Walk-in Tub Shower Combo
A walk-in tub is a wonderful addition to any home – especially one where residents want to age in place and hold onto their independence for as long as they...
Walk in Tubs
Average Cost: $4,000 - $12,000
Kohler walk-in tubs feature a very low 3″ step, easy-grip ADA grab bars, extra-wide entry doors, seamless installation, and all-inclusive pricing, enhancing safety and accessibility. However, they lack an Ozone cleaning system and specific wheelchair-accessible models, which may be a consideration for some users.
Kohler is one of the most popular home improvement brands in the country. Founded in 1873, the brand has been around for nearly 150 years, making a name for itself in everything from bathroom tubs to showers and other fixtures. Based in Kohler, Wisconsin, the brand offers some of the highest quality walk-in tubs on the market today. Kohler manufactures a single walk-in tub model with various styles and upgrades that allows seniors to age in place at their homes safely. On this page, we will take a deep dive into Kohler walk-in tubs, covering everything you need to know before deciding if Kohler is the right brand for you.
Walk-in tubs are a safe alternative for seniors concerned about getting in and out of a standard tub or shower. That’s because these walk-in models are equipped with added safety features in addition to wider doors and the curbless entry that lessens the risk of slips and falls. Kohler walk-in tubs in particular are outfitted with non-slip floors, a low-step entry and grab bars that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act for Accessible Design (ADA). Kohler walk-in tubs can also be installed as tub/shower combos, giving you the option to bathe or shower.
But Kohler’s walk-in tubs are about more than just safety. They also offer a comfortable and relaxing experience with features such as hydrotherapy jets, heated backrests, and a wide seat for a spa-like experience.
The hydrotherapy jets offer a hydromassage with 10 whirlpool jets. The heated backrest adjusts between three different temperatures to keep your head and neck warm without having to sink below the water. Adding mood lighting and diffusers to your bathroom can create an aromatherapy and chromotherapy experience to the mix to promote ultimate relaxation. To top it all off, these tubs have an easy-to-reach control panel that allows you to adjust the jets and headrest. This panel is also considered accessible for those with limited dexterity. These tubs are outfitted with quick drain technology that makes it easy to finish your bath or shower and exit the walk-in tub without risking spills or drips.
Kohler walk-in bathtubs are about the size of a standard bathtub enclave, which means they’re easily installed in the existing footprint of your bathroom without the need for major renovations.
| Safety Features | Comfort Features |
|---|---|
| Low 3" step-in entryway | Interior control panel |
| Grab bars | Whirlpool jets |
| Wide door | Heated backrest |
| Non-slip flooring | Wide seating area |
| Fast drain technology | Hand shower |
With so many ADA compliant walk-in tubs on the market, it’s certainly worth comparing brands and models before buying. Explore a few pros and cons of Kohler’s walk-in tub offerings before deciding whether it is the right brand for you.
Price estimates for Kohler walk-in tubs vary depending on the types of add-on features and the cost of installation. Kohler predicts that you can get a new standard tub beginning at $2,000 without installation. With premium features and installation, it is possible to spend upwards of $25,000.
On average, you can expect to pay between $4,000 to $12,000 for a brand new Kohler walk-in tub plus installation. Your Kohler walk-in bath cost can also depend on where you live and who your local installers are.
Kohler occasionally offers promotional discounts. Ask your local dealer about upcoming sales and offers as you shop. Below you can compare the cost of different types of Kohler walk-in tubs based on included features.
| Kohler walk-in tub type | Price range (tub only) | Accessories and features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic walk-in tubs | $2,000 - $5,000 | Safety features only |
| Walk-in tubs with whirlpool jets | $5,000 - $10,000 | Whirlpool jets and/or air jets |
| Specialty walk-in tubs | $2,500 - $15,000 | Wheelchair accessibility, two-seater, tub/shower combo |
| Premium walk-in tubs | $7,000 - $20,000 | Heated backrest, adjustable jets and shower wand, oversized tubs |
In addition, some installers may charge a fee to remove your old tub, if needed, which ranges from $250 to $700. Kohler recommends adding a new, 50-gallon water tank to maintain water temperature with your new walk-in tub. New water tanks cost between $1,500 and $5.000.
