Homeowner Story: Why We Switched from a Tub to a Walk-In Shower
Converting your bathtub to a walk-in shower can be a savvy remodeling decision for several reasons, providing a sleek, contemporary look to a dated space, while also giving seniors more control over their living space. In general, people prefer the convenience of showers to baths; showers use less water, are more hygienic, and with seamless surfaces, are easier to clean. A shower with glass walls and doors often allows more light penetration and creates a more spacious look. For seniors, a curbless shower allows for greater accessibility and reduces the likelihood of falls and accidents. The design experts at 3Rs Construction & Remodeling in Salem, Oregon will help you decide if a walk-in shower is right for you.
Are you looking to convert your bathtub to a walk-in shower? 3Rs Construction & Remodeling, your licensed professional contractor in Salem, Oregon, is here to help!
Failed Shower Leads to a Modernized Bathroom for One Couple
When the shower in Steve and Diane’s master bathroom failed, they stopped using it and started thinking about their options. The bathroom was dark and dated with a tiled shower and separate tiled tub. They also knew their water heater was insufficient as they couldn’t do laundry and then take a shower. As they were nearing retirement, they liked the idea of a walk-in shower.
“It was a 40-year-old bathroom,” Diane said. “We wanted to update it.”
Steve added, “It turned into a complete, full bathroom remodel… We’d never done anything like that, nothing inside. It was scary, but it also gave us time to plan what we wanted to do with the space.”
Diane and Steve were happy with the professional work done by 3Rs Construction & Remodeling. “They said the work would be done in six weeks, and it was done in six weeks. They had the demo completed in one day,” and, Steve said, unlike the other contractors they’d used in the past, “the trash, the demo, all the old material, left. There was never any trash left. It was amazing. They cleaned up every day. They were a pleasure to work with.”
Diane and Steve ended up with a large walk-in shower with a glass front and doors, plus a hot water heater just for the master bathroom, hidden behind a shelving unit.
“It’s a joy to get up in the morning and see that new bathroom,” Diane said.
Watch the North’s Master Bathroom Remodel Testimonial
Smart Bathroom Designs Can Turn a Family Home into a Forever Home
As we age, our homes should be comfortable, safe and contribute to our independence. We want to enjoy our familiar living spaces without fear of accidents. A walk-in shower can provide a sense of freedom and independence, especially when we’re often experiencing balance issues, as well as decreased mobility and flexibility.
A High Bathtub Wall Increases the Risk of Falling
A high bathtub wall presents a significant hurdle. Getting in and out of the tub requires strength, balance and sometimes awkward movements. If we misjudge the height and catch a toe, there’s the risk of banging a shin or, worse, falling. Who wants to navigate the bathtub after knee surgery or a hip replacement?
Installing a walk-in (or curbless) shower eliminates the need to climb over the edge of the tub. It goes a long way toward providing safety, convenience, and comfort. Curbless showers can also be wheelchair accessible, allowing for walkers or shower aids. As seniors age in place it’s important to consider barrier-free remodeling options.
Additional Safety Features to Consider for your Tub to a Walk-In Shower Conversion
Thoughtful planning of your bathroom remodel by an experienced company like 3Rs Construction & Remodeling can ensure even greater safety and peace of mind.
- Grab bars - install grab bars for added stability as well as making them ADA compliant.
- Built-in shower chairs or benches - these allow for sitting down when necessary and provide easier access to legs and feet.
- Handheld showerheads - direct water flow with minimal movement.
- Quality bathroom lighting - enable the best visibility possible.
Add non-slip mats, long-handled bath aids, and regular check-ins from family or neighbors, and there’s no reason bathroom activities should prohibit a senior from aging in place and staying in their family home.
Need help planning your bathroom renovation? 3Rs Construction & Remodeling in Salem is ready to guide you through every detail!
No Need to Sacrifice Modern Bathroom Design for Increased Safety
- Sleek, Contemporary Design - A walk-in shower can give a modern aesthetic to a dated bathroom.
- Spacious - Showers often take less room and, especially with glass walls or doors, which can make a bathroom feel larger and more open visually.
- Conservation - Showers typically use less water than baths. A 10-minute shower uses approximately 20 gallons of water while a filled tub uses 36 gallons on average.
- Easy to Clean - Use seamless surfaces and fewer grout lines for easy cleanup.
Ready to start planning your bathroom remodel? Download our Free Ultimate Bathroom Planning & Design Kit.
A Quality Contractor Gives Peace of Mind for Important Bathroom Remodels
You want quality you can trust when it comes to bathroom remodeling. A poorly installed walk-in shower can lead to pooling, moisture, and water damage - the last thing seniors need to be worrying about in their golden years. 3Rs Construction & Remodeling has been happily serving the Salem community for more than 30 years. We think of you like family and want your forever home to be a safe, comfortable place that provides the peace of mind you need.
No Need to Worry about a Negative Impact on Resale Value
The simple fact is that people shower way more than they bathe. With the rising number of seniors in our community, walk-in showers are a definite asset. Ideally, if a home has two or more bathrooms, one would have a tub for bathing children and soaking sore muscles. If the other has a walk-in shower, you’ve just made your home much more attractive for seniors in the Salem area.
3Rs is Here to Help You Explore Your Options and Find the Perfect Combination of Safety and Beautiful Design
You may have already done the research and know that a walk-in shower is what you need, or you may be exploring your options. Either way, keep these critical factors in mind:
- As we age, the risk of falling becomes a greater concern.
- Bathtubs present significant challenges to aging adults, especially those with decreased mobility and balance issues.
- A walk-in (or curbless) shower can make your family home a safer and more comfortable space as you age.
- A combined bathroom and laundry room offers another practical option when space is limited.
- There is no need to sacrifice design for practicality. 3Rs Construction & Remodeling will help you create a sleek, contemporary design for your new bathroom.
Update Your Bathroom in Salem Today to Ensure Future Independence, Safety, and Comfort
A bathroom remodel will ensure your family home is your forever home - a haven of comfort, security, and peace of mind. With the right remodeling decisions – especially when it comes to bathroom accessibility – seniors have the option to stay in the homes they’ve loved for decades.
3Rs Construction & Remodeling in Salem, Oregon is your trusted home remodeling contractor as you age in place. We are here to discuss your options like curbless showers and additional safety features. It’s time for you to have a beautifully designed, contemporary bathroom that’s also accessible and comfortable, ensuring your independence, and safety.