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Since some bathtubs are complicated to install, especially if they are to be set up on a different floor than the first floor, the purchase cannot be missed. Consider all factors and features of each product to enjoy your investment for many years.
Traditionally, polymer molded tubs mimic the look of marble, granite or onyx and are available in many solid colors. The cost of polymer casting is slightly higher than acrylic, but the surface is not durable. Over time, gelcoat becomes brittle and exposes the underlying material, causing cracks.
The cheapest bathtub is a steel tub with an enamel coating. But this material has drawbacks: steel conducts heat, which means the water in the tub cools quickly. The surface is easy to damage, and the weight is about twice that of plastic.
Like steel, a cast iron bathtub is coated with enamel. However, not as prone to damage as steel because the enamel coating is thicker than the other option, and cast iron is more durable and impact resistant. A cast iron tub will absorb heat from the water, but once heated, it will maintain the temperature for a long time. The main disadvantage of cast iron is that it weighs 160-225 kg, which complicates the installation of the tub on the second floor
Plastic bathtubs are made of fiberglass or acrylic, which provides maximum design flexibility because they can be created in many shapes. The material is warm to the touch and has good thermal insulation, so the water cooling rate is not as high as with enamel steel or cast iron tubs. Plastic is also the lightest tub, weighing about 20 pounds. Although it does not damage easily, abrasive cleaners can damage the surface
The size of your bathtub will affect your monthly expenses. A typical bathtub is one-third cold water and two-thirds hot water. If you have a hot water tank, can it provide enough heated water? Bathtubs vary in size and can hold 95-550 gallons. Make sure the heater is large enough to fill the hot tub to about two-thirds capacity
A plastic drum weighs only 20 kg, while a cast iron drum weighs 450 kg. If you are considering using heavier materials, consider whether your floor can support the weight. Once the weight of the tub, water and personnel has increased, you may need to use brackets or supports to strengthen the floor under the tub. Also, buckets that are too heavy may not be portable or too expensive.
Check the size of the tub before you buy it. Jump in, sit down, and imagine yourself washing your body. Is it the right size for you? Don’t be shy; this is the best way to determine if you are satisfied.
Before you fall in love with a certain type of bathtub, you need to know what your bathroom can accommodate. The standard bathtub is 170 cm long, 80 cm wide and 40 cm deep, but many other sizes and shapes can be used. To determine the size of your bathtub, carefully measure the size of your bathroom and the door
Pay attention to the location of the floor drain to make sure it fits the bathtub design you choose. In addition, some tubs do not allow for a shower, so check to see if a tub kit is necessary for your family before purchasing
Your answer will determine whether a cheap, simple design is enough or if you need something unusual and luxurious. Standard tubs are filled with just water, while whirlpool tubs have jets or channels that provide air for massage. Additional items in the tub are usually limited to armrests or headrests, grab bars and non-slip flooring. There are many other options, including adjustable shower heads, underwater ambient lighting, aromatherapy features, heated blowers and automatic cleaning systems. The wider the tub, the more expensive it is.
If you’re considering a hot tub, you’ll need to plan for a pump, air switch and electronic timer. You can fit multiple pumps in the tub, but some manufacturers offer remote pumps that can be placed 1.5 feet from the tub and tucked into a cabinet or dressing table. A non-electric air switch can be installed in the tub.
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