Transform Your Tub: The Ultimate Guide to Tub Cut Outs

Why Tub Cut Outs Are Changing Bathroom Safety

A tub cut out is a simple accessibility modification that transforms your existing bathtub into a safer, easier-to-access shower. Here's what you need to know:

What is a Tub Cut Out?

• A section of your bathtub wall is carefully cut away

• A low-profile threshold insert is installed

• Creates a walk-through opening (typically 24 inches wide)

• Maintains water containment with a 4-8 inch step

• Can be completed in 2-4 hours with professional installation

Who Benefits Most:

• Seniors struggling to step over high tub walls

• Anyone with mobility challenges or joint pain

• Post-operative patients recovering at home

• Those wanting to age in place safely

More than 70% of all major home accidents happen in the bathroom. For seniors, stepping over slippery tub walls is a leading cause of dangerous falls. As one customer shared: "My grandfather was able to have a true washing in his tub after a long time of just sponge baths. He was like a little kid, he was so happy!"

The solution doesn't require removing your existing tub, changing plumbing, or major renovation work. Tub cut outs cost between $800-$2,000 - a fraction of full bathroom remodels that can exceed $10,000.

I'm Gary Mholic, owner of Bath Innovations Midwest, and I've been helping Kansas City families create safer bathrooms since 2011. My experience with tub cut out installations has shown me how this simple modification can restore independence and peace of mind for countless individuals and their families.

The Benefits of a Tub Conversion and Who It's For

When you install a tub cut out, you're not just making your bathroom easier to use – you're investing in safety, independence, and peace of mind. The change goes far beyond the physical modification itself.

Fall prevention is the most important benefit. The statistics are sobering: falls are the leading cause of injury and death among older Americans. Each year, millions of older adults—those 65 and older—fall. In fact, more than one out of four older adults falls each year, but less than half tell their doctor. Learn more about fall statistics from the CDC.

Your bathroom, with its hard surfaces and wet conditions, is often the most dangerous room in your home. That high tub wall you step over every day? It's a fall waiting to happen. A tub cut out eliminates this major hazard, creating a safer entry point that dramatically reduces your risk of slipping or tripping.

This improved safety leads directly to greater independence. There's something powerful about being able to step into your shower without help, without fear, and without pain. For many people, maintaining this simple daily routine is crucial to their dignity and well-being.

Aging in place becomes much more realistic with a tub cut out. Instead of facing the difficult decision to move to assisted living because of bathroom safety concerns, you can stay in the home you love. Occupational therapists and physiotherapists regularly recommend these modifications to their clients – they've seen how effective they are.

The cost-effective nature of this solution makes it accessible to most families. While a full bathroom renovation can cost $15,000 or more, a tub cut out typically ranges from $800 to $2,000. The quick installation process means your bathroom is back in service within 48 hours, not weeks or months.

So who benefits most from this modification? Seniors are obvious candidates, especially as flexibility and balance naturally decrease with age. But the benefits extend to individuals with mobility challenges from arthritis, knee or hip problems, or balance issues. Even temporary situations help – post-operative recovery patients often find a tub cut out invaluable while they heal and regain strength.

Honestly, anyone who values bathroom safety can benefit. Even if you don't have mobility issues now, that peace of mind knowing you have a safer entry point is priceless.

Recommended Safety Add-ons

A tub cut out is an excellent start, but combining it with other safety features creates an even more secure bathing environment. Grab bars provide crucial support for balance and stability – we recommend placing them strategically near your new step-through opening.

Anti-slip treatments applied to your tub floor add another layer of protection against wet surface slips. Handheld shower wands offer flexibility, letting you direct water where you need it while maintaining control and balance.

For those who prefer to sit while showering, bath benches or shower stools work perfectly with your new low-threshold entry. You can step through easily and shower comfortably while seated.

These accessories work together with your tub cut out to create a comprehensive safety solution. Learn more about tub cut out safety features and how they can transform your bathing experience.

The Tub Cut Out Process: From Start to Finish

Changing your bathtub into a safer, walk-through shower might sound complicated, but it's actually a surprisingly straightforward process. I've watched countless homeowners go from worried about bathroom safety to confidently stepping into their shower – all in the span of a single day.

The magic starts with measuring the tub carefully. Our team assesses every detail of your bathtub: its height, width, material, and how it's positioned in your bathroom. We need to find the perfect spot for your new opening – one that maintains the tub's structural strength while giving you the easiest possible entry.

