Patrick Adams
Although walk-in showers dominate the bathroom fixtures market, freestanding tubs are still a sign of luxury for owners who have large enough bathrooms. However, there are so many models and types of bathtubs so you need to know a couple of things before you go shopping for one.
Not only does a bath need to be fully functional (easy to get in and out) but you need to match its design with the décor of the bathroom. In general, the following 4 guidelines on style and purpose will help you get the right freestanding bathtub for your needs.
Size is (not) everything
It is rather easy to determine the size of the bathtub you need based on the surface size of your bathroom. However, keep in mind that the tub will have to be attached to the piping, which means that a margin of at least 10 centimetres around the bathtub should exist. Basically, when measuring the maximum width and length of the freestanding bathtub, add this margin to the final measurements.
Moreover, the bathtub must be able to pass through the house’s front door and the bathroom door. If the water room is on the first floor, then calculate the weight of the fixture to determine whether it can safely be carried upstairs. The last you need is to tear down walls to install the tub or even worse, hire a crane to hoist it up to the bathroom window.
Choosing the right material
Most shoppers believe that the material their new bathtub is made from serves nothing more than an aesthetical purpose. That’s why they opt for copper of stone tubs when they require a statement piece. However, things are slightly more complex than that since every material some practical uses.
For once, acrylic bathtubs are the most popular choice because they are lightweight which means they can easily be transported upstairs and they don’t require additional reinforcement to the bathroom floor.
On the other hand, the unique design of stone tubs means that they will amaze anyone who enters the bathroom. Their downside is their weight because materials such as marble, travertine or granite weigh quite a bit. What they lack in weight, stone bathtubs make up for natural heat-retention qualities and durability.
Copper bathtubs can be shaped in any way you want because they are usually hand-crafted. The metal’s ability to conduct heat allows the water inside the tub to maintain a steady temperature. Résistance to bacteria and mould is another benefit of copper bathtubs.
Apart from the materials listed above, there are also solid material bathtubs, cast iron, and stainless steel tubs so decide on the type of material you need before buying a particular tub.
The style in the service of the bath’s purpose
Once you decide on the material that will serve you purpose the best, it is time to decide on the style of your bathtub. It will largely depend on the interior décor of the bathroom but its functionality as well. Think about what the tub will predominantly be used from: long soapy baths or a quick bath, much like the one you use the shower for.
You can find a variety of styles at Acqua Bathrooms but there are 5 general modern styles of freestanding bathtubs. The single-ended bathtub is a timeless design that most people own. One end of it is rounded and sloped for lounging, while the opposite end is reserved for the drain and the faucet.
In a single slipper tub are similarly shaped but they have one elevated resembling a slipper. They provide excellent heightened back support, resulting in extra comfort for the person taking a bath.
Double-ended and double slipper freestanding bathtubs, as their name suggests, have two rounded ends at both sides. The main difference from singles is the location of the drain that is centred, as well as the faucet, which is the lowest point of the tub. Such design makes them suitable for two people bathing simultaneously.
Finally, a Japanese soaking bathtub is an ideal style if you’re trying to fit a freestanding bathtub into a tight space, which is a common case in modern apartments. They are one of the smallest in terms of length but they are rather high, i.e. deep. Because of their proportions and style, Japanese soaking tubs come with an integrated seat. This way, you can indulge in extended soaks with water up to your shoulders.
The devil is in the detail
Once you have selected a bathtub of the right size, shape, and style, it is time to accessorize. Tub caddies are among the most popular accessories as you can use them to place a book or a glass of wine. Foot coasters are ideal for slippers and singe ended tubs because they protect the bathroom floor; at the same time tubs, as they help to protect your bathroom floor.
We hope that now you have enough knowledge to select the right freestanding bathtub for your bathroom. The size, material, and style of your new bathroom are all equally important to attaining ultimate comfort.
This post was created with our nice and easy submission form. Create your post!
