Best Walk-in Tubs in Houston, TX

Close to 17% of Houston’s population is either older than 65 or younger than 65 with a disability, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. People in both these groups are vulnerable to falls in the bathroom, often when entering or exiting the bathtub.

A walk-in tub — which can fit in the same space as a regular-sized bathtub or shower — reduces the risk of a bathroom-related injury. It comes standard with features like a leakproof door, low step-in, nonslip floor, built-in seat, grab bars and a hand-held showerhead. Upgraded models have extras such as air or water jets, self-cleaning systems and heated seats. Most walk-in tubs are installed within several days and come with a comprehensive warranty.

Walk-in bathtubs in Houston cost anywhere from $1,500 to over $20,000. The cost difference generally depends on the type of tub, the features and the brand. Here are some of the common types of walk-in tubs in Houston, along with their pricing:

• Soaking tubs are basic models with standard safety features. They cost from $1,500 to $5,000.
• Aerotherapy tubs have all the features of soaking tubs as well as air jets to circulate water and give the user a massage-like experience. They cost from $5,000 to $9,000.
• Hydrotherapy walk-in tubs are soaking tubs with water jets, which provide a more intense therapy than air jets. They cost from $5,000 to $7,000.
• Combination tubs have both air and water jets and cost between $7,000 and $10,000.
• Bariatric tubs and wheelchair-accessible tubs have larger entryways and outward-swinging doors. They cost from $5,000 to $10,000.
• Luxury walk-in tubs are often custom-built according to the buyer’s preferences. Expect to pay between $10,000 and $20,000 for one of these baths.

Always discuss the cost of installation with your chosen company's representative. Walk-in tub companies that do installations either include this cost in the price or charge an extra fee. If the company you purchase from doesn’t provide installation services, ask if it recommends a particular installer. Most walk-in tub installations in Houston cost $1,500 or less.

Many walk-in tub companies have financing options that let you make monthly payments — some with interest rates as low as 0%. Don’t forget to ask about exclusive promotions and discounts. Overall, the cost of a walk-in bathtub in Houston is far less than the cost of moving to a popular assisted living community in Houston. The average monthly cost at these facilities is close to $4,000 a month.

In Houston, you need a plumbing fixture permit to install floor drains, shower pans and bathtubs. For more information, you can contact the Houston Permitting Center, where you can also download a homeowner’s guide to the residential permitting process and a general overview of the residential permit process. Discuss any permitting required with your installer, as some cities may have different requirements.