Then comes the precision work of cutting the section. This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. For fiberglass and acrylic tubs, we use a reciprocating saw that cuts cleanly through the material. Cast iron and steel tubs require more specialized equipment like angle grinders. Don't worry about the mess – we carefully tape off your entire bathroom beforehand, especially with metal tubs that can create tiny fragments.

The real craftsmanship shows in sealing the insert. Once we've made the cut and smoothed the edges, we install your custom-fitted threshold insert. This piece becomes the new "step" into your shower, typically sitting 4-8 inches high instead of the original 14-17 inches. We use industrial-grade adhesives and professional caulking to create a watertight seal that will last for years.

Here's the part that requires a little patience: curing time. While the actual installation only takes 2-4 hours, the adhesive needs time to fully bond and cure. We recommend waiting 48 hours before using your shower. I know it's tempting to test it out right away, but this waiting period ensures your tub cut out will be completely leak-proof and durable.

What Types of Tubs Can Be Modified?

The beauty of a tub cut out is that it works with almost any bathtub you already have. Over the years, I've modified everything from vintage cast iron beauties to modern acrylic models.

Cast iron tubs are the old-school champions – built to last forever but tough to cut. They require more time and specialized tools, but the results are just as effective. Steel tubs fall into the same category, offering durability with a bit more flexibility during the cutting process.

Fiberglass tubs are probably the easiest to work with. They cut cleanly, seal well, and are found in many homes built in recent decades. Acrylic tubs are similarly cooperative – lightweight and forgiving during the modification process.

Many homeowners have porcelain-finished tubs, which are typically steel or cast iron underneath with a glossy coating. These work perfectly for conversions too. The porcelain finish actually helps create a smooth, attractive edge around your new opening.

This compatibility with most existing bathtubs means you probably won't need to replace anything. We've successfully modified whirlpool tubs, deck-mounted installations, and even tubs surrounded by tile work. See examples in our gallery to get a sense of the variety we handle.

Understanding the Standard Tub Cut Out vs. Other Options

Not all tub cut outs are created equal, and that's actually a good thing. We can customize the modification to match your specific needs and tub style.

The standard cut works for most situations. We create an opening that's typically 24 inches wide, removing about 8.5 inches from the top of your tub wall. This gives you a comfortable step-through height while maintaining plenty of water containment for showering.

For those newer, extra-deep tubs that seem to reach your knees, we offer an ultra-low cut. These deeper tubs (often 18 inches high or more) can handle removing up to 14 inches of wall height. The result? An incredibly low step that's perfect for anyone with significant mobility challenges.

Here's where it gets really clever: convertible models with watertight doors. Some families love the idea of safer shower access but aren't ready to give up their relaxing baths entirely. These systems include a removable watertight door that can be quickly inserted when someone wants a full bath, then removed for easy walk-through access. It's like having two different tubs in one.

Choosing the right type for your needs depends on your mobility requirements, your tub's current height, and whether anyone in your household still enjoys soaking in a full bath. During our consultation, we'll help you figure out which option makes the most sense for your situation and budget.

Comparing Accessibility Solutions

When you're exploring ways to make your bathroom safer, it's natural to wonder about your options. The good news? You don't always need a complete overhaul to get the accessibility you need.

The most common alternative to a tub cut out is a full shower conversion - think curbless showers or roll-in showers that require tearing out your existing tub entirely. Let's look at how these solutions stack up against each other.

Feature	Tub Cut Out	Full Shower Conversion (e.g., Curbless Shower)
Cost	Average $450-$2,000 (often $800-$1200 installed)	Minimum $4,000, can go up to $10,000 or more
Installation Time	2-4 hours for installation, plus 48 hours curing time (total 2.5 days downtime)	Can take several days to weeks, depending on complexity and demolition
Functionality	Converts existing tub into a step-through shower; convertible option allows full bath	Dedicated shower space; no bath function unless a separate tub is installed
Structural Changes	Minimal; modifies existing tub; no impact on existing plumbing, floors, or walls	Extensive; involves demolition of existing tub/shower, re-plumbing, re-tiling, floor modification
Mess & Disruption	Very low mess; contained cutting process	High mess; demolition debris, dust, noise
Resale Value	Can be positive for accessibility; reversibility possible with some models	Generally positive; adds modern appeal, but significant investment
Limitations	Retains a small threshold (approx. 4 inches); may not be suitable for all mobility needs (e.g., wheelchair access without ramp)	Can be truly curbless for wheelchair access; higher initial investment

The cost comparison really tells the story here. While a full shower conversion will run you at least $4,000 and often much more, a tub cut out delivers significant safety improvements for a fraction of that investment. We're talking about the difference between a weekend project and a major renovation that could stretch your budget thin.

