4 Steps: How to Choose the Right Bathtub

9.02.2015

After a long, stressful day at work, it is important to be able to de-stress and take some time out of your busy day.  Taking a long vacation is, of course, out of the question, so the next best thing is to create your own “my space” in your home to sit back, relax and unwind.

Back in the old days, bath tubs were used for simply bathing and cleaning the body.  Now, the contemporary tub has evolved and can be your own special space to soak, relax and wash off the stresses of the day. Technology and innovation has re-mastered the simple bathtub, and literally turned it into your own personal spa.  Various models include whirlpool jets, classic claw-footed models, tubs you step down into, tubs with bubble massage, the choices are limitless!

If you are thinking of replacing your old bathtub, here are 4 basic steps into choosing the right bathtub for you.

4 Steps: Choose the Right Bathtub

Identify where your new bathtub will be located, then consider how it will be installed.

It happens to the best of us.  You decide on purchasing a bathtub on impulse because you think it will look good in your bathroom.  Wait.  Before deciding on getting your tub, do your homework first.

Measure the area in your bathroom where you intend to put your bathtub. Decide on how you would like it to be installed.  Will it be free-standing, alcove-styled or under-mounted?

4 Steps: Choose the Right Bathtub

 

Decide on what bathtub surface material you will use.

Deciding on your bathtub’s material is quite confusing.  Here are some bathtub surface materials commonly used:

FIBERGLASS:

  • Fiberglass is lightweight and can easily be molded.  A fiberglass tub may as well be the least expensive bathtub you can buy.  However, it can easily be scratched and doesn’t last as long as other bathtubs.
  • It is prone to stains, mold and mildew.

ACRYLIC:

  • Solid acrylic is more durable than fiberglass and scratches are not as noticeable.
  • It is lightweight. It tolerates high temperature, not prone to cracking and is resistant to chemicals and mildew.
  • Mid-range priced and affordable.

ENAMEL-COATED CAST IRON:

  • This is the material commonly used in our grandparents’ tubs. 
  • Strong and durable, but quite heavy.
  • It is more expensive than acrylics and they come in limited shapes and sizes.

Make sure that the bathtub is comfortable.

Get a bathtub that is just right for you.  Also consider the following:

  • backrest
  • molded armrests
  • safety bars

Go for quality. (Invest in your bathtub).

When bathtub shopping, always consider the features of the various bathtubs.  You would want a bathtub that would last long.  Constantly replacing a bathtub can be expensive because it may ruin your tiles. Your bathroom will not need to be remodeled if you invested in a high quality bath tub.

4 Steps: Choose the Right Bathtub

You can also consider freestanding bathtubs Canada households use.  Freestanding bathtubs are more like a piece of furniture that you can move around. 

Choosing a bathtub should totally depend on you because it is you who will finally be using the bath tub to relieve the stresses of the day.  However, consider suggestions of your contractor and designer to help you what kind of tubs will work in your space and to assist you in finding the tub that will work with your interiors.My Life's Anik-Aniks

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