Are you looking to inject some elegance into your bathroom? There’s no better way to do it than getting a new bathtub.
There are so many oversized bathtubs that you can invest in to give your bathroom a magnificent contemporary look.
Bathtubs are not just a consideration for the bathroom remodeling. You can also consider them when building a new bathroom.
So, how do you buy the best one? Here are ten smart tips to use:
A Complementary Style
Bathtubs come in different styles ranging from rustic designs to contemporary looks. So, you must pick a style that complements your bathroom space.
Here are some popular choices:
- Freestanding tub – Freestanding tubs are the centerpiece of contemporary bathtubs. They do not have to be fixed to the wall as they stand alone, thus the name freestanding. So, you can fit a freestanding bathtub on any space.
- Walk-in tub – A walk-in tub is just what it sounds. You can walk into the bathroom and even seat, without fearing for slippage. The floor of such a tub comes with adequate grip and handholds to guarantee your safety.
- Alcove tub – An alcove tub, sometimes known as a recessed tub, is installed in a three-corner wall. One of the three sides has to be finished. The bathtub tub generally suits a small bathroom.
- Whirlpool tub – A whirlpool tub comes with self-contained water or air jets to massage you. So, if you want a massage sensation after showering, go for a whirlpool tub.
- Air tub – An air tub also comes equipped with massaging jets. Unlike a whirlpool tub, an air tub only features air jets, and they are smaller. Also, an air tub doesn’t retain heat much longer, like a whirlpool tub.
- Soaking tub – A soaking tub is sometimes known as the Japanese tub. It comes either in a circular or oval shape and is generally tall.
The tub is also elegant to suit contemporary bathrooms.
Comfortable and Elegant Material
Bathtubs come in an array of material choices, and they all inject some style into your bathroom. It’s essential, however, that the material is not just elegant but comfortable too.
That brings us to these materials choices:
- Porcelain – Porcelain is robust in construction and non-porous. So, it’ll not deteriorate or crumble because of water absorption. It, however, can crack if you drop a heavy object on it.
- Acrylic – Acrylic is lightweight and comes at a budget price. More importantly, it’s easy to maintain and comes in a variety of elegant styles. It also retains heat well. The downside is that acrylic gets scratched by abrasive cleaners.
- Stone resin – Stone resin is made of natural stone, thus durable and non-porous. The material is also affordable and retains heat excellently. The downside is that the styles are slightly limited.
- Copper – Copper tubs are naturally luxurious. In addition to being aesthetically brilliant, the material is durable and easy to maintain, and it also retains heat longer. The drawback is that copper tubs are more expensive than other tubs.
- Wood – Wood is just as aesthetically brilliant and durable as copper. And just like copper tubs, wood tubs are more expensive.
Other material options worth considering for your bathtub are:
- Ceramic
- Fiberglass
- Cast polymer
- Cast iron
- Marble
- Glass
Correct Size and Weight
It would be best if you get a bathtub that allows you to take a bath comfortably. You shouldn’t squeeze yourself in it. So, going for an oversized bathtub is always a good idea.
It’s essential, however, that you put your bathroom space into consideration. The bathtub that you buy should fit in your existing bathroom space comfortably.
You also need to consider its weight. If it’s too heavy, then your floor may not be able to hold it once filled with water.
So, sometimes, you may need first to reinforce your bathroom floor before you can place a new bathtub.
A Perfect Shape to Suit Your Space
Most bathtubs come in traditional rectangular, oval, and circular shapes. Others come in single-ended and double-ended shapes.
Single-ended tubs have waste channels and taps at the corner, while double-ended tubs have them at the center.
It’s essential, however, that you first consider your bathroom space. If you don’t have enough room for a circular tub, for example, go for a rectangular tub.
An Easy to Install Design
You have to consider the size, shape, and style of a bathtub when installing it. Generally, alcove tubs are more comfortable to fit when your bathroom has well-defined corners.
If that isn’t the case, then you may find freestanding options to be the easiest to place.
Also, rectangular bathrooms are generally easier to place in most places than circular and oval bathtubs. So, remember that.
Ease of Access and Safety
The last thing you want in your new bathroom is a tub that’s hard to access, especially by kids. The bathtub should also be safe for all users. So, consider things like steps and handrails for kids.
Also, look at its floor to ensure the surface is not too slippery. Its edges should also not be sharp or too rugged.
The Convenience of a Shower Feature
If you would want to use the shower occasionally, then you should look for a bathtub that comes with a shower feature. That saves you money since you will not have to install a shower separately, which is likely to be expensive.
Besides, a shower conserves water, and so it may be a good idea when you want to save on water cost.
A Tub that Matches Your Budget
Depending on style and material, bathtubs come at different prices. Fiberglas and porcelain tubs, for example, are cheaper than copper and wood bathtubs.
Similarly, whirlpool and air tubs tend to cost much more than alcove and freestanding tubs.
So, look for a bathtub that suits your budget while putting the style and material into consideration.
Conclusion
Whether you plan to upgrade your existing bathtub or you are building a new bathroom, consider investing in the best bathtub.
Generally, it takes the eight tips discussed above to find it. So, use them to shop for the essential bathroom feature.
