in daily use.
Drainage & Jet Maintenance:
We offer tubs with accessible drain systems and optional self-cleaning jets. Regular rinsing is typically all that’s needed, though our team is always available for guidance on deeper cleanings when necessary.
20+
Years Experience
10. Price & Warranty
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As authorized resellers, Waterman Fine Plumbing offers premium walk-in tubs at below-market rates. Our skilled team handles everything in-house, keeping costs low and delivering expert installations at a fraction of big-box prices.
- Tub Cost: Pricing depends on size, jet systems, and added therapeutic features.
- Basic soaker tubs (no jets) typically range between $3,000–$5,000.
- Jetted tubs add about $800–$2,000, depending on system complexity and part quality.
- Premium brands often charge thousands more without a significant difference in quality—something we help you avoid.
- Install Cost: Our installations include:
- Removal of your old tub/shower
- Plumbing and electrical adjustments
- Tub placement and surround remodeling
- Warranty: All tubs installed through us include:
- A 4-year installation warranty through Waterman Fine Plumbing
- Lifetime manufacturer warranties covering jet systems, pumps, and other key components