Stepping over a 16 to 18 inch tub wall every morning becomes harder over time. Aging-in-place updates are one of the fastest-growing remodel categories in the Indianapolis market because most homeowners would rather modify the bathroom than move out of the home.
Standard alcove tubs in Indianapolis homes have walls 16 to 18 inches tall. For homeowners with knee, hip, balance, or back issues, that step becomes risky. Falls in the bathroom are one of the leading causes of serious injury in adults over 65.
The most common solution is converting the tub to a walk-in shower. A low-curb conversion (2 to 3 inch threshold) is the simplest path and works in any bathroom. A curbless conversion has no threshold to step over and is the safest option, but requires lowering the subfloor or building up the surrounding floor, which is best done over a basement or crawlspace.
The right time to plan grab bars is during the conversion, when blocking can be added inside the walls. Built-in shower seats and benches add functionality. Comfort-height toilets (17 to 19 inches versus the standard 15 inches) and comfort-height vanities (34 to 36 inches) are easy upgrades to add at the same time.
An acrylic tub-to-shower conversion typically runs $8,500 to $14,000 and is completed in one to three days. A tile conversion runs $11,000 to $19,000 and takes seven to ten days plus glass templating lead time.
Call the number on the page to schedule a free in-home estimate. The coordinator will measure the bathroom, discuss safety features and design options, and provide a written scope.
No. Modern aging-in-place design integrates safety features into normal-looking bathrooms. Curbless showers, comfort-height fixtures, and grab bars all look standard, not medical.
Yes, for resale value. Most Indianapolis homes have a primary bath plus a hall bath. Converting the primary tub while keeping the hall bath tub is the standard approach.
