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Information about bath tubs.

Finding Your Perfect Bathtub

Bathtubs come in so many styles, materials, colors, sizes and have so many options, that finding the right one can be a daunting task. We've put together a list of the things to help you look for your perfect bath tub. Also, take a look at Homeclick.com to get an idea of the various tub styles, shapes and colors.

 

The bathtub's function

First, you will need to think about how you will be using the bathtub. It should obviously be comfortable - make sure that the size and depth are appropriate for the bodies of those who will be using it. If you have the space, you may even opt for a two-person tub. If you're not sure about the size, go to a showroom and sit in a few (but buy it on the internet - you'll probably get a better deal).

A bathtub can also provide several therapeutic benefits.

  • Soaking in a tub lowers your blood pressure
  • Floating in the water puts less demands on the work your heart has to do.
  • It helps to relax your muscles

A regular-sized bathtub is fine for relaxing your legs. For your back, you will want to submerge your whole body, which requires a deeper bathtub.

Bathtub styles

  • Wall to wall alcove bathtubs, which are surrounded by three walls. This is the most basic and popular style by far. They are usually 5 feet long and are most commonly seen in various shades of white
  • Drop-in (or sunken) tubs are mounted on a platform
  • Clawfoot bathtubs have four legs and stand freely
  • Corner tubs  are installed in a corner and have two sides exposed

Bathtub materials

  • Acrylic is the most popular material. It is inexpensive, light and easy to work with.
  • Cast iron tubs are the next most popular. They tend to be heavier and more durable
  • Fiberglass bathtubs are generally the least expensive and have similar qualities to acrylic
  • Porcelain on steel are reasonably priced and fairly light
  • Cultured marble bathtubs are priced between acrylic and cast iron, and have an attractive and unique look.
  • Less commonly found are wood and ceramic tile bathtubs. Wooden bathtubs will eventually be damaged by the water. Ceramic tile tends to be more susceptible to leaks than other materials.

 

Tub sizes

Bathtubs are measured by length, width and height. They have a length of at least 5 feet and a width of 2.5 to 3 feet. Standard bathtubs are usually 14 inches to 17 inches deep. European style tubs are around 18 inches deep, while Japanese bathtubs can be over 22 inches deep.

You will want to make sure that the size of the bathtub will still allow you to walk around in the bathroom.

 

Bath tub shapes

Tubs come in a wide variety of shapes too. These are the most common ones:

  • Rectangular
  • Round
  • Oval
  • Triangular

 

Colors

You can probably find bathtubs in just about any color to match your taste. Below are some of the more common ones:

  • White and off-white
  • Neutral
  • Black
  • Red
  • Blue
  • Grey

 

Location of bathtub drain

  • End drain bathtub: when facing the tub, look where the drain is. For a drain on the left, a left hand tub is needed, if on the other side, a right hand tub will be required.
  • Center drain tub: this has the drain in the middle of the bathtub
  • Reversible drain bathtub: this this type of tub can face either way.
 

Bathtub Resources

Homeclick.com - Large Selection of  Bathtubs
Homeclick.com has a huge selection of  bathtubs at great prices.

VintageTubs.com - Classic Bathtubs
Vintage Tub & Bath specializes in old-fashioned clawfoot tubs.