During a bathroom remodel, the bathtub might need to be replaced. Before purchasing, think about the following.
The tub is one of the focal points of any bathroom renovation. Which bathtub upgrade should you choose: a clawfoot, a drop-in, an undermount, or something else? How do you choose the best style for your space when there are so many contemporary bathtubs on the market today? Here’s a look at nine different types of bathtubs, their special qualities, and how they can fit into your bathroom to help with these questions.
Which one of these are you soaking in next?
Freestanding
Freestanding bathtubs have the advantage of being able to be placed almost anywhere in the bathroom. You can put one next to a window, close to the shower, or wherever else you like because these tubs are finished on all four sides and made to stand alone like furniture. All sides of freestanding bathtubs are finished, and they come in a variety of styles and details. Think of contemporary bowl-shaped tubs and clawfoot bathtubs. Compared to other bathtub types, they frequently have larger, more opulent interiors. They work well in lengthy immersion baths. They are not the best option for kids or people who might have trouble getting in and out of the tub due to their depth and height.
Shower & Bathtub Combo
This is typically the most cost-effective option for remodeling a bathtub, but it can also depend on the finishings you pick. The option of a bath liner, which is typically a fiberglass piece with walls for the tub and shower, is available. Bath wall surrounds for replacement tubs are another option for a more specialized and upscale look. If you want to upgrade your current tub but don’t want to move it or spend a lot of money, this is a great option. The shower head in a tub and shower combo sprays water into the tub. Another popular option, particularly in bathrooms that are too small for a separate bath and shower. A shower curtain or glass shower doors may be used in a tub and shower combination.
Alcove
In the United States, alcove bathtubs are installed the most frequently. This kind is surrounded on three sides and set back into a wall. One of the most conventional bathtub options, this tub can be combined with a shower head to create a shower/tub and only needs a single curtain or door to provide privacy. Because grab bars or safety rails can be installed on the alcove walls, it may also be simpler to enter and exit than other tub types. If you have limited space and are not moving any walls during your renovation, this tub is ideal. You’ll also get to use more private bathrooms. The walls can also be decorated with tile, cubby holes or shelving. The size of the tub is dependent on the size of your alcove, which is the only drawback to this choice.
Drop-In
The name “drop-in bathtub” refers to the method of installation. The tub has a rim at the top to keep it in place as it is dropped into an existing framework. The frame, which can be covered with tile, beadboard or another material, conceals the tub’s unfinished sides. Because the frame can be built against a wall or elsewhere in the bathroom, the drop-in tub has the advantages of being inexpensive and versatile. Additionally, the cost of replacing a drop-in tub in the future will be relatively low.
Customization options for drop-in bathtubs are numerous. They are perfect for a unique tub deck. These bathtubs have walls or flooring all around them. This particular tub type has bare sides on every side. Although this design is adaptable, installation is more difficult. Drop-in bathtubs might be found in a corner, in an alcove or built right into the floor.
Corner
This triangular bathtub design holds the most water. They can hold two people at most. This bathtub design has one frontal finished side and two unfinished sides placed against the walls, similar to alcove bathtubs. Tubs with rounded faces set into corners are common. Some have angular faces that, when viewed from above, resemble a pentagon. Unfortunately, because corner tubs are larger, it takes longer to fill them with water. Despite being the largest tub option, because they are installed in the corner, they don’t take up as much room as a freestanding tub. You’ll need a roomy corner with plumbing hookups for this design to function in your bathroom.
Walk-in
Seniors and those who have trouble entering and exiting other types of bathtubs will benefit greatly from a walk-in bathtub. A door, safety bars and hydromassage features are included. The slippery tub ledge is no longer necessary thanks to the door. It is possible to install walk-in bathtubs with an attached shower. One drawback of this type is that you have to wait for the tub to completely drain before opening the door. So, compared to the other styles on this list, it requires a little more patience.
Undermount
An undermount bathtub might be the answer if you want a sleek, modern appearance. Unlike drop-in tubs, which sit on the surface, these tubs are installed beneath them, as their name suggests. The main advantage of this design is its subtle elegance, especially if you choose to surround it with marble or another high-end material.
Clawfoot
Many people think of a clawfoot tub when they envision a vintage bathroom. The clawfoot bathtub is a traditional freestanding tub that was first made popular during the Victorian era. It has four decorative feet. Typically larger and deeper than other tubs, it can give the impression of more space because it is elevated off the ground. When choosing a clawfoot tub for your bathroom renovation, you can either restore an old tub or purchase a new one. The advantage of buying new is that you get a tub that is brand new, undented and doesn’t need to be restored to perfect condition.
Garden
The most upscale choice is a garden tub. Large soaking tubs are frequently the focal point of bathrooms. Traditionally, garden tubs were placed outside. They can now, however, have steps, be above or below the floor, or have whirlpool jets installed, making them a flexible indoor option. If space is not an issue, a garden tub can be installed in a spa-like bathroom. Consider towel heaters, fireplaces in the bathrooms, waterfall showerheads and steam showers.
Jetted
Any of the aforementioned bathtubs have jetted tubs. They have jets that massage and ease sore muscles, just like a hot tub. Whirlpool and air bathtubs are the two varieties of jetted bathtubs. The most popular type of bathtub is the whirlpool. Their water jets produce streams of water that deliver targeted hydromassage, which can ease aching muscles. A bubbling sensation occurs due to air jets that shoot compressed air. It’s more for relaxation than for massage.
Cost and maintenance are the two main drawbacks of jetted bathtubs. They require more work to clean and are more expensive to install. Flush out a whirlpool tub’s pipes with potent cleaners several times, and manually scrub each jet with sturdy bristle brushes. To prevent harming the whirlpool features, pick the appropriate cleaning solutions.
Your opportunity to completely personalize your bathroom is through a remodel. From these nine different types of bathtubs, you can choose one depending on your budget. Just keep in mind that the quality of a bathroom renovation depends on its craftsmanship. We at Valor Home Services can turn your vision for a bathroom into a reality. Contact us right away if you’re prepared to start your remodeling project.
