How to Choose the Right Type of Bathtub for Your Bathroom
If you’re renovating or building a bathroom, selecting an appropriate bathtub is of utmost importance. A bathtub is an investment that will transform both its look and functionality of your space.
There are various styles of tubs to choose from, including alcove, recessed, freestanding, and walk-in tubs. Deciding on one will depend primarily on material choice and size considerations.
Comfort
After a long day, taking a luxurious bath is a surefire way to unwind and recharge. Fill your tub with soothing music, bath bombs and fragrant oils; then just sit back and unwind!
However, you must exercise extreme care when selecting a bathtub that will both relax and comfort you during its use. Comfort is determined by a number of factors including size of bathroom space available for bathing in, material used and shape of tub.
When selecting a bathtub for your home, be sure to take into account all members of your family – including children, elderly relatives and anyone who may require special features in order to bathe safely and comfortably.
Based on your needs and preferences, choose from alcove, drop-in, corner, walk-in, clawfoot or whirlpool bathtubs. Each type comes equipped with its own distinct style, features and materials.
An alcove bathtub features an integrated seat that makes entering and exiting easier without bending over, while corner tubs make use of space effectively in small bathrooms, while walk-in tubs offer ideal flexibility for those with limited mobility.
As the centerpiece of your bathroom, your bathtub should play an integral role in its design. As such, choosing an ideal bathtub requires considerable consideration and thoughtful decision-making.
Your tub should fit seamlessly into the available space in your bathroom and not take up too much room, blocking other access points such as sink or shower.
Consideration should be given to how often the tub will be used, which will influence its materials and design choices as well as maintenance needs.
To keep your bathtub in good condition, it’s essential that it be regularly cleaned of soap residue and body oils that accumulate over time. Vinegar mixed with water can serve as an effective natural cleaner that will extend its life span and extend your tub’s lifespan.
Storage solutions such as shower caddies or shelves that do not obstruct tub surfaces is also highly recommended to protect bathroom products such as shampoo and soap from becoming stained and other problems that might otherwise arise from leaving these items lying directly on its surface. Leaving them there could result in permanent stains as well.
Durability
Durability should be at the top of your list when shopping for a tub, because an investment-grade bathtub will make a noticeable difference to both the aesthetics of your bathroom and help ensure a more luxurious bathing experience.
Material used to build your tub can have an enormous impact on its durability, aesthetic and feel. Acrylic and fiberglass are popular bathtub surface materials due to their affordability and longevity; however, both can scratch easily so it is best to keep them clean for optimal performance.
Ceramic bathtubs are another popular material choice, thanks to their ease of maintenance and long lifespan. Ceramics resist hot water, chemicals and mildew build-up well; just remember to clean it frequently using nonabrasive cleaners.
Cast iron furniture is an iconic design classic and extremely long-wearing, so shopping around and comparing prices before making your purchase could save time and money.
Porcelain enamelled steel tubs are another reliable option that provide long-term reliability, being both durable and easy to maintain. Their enamel coating can chip or wear off over time.
Composite tubs differ from porcelain-enamelled steel in that they’re lighter and retain heat longer – perfect for hot baths! Additionally, these tubs are easier to install and come in various styles and configurations.
Before making your selections, take some time to assess your lifestyle and anticipate future needs for the bath. For instance, if you have small children or pets that require bathing frequently, an option with an integrated hand-held sprayer might be more convenient than traditional tubs.
If your daily life is demanding and stressful, taking a relaxing bath may provide the perfect way to de-stress and unwind. A bath will also help replenish energy stores quickly and alleviate fatigue more effectively.
Tubs can be constructed from various materials, including acrylic, cultured marble, gel-coated fiberglass and cast iron. Each has their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Empava 67″ Luxury Freestanding Bathtub is an outstanding freestanding bathtub choice, boasting many reviews from its customer base and being highly durable. Available in three different sizes for optimal versatility.
Style
Style of bathtub can make or break the entire look of your bathroom. There are many designs to choose from and each offers different benefits and drawbacks; your decision should depend on both personal preference and available space in your bathroom.
Shape of the bathtub is another key consideration. From classic rectangular tubs and round bathtubs to freestanding options, and custom made shaped tubs created especially for you home, they all can add aesthetic value.
Corner bathtubs are another popular style of tub. Ideal for smaller bathrooms, they save space while providing dual bathing capability with their extra space-saving corners and customizable jet options.
Clawfoot bathtubs are classic bathtub styles that typically boast larger dimensions than their counterparts, typically constructed of cast iron lining with porcelain and featured with floor-mounted faucets for easier use. There is an endless array of designs available for this tub type – it makes an elegant statement in any bathroom!
Drop-in tubs are another great choice, typically used in smaller spaces and designed to fit within a floor-to-ceiling wall. These tubs may come equipped with features such as grab bars or armrests.
Tubs are essential components of the bathroom experience, so selecting one with care can make all the difference in terms of design, size and material considerations. When searching for your perfect bathtub it’s important to remember various factors like size, material composition and design options available to you.
Before selecting a tub for your bathroom, the first step should be measuring its dimensions to find one that will best fit in its surroundings. Once measured, you can choose one from our variety of models that fits seamlessly within its space.
Once you’ve determined the appropriate size and shape of a tub, the next step should be deciding on its shape and material. There are various materials to select from such as fiberglass, acrylic, ceramics, stone resins, processed stone marble cast iron and steel to select from.
At its core, the right bathtub for your bathroom should fit seamlessly with your lifestyle and needs. Comfort is of utmost importance when selecting your ideal tub; legs should rest against its side at an appropriate angle when soaking. Furthermore, an easy maintenance schedule ensures your new bathtub will provide years of enjoyment!
Installation
How you select the ideal bathtub for your bathroom depends on several variables, including its size, flooring material type and location of water pipes.
Once you’ve made these decisions, the installation process can begin. Depending on your skills and tub size, you may require professional installation or can easily do it yourself provided you have all necessary tools.
First, measure the area in your bathroom where you wish to install your bathtub. This will enable you to determine its size, shape and weight before building its frame.
Step one of installing a bathtub properly ensures it can support its weight. Otherwise, if it was not designed to support itself properly it might collapse under its own weight and break.
Use a 2-x-4 ledger board that measures the height of your tub’s flange to secure it to wall studs with screws. Secure this to both ends with screws to support its weight.
First, ensure the drain will fit appropriately within your bathtub by taking steps such as clearing away tiles or drywall from around it.
Once this has been accomplished, place a dot of clear silicone around the drain body and push it through its hole in order to block off any dirt or debris that might enter into it. This will prevent it from getting into your drain system.
After that, it is essential that you clean both the area surrounding your tub and its drain hole to ensure that its drain seal remains undamaged and prevent any potential leaking issues.
Before commencing installation, it is necessary to remove any old caulk in the area as well as remove any flooring and tiles that might block drains.
Finally, mark where the leveling feet will sit when installed on the floor. This will enable you to properly install them and get your tub leveled.