hiya bucks in Bourne End, Flackwell Heath, Marlow, Wycombe, Wooburn October 2014 | страница 10

Changing a bath for a shower A fairly common request that 50plus receives is to change a bath for a shower. It doesn’t have to be a ‘walk in’ although the lowest level possible is a good idea. A shower can’t always be low level because of the dreadful drains - the water has to be able to run out. One can fit a waste pump, but it does up the cost. The cost of the bathroom components continues to fall relative to the cost of labour. A large shower tray the size of the bath with a single sliding door is now well within many people’s pockets and with commensurate tiling looks stylish. Tiles can form a good portion of the cost. A work around that is now available is tile sheet, which looks like tiles but is plastic and easy to clean. A reasonable quality toilet and basin doesn’t add much to the cost. - The 50plus • Plumbing • Electrical • Handyman • From small works • To larger projects There are alternatives. These include baths with doors, bath chair lifts or simpler mechanical assistants such as grab rails, bathing cushions, bath seats and the like. So how does one choose? Firstly weigh up whether you are going to be happy with just a shower in the bathroom. Then think about the size of shower you are seeking – a large space will need good background heat. • Locally based • Free estimates • Friendly advice • NICEIC & Gas Safe • Free HomeCare Club for discount always Next consider if any step is acceptable. If you need it to be literally walk-in then something like a 45mm height is possible but may require drainage works. www.the50plus.co.uk Roger Runswick is a director of 50plus and a member of the Institute of Engineering Technology. He can be contacted at roger. [email protected]. 0845 22 50 495 By the 50plus for people of all ages Calling from a mobile? Use 01494 784 448 10 One is now spoilt for choice so do take time to think about what will suit you and yours and remember you probably won’t want to be changing the bathroom again in a year’s time! To advertise in Hiya Bucks text or call 07947 349134