Finding the Best Bathtub for your Bathroom Remodel
Showers are super convenient, and there are lots of cool renovation ideas for your shower, but, at the end of the day, nothing says relaxation like a gorgeous and comfortable bathtub. If you are working on a bathroom remodel, you should definitely consider replacing and upgrading your bathtub!
If you choose the right tub, it will help your bathroom remodel add value to your home and give you a wonderful atmosphere to clean up, relax and de-stress.
When you start to consider tubs for your new bathroom, you will want to consider different style options and material options.
Common Bathtub Styles
- Alcove Tub: tub is inset and surrounded by three walls.
- Soaking Tub: these usually have special contours and are deeper to enhance your soaking experience.
- Corner Tubs: are usually triangular shaped and are great for saving space.
- Drop In Tub: tub is “dropped” into a frame, sometimes these are inset into the floor during a bathroom remodel.
- Walk In Tub: tub has sealing doors that open and allow you to step in instead of over the side.
- Clawfoot Tub: tub is free standing and sits atop four feet.
- Slipper Tub: ovular shaped tub with a raised foot and/or back for soaking.
Common Bathtub Materials
Fiberglass: This is the cheapest material when doing a bathroom remodel, but it does scratch and crack pretty easily in comparison to other tub materials. They are easy to clean, but more or less impossible to repair. They are very lightweight, which does make them a good option for an upstairs bathroom. One con is that a super cheap fiberglass tub may be so thin that it will flex when you stand in it.
Acrylic: Similar to fiberglass but slightly more durable. These come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles. These tubs do not hold heat well but are lightweight and easy to clean.
Porcelain: These tubs are made by pouring a layer of porcelain over a shaped sheet of steel. Although the porcelain is prone to chip and stain, it can be fixed or resurfaced as a simple DIY project. These tubs are strong, sturdy and hold heat well. They are a good choice for a bathroom remodel, but must be cleaned with non-abrasive cleansers.
Cast Iron: These tubs are made by coating cast iron with a thick layer of enamel. These tubs are super durable and hold heat really well. They are very heavy as well, and usually come with a hefty price tag, too.
Marble: These are not as common for bathroom remodels. Marble tubs are usually done special order and will require special care. They are incredibly durable and in almost every case will add value to your home.
Designer Bathtubs: Designer bathtubs are usually created to accommodate a specific space, shape or function. They can be made of any material, but almost always are expensive and usually will require special installation.
Bathtub Installation in a Bathroom Remodel
Bathtub installation may sound pretty simple and straightforward, but in many cases, it is not. For one thing, even small changes in your tub’s size, style or shape could result in the need to move or extend plumbing. When there is a shower head involved, any type of lighting or jet features, there may be electrical work required to finish the job. In addition, the weight of many tubs can be somewhat problematic. You may need carpentry work done to support the tub. Depending on the style of the tub, there may be a need for significant additional work to finish a platform, cabinetry or other features.
When undertaking a job of this size and potential value, it is far better to hire a professional contractor so that you will be guaranteed a safe and high quality finished project. The quality of workmanship in installing your bathtub will greatly impact the success of your bathroom remodel. Call Mullin Plumbing, HVAC, Septic & Electric in Broken Arrow, OK. today!