Explore 5 Tips for a Choosing New Bathtub
The bathtub has been a staple of the American home for over a hundred years. Despite the recent walk-in shower trend, tubs remain prevalent. In fact, real estate experts recommend having at least one bathtub in your home, as it increases resale value and makes the property more appealing to families. As tubs get older, though, issues can arise that put a damper on your bath experience: cracks or leaks pop up, they struggle to retain heat, the faucet starts leaking. Even if your bathtub is in good working order, maybe it’s simply not as comfortable as you’d like, and you’re ready for a roomy tub with a little bit of luxury. Whether your goal is a complete bathroom remodel or just a bathtub update, there are several factors to consider before choosing the right one.
Bathtub Style
One of the first things homeowners consider when upgrading their bathtub is style. Ask yourself, ‘How do I plan on using my new tub?’ If you’re looking for a rejuvenating, therapeutic experience every time you take a bath, a whirlpool tub with massaging jets could be just what you need. Or, if you’ve got a busy family and your bathroom is limited on space, a bathtub/shower combo might be the right call.
Want a roomy bathtub that also serves as a majestic centerpiece for the room? Three words: freestanding clawfoot tub.
Bathtub Location
Another big choice to make regarding your new tub is where it will be situated within your bathroom. If you want a cozy nook where you can de-stress with a good book and a glass of wine, consider a three-wall alcove tub tucked into a recess of your bathroom. Opting for an extra wide bathtub, such as a walk-in? Utilize a corner space; bonus points if it’s in front of a window. If you’re doing a drop-in style update (tub liners are an affordable, attractive alternative to a total overhaul), then you’ll have to stick with the same spot as your previous bathtub. Freestanding bathtub can be placed wherever you’d like, so channel your inner feng shui and put the tub in a place that flows with the other elements in the room.
Bathtub Size and Shape
Basic tubs are about 60 inches long, so if you’ve got someone six-foot or taller in your family, a larger tub will allow them to fully recline. If length isn’t a priority, a soaking tub that’s as tall (or taller) than it is wide can offer you full water immersion while saving space. Oval and round tubs are also a nice touch if you’re trying to give your bathroom a contemporary or transitional look. To make sure the shape and slope of the new bathtub matches your needs, don’t hesitate to visit your local showroom and hop in a tub to test it out!
Bathtub Material
One of the most popular choices for bathtub material is acrylic, because it’s durable, lightweight, economical, and holds heat well (Re-Bath also offers a lifetime warranty on acrylic products). Porcelain-enameled steel is another affordable option, especially if you’re going for a polished antique look with a clawfoot tub. Enameled cast iron is an ultra-tough alternative that’s totally chip resistant and will last for decades, but it’s a bit more expensive. If you really want your bathtub to stand out and become the focal point of the room, a high-end copper tub can be your pièce de résistance. Copper tubs look particularly gorgeous in bathrooms with a rustic flair.
Bathtub Fixtures
A good faucet and pair of handles are the finishing touch on your new bathtub. You’ll want them to blend with the rest of your bathroom, which is why many homeowners choose a metal that matches the finish on the other fixtures in the room. If you don’t think that color coordinates well with the tub, identify the second-most-prominent finish or color of ceramic in the room and pick a complementary metal. Light alloys like brushed nickel or polished chrome are particularly versatile and have been quite popular recently. You’ll also have to decide if you want your fixtures mounted on the rim of the tub (ideal for drop-ins), the floor (ideal for freestanding tubs), or the wall.
Whether you’re ready to get your new bathtub installed as soon as possible, or you just want to chat about your options, we’re excited to help! Schedule a free in-home consultation now to meet with one of our design consultants and find out how we can get your new tub installed in just a few days!