Recently, one of our clients came to us with a partial remodel bathroom project with two main concerns. The first concern was the failing skywall they had attempted to repair that, over the years, caused water damage. The second concern was removing the deathtrap of a sunken tub that was easy to fall into and difficult to escape.
We have successfully dealt with sky walls by removing them, reframing for window(s), and reroofing. These tasks were simple and relatively straightforward other than extending the cedar shake roof. However, luckily, the client had a high-quality, thick shake roof installed years back, and our supplier could source the matching product.
Our client had imagined a walk-in tub in this location, with a window to look out into her secret garden while resting in the tub and leaving some room for artwork in the corner. Like many homes in this area, most rooms have beautiful oak cabinets, and she couldn't imagine replacing the vanity. With the help of our design team, she picked out a quartz countertop, which we also installed as the tub deck and backsplash. We laid floor tile in the main section of the bathroom, but we needed to purchase more tile to complete the remaining bath sections later.
Over the years, we have become knowledgeable regarding walk-in tubs. For instance, it is essential to have the door open inward so that the water pressure helps keep the door sealed when the tub is full of water. Plumbing the tub so it fills and empties as quickly as possible is essential. Emptying quickly is crucial because a person can get cold waiting. Then, there are bubbles, jets, and warmers to choose from.
One of the most significant challenges we ran into was that we wanted our licensed plumber to be responsible for running the rough-ins for the tub, the installation, and the meeting with the plumbing inspector. Some walk-in tub companies wanted their people to make the final connection, which could lead to some issues. Our clients expect their project to be a Shirey Home Pro project, so we control the complete project.
The other problem was our client wanted to sit in the tub before committing to the tub, which made perfect sense to us because of the investment size. We found only two she could sit in out of the number of tubs available. One was in a showroom, and the other was only available by appointment. Both companies were apprehensive about being part of our remodel. Then, when we were almost running out of options, we found a company with a quality tub that wanted us to have our plumbers install it and who had a mobile showroom. They brought the tub out, and she loved it. We helped her pick out all the bells and whistles and were off to finish the design around her selected tub. Before, during, and after the project, their support was excellent. Thank you, Shelly, from Seattle Walk-In Bathtubs!
Choosing and adding fixtures like walk-in tubs can be made out of necessity or desire for a spa-like experience. Whether you want walk-in tubs, barrier-free showers, wet rooms, steam showers, or something else, Shirey Home Pro is here to assist no matter your bathroom needs.
