Compare the highest-rated walk-in tubs professionals in Ward Cove, Alaska. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A long-standing, family-owned plumbing contractor with a strong reputation for reliability and professional workmanship. They are a primary local provider for comprehensive bathroom plumbing services, including the installation and hook-up of walk-in tubs purchased by the homeowner. They are known for their expertise in ensuring proper plumbing integration and water heater compatibility.
A full-service construction and remodeling company that specializes in bathroom renovations and aging-in-place modifications. They offer a more turnkey solution than a standard plumber, handling everything from consultation and tub selection to structural modifications, installation, and final finishing work.
As a franchise of a national company, Bath Fitter provides a specific solution by manufacturing and installing custom acrylic tub and wall liners. While they do not sell traditional walk-in tubs, they are a key provider for converting existing standard tubs into safe, low-step walk-in units with their proprietary system. They handle the entire process from measurement to installation.
** The walk-in tub market in and around Ward Cove is characterized by a limited number of highly localized providers, typical of a small Alaskan community. There are no national walk-in tub brands with dedicated local installers; instead, the market is served by established local plumbing and remodeling contractors based primarily in Ketchikan. The level of direct competition is low, but the providers that do exist are well-established and have strong reputations built over decades. Service quality is generally high, as these businesses rely heavily on word-of-mouth and community trust. Customers typically have two paths: 1) Purchase a tub directly from a manufacturer and hire a local plumber/contractor (like A-1 Plumbing or Southeast Building Solutions) for installation, or 2) Work with a specialized remodeling company for a full-service package. Typical pricing is above the national average due to the high cost of shipping materials to Alaska and the specialized nature of the work. A basic walk-in tub installation can start around $3,500 - $5,000, with full accessible bathroom remodels ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 or more.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ward Cove regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about walk-in tubs services in Ward Cove, Alaska.
In Ward Cove and the greater Ketchikan area, a complete walk-in tub installation typically ranges from $8,000 to $15,000+, depending on the tub model and the complexity of the plumbing and electrical work. Local factors that can increase cost include the higher price of shipping materials to Southeast Alaska, potential challenges with older home plumbing common in the area, and the need for experienced installers who understand local building codes. We recommend getting itemized quotes that clearly separate the tub cost from installation and any potential structural modifications.
Ward Cove's high humidity and salt-air environment make proper ventilation during and after installation critical to prevent mold and mildew behind wall panels. We strongly recommend choosing a tub model with a built-in low-energy drying system to manage moisture. Furthermore, for exterior walls, extra insulation of plumbing lines is essential to prevent freezing during occasional cold snaps, even though our winters are relatively mild compared to interior Alaska.
Yes, most walk-in tub installations in Ward Cove (which falls under the Ketchikan Gateway Borough) require a plumbing permit, and if electrical work for jets or heaters is involved, an electrical permit is also needed. Reputable local installers will handle this permitting process with the borough for you. It's crucial to ensure your provider is licensed and insured in Alaska, as this guarantees they are familiar with both local codes and the state's specific requirements for residential modifications.
Prioritize providers with a proven physical presence and track record in Southeast Alaska. Look for licensed, bonded, and insured contractors who can provide local references. Given our remote location, choose a company that manages the entire process—from coordinating barge shipping of the tub to Ketchikan to providing skilled in-house installation and post-installation service. Avoid "national" companies that only subcontract the work, as this often leads to delays and service gaps.
This is a common and valid concern. Most modern walk-in tubs have an inline heater that maintains water temperature, which is efficient and works independently of your home's water heater. However, due to our cooler groundwater temperatures, your home's water heater must still be adequately sized to initially fill the tub. A professional assessment of your current water heater's capacity (in gallons) is a standard part of a reputable local installer's consultation to ensure you have a sufficient and comfortable supply.