Best Walk-in Bathtubs in West Virginia

To choose a walk-in tub in West Virginia, start by evaluating your mobility needs, the available bathroom space and your financial situation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a decision:

1. Compare comfort and safety features

When choosing a walk-in tub, focus on essentials like sturdy grab bars, slip-resistant floors, anti-scald controls and efficient fill and drain systems. These features make bathing safer and easier, especially for older adults or anyone with mobility concerns. Pay attention to the threshold height and door width, as these affect how easy it is to enter and exit the tub.

For added comfort, look for heated seating, water or air jets for massage, and options such as aromatherapy or color-changing lights that can enhance the bathing experience.

These safety and comfort features benefit all users, but especially those with underlying conditions like chronic pain or cardiovascular issues. James from Weirton reported that his walk-in tub “helped my wife out a good bit because she gets up with a lot of aches and pains with arthritis. She really feels good about it.”

2. Consider tub design and materials

The right tub door style depends on your space and mobility. Inward-opening doors are suitable for small bathrooms, while outward-opening doors are better for wheelchair users. Many older homes in West Virginia, especially rural or mountain properties, may have tighter bathrooms or unique layouts where inward-opening doors would be best.

Gelcoat tubs offer more durability and less fading, but come at a higher price. Acrylic tubs are lighter, more affordable and easier to maintain, though they can scratch more easily. For West Virginia's varied climate, a durable and easy-to-maintain acrylic tub is a solid all-around choice.

3. Think about tub size and capacity

Walk-in tubs typically come in sizes near 30 inches wide, 50 inches long and 40 inches high. Smaller tubs use less water and fit in tighter spaces, while larger or two-seater models offer more room but require more hot water.

Be sure to ask your rep if your water heater is large enough for your chosen tub, as this is an often-overlooked problem. Compact tubs may need a 40-gallon tank, while bigger tubs could demand up to 120 gallons.

John from Follansbee had a 60-gallon hot water tank when he got his new tub installed and wasn’t told he’d need to upgrade. However, he said, “We learned, quite inconveniently, that we'd likely need an additional pump or another hot water tank to enjoy a full, warm bath.”

4. Read reviews

Check out feedback from other West Virginia homeowners to learn how different tubs perform day-to-day. Reviews often cover issues such as how quickly tubs drain, if the door seals hold up over time and whether the massage jets actually provide relief. You’ll also get insight into the professionalism of local installers and how well companies stand by their warranties.

5. Compare total costs

Walk-in tub prices can start low but can get quite expensive with upgrades and installation. Consider base price, extra features and any changes needed to your home’s plumbing or electrical systems. Add these up to see the true cost.

West Virginia's Ron Yost Personal Assistance Services (RYPAS) program or state Medicaid waivers may provide financial assistance for home accessibility modifications.

6. Prepare for installation

Most installations take one to two days, but older or unique homes may need more time for modifications. Structural changes, such as widening doorways or reinforcing floors, are sometimes required.

If you live in a historic home in areas like Lewisburg or Shepherdstown, you may need additional permits or structural reinforcement, which can extend installation timelines. You can also confirm your installer holds a valid license from the state's Contractor Licensing Board.

» MORE: Aging in place modifications

How to hire a walk-in tub installer in West Virginia

When searching for a walk-in tub installer, ask whether installation is included with your purchase. Many top brands handle this directly, streamlining the process. If you need to hire independently, seek out contractors with proven bathroom remodeling and accessibility experience and get a clear project estimate before work begins.

West Virginia's housing stock is dominated by log homes, vernacular farmhouses and Victorian-era townhouses. Log construction, in particular, requires specialized contractors for any modifications, which can increase installation costs.

Given the state's older housing stock and specialized construction types, a realistic average labor cost would be in the $2,500 to $6,000 range.

Walk-in tub prices in West Virginia typically range from $2,000 to $30,000, depending on tub type, features and brand. Installation costs typically add $2,500 to $6,000.

» MORE: How much does it cost to remodel for aging in place?

Financial assistance for walk-in tubs

Medicare typically does not cover walk-in tubs, though some Medicare Advantage plans may help with accessibility modifications. Always check with your provider for details on eligibility.

The WV Bureau of Senior Services offers a Home Modification and Accessibility Grant Program for adults age 60 and older. Additionally, the state's Aged and Disabled Waiver (ADW) can provide in-home care and community help, including home modifications.

If you’re a veteran, you might qualify for VA grants that cover the cost of a walk-in tub. Medicaid may also help cover the cost of a walk-in tub in some cases — check the West Virginia Bureau for Medical Services website for more information.