There’s nothing like soaking in a tub after spending a long and exhausting day. However, if you’re planning to get a new bathtub — whether it’s a completely new installment or a replacement for the one you have — you shouldn’t just pick the first one you see. There are several things to think about once it’s time for you to upgrade your bathroom.
What is the best bathtub to buy, you ask? There isn’t a straightforward answer. Fortunately, here are some factors to consider when it’s time to choosing a new one:
Bathtub Size
Size is one of the factors that you have to consider when you’re choosing a new tub. You might be asking: What size bathtub do I need? Usually, you can go for a big one if your bathroom has the capacity for it and if your home can support it. Otherwise, a smaller-sized one may serve you better if you only have limited space.
Examine your space and see how adding a tub can affect the rest of the room. If you don’t like to deal with wet floors after taking a shower, perhaps having a bathtub in this area may help. Another thing to consider is the water bill you expect to pay. If you want a big tub, you will need more water to fill it.
Bathtub Weight
The next factor to consider when choosing a new bathtub is its heaviness. How much your chosen tub weighs will determine where you can place it. If it ends up being too heavy, your floor and your house may not be able to support it once you fill it with water.
It’s understandable to pick bathtubs made with quality materials like copper, cast iron, and natural stone. However, take note that some of these may be too heavy for your home. Fortunately, a way to combat this is to reinforce your floor to manage the additional weight. You may also want to consider using acrylic and stone resin, as these are other durable materials that are relatively lightweight and compatible with most homes.
Materials Used
Manufacturers design bathtubs using various kinds of materials. When choosing the bathtub material you’re purchasing, think about price and comfort.
You must test out which is the most comfortable piece. Each one would feel different to the touch. However, certain materials can come with a hefty price tag. If you’re willing to make that investment, go for the material you’re most comfortable with. Otherwise, start with the price point.
Here are some different types of materials used to make bathtubs:
- Acrylic – A popular choice for freestanding bathtubs, acrylic is lightweight and comes in many sizes and styles. It’s also non-porous and is resistant to heavy impacts and chipping. Manufacturers take a solid sheet of petrochemicals, resin, appropriate dye, and stabilizers and heat it. They mould it into a bathtub shape, then reinforce it with fibreglass.
- Ceramic – Manufacturers mould several ceramic tiles together until it hardens to create ceramic bathtubs. These are also available in many designs and sizes. It also requires maintenance to prevent it from deteriorating.
- Copper – People consider copper bathtubs as luxury bathtubs since they are custom made and created from pure copper. Copper holds heat for a long time, is durable, and only requires consistent water use for maintenance.
- Fibreglass – Fiberglass is the least expensive material. Like acrylic bathtubs, manufacturers create them using reinforced plastic sheets that they mould into a bathtub. While it’s durable, it’s also porous and is prone to chipping.
Personal Needs
The next factor concerns your lifestyle, as well as your loved ones’. Think about the people that are going to use the bathtub. Acknowledging everyone’s personal needs (including yours) will help you see if the bathtub you select will be suitable for them, as well.
If you live with younger children, you need to opt for a child-friendly one so they remain safe even if they manage to gain access to it without supervision. The tub must have grips if you live with older relatives so they can use it safely and prevent any injuries. With the right bathtub, you can help keep bathing a safe and pleasant experience for everyone.
Situating Your Bathtub
Deciding on the position and location of your bathtub involves steps like gaining access to the plumbing and fitting the tub itself.
Relocating a drain is a more difficult, time-consuming, and expensive process. Opt for a tub a drain placement that matches the drain in your bathroom. If you have are looking to install a tub and shower combination, also take note of the showerhead placement.
Prevent any possible installation and plumbing problems by seeking advice from drain experts and getting professional help during installation.
Type of Design
Bathtubs also come in different types of styles. The materials and the available space will have an influence on which design you’re going to select. Some materials are made with a specific style, such as natural stone and copper.
Here are some different bathtub styles to choose from:
- Clawfoot – Generally larger than a standard bathtub, clawfoot bathtubs are originally made from cast iron and lined with porcelain. These are supported by four legs or “claws” on the bottom. Modern ones can be made of acrylic, fibreglass or other materials.
- Freestanding – Also known as stand-alone tubs, freestanding bathtubs can fit in just about any space. They also don’t need connecting walls when you’re installing them. They’re made from different materials like cast iron, fibreglass, porcelain, and acrylic.
- Japanese Style – Have a Japanese-style bathing experience right here in Canada with a Japanese soaking bathtub. Usually circular, these are taller than regular bathtubs so people can sit comfortably. They vary in size, with smaller ones more popular as an apartment bathtub and longer soaking tubs for two.
- Walk-in – Bathtubs can cause slipping, which can be dangerous. Walk-in bathtubs are suitable for people with mobility issues and those who want to have as much safety while taking a bath. These include safety features, such as a wide door for entrance, low step-in, handrails, and slip-resistant surfaces.
Budget
You will have to consider the budget you’re allocating for the tub. The cost of a new bathtub depends on the different designs and the materials used to make them. Still, bathtub sizes can affect the price, as smaller bathtubs are generally less expensive than larger ones.
There are many things for you to consider when choosing which is the best new bathtub for you. Make sure to keep these factors in mind and select the right one carefully. It can save you from various problems, including plumbing issues.
Plumbing companies can help you prevent any plumbing issues as you install your new bathtub. If you’re searching for plumbers near you offering drain and pipe services in Toronto, then look no further than our team at Plumbing Authority Inc. For inquiries, please feel free to call us at (647) 992-7473 or email us at plumbingauthoritygta@gmail.com.