5 Types of Bathtubs That Can Save You Money— Here’s What to Know Before You Buy
A bathtub is more than a functional fixture; it's the centerpiece of your bathroom that defines the overall look and style of your space. For homeowners who want to strike a balance between comfort and style, choosing a bathtub could be a challenging decision since there are too many options in the market. In this guide, we'll talk about the most common and affordable types of bathtubs that provide both aesthetics and comfort without crowding the space.
Types of Bathtubs and their Materials: Pros & Cons Compared
Below are the most popular bathtub replacement ideas for bathtub types, including acrylic, fiberglass, cast iron, and more. Compare their pros and cons to get an idea for your bathroom's look, functionality, and your overall budget.
1. Acrylic Bathtubs: Lightweight and Flexible
Acrylic bathtubs are light yet durable, and they are becoming popular with Alabama homeowners for their versatility. Acrylic sheets are thermoformed, heated and shaped, before they are reinforced with fiberglass for durability, making it an extremely viable choice for any type of bathroom design.
Pros of Acrylic Bathtubs:
Economical: Acrylic bathtubs are more affordable than cast iron or stone.
Light: Acrylic is lighter than cast iron, so it is easy to install, especially on top floors or bedrooms where weight is a factor.
Range of Design: Acrylic can be fashioned into many different forms and sizes, so you can find a tub that will suit your bathroom's shape and design.
Long-Lasting Finish: Acrylic leaves a light-looking, reflective finish that will not stain or lose its luster for years. It will neither chip nor crack.
Low Maintenance: An acrylic bathtub will most likely only require wiping occasionally with a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner.
Cons of Acrylic Bathtubs:
Scratch More Easily: Acrylic bathroom tubs will scratch more easily than other surfaces when cleaned with abrasive cleaners or scrubbers.
Fade with Time: Although acrylic tubs are durable and can be revamped with a bathtub paint kit; however, they fade with time when subjected to chemicals and constant heat.
Less Insulation: Acrylic loses less heat than heavier products such as cast iron, meaning your bath water will lose heat more quickly.
Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners or those who want a light tub with plenty of styling possibilities.
2. Cast Iron Bathtubs: Timeless and Sophisticated
Custom bathtub made of cast iron are gorgeous and very long-lasting. Made of molten iron and lined with porcelain enamel, they provide timeless elegance, great heat retention, and will last for a long time when maintained properly.
Pros of Cast Iron Bathtubs:
Longevity: Cast iron baths are long-lasting and will remain functional for decades if properly maintained. They d'ont chip, crack or dent easily.
Heat Retention: Cast iron is an excellent heat retainer; the water in your bath stays warm for an exponentially longer period, which creates an added level of comfort.
Timeless Appearance: Cast iron baths are likely luxury products because of their traditional appearance and spacious design.
Stain-Resistant: Porcelain enamel coating is scratch and stain-resistant, and easy to clean.
Cons of Cast Iron Bathtubs:
Heavier than others: Cast iron baths are heavy, and installation is not easy, requiring extra structural support. This is especially true for second-floor bathrooms.
Expensive: Cast iron baths are far more costly than acrylic or fiberglass baths. Maintenance can be costly, even for minor upgrades like bathtub paint, so careful planning is essential.
Prone to Chipping: Even though it is durable, the enamel paint is prone to chip or crack whenever something heavy drops into the bath, exposing the underlying iron.
Best for: Owners who want a high-quality, long-lasting tub with traditional good looks or who need a tub that holds heat well.
3. Fiberglass Bathtubs: Light and Cheap
Fiberglass bathtubs are made by utilizing a blend of resin and fiberglass. They are the cheapest bathroom tubs on the market and, therefore, the best cheap remodelling option for homeowners looking to renovate on a budget.
Pros of Fiberglass Bathtubs:
Affordable Option: Fiberglass is one of the cheapest materials in the bathtub manufacturing process, making it the budget-friendly option.
Lighter than acrylic: Fiberglass bathtubs are lightweight, easy to install, and maintain good condition.
Freedom to Design: Fiberglass is very flexible and can be molded to almost any size or shape, with a high level of freedom to design.
Hassle-free Maintenance: Fiberglass bathtubs have a smooth surface that requires only minimal upkeep.
Cons of Fiberglass Bathtubs:
Weakness: Fiberglass is weaker than acrylic or cast iron. Over time, it weakens, causing stains and scratches.
