Factors in Bathtub Selection

With the wide variety of bathtubs on the market, choosing the right option for you can be a challenge. However, considering certain factors beforehand can simplify the selection process. This article will highlight the main factors to consider when deciding on a bathtub.

Style

There is no such thing as a “standard” bathtub. Because of this, homeowners should select a style that works best for the bathroom’s design and layout. Many new houses have a drop-in tub as a standard feature. As a result, it’s easy to replace an old tub with a new one since this sort of tub is set in place without the need for walls to hold it down.

Drop-in tubs have the advantage of hiding the plumbing, which gives them the more modern appearance that many homeowners appreciate and come in a variety of forms and sizes. Standard rectangle, oval, and square-shaped tubs are all available for purchase.

Homes with alcoves tubs are also common. An alcove with walls on three sides is the most common positioning for this type of tub.

Another option is a stand-alone tub. As the name implies, a freestanding tub sits apart from the rest of the bathroom structures. They come in a wide range of forms and sizes, as well. Freestanding tubs sit directly on the floor and don’t require any supports, making them a striking feature in any bathroom.

Material

Tubs come in various materials, each with advantages and disadvantages. A frequent material for bathtubs is fiberglass, which is durable and inexpensive. The fiberglass-reinforced plastic with a gel-like coating makes these tubs easy to clean and maintain.

Acrylic is another material to consider. This material’s resemblance to cast iron, along with it’s affordability, lightness, and heat retention properties, makes it more appealing than cast iron.

While they are susceptible to corrosion and flaking, porcelain tubs give your bathroom a retro or antique feel. Invest in a cast iron tub for a new bathroom if you want a long-lasting fixture with a timeless aesthetic. Consult your plumber for more information to help you make the decision.

Size

Tubs are typically 60 inches long and 30 to 32 inches wide. There is a range of 14 to 20 inches in depth for standard tubs. As long as the new tub has the same style and shape, worrying about dimensions is unnecessary. However, if you’re rearranging or remodeling the bathroom, you might need to consider a new tub size.

For freestanding tubs, ensure adequate space between the tub, shower door, and other bathroom components to accommodate them. There should be 30-inches between the fixture’s front edge and its opposing wall or structure to ensure adequate room to move.

It is best to call a professional plumbing service to ensure which style and size tub is the right choice for your bathroom. A professional can determine the best tub options to install and what would work the best with the already existing plumbing.

If you need honest and experienced professional plumbing services for residential and afford commercial plumbing needs in Las Vegas, Henderson, and Enterprise give us a call at 702-766-3320.