Types of bathtubs

Table of contents:

• Advantages of quality acrylic bathtubs
• Cast iron baths - a conservative solution
• Composite bathtubs - the premium segment
• Extra features and equipment

Too large bathtubs turn out to be uncomfortable in practice. It is better when 1) the bathtub is tailored to the users and 2) fits in the doorways.

Advantages of quality acrylic bathtubs

• A very wide range of shapes - you can find a solution to even the most atypical projects.
• Restorability - scratches and any other damage can easily be polished at home.
• Colour retention - acrylic does not yellow or fade.
• Smooth surfaces are pore-free - bathtubs are easy to care for and do not absorb dirt, rust and dyes (coloured bath salts, hair dyes and tonics, etc.).

The most important thing about acrylic bathtubs is the quality of the raw material. Finding real acrylic is not easy, as there are many "fakes" made of ASB-plastic. It is ASB-plastic that has a specific plastic smell, cracks, turns yellow and gets stained.

The problem is that the catalogues and price lists often contain wrong information, and it is almost impossible to distinguish the materials visually, by feel or with a torch.

A nuance to consider is that some acrylic bathtubs may have an unpleasant smell due to the reinforcing layer of glass fibre.

Cast iron baths - a conservative solution

Cast iron products are valued for reliability and durability - a cast iron bathtub with periodic refurbishment of the enamel can last 50 years or more. Heavy duty baths are sturdy and have a generous, robust look. The downside of heavy weight is difficulty in delivery and installation.

Other disadvantages of cast iron baths:

the enamel is applied to the cast iron base in a separate layer - prone to chipping and cracking, easily scratched and damaged;
the enamel needs to be repaired by specialists.
The range of cast iron bathtubs is represented by standard shapes - rectangular and oval. Cast iron heats up slowly, so for a comfortable bath you need to draw water a little hotter than usual.

Increasingly, alternatives to cast iron bathtubs are being favoured:

• thick-walled steel bathtubs - as they are more resistant to wear and tear;
• Acrylic, quaternary, composite - when atypical design solutions are required.

Composite bathtubs - the premium segment

Shops offer a wide range of composite bathtubs. They have different names: cast marble, artificial stone and many patented materials (Quarrycast, SilkStone, Solid Surface, etc. - see more options here https://ecotubstlouis.com/ ).

Composite materials are produced by baking, the difference is in the composition of the initial powder. But it is the raw material that determines the quality of the sanitary ware. The problem is that few factories disclose the technology of production and composition of their raw materials, and advertising brochures may contain unreliable information.

Extra features and equipment

There are two things to consider when choosing optional features - budget and expediency. Options may be pre-installed from the factory or integrated into the bathtub on request.

If you have a limited budget, do not go for a bathtub with many options or even a 'simple' whirlpool. Technical quality and quality of fittings are not likely to meet expectations.

Assess how actively you will use this or that function in real life. Each functional addition will require additional care and maintenance.