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9 Bathtub Materials: What Are Their Main Pros and Cons?

One of the best ways to update a bathroom is to install a new bathtub. There are a lot of choices of type, style, and materials to consider when shopping for the perfect bathtub. The final choice of bathtub will depend on customer preference, budget, and needs for function. Is function more important or is style going to be the deciding factor? What tub will give the best service for a limited budget?

Bathtub Function

Shopping at a bathtub supplier that has many choices along with all the hardware that is needed to go with them is an advantage. Suppliers such as The Tub Connection have both physical and internet addresses for convenient shopping. They offer a wide variety of materials, styles, and finishes for their customers. A person can often order the tub, faucets, vanities, and sinks from the same company.

Ordering the whole bathroom from one supplier makes it easier to match everything and get better pricing and lower shipping costs.

Bathtub Selection

A homeowner might want to choose the style and function of their new bathtub first and then move on to the available materials to choose from. The styles or types of bathtubs include clawfoot tubs, pedestal or freestanding tubs, soaking tubs, slipper tubs, tub and shower combinations, drop-in bathtubs, and more.

9 Bathtub Materials to Consider

There are at least 9 bathtub materials available in today’s market and each of them has good and bad points. Do a little research before choosing the material for your new bathtub.

Porcelain over steel is one of the most common bathtub materials because it is inexpensive and durable. This is a steel base coated with porcelain enamel. These tubs are inexpensive, lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. They have a possibility of chipping, losing heat quickly, rust forming with chips, and limited color choices.

Acrylic bathtubs are popular because of their versatility, affordability, and many finishes to choose from. They are also durable and repairable. But, acrylic tubs can scratch, be more expensive, and need more reinforcement.

Fiberglass is a low-cost bathtub material that is lightweight, easy to install, and can come in a bath/shower combination. But, fiberglass is not as durable as other materials, has limited color options, and its surface can crack or scratch.

Cast iron with an enameled finish is a classic material and is very durable, scratch-resistant, and has good heat retention. These tubs can be resurfaced as needed. The only downside is their weight and expense.

Cast polymer such as cultured marble, granite, or onyx is made by molding together minerals, resins, and polymeric materials to form a solid tub material that is affordable, easy to clean, repairable, and stain-resistant. Crushed limestone or other stone can be used for different looks.

Solid surface bathtubs are newer market choices and can be expensive and heavy but offer design variation and a natural look.

A ceramic tile is an option that can be made in many shapes and sizes as well as many colors. But the tub might be uncomfortable because of the unevenness of individual tiles and grout.

Natural stone tubs are high-end choices that offer a high style look. They can be custom ordered for special installations. The stone choices can include granite, marble, travertine, basalt, and sandstone. These tubs are very heavy with the extra support needed and they are high maintenance and high cost.

Wood is another choice for those wanting something unique with a natural look. They are beautiful, expensive, and high-maintenance.

With this many choices, everyone can find the perfect bathtub for their style and functional needs.

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