How To Choose A Good Bathtub
Weight, Height and Length
A tub that’s too heavy for your pretty floor to handle is a definite no-no! Also, does your bathroom have enough space for a tub? Is the tub of your dreams too high for you to get into and come out of? Too long? Do you need another bathroom just for a tub? Decisions, decisions…… But you can thank us. We’ve just given you some of the most important questions to consider.
A standard tub is 60 inches long, 30 inches wide, and 14 inches deep, but measurements may vary. Weight may also vary by material. For a heavier bathtub, you may need to reinforce your floor with supports or bracing, which may cost extra. A heavier bathtub is also harder to carry up to and remove from bathrooms on higher floors.
Materials, Installation and Comfort
There are many types of bathtub installations and materials that will determine how it’ll look, how to use it, and how it’ll feel. There are alcove tubs, freestanding tubs, soaking tubs, whirlpool tubs…… Materials also include plastic, enameled steel, cast-iron, cast-polymer and proprietary composites. Do your research and choose a tub that feels good to sit and lie down in — one that makes your mind go “Ahhhh, now this is relaxation. Bring on the bubbles!” Feel free to test-drive a model in our shops before bringing it home. We won’t judge you during the process, we promise.
Also, consider replacement parts and maintenance cost. A cozy lifestyle necessity requires money to maintain it too, we’re not going to lie to you.
Water Heater
The size of your tub, and the amount of water you put in it, will affect your monthly expense. A typical bath consists of one-third cold water and two-thirds hot water (unless you want a cooler bath, feel free to mix ‘em up). If you have a hot-water tank, can it supply enough hot water for every bath? A bathtub can hold up to 25-150 gallons of water, depending on its size. Make sure your water heater is large and efficient enough to fill about two-thirds of your tub with warm water.
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