Ask the plumber: New bathroom may cost a lot per ‘foot’
Q. I enjoy my visits to the local spa, and the best part for me is the foot bath. The spa has a foot tub built into the floor, complete with water jets, custom lounge chair and a hand shower. Since I’m planning a new bathroom, I’m wondering if I can have a foot bath installed in my own home. Any information will be welcome.
A. Wow, this is a new one for me, but it is a good question. First, the product you mention is called a “pedicure spa,” and just like the name says, it’s usually found in professional spa settings. However, even though it’s basically a commercial fixture, it’s still a plumbing fixture. So if you have a high-end budget and local building codes allow, there should be no reason why you can’t have one installed in your bathroom.
Keep in mind, though, that these foot baths are basically mini-whirlpool tubs, complete with all the expensive bells and whistles. Also, just like a full-sized whirlpool, extra labor to frame in and hook up the tub can add to the cost, as well.
Bottom line: If you want to jump in with both feet and spend a some money for a little whirlpool, then a built-in foot bath can turn an ordinary bathroom into your own personal pedicure spa.
Ÿ Master contractor and plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of “Ed Del Grande’s House Call” and hosts TV shows on Scripps Networks and HGTVPro.com. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eddelgrande@hgtvpro.com.
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