When remodeling your bathroom, one of the most important questions to ask yourself is if you want to include a bathtub or not. When choosing a bathtub, remember there are many styles, materials, and colors available. There are also bathtubs that include special features such as air jets and whirlpools. Bathtub and shower combos are also available.
Deciding on a style of bathtub depends not only on your personal taste but on the size, space, and physical restraints of your bathroom.
Bathtubs are perfect for relaxing sore muscles and bathing small children. On the flip side, bathtubs take up a lot of space and require a large amount of water. They can also be difficult for older or mobility restricted people to get in and out of.
Free-standing Bathtubs
Free-standing bathtubs are finished on all sides and do not need to be up against a wall. They can be placed in the center of a room or near a wall. Also, cleaning the outside may be difficult if it’s near a wall.
Free-standing tubs are available in various styles, sizes, colors, and materials. Styles include slipper, clawfoot, and soaker tubs
There are a few downsides of free-standing bathtubs. If you choose a bathtub that’s free standing, you will typically need a larger bathroom. As well, the plumbing will be exposed because this tub is free standing. Specialty plumbing is available. There also are not any shelves or storage areas to keep shampoo, conditioner, soap, etc.
Alcove Bathtubs
Alcove bathtubs—also known as recessed bathtubs—are the cheapest and easiest to install of all bathtubs. The tub fits into a three-sided wall enclosure. The walls are either tiled or fitted with panels. Only one side of alcove bathtubs is accessible.
Alcove bathtubs are almost always rectangular in shape. And the common length is 60 inches. They are available in several different styles and colors. They are also available in tub/shower combos.
Drop-in Bathtubs
Drop-in bathtubs are enclosed by a deck or peninsula that juts into the bathroom. The tub is installed in the structure and the rim of the bathtub is flush with the top of the platform. Undermount drop-in bathtubs are also available. With undermount bathtubs, the rim is covered by the surrounding platform.
If you choose this bathtub, you can be either installed in an alcove, or in an open floor space. Because of the platform surrounding it, these tubs can be difficult to get in and out of.
Corner Bathtub
Corner bathtubs—which can be triangular or rectangular in shape—take up a lot of floor space. You will need a large bathroom to accommodate a corner tub. It will also need to be up against two walls—hence the name corner tub. It also requires a lot of water to fill it up.
Corner tubs provide an in-home spa experience. Air jets and whirlpools are common features in corner bathtubs.
Walk-in Bathtubs
Walk-in bathtubs are designed for people with mobility issues. These tubs feature high walls, a molded seat, handrails, and non-slip surfaces. A watertight door in the side allows for access. An important thing to remember if you choose a bathtub such as this, you must sit in the tub while it fills with water and remain in the tub as the water drains.
If you are considering remodeling your bathroom, give us a call at Shakespeare Home Improvement Co. Shakespeare offers beautiful bathroom remodeling designs to fit your personal style.