Choosing the right bathtub for your bathroom
A bathtub will transform any bathroom. It is perfect for those times you need to unwind with a long soak or to keep the kids occupied. However, with a seemingly endless list of options, there are a variety of issues that must be addressed. Consider the following elements, and you won’t go wrong.
The type of bathtub
Bathtub designs have come along way in recent years, and selecting the right type of bath should provide the perfect starting point for your bathroom renovation planning. Freestanding tubs can sit anywhere in the bathroom, even in the middle of the room, to make a statement. They are available in a range of styles, from traditional clawfoot baths to contemporary floor-standing designs.
Conversely, an inset recessed bath is ideal for a small bathroom as it takes up less space. It is very strong being fitted into a concealed frame.
A corner bath can be an even greater space-saver as it placed into a corner of the bathroom. With a spa-like shape, it will look grand too!
Other options include drop-in baths and easy-access baths designed for those with limited mobility.
Jacuzzi bathtubs are a wonderful luxury being equipped with massage and whirlpool jets to relax tired muscles and provide joint pain relief.
The type of bathtub
Bathtub designs have come along way in recent years, and selecting the right type of bath should provide the perfect starting point for your bathroom renovation planning. Freestanding tubs can sit anywhere in the bathroom, even in the middle of the room, to make a statement. They are available in a range of styles, from traditional clawfoot baths to contemporary floor-standing designs.
Conversely, an inset recessed bath is ideal for a small bathroom as it takes up less space. It is very strong being fitted into a concealed frame.
A corner bath can be an even greater space-saver as it placed into a corner of the bathroom. With a spa-like shape, it will look grand too!
Other options include drop-in baths and easy-access baths designed for those with limited mobility.
Jacuzzi bathtubs are a wonderful luxury being equipped with massage and whirlpool jets to relax tired muscles and provide joint pain relief.
The bathtub material
Fibreglass baths are the most cost-effective but not very durable. Some are gel coated for easy cleaning, however, the glossy smooth surface can make movement in the tub very slippery.
Acrylic bathtubs are reinforced fibreglass. They are the most popular economical option available in several colours. These also retain heat better but may stain over time, can scratch easily and corrode with the use of certain solvents.
Cast iron tubs have the perfect classic look, are the most durable and retain heat better than most other materials. However these are very heavy, and so are recommended for installation only at the ground level in houses built on a concrete foundation.
Cast polymer / composite tubs coated in enamel are also good at heat retention, while being much lighter than cast iron tubs. But the gel coating on these can make the tub very slippery like fibreglass tubs, and are also susceptible to scratches.
Enamelled steel tubs are coated with porcelain, and look just like cast iron tubs but have the advantage of being much lighter in weight. They are non-porous, do not stain, fade nor rust. These, however, do not retain heat as well so need to be foam insulated. The enamel can also chip easily.
Stonecast resin and stone composite bathtubs mimic the appearance of natural materials like limestone, marble and granite. These look very classy, but are very expensive.
Copper tubs are the ultimate luxury which can be custom built to any shape and size.
The additional requirements
Appearances count for a lot, but you must not ignore the function. If your bathtub is to serve as a shower base too, you’ll need to think about choosing a shower-friendly tub that has a flat surface to ensure maximum standing space that you are unlikely to slip on. Similarly, you may wish to avoid a freestanding solution in this case due to the potential water spray.
A tiled-flange allows for the edge of the tub is tiled into the wall, which will ensure any spray runs into the bathtub. This will make cleaning a little easier. Depending on the space, having a tiled ledge behind the bathtub can serve as storage for your bath accessories too.
If there are family members with special needs you will need to consider building a step or two, as well as attach handrails to facilitate access into the tub.
You will also need to consider the number of holes for faucet installation that should match your choice of taps.
Bath size and plumbing
Before you start shopping for your new bath, it is advisable that a consultant from BluChip Bathrooms visits your premises to advise your best options and to give you accurate dimensions that the bathtub must fit within.
Remember to ask about where the drain hole should be located to fit in with the existing plumbing in your bathroom.
The Last Word
It’s one thing to make a calculated prediction about which bathtub is best for you, but you will ultimately need to test it out before purchasing. Visit the bathtub seller’s showroom to lie in the bathtub, and examine it closely, then you’ll soon be ready to soak in the satisfaction of having the perfect solution!