Installing a new bathtub can be a big commitment. It will be a commanding feature in your bathroom for years, perhaps even generations. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when choosing the perfect bathtub for your bathroom renovation.
First, start with the material. Choosing the material for your bathtub can significantly impact your budget, style preferences and practical considerations, especially regarding heat retention. If you like to take long hot baths, you’ll want to choose a material that holds in the heat.
Here are the advantages and disadvantages of four common bathtub materials.
If you want to install a new bathtub, call Plumbers 911. Our contractors specialize in bathroom renovations and can recommend the best material for your dream bathtub that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Acrylic
A combination of materials like stabilizers, fillers and resins, acrylic is a popular bathtub material due to its versatility, durability, wide range of options and affordability. Acrylic tubs are lightweight, so they aren’t a problem on the second floor and are easy to install. They are available in a wide array of colors, shapes and sizes. They tend to scratch or discolor over time, but a better grade of tub finishes can prevent this problem. Acrylic is non-porous, so it doesn’t absorb excess water. Acrylic tubs also hold in heat for a long time, which is excellent for those who love long hot baths.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass tubs are more affordable than acrylic but not as durable. These tubs are made of layers of surface coat, polyester resin and fiberglass reinforcement. Fiberglass is also lightweight and easy to move and install. But because it’s light, fiberglass tubs tend to be brittle and prone to warping and scratches. It’s essential to weigh the long-term costs of fiberglass tubs over the short-term savings.
Porcelain Enameled Steel
Constructed of steel sheeting coated with porcelain enamel, porcelain enameled steel tubs are heavier than acrylic or fiberglass but lighter than cast iron. It’s also very affordable. These tubs are very durable and easy to clean. The finish retains its gloss over time and is resistant to the most common cleaning chemicals. You do tend to be limited in size and shape selection, however. Steel also conducts heat, so the bathwater will cool faster, which can be a drawback for those who prefer a long soak.
Cast Iron
Cast iron tubs are also coated in enamel but don’t chip as easily as steel because the enamel coating is thicker. Cast iron is one of the most durable bathtub materials. These tubs are more expensive but may be worth the investment because they last a long time. Cast iron is also one of the heaviest bathtub materials and may require structural reinforcement of the floor for support. Cast iron also pulls heat away from the water, but once it’s heated up, will hold in the heat. Cast iron tubs will keep the bathwater hot for a long time.
Need a new bathtub? Call the contractors of Plumbers 911
If you need a new bathtub, contact the contractors of Plumbers 911. They specialize in bathroom renovations and can help you choose the best bathtub material for your budget, style preferences and practical needs. They can also help you install the bathtub.