Overview

A bathtub is a bathroom fixture used for bathing. Most homes in the United States have a bathtub, and some have more than one. Most bathtubs used to be similar to each other: rectangular shaped, constructed of either cast iron or galvanized steel with a white porcelain finish. Today, bathtubs come in a range of types, materials, styles, colors, and shapes. You can explore the options and make decisions leading to a purchase by using this bathtub decision guide.

Repair or replace?

If you are remodeling your entire bathroom, it makes sense to upgrade your tub along with everything else. However, many homeowners purchase a bathtub because of problems with an older tub. If you have a built-in bathtub that your thinking of replacing (and it is not part of an overall bathroom remodel), the whole job could cost between $2,000 and $4,000, when you add the tub, plumbing, and tile work. However, if the finish on your current tub is worn or scratched, you have two good options for improving its appearance without replacing it. 

Tub Inserts: Several companies produce plastic bathtub inserts to fit virtually every bathtub. These inserts are made of 1/4 ABS acrylic, the same material that is used in football helmet. The first step is an installer comes to your home, takes careful measurements of your tub and photographs. The installer sends the measurements and photos to the insert company, and the company generally has the same model tub in their warehouse as you have in your bathroom. The acrylic is then vacuum-formed directly into the tub, making an insert that will fit directly into your tub. The installer returns with the insert, inserts and caulks it, and you are done. Total cost is usually between $600 and $1,000.

Resurfacing: The other option to repair the finish of your tub is to have it resurfaced. In this process, a trained professional starts by masking your bathroom to protect it from the impact of chemicals and finishing products. The remaining porcelain in your tub is then removed with acid. The installer puts one or two coats of epoxy on the tub's surface to promote adhesion. Finally, the installer adds several layers of polyurethane to the tub, to create a new finish. Total cost should be between $300 and $600.

Space

Tubs are available in a wide range of sizes; some are even designed to fit more than one bather. However, if you are putting a new bathtub into an existing bathroom, you may be limited by space and by the existing fixtures and cabinets. Take careful measurements and photos, and bring them with you when you shop. Remember, an elegant tub will look less elegant if it appears cramped or oddly positioned. If you are remodeling your entire bathroom, you may be able to reconfigure other elements to accommodate a tub of any size.

Brand

Jacuzzi started as a specialty manufacturer of air bathtubs, but have expanded to a wide range of mid-range to high-end bathtubs. American Standard and Kohler sell a broad range of bathtubs, from very basic bathtubs to soaking and jetted tubs. Some of the brand manufacturers on our list manufacture one or two types of high-end tubs. Select the type of bathtub you are interested in and then find a bathroom showroom that shows a range of bathtub brands of that type. Click here to see our list of top Bathtub Brands

Type

There are different types of bathtubs. Do you want jets? Are you planning to bathe alone or with company? Do you prefer to bathe reclining or sitting up? You can learn about your bathtub options in our section on Top Bathtub Types. 

Style

Bathtubs are available in every decorating style, so you will be best able to evaluate bathtubs if you understand how a bathtub’s design reflects its style. Style generally refers to an overall look and feel of a room. Style can reflect a tone like casual, formal, or traditional. A bathtub is one element of an overall design. All of the elements translate to a style. It is important to get the design elements of a room working in concert. You do not want to use an Art Deco-style bathtub if the other style elements of your bathroom are Swedish. There are also certain elements of a room that traditionally relate closely to each other. A bathtub and its faucets should have a close design relationship. The bathtub faucet usually also relates closely to the toilet handle, the towel bar and the internal bathroom doorknob. If you are not familiar with how specific styles are reflected in bathtubs, sinks, faucets, trim, and other bathroom decorating elements, it is a good idea to go to a bathroom showroom; each area on display is usually decorated in a cohesive theme. If you are unsure of how the elements relate to each other, ask a salesperson.

Installation

There are three general elements of installation:

• placement of the tub
• getting water to the tub
• draining water from the tub

If you are redecorating your entire bathroom, and buying and installing a new bathtub as part of the project, you have the most options in terms of installation. If you are replacing a tub, you probably want to change your plumbing as little as possible (if at all), so you need to select a tub with this in mind. Another major variable is whether you are installing a freestanding tub or a built-in tub. A freestanding tub is places on the floor. A built-in tub requires physical integration into your bathroom, using tile, sheetrock, or a liner, plus whatever calk, grout, or paint is needed to finish the project.

Shape

Bathtubs are now available in many shapes. Most tubs are still rectangular and designed for a reclining bather. Soaking tubs and wooden tubs often have a seat for those who prefer to bath in a vertical position. Manufactures can mold plastic materials like acrylic into almost any shape, from diamonds to hearts. If you are installing a built-in bathtub, the shape of the tub can only be seen from above and looking into it, while you can see the shape of a free standing tub from the side as well as above.

Materials

Bathtubs are manufactured in a range of materials, each has its own look and benefits.

Porcelain on steel: Steel bathtubs coated with porcelain, also called porcelain bathtubs, are the most common tubs sold in the United States. They are relatively inexpensive, lightweight, and durable. They are resistant to scratching and chemicals.

Enamel on cast iron: Bathtubs made in this traditional way have been popular since they first appeared in the 1800's. They are solid and extremely durable. They have a solid, old-fashioned feel. Their look can be old fashioned or not, and they now come in a number of different colors.

Fiberglass: Fiberglass bathtubs are the least expensive tub sold. They are light and durable, though their color will fade faster than many other materials.

Acrylic: Acrylic tubs have a glossy attractive look. They are sturdy and durable, but cost less than tubs made from metal. They susceptible to scratching from cleansers and can be harmed by chemicals, though scratches can be buffed out.

Stainless steel: Solid stainless steel bathtubs are durable and easy to clean. They make a dramatic statement, and are usually found in modern bathrooms with other stainless steel fixtures or decorated in an industrial style.

Copper: Copper tubs are among the most expensive bathtubs sold. A copper tub lends a luxurious and distinctive look to any high-end bathroom.

Foam: This is the newest material used to make bathtubs. The main advantage is that bathers are less likely to bump their heads or bodies. If you or someone in your home has balance or mobility issues, this is an ideal material. It is also comfortable to sit in and retains your bath's warmth.

Wood: Wooden tubs have a distinctive, organic feel. It is the only material listed here that absorbs water, so it "interacts" with your bath. Wooden tubs will wear out faster than any other tub; they tend to warp or rot. However, most wooden tubs are installed with periodic replacement in mind, and replacing a wooden bathtub should be less involved than with most built-in tubs.

Price

You can buy a new, basic bathtub for as little as $200, or you can sink thousands of dollars into a high-end or custom bathtub. Whatever you spend, your bathtub should fit into your overall bathroom design. In practice, this means that your other fixtures are high-end, only a high-end bathtub will look appropriate. If you have a modest bathroom, a mid-priced bathtub will look best. There are attractive styles and a range of choices in all of the price ranges.