Installation time is another huge factor. Nobody wants their bathroom out of commission for weeks. With a tub cut out, you're looking at just 2-4 hours of actual work, plus a couple days for everything to cure properly. Compare that to a full conversion that might leave you without a functioning bathroom for days or even weeks while contractors tear out, rebuild, and retile everything.

The functionality difference is worth considering too. A tub cut out works with what you already have - your existing tub becomes a safer, more accessible shower space. If you choose a convertible model, you can even keep the option to take a full bath when you want one. A full shower conversion, on the other hand, means saying goodbye to baths entirely unless you install a separate tub.

Here's where we need to be honest about the limitations of tub cuts. While they dramatically reduce that step-over height from around 14-17 inches down to about 4 inches, they don't eliminate the threshold completely. That small step is necessary to keep water where it belongs. For most people dealing with mobility challenges, this is still a game-changer. However, if you need completely level entry for wheelchair access, you might need to consider a ramp system or look into a full curbless conversion.

The beauty of a tub cut out is that it hits that sweet spot - significant safety improvement without the headache, expense, and disruption of a major remodel. For targeted accessibility improvements that focus specifically on making bathing safer, it's often the smartest choice you can make.

If you're curious about more extensive bathroom changes, you can find information on full bathroom remodels on our site. But for most families looking to create a safer bathing environment quickly and affordably, a tub cut out delivers exactly what you need.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

I get it – when you see a tub cut out, it looks pretty straightforward. Cut a hole, seal it up, and you're done, right? While DIY kits are available and might seem tempting for the budget-conscious homeowner, let me share why this is one project where calling in the pros makes all the difference.

DIY vs. Professional Tub Cut Out Installation

The appeal of DIY kits is obvious. You can find them starting around $299, complete with a cardboard cutting template, industrial-grade adhesive, and support components. The potential cost savings look attractive on paper, especially when you're already investing in accessibility improvements.

But here's where things get tricky. The required tools – like a reciprocating saw or angle grinder – aren't exactly everyday household items. Even if you own them, using them precisely on curved tub surfaces takes practice. I've seen too many well-intentioned DIY attempts go sideways, literally.

The biggest concern? Risk of leaks. One imperfect cut or inadequate seal can lead to water seeping behind your walls or under your flooring. What started as a $300 DIY project can quickly become thousands in water damage repairs. There's also real potential for structural damage to your tub, especially with fiberglass or acrylic materials that can crack if not handled properly.

Professional expertise brings something you can't get from a kit: experience. We've done hundreds of these installations across different tub materials and bathroom configurations. We know which adhesives work best with each material, how to achieve that perfect seal, and how to spot potential problems before they become expensive headaches.

Our installations come with thorough water-seal testing and a lifetime warranty – something no DIY kit can offer. When we're done, you know it's done right.

Why a Professional is Recommended

After more than a decade in this business, I can tell you that tub cut out installation is one of those jobs that looks simpler than it actually is. The difference between a good installation and a great one often comes down to details that only experience can teach.

Precision cutting is absolutely critical. Each tub material behaves differently when cut. Cast iron requires different techniques than acrylic, and fiberglass has its own quirks. Our team knows exactly how to handle each material to prevent chips, cracks, or rough edges that could compromise both appearance and safety.

The proper sealing techniques we use involve multiple stages and specialized materials. It's not just about applying caulk – it's about creating a permanent, waterproof barrier that will last for decades. We've perfected these methods through years of experience with different materials, and we test every seal before considering the job complete.

Safety and peace of mind might be the most important factors. Working with power tools in tight bathroom spaces carries real risks. More importantly, you deserve to step into your new accessible shower knowing it's been installed correctly. Our work is backed by our expertise and warranty, so you can focus on enjoying your safer bathroom instead of worrying about potential problems.

The time factor matters too. What might take a DIY enthusiast an entire stressful weekend, we complete in just a few hours with professional results. You can learn about our installation process to see the care and attention we bring to every project.

Trust me – when it comes to your safety and your home's integrity, professional installation isn't just recommended, it's essential.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tub Conversions

Over the years, I've answered countless questions about tub cut outs from homeowners just like you. Let me share the most common concerns and give you the straight answers you need to make the right decision for your family.

How much does a tub cut out cost?

When people ask about pricing, I always tell them that a tub cut out typically costs between $800 and $2,000 - which is honestly a fraction of what you'd spend on a full bathroom renovation. But like most home improvements, several factors influence where you'll land in that range.

