By: Fabiola Grosshan
Submitted: 2010-08-26 06:14:04 | Word Count: 391
Bath and shower safety have always been an important consideration in the home but with the increasing population of older adults, these issues are even more important. Research studies show 1/3 of people over the age of 60 have bath and shower entry difficulties. Studies have also pointed to the danger of entry doors for the elderly. Whether open-out or sliding, shower doors pose a danger because they are not designed to bear weight should the person rest or fall against them. Many seats used in tubs and showers are not designed to accommodate the curvature of the tub or shower floor and can be unbalanced or precariously positioned.
In recent years, most shower conversions fall into the tub to shower category. In these conversions, once the tub is removed, a new one-piece wall surrounds the shower, offering no leaks, a finish that is resistant to scratches and unsightly marks and may be larger than the original tub. Shower conversions change entry height from as high as 22inches off the floor for a claw-foot tub to a customized entry depth of 2-4 inches and can even have a zero entry depth. Other advantages offered by shower conversions are temperature balance control which does not allow temperature change if flushing or other water usage occurs.
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Another option to address bath and shower safety is to simple install a replacement bathtub. Replacement bathtubs are a way to get rid of an old tub that's become damaged or stained over time. This is much cheaper than having an old bathtub professionally refinished. These bathtubs are lighter in weight than cast iron or porcelain tubs and come in two types of finish. Replacement bathtubs can have an acrylic or copper finish, both of which are easy to clean and offer bacteria and mold-growth prevention.
Around 1990, luxury bath systems became the most cost-effective and decorative solution to bathroom remodeling projects. Luxury bath systems come in a variety of colors and patterns with a multitude of accessories such as whirlpools and massage systems. These systems are also very economical since the tub liner often fits over the existing tub and one technician can handle both plumbing and electrical issues.
