Taking a bath is the ultimate in relaxation, but buying a bathtub can be fraught with stress.
For one, there’s a dizzying array of bathtub dimensions and shapes.
Before you decide on a new model or startrefinishingyour existing tub, take time to answer these critical questions.
Credit: Stephan Julliard
Questions to Ask Before Buying a Bathtub
How do you plan to use your tub?
Your answer determines whether you need an inexpensive, bare-bones design or a higher-quality bath with upgrades.
The more elaborate your tub, the more expensive it will be.
Credit: David Tsay
How much space do you have?
Before falling in love with a particular key in of tub, you oughta knowwhat your bathroom can accommodate.
To determine how large your tub can be, take careful measurements of your bathroom and doorways.
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
Are there special bathtub installation considerations?
The air switch (which is nonelectric) may be on the tub unit.
Plan on installing the electric timer a safe distanceat least 5 feetaway from the tub to meetbathroom code requirements.
Can your water heater handle the task?
The size of your tub will affect your monthly expenses and the strain on your water heater.
confirm your water heater is large enough to fill about two-thirds of your tub with warm water.
Does weight pose a problem?
The weight of a bathtubespecially once it contains watercan put a lot of strain on a bathroom floor.
Also, consider the installation challenges.
A too-heavy tub may be impossible or prohibitively expensive to get into a second-floor bathroom.
Is the tub comfortable?
Before buying a tub, try it on for sizeliterally.
Climb in, settle back, and imagine yourself soaking.
Does it fit and feel comfortable for you?
Don’t be embarrassed; it’s the best way to determine if you’ll be satisfied with it.
How do you choose between an acrylic or cast iron tub?
Use our comparison guide to help you choose the best tub material for your needs.
Plastic is also the lightest tub, weighing 50-70 pounds.
Although it doesn’t chip easily, abrasive cleaners will damage the surface.
Enameled steel
Formed steel bathtubs with a porcelain-enamel coating are the least expensive tubs.
Cast-iron
Cast-iron tubs, like steel, are coated with enamel.
Cast iron’s main drawback is its weight, 350-500 pounds, which may complicate second-floor tub installations.
Cast polymer costs a little more than acrylic; however, its surface doesn’t stand up as well.
However, they are typically considered more costly than other options.
Other less common installation types include corner bathtubs, platform tubs, and undermount tubs.
Should I Repair or Refinish My Bathtub?
If your tub is leaking, cracked, or worn, it might be time to replace your bathtub.
Both are affordable ways to repair chips and stains without the cost of replacement.
Some companies can refinish your tub with a polyurethane coating that gives it a hard, high-gloss surface.
Others can outfit your tub with an acrylic liner molded exactly to its size, shape, and style.
A fiberglass tub will last from ten to 15 years.
However, having a tub and a freestanding shower in a primary bathroom will be most appealing to buyers.
