Freestanding bathtubs are a great way to add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your bathroom. But before buying one, it’s important to consider the type of tub material. Different materials offer different benefits, so it’s important to know what features each can provide. Here are the most popular materials used for freestanding bathtubs today.
Porcelain-Enamelled Steel
Porcelain-enamelled steel is one of the most popular materials used for stand bath tubs due to its durability and affordability. The porcelain coating protects the steel from corrosion, rust, and damage while adding an attractive finish. The material is relatively light compared to other options and is easy to clean and maintain.
Acrylic
Acrylic is another popular material used in freestanding tubs due to its affordability and ease of maintenance. Acrylic does not require much upkeep since it does not corrode or rust as some other materials might. It is also lightweight, which makes installation easy, and it can retain heat better than other materials, so you can enjoy a hot bath for longer. However, acrylic can scratch more easily than other materials, so care needs to be taken when cleaning it or using abrasive cleaners.
Fibreglass
Fibreglass is a strong yet lightweight material often used in freestanding slipper baths because of its affordability and durability. It comes in various finishes, such as glossy or matte, which adds visual interest to any bathroom space. Fibreglass retains heat well but may not be as durable as other materials, such as cast iron or acrylic, if not properly maintained over time. It’s important to keep this type of tub clean to last longer without needing any repairs or replacements in the long run.
Enamelled Cast Iron
Enamelled cast iron has been around for years and continues to be one of the best choices for freestanding baths due to its durability and elegance. This material retains heat exceptionally well, making it ideal for long baths. However, it also requires more upkeep because it needs proper cleaning after every use to prevent rust build-up over time from soap scum and hard water mineral deposits. Additionally, enamelled cast iron is quite heavy, so expect additional labour costs if you consider installing this type of tub yourself rather than hiring someone with experience with this project.
Cast Polymer
Cast polymer offers many advantages when compared with traditional cast iron, thanks mainly to its lighter weight, which makes transport easier and installation quicker. This material provides excellent heat retention and is highly resistant to warping, cracking, denting, chipping, discoloration, and UV rays. While this type of tub will cost more than others in terms of initial investment, the long-term benefits may outweigh the upfront costs depending on your budget constraint.
Conclusion
Many different types of materials are available when selecting a freestanding bathtub for your home, each offering unique advantages that must be considered before making any final decisions. With careful consideration given to functionality, style preferences, budget, and upkeep, you should find no shortage when looking for an ideal freestanding bathtub that suits your needs.
