Bathtubs Buying Guide

In the past, bathtubs were not given a lot of time and consideration when building a house. They were an after thought for most builders, which was probably due in the most part to the limited selection available. However, times have surely changed when it comes to bathtubs. Many people now look at their bathtub as more than just a place to bathe. As a result, consumers have demanded more choices and manufacturers have responded by providing a greater variety of designs and styles.

Before You Start

Before you begin your quest to find the perfect bathtub, you need to take a few important steps. Whether constructing a new home or remodeling, be sure to take accurate measurements. Though not necessarily a concern in a new construction situation where the bathtub is usually installed before all the walls are finished, measuring the door frames is important when handling a remodel. The last thing you want to do is find out that the bathtub fits your allotted space, but you can't get it through the door.

The next item on your checklist is to see if your water heater will meet the water capacity of your bathtub. Generally, you should figure that sixty-five percent of the bathtub's capacity will be filled with hot water. Is your current water heater large enough to handle the bathtub you are considering? If it's not, you may want to consider looking for a smaller bathtub or replacing the unit.

Finally, if you will be looking at any type of whirlpool, air jet, or water jet style bathtub, make sure that your electrical panel has the adequate space and is the size for the proper circuit.

Things to consider when selecting a bathtub

As household fixtures go, bathtubs tend to rank among the most durable of fixtures. In fact, most can last for up to 50 years. Choosing the right one may seem daunting, but you may be able to narrow your selections down after considering a few things such as:

Function

For what purpose do you intend to use the bathtub? As mentioned, some people simply view it as a place to bathe. Others see their bathtub as having therapeutic benefits in the sense that they can relieve tired muscles and cramps, lower blood pressure and stress. In cases such as these, people may prefer a deeper soaking or whirlpool model with jets to a standard bathtub. Another thing to consider is if you have any special needs. Does the model you select need to be ADA compliant? Would grab bars be a beneficial addition?

Ergonomics

You want your bathtub to be both easy to use and comfortable. How easy it is to use will have a lot to do with the user's body shape and size. Shorter or petite people may find a standard or European tub, which ranges anywhere from 14 to 18 inches deep, to be the most comfortable. On the other hand, taller or larger-framed individuals may find a deeper bathtub such as a Japanese or Greek style bathtub, which can range upwards of 22-plus inches deep, much more relaxing.

It may sound odd, but a test drive may be in order. You lay on a mattress in the store prior to buying, so why not stretch out in a bathtub? Though it may seem a bit awkward, it's the best way to judge not only the length and width, but also if the tub's contours will closely match your own to provide optimum comfort.

Types & Styles

Here is where your personal style and the decor of your bathroom get their chance to shine. Bathtubs come in a variety of styles and colors. White and cream are standard bathtub colors, but you can find other colors such as blue, brown, green, maroon and even pink. In terms of shapes, the most common is rectangular, but selection abounds here as well. Consumers can find heart-shaped, round, oval, corner-style, freestanding, alcove, drop-in and much more. Your shape selection will depend largely upon the size of your bathroom and the material used in the manufacturing of your bathtub.

Bathtub Materials

Bathtubs are produced from a multitude of materials. Acrylic, porcelain, cast iron, fiberglass, marble and even wood are popular choices. Each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Your choice of material will depend largely upon your budget, frequency of use, ease of maintenance and durability.

Fiberglass/Gelcoat (FRP)

Fiberglass is probably one of the most cost effective materials used in the construction of bathtubs. It is lightweight, easy to install, and inexpensive. The gel coat surface is thinner and less durable than acrylic. As a result, the finish tends to lack the depth and resilience found in acrylic and porcelain tubs and, with time, the color may also fade. Additionally, fiberglass has a tendancy to easily scratch.

Acrylic

Acrylic is similar to fiberglass, but tends to be a little more expensive because the color is embedded throughout the substance rather than just the surface coat like fiberglass. Thus, the color has a nice high gloss finish and lasts longer. Acrylic is also a good insulator so your water stays warmer longer. It is also easy to clean and more durable than fiberglass. Some manufacturers actually use a high grade of acrylic that is so durable you can hit it with a hammer and it won't crack. In most cases, if the surface becomes scratched, you will be able to buff it out.

Porcelain on Steel (POS)

This refers to a process by which a layer of porcelain is coated onto steel. These types of bathtubs are resistant to acid, abrasions, and corrosion. They are also colorfast, flame proof, sanitary, and easy to clean. On the down side, they can be damaged easily on impact, the surface may chip and rust and lower-priced porcelain on steel bathtubs can be quite noisy.

