There is a variety of ways to shop for, buy and install your walk-in tub. No matter what you choose it’s a huge benefit to find a company that will offer a free custom consultation. Every bathroom is unique and there are a wide variety of walk-in tubs to choose from. The more specific you can sit down and look at the options and how they would work in your bathroom, the more informed your choice. You can also talk about pricing and finance options during the consultation.
Let’s talk about the different ways to shop for a walk-in tub and the average prices you can expect to pay.
Big Box Retailers
Lowe’s, Home Depot and other big box hardware stores offer walk-in tubs. The benefits to purchasing from a big box retailer is the price is often less and the warranty is inclusive. The problems are the lack of personal service, generally no installation, and lack of selection. The average price is between $2,500 to $6,000 not installed.
Online Retailers
Online retailers for walk-in tubs are an option, but not a very good one. While the price may be right, averaging between $1,5000 to $7,500, the quality and installation can be questionable. Plus, you will have to rely on measurements and pictures when finding the right walk-in tub for your bathroom. While, some online companies offer installation and service crews.
Showrooms & Local Distributors
The benefit of showrooms is the ability to see the walk-in tub in person and to play with the features. With the average showroom price between $4,000 and $8,000 not counting installation. Some local distributors offer installation, and some do not. You would be looking at another $1,500 to $3,000.
In-Home Consultation
This is the best way to shop for and purchase your walk-in tub. Your bathroom is as unique as your style and you need to ensure the walk-in tub you choose will fit in the space you have. A sales representative will come to your home and measure your bathroom. You’ll have the opportunity to express concerns, ask questions and get recommendations for the features you are considering. Companies that offer in-home consultations also offer installation and repair. With an average price of $5,000 to $20,000.
Insurance Benefits
When considering the price of a walk-in tub it’s important to know if you will be paying out of pocket or if your health insurance will help cover the cost. Medicare does not generally help with the cost of the purchase or installation. In the rare case that the tub is covered by Medicare it would be in the form of a reimbursement. Medicare is more like to cover specialty therapeutic tubs depending on the issues it’s being used for. Each state has their own Medicaid program, so check with your worker to learn more.