This Old House Reviews Team Walk-In Tub Methodology
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Our team aims to create informative and helpful content about walk-in tubs to help you make informed decisions for yourself or a loved one. We conducted in-depth research by analyzing company websites, calling providers, reading consumer reviews, and requesting pricing. We used this data to create review standards to compare and rate providers.
Walk-In Tub Research Process
Our team conducted research using the following techniques:
Customer Insights
We read dozens of customer reviews for each provider from third-party review sites such as Best Company, the Better Business Bureau, and Consumer Affairs. We noted the positive and negative themes, specifically those mentioning build quality, customer service, functionality, and safety.
Secret Shopping
We browsed through each provider’s company website to understand how accessible their information is. We also utilized their online quote tools and noted how simple they were to use, how much information we were required to enter, and how quickly they generated a price. In addition, we called providers to analyze how well they answered our questions.
Factors Evaluated To Compare Walk-In Tubs
After collecting data on walk-in tub providers and their offerings, we scored each company on a 100-point scale. We divided the total score of each provider by 20 to obtain our 5-star ratings. We considered key factors to distinguish providers from one another. The factors and their weights are the following:
Safety Features (25%)
The most important factor to consider when shopping for a walk-in tub is its safety features. They ensure you or your loved one can independently use the tub without concern. Providers that feature Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant seats received seven points. We awarded five points each for the following features:
- Guard rails
- Non-slip floors
- Quick-draining
In addition, providers that offer anti-scald technology received three points.
Warranty Options (20%)
Due to their cost and disruptive installation process, we considered warranty options to be the second most important factor when shopping for a walk-in tub. Providers that pair a limited lifetime warranty for all components of their walk-in tubs received 20 points. We deducted three points from providers that offer a warranty for select parts rather than the entire walk-in tub. We gave 17 points to providers that offer a 10–20 year warranty. Providers that offer less than a five-year warranty received 14 points.
Ergonomics (15%)
A walk-in tub’s ergonomics can be the difference between an enjoyable experience and a frustrating one. We awarded five points to providers that include arthritis-friendly controls. Companies that design their tubs with a three-inch step threshold received four points. We awarded three points for outward-swinging door options, two for headrest pillows, and one for easy-lock handles.
Average Cost (15%)
Walk-in tubs are a significant investment. Even the most affordable models cost well over $2,000. Since providers offer models that vary significantly in price, we took an average range and assigned points based on that average. The price averages consist of the following:
- $1,000–$3,000: 15 points
- $3,001–$5,000: 12 points
- $5,001–$8,000: 10 points
- $8,000+: 8 points
Additional Features (15%)
To help distinguish between providers, we considered the additional features their walk-in tubs offer. We awarded five points to providers that include heated surfaces and three points for self-cleaning functionality. We awarded two points each for the following features:
- Aromatherapy add-on
- Massage system/water jets
We gave one point each for the following more common features:
- Chromotherapy
- High-flow taps
Types (10%)
Not all walk-in tubs have the same design or functionality. The walk-in tub type is important to consider since a generic model may not fit your lifestyle or needs. We awarded providers up to six points if they offer models that included deep-soak and hydrotherapy functionality. Those that offer bariatric walk-in tubs received two points. We gave an additional point for these features:
- Two-person tubs
- Wheel-chair accessible tubs
Factor Weights for Rating Walk-In Tubs
Review the factor weights for our walk-in tub ratings at a glance in the table below. We also break down how you can interpret companies based on their scores.
| Review Category | Percent of Score |
|---|---|
|
Safety Features |
25% |
|
Warranty Options |
20% |
|
Ergonomics |
15% |
|
Average Cost |
15% |
|
Additional Features |
15% |
|
Types |
10% |
How To Interpret Company Ratings
Providers that offer multiple walk-in tub types, a limited lifetime warranty, and a focus on safety features, ergonomics, and cost-effectiveness received 90 points or higher. Companies that scored between 89 and 80 points are also solid options. These companies scored lower due to fewer additional features, higher costs, or limited warranties. These companies can provide value depending on your needs.
Providers that score fewer than 79 points are still worth considering if you want budget-friendly tubs with limited features. However, we don’t recommend them frequently.
How To Choose the Best Walk-In Tub for You
Consider the following factors to find the best walk-in tub for you or your loved one:
- Available space: Your bathroom’s available space is easy to overlook, but it is one of the most important factors to consider. Have a professional inspect your bathroom to determine if its size and plumbing can work with a walk-in tub.
- Cost: Walk-in tubs cost from $2,000 for a basic model to more than $10,000 for a model with all the bells and whistles. Consider your budget and the features you need or could live without. Also, budget for installation costs if you purchase a walk-in tub at a retail store.
- Features: Think about the features most important to you or your loved one. We recommend purchasing a walk-in tub that suits your mobility and lifestyle. For example, a tub with an outward-swinging door will be easier to enter if you have limited mobility.
- Safety: Alongside standard features, consider the safety features of a walk-in tub. While most providers include handrails and non-slip floors, not all include ADA-compliant seats. Anti-scald valves can prevent an uncomfortable burn if you have trouble controlling the tub’s water temperature.
About Us
We are an independent editorial team of subject matter experts who champion the categories and home services we recommend. From the beginning stages of research to the published review articles, our team works diligently to center your interests by identifying common pain points, connecting with people with firsthand knowledge and experience, and crafting content that meets the needs of our audience. We aim to help first-time homebuyers, potential sellers, budget-conscious homeowners, and others from all walks of life streamline their decision-making process for selecting their home services.
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