Lack of durability: The weak material causes fiberglass to crack or chip over time, especially in high-traffic bathrooms.
Low Heat Retention: Similar to acrylic, fiberglass will not retain heat, nor would denser, heavier materials such as cast iron.
Best For: Anyone looking for a cheap solution that is easy to install, especially for renters or temporary arrangements.
4. Stone Resin Bathtubs: Sleek and Modern
Stone resin bathtubs are made from crushed stone combined with resin. It creates a modern, sleek look that many homeowners in Alabama prefer. It can add a luxury-look to your bathroom all while increasi its overall value.
Pros of Stone Resin Bathtubs:
Sleek and Futuristic: The stone resin bathtubs are sleek and streamlined, perfect for modern and minimalist bathroom designs.
Retention of Heat: Stone resin retains heat well and provides hot, long-lasting baths.
Stain-Resistant and Long-Lasting: The tubs are stain-resistant, scratch-resistant, and thus extremely long-lasting and durable.
Smooth and Non-Porous Surface: The soft surface is simple to clean and non-permeable to mold and bacterial growth.
Cons of Stone Resin Bathtubs:
Costly: Stone resin tubs are more expensive than other materials like fiberglass or acrylic.
Weighty: Stone resin tubs are also weighty, in most cases, they will require support when installed.
Damage-prone: As tough as it can be, stone resin can be chipped when mishandled.
Perfect For: Individuals looking for a sleek, high-end appearance and who are not budget-conscious.
5. Concrete Bathroom Tub: Industrial and Customizable
Concrete bathtubs, a less-than-standard choice have grown in popularity in modern and minimalist homes, are made of concrete with additives for extra strength. custom bathtub sizes
Pros of Concrete Bathtubs:
Reusable: Concrete bathtubs can be reused in any shape or size and are thus absolutely perfect for custom bathroom installation.
Strength: Concrete is tough and strong, which provides a savage and industrial look.
Heat Retention: Like cast iron and stone resin, concrete is good enough to retain heat, keeping the bath warm.
Cons of Concrete Bathtubs:
Heavier and Bulkier: With concrete, you can have custom bathtub sizes, but they are extremely heavy and installation can be challenging, especially if you don't have a lot of space.
Prone to Cracking: Concrete is prone to developing small cracks with age, especially if it isn't properly sealed or maintained.
Maintenance: Concrete bathtubs require periodic upkeep to avoid water damage and possible erosion over time.
Best For: Homeowners who want to own a unique, handmade tub with an industrial feel and appearance, and are willing to embrace additional maintenance.
6. Copper Bathtubs: Spacious and Visually Appealing
The copper baths are a trendy, sophisticated choice, and their own natural patina and specific color form a unique aspect of each bathroom. Copper baths are hand-hammered to traditional specifications and are renowned across the globe for their classic beauty.
Pros of Copper Bathtubs:
Unmatched Look: The beautiful natural patina that develops on copper tubs over time gives them a mature, old appearance.
Durable: Copper is not only corrosion-resistant and bacteria-resistant but also an extremely durable substance.
Heat Retention: Copper, like cast iron and stone, is a heat retainer, causing a warm bath sensation.
Antimicrobial Properties: Copper is antimicrobial and keeps the tub clean.
Cons of Copper Bathtubs:
Expensive: Copper bathtubs are on the higher end of the price spectrum, so they may cost more than other types.
Needs Maintenance: Although copper is lenient, it must be maintained and cleaned from time to time so that it does not develop a tarnish. Even the patina will become uneven if not maintained.
Heavy: Like other high-end products, copper baths are heavy and require exceptional support.
Best For: Those who desire, a custom bathtub, a high-end, one-of-a-kind tub that is functional and stylish, and who will pay for upkeep.
The Wrap-up
When choosing the perfect bathtub for your bathroom, balance what's most important: cost, looks, ease of installation, durability, and upkeep. Acrylic and fiberglass are inexpensive types of bathtubs and quick to install, while cast iron and stone resin are the most durable and best at heat retention. Copper and concrete are high-end and offer show-stopping features in modern bathrooms.
Your choice, ultimately, depends on your style, functional needs, and how much you are willing to invest in your bathroom remodel. A good bathtub, regardless of material, will improve your daily bath and bring long-term returns on your home.
Still not sure? Contact us today for affordable and highly-customized bathtub replacement services.
For inspiration, check out our bathroom remodel pictures or learn more about our bathroom renovation services.
