From styles and materials to functionality and price, here are a few things to consider when choosing a new bathtub.
As home decor has evolved, it has changed how people think about their bathtub. No more is it merely a place to get clean before school or after a long day at work. Today, your bathtub can have massage jets placed inside of it, play a light show for you or even help soothe you with comforting music. There are also a large variety of styles and materials to choose from when choosing your preferred tub. What are some issues that may help shape your decision?
How Big Is Your Bathroom?
The size of your bathroom is going to influence how big your bathtub can be and how many accessories that can fit in the space reserved for it. If you have a small bathroom or a small space to put the tub, it may need to be smaller and more plain. However, if you have a larger bathroom or can remodel it to dedicate more space for the tub, it can make you feel as if you have just walked into a five star spa.
How Much Can You Afford to Spend?
Another consideration that you need to make is how much you can afford to spend. If you only have a few hundred dollars, you may be able to upgrade to something newer even if it doesn’t have a lot of fancy bells and whistles. Modern Bathroom has selections for budgeters and those looking to increase their homes value. For those who have thousands or tens of thousands of dollars to spend, you may be able to build something large enough for multiple people or that allows for precise temperature control while you are in it.
What Type of Materials Do You Want to Use?
If you want a tub that is going to last a long time, it may be best to go with a cast iron tub or an enamel-on-steel tub. The enamel-on-steel looks just like the cast iron and is just as durable, however, it is somewhat easier to clean and is lighter. This can help when you have to lug it up to the bathroom and when you want to remove it in the future. Composite materials can offer a higher-end look although they generally aren’t as resistant to cracking and flaking. Some experts say that this cracking and flaking is generally related to how they are installed.
What are You Using the Tub For?
While most people consider their tub to be general use, there are niche and specialty tubs that may be more beneficial for some consumers. For instance, if you are older or have suffered an injury in the past, it may be better to use a step-in tub. These types of tubs allow you to open a door to walk into the tub instead of climbing over the edge. If used as a soaking tub or whirlpool, it may be possible to add a seat to the tub, which reduces the odds of someone slipping and falling while taking a bath. This could be great for parents of small children who don’t want them getting hurt while taking a shower or bath. 
Is Ease of Installation a Requirement?
Installing a tub is a lot like installing a kitchen sink as there are many techniques that you can use to install the tub. If you are not handy and don’t want to pay a professional to install the tub for you, it may be best to go with a alcove tub, which fits in along an existing wall, and may be able to go in any direction you want depending on how the piping is installed.
There is a lot that goes into choosing your next bathtub. You have to know the dimensions of your bathroom, know your budget and know what you want from the tub. In addition, you should take into consideration whether or not you can install it on your own. All of these factors will influence the price that you pay, the accessories that you need and the type of material that you choose for your next bathtub.