Cast Iron

Cast iron can last for years but is quite expensive. It can resist damage, dents and dings with ease. Because of their sheer weight (two to three hundred pounds), they are effective at reducing noise and vibration. Another added bonus is that water tends to stay warmer longer. Most manufacturers of cast irons will also issue a warranty for as long as the original purchaser owns the tub. Outside of the tremendous weight factor of a cast iron bathtub, they do have their limitations. Few models are longer than 5 feet. They are normally not large enough to accommodate two people, and installing whirlpool jets is not an option.

Marble

Marble bathtubs are very attractive and come in a variety of unique shapes. They are great if you are looking for a bathtub that will leave a distinct impression. Marble is, however, more costly and can also scratch easily. Another drawback is that marble is very brittle and will crack from thermal shock if water temperatures are too hot or the temperature of the marble suddenly changes.

Wood

Wood bathtubs are also attractive, but are high maintenance and do not have as long a life span as bathtubs made of acrylic, fiberglass or porcelain. It's also important to mention that if you put a wood bathtub into your home, the floor has to be waterproofed. It's also advisable that you add a floor drain as well. If you have your heart set on a wood bathtub, you will need to check your local building requirements. Some areas of the U.S. do not actually allow wood bathtubs.

Top Selling Products and Rated Brands

American Standard has been an industry leader since 1883 when it perfected the process of enameling cast iron to form a smooth easy-to-clean surface for bathtubs. A sampling of their diverse bathtub offerings include the Princeton Americast® Luxury Ledge Bathtub which sports a high-gloss porcelain finish, an extra wide ledge for toiletries, lumbar support, and a beveled headrest. The Cadet 5' x 36'' Bathtub is an acrylic bathtub with fiberglass reinforcement. Its form-fitted back rest and molded-in armrests with elbow supports makes it a great soaking tub. The Colony Corner Bathtub is a wonderful corner-style tub that features acrylic with fiberglass reinforcement and also has molded in arm-rests.

The Elizabethan Classics collection provides everything you need to complete the bath of your dreams. Their classic cast iron claw foot tubs, acrylic claw foot tubs, and copper bathtubs were all inspired by the days when style was warm, comfortable and appealing with just a flourish of understated sophistication. Old-world charm with contemporary function sums it up best. The Elizabethan Classics Slipper Claw Foot Bathtub is a 61 inch porcelain-over-cast-iron tub with claw feet and a durable white enamel exterior finish. Their Copper Bathtub is a weathered copper pedestal base bathtub made of 16 gauge copper. The manufacturer provides a two year, free of defects warranty from date of purchase.

Whether you're looking for a bubbly experience or blissful calm, Jacuzzi has created the perfect bathing experience for you. The Riva Soaking Bath is a timeless oval unit that never goes out of style. This same classic design is also offered in a five-foot version as well as a whirlpool bath. The Fresco Soaking Bath offers contemporary design with traditional appeal. The slipper shape with molded armrest and built-in handrail ensures a comfortable bathing experience for one or two bathers. The Taraâ„¢ Soaking Bathtub is a corner unit that provides ample room for two-person bathing with a minimum use of bathroom space. This tub is also available in a jetted version.

Maax is a leader in the bath and spa market through its designs of innovative spas and bathroom products. The Infiniti 6-Jet Hydromax Bathtub is an absolute winner in comfort. Its refined ergonomic design has extra-wide armrests and convenient integrated seating. The Palace Bathtub's unique design brings you the ultimate in home massage therapy. Its ergonomic backrest provides maximum relaxation and comfort. The Living 6636 42-AirJet Aerofeel Bathtub has perfected relaxation. This contemporary-styled bathtub in a harmonious oval shape features an integrated faucet area, deep bathing space, two ergonomic backrests, inclined relaxing armrests strategically located on each side, and one ergonomically designed 12 inch grab bar.

Price Range

Prices for bathtubs vary and are largely dependent upon the type of material and features, quality and warranty that have been selected. Bathtubs begin as low as $175 for a basic, enameled steel or fiberglass model. However, some of the top-of-the-line luxury bathtubs, including whirlpool baths, can climb upwards more than $7,000.

Depending upon the material of the bathtub, you can expect to pay:

• $250 to $1,300 for a cast iron tub.
• $300 to $1,000 for an acrylic tub.
• $600 to $1,500 for a basic 5-foot whirlpool model that has a 1 to 1.5 horsepower motor.
• $1,600 to $3,700 for a freestanding soaking tub (ie. claw-foot, slipper-style, pedestal).
• $2,000 to $5,000 for a large, luxurious whirlpool model with 4 to 10 jets, internal heater, and a 2-3 horsepower variable-speed motor.
• $5,000 to $7,000+ for a whirlpool tub with exotic water elements (i.e. shiatsu massage, waterfall feature).