If you want to buy a bathtub, you should not only select it based on how it looks. Rather, you must consider how much space it can take in the bathroom and what material it should consist of.
Bathtubs come in a variety of shapes and colors. In the past, they were usually reserved for the upper class. Only at the end of the 19th century, the so-called “people’s bathtub” was produced at large scale, so that now everyone could bathe regularly. While bathtubs were made of wood or hot-dip galvanized steel, today there are made from very different materials. Whether made of steel enamel, cast iron or acrylic, there is something for everyone. But often the conditions in your own bathroom and the budget limit your choices. In addition, not every material is easy to maintain and is durable. Do some research to make the right choice for your bathroom renovation.
Different bathtub dimensions
Where is room for the tub? Should it stand in the middle of the room, lean against a wall or in a corner? Which form makes sense for the location, which color do you like best? These are all things to consider if you choose the size of your bathtub.
It’s best to visit a specialized store before the purchase and to make a test. If you feel embarrassed, you should do your own measures: a bathtub is only comfortable if you can dive to the neck and your shoulders are narrower than the inner width of the tub. If the tub is too big, you will slip back and forth.
If you are looking for something special, you will find bathtub models with five, six or even eight corners. Such space-saving tubs are particularly suitable for narrow bathrooms because you can install them in corners. For a spacious bathroom, you have the choice between freestanding bathtubs in a round, oval or rectangular shape. Clever details add to the sense of well-being: neck rolls support the head, armrests give grip, and handles make it easier to get in and out. In addition to series models, there are also custom-made, particularly unusual bathtubs that are equipped with all sorts of gadgets: underwater music or colored light effects.
Which materials to choose for the bathtub?
Cast iron or copper. A bathtub like this looks beautiful in vintage homes, but it’s pretty heavy. To install it, you absolutely need someone with experience. On the other hand, cast iron stores heat very well and feels pleasant to the touch. It’s also resistant to stains and scratches.
Steel enamel. Steel enamel bathtubs have been very popular since the 1960s. The advantage: the material is particularly hard-wearing and durable. It’s considered almost indestructible. Since steel sheet is more difficult to process than plastic, there is less choice in terms of shapes. Enamel covers the surface of the bathtub and protects it from corrosion, as well as repels dirt, bacteria, and fungi. The only drawback of steel enamel is the low heat storage capacity. The bathtub feels rather cold.
Solid surface material or mineral casting. Bathtubs made of composite materials based on acrylic or synthetic resin mixed with minerals are hard as stone, but light as acrylic. They are particularly resistant and easy to maintain. The composites are under various manufacturer-specific brand names on the market.
Sanitary acrylic. Sanitary acrylic is a plastic that can be deformed under the influence of heat. Since the 1970s, this material has increasingly been used for bathtubs, enabling new shapes and designs. Unlike steel enamel, it stores heat much better and is also much lighter. Although it is unbreakable, shock and impact resistant, it can get scratched. Price differences result from the material composition: objects made of acrylic-coated plastic panels or recycled acrylic is less expensive than solid-colored sanitary acrylic, which is considered the highest-grade material.
Glass, wood, concrete or marble. These designer pieces are usually expensive and weigh much, especially in the case of stone or concrete. In this case, you should consider if the structure of the bathroom is strong enough to hold them.
Regardless which type of bathtub you choose, make sure that you leave the installation process to a professional, because you will avoid any mistakes or problems that might occur and you will enjoy your bathtub for a long time.
Bathtub maintenance
Although not all materials are equally easy to care for, it’s best always to read through the respective instructions of the producer. But there are some tips that you should always follow in order to have a nice, clean bathtub for as long as possible.
For example, adjust the dosage of the cleanser and never allow it to adhere to the surface for longer than necessary. Prevent calcifications by regularly cleaning your bathtub – preferably with a soft cloth or a non-abrasive sponge immediately after using the tub. Then rinse with clean water. Don’t use abrasives, they scratch the pore-smooth surface as well as microfiber cloths – their cleaning effect is due to the abrasive effect of the microfibers. If you want to remove limescale, you should apply the cleaner directly on the surface and rinse it with plenty of water.
If you want to renovate your bathroom or have other renovation projects in mind, the Good Deal Remodeling will take care of the rest. Our experienced team is specialized in bathroom remodeling, but you can also contact us for any other home remodeling project you have in mind.