While Medicare does not cover installation of a walk-in tub, you might be able to get some financial assistance through other programs including Medicaid, the Department of Veteran Affairs or the US Department of Agriculture.
Additionally, walk-in tub buyers do have some financing options available. It is always possible to talk to your walk-in tub professional at Kohler about financing options in order to get the walk-in tub model and features you truly want.
Kohler promises what it calls “all-inclusive pricing,” meaning you will get an accurate quote at the time of purchase and won’t face additional charges incurred during installation.
Kohler offers one standard model of walk-in tub, which comes with standard features: the low walk-in threshold, the multifunction hands shower wand, hydrotherapy and air jets, fast-drain technology, a heated back rest by Bask, and easy-to-grip handrails. Luckily, this model provides most homeowners with all the features and functions they need in a perfect walk-in tub. And there are add-on features available such as additional grab bars, shower heads and modified seating.
You’ll also get to choose between white and biscuit-colored for the tub shell and polished chrome or brushed nickel for the fixtures. The tubs also come in a variety of sizes from 52 to 60 inches long and between 28 and 32 inches wide.
Kohler also offers a walk-in bath and shower combo package, which includes bath walls and fixtures. There are several bath wall colors to choose from and several styles of shower heads as well from traditional to modern. You can also add a bath screen to your walk-in tub to prevent water spillage. Bath walls can be added to the walk-in tub online, which will protect your walls from water damage. And if you opt for the walls, you can also add a corner shelf or niche for storage of shampoo bottles and soap.
Keep in mind that many other top brands do offer a wider variety when it comes to walk-in tub models and features.
Your Kohler walk-in tub is built for safety and it’s built to last, too. Kohler offers a Lifetime Limited Warranty, covering manufacturing defects on all of your tub’s components. The warranty will cover defects on the tub’s bath door seal, hydrotherapy systems, Kohler faucets and hand showers among many other features.
Be sure to read the fine print. While the tub’s pieces and parts are covered, the warranty does not include reimbursement or coverage for the additional labor required to have these fixes made.
Installing your Kohler walk-in tub will require the help of a professional who will assess your bathroom’s space and address any plumbing or electrical needs. A pro will also ensure that the tub is sealed and the surrounding area is waterproofed, so that your tub will last a long time in your home. In short, these professionals can be trusted to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines as well as local building codes.
From there, you’ll want to maintain your tub with regular maintenance and cleaning. Be sure to clean and disinfect your tub regularly and be on the lookout for leaks. Report malfunctions immediately to avoid costly repairs, and be sure to follow the owner’s manual to avoid problems.
Kohler provides detailed cleaning instructions with their walk-in tubs but in general, they recommend using a non-abrasive, multipurpose or bathroom cleaner, a glass or faucet cleaning fluid and a soft cloth or sponge. Kohler recommends its proprietary cleaning products, Kohler Tub & Shower Cleaner as well as Kohler Faucet Cleaner, for its walk-in tub.
Kohler is a longstanding brand with a good reputation in kitchen and bath products for homes around the country. Their walk-in tub is no exception. Their singular design means you won’t have to waste time comparing their various models. This tub is built to last and has many handy features and upgrades. Its pricing falls in line with other common brands as well.
Many Kohler customers are thrilled with their walk-in tubs, saying they improved their quality of life and offered peace of mind for their safety. Customers reported that their walk-in tubs helped them stay comfortable at home and avoid the cost of living in a nursing home.
If you want to connect with walk-in tub professionals near you, Modernize can help. We specialize in helping homeowners find the perfect price and professional for their walk-in tubs project. Explore our network of professionals to compare prices and get started.
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