The material of your existing tub plays a big role in pricing. If you have a fiberglass or acrylic tub, you're looking at the lower end of our price range because these materials are easier to work with. Cast iron and steel tubs require more specialized tools and extra labor time, which naturally increases the cost.

The type of product you choose also affects your investment. A standard tub cut out without any bells and whistles will cost less than a convertible model with a removable watertight door. That door option adds complexity to the installation and requires additional water-seal testing, but it gives you the flexibility to still take full baths when you want to.

Professional installation fees are included in our pricing because we believe in doing the job right the first time. While you might find DIY kits for less money, our professional installation comes with the expertise, proper tools, and lifetime warranty that protect your investment. Trust me, the peace of mind is worth every penny.

When you compare this to other accessibility solutions, the value becomes even clearer. A full shower conversion can easily run $4,000 to $10,000 or more. For detailed cost analysis and what factors might affect your specific situation, you can learn more about pricing considerations on our website.

Can a tub cut out be reversed?

This is a great question, especially from homeowners thinking about future resale value. The answer depends on which type of tub cut out system you choose.

Some models are designed with reversibility in mind. With these systems, the cut-out piece can be re-inserted using a special restoration kit, essentially returning your tub to its original condition. It's like having your cake and eating it too - you get the accessibility benefits now, but you haven't made a permanent change to your home.

However, not all tub cut out installations can be reversed. The permanent modifications might leave visible signs of the alteration even if you try to restore the original appearance.

When it comes to impact on home resale value, the effect really depends on your local market and the condition of your bathroom. In many cases, accessibility features actually add value, especially as more buyers consider aging in place. If your bathroom is older and likely to be renovated by new owners anyway, a tub cut out probably won't hurt your resale value at all.

We always discuss the reversibility options available with our products during your consultation, so you can make the choice that best fits your long-term plans.

How high is the step after the cut?

After your tub cut out installation, you'll have a threshold height of about 4 to 8 inches above your bathroom floor. I know some people hope we can eliminate the step entirely, but that's just not physically possible while maintaining a functional shower.

Here's why: your bathtub doesn't sit directly on the floor. There's space underneath for plumbing, structural support, and the tub's drainage system. The height depends on your tub's internal floor design and how it was originally installed.

What we can do is create the lowest possible safe entry point while still containing water properly. Even at 4 to 8 inches, this represents a dramatic improvement over the 14 to 17-inch walls of a standard bathtub. That's often the difference between struggling to step over a barrier and easily stepping through an opening.

The exact height will vary slightly based on your specific tub design, including any decorative angles or flaring in the tub wall. During our assessment, we'll measure your tub and give you the precise threshold height you can expect.

For most of our customers, this lower step is exactly what they needed to regain their independence and confidence in the bathroom. It's amazing how much difference those few inches can make in your daily life.

Conclusion: A Safer, More Accessible Bathroom is Within Reach

Throughout this guide, we've walked through how a tub cut out can truly transform your daily life. This simple yet brilliant modification turns what might be a dangerous obstacle into a manageable step-through entry, giving you back the confidence and independence you deserve in your own bathroom.

The safety benefits are clear - no more white-knuckling the tub wall or worrying about slipping on wet surfaces. The fall prevention alone makes this investment worthwhile, especially when you consider that bathroom falls send thousands of people to the hospital every year. But beyond safety, there's something deeply meaningful about maintaining your independence and aging in place in the home you love.

What makes a tub cut out particularly appealing is its affordability compared to major bathroom renovations. For a fraction of the cost of a full remodel, you get immediate results that can last for decades. The installation process is remarkably quick - usually completed in just one afternoon with minimal mess or disruption to your routine.

At Bath Innovations Midwest, we've been helping Kansas City families create safer, more accessible bathrooms since 2011. We're not just installers; we're your local Kansas City area experts for accessible bathing solutions who understand the unique needs of our community. Whether you're in Overland Park, Lawrence, Olathe, Shawnee, Leawood, Wichita, Topeka, St. Joseph, Liberty, Smithville, Clay County, or anywhere else in the Kansas City area across both Kansas and Missouri, we're here to help.

Our commitment goes beyond just the installation. We stand behind our work with expert craftsmanship, a best-in-class lifetime warranty, and the kind of personalized service that only comes from a local, family-owned business. We take pride in knowing that our work helps people stay safely in their homes longer.

The truth is, you don't have to live with the fear of bathroom falls or struggle with high tub walls any longer. A tub cut out is a quick and effective solution that can make an immediate difference in your daily comfort and safety. Your safer, more accessible bathroom really is within reach.

Ready to take the next step? Get a quote for your accessible bathroom in Overland Park and find how we can help transform your bathing experience today.