Step-through Tubs

During a recent bathroom remodel, my clients and I were discussing options for their cast iron tub/shower unit. They were concerned that it was getting more and more difficult to get in and out of the tub to take showers. That 16" high rim is not easy to step over. They don't take baths anymore and were strongly convinced that my plumber should tear the tub out and re-plumb for a 5' walk-in shower. If you've ever torn out a cast iron tub, you know, this is one tough, nasty and messy job. 

They had aged glass doors on the tub and these are so hard to keep clean that they needed to be replaced or removed.

Add the fact that, in this case, tile goes from the ceiling to the tub rim; you either have to tear that out and durock and re-tile or tile from the rim level down to the new shower pan. The expense, mess and the debris going to the landfill made this an unappealing option.

Enter Surface Specialists. This a national franchise that does re-glazing, repairs, and step-throughs for tubs. Steve Streifel, owner of Surface Specialists of Michigan came over and in short order turned their tub into a walk-in shower.

              From this:                                                                                                           

                To this!

Why this is Green:

• By not tearing out the tub and/or the tile and starting over, the project didn't contribute to the waste stream.
• Eliminated shower doors which are hard to clean and are growth zones for grime and potentially mold.
• Contributes to the health of customers by removing a risk, in this case, falling.