It’s always exciting to get a tub for your bathroom. If you just want to lie down a bit while taking a bath as you soak in the water and bubbles, the bathtub is very accommodating. It’s an important accessory that makes a huge impact for your home.
But while you’re all hyped to purchase one, you might want to know more about the materials or finishes used. Once you pick one, you can’t easily change it without removing the existing tub and get a replacement, which is why you need to decide carefully.
Here are some of the common bathtub finishes, along with their advantages and disadvantages.
Porcelain Enameled Steel
Pros
If you’re looking for an affordable and relatively lighter finish than most that’s out there, porcelain-enameled steel is your best bet. It’s also durable and very easy to clean, which means you won’t have to put too much effort in keeping it tidy.
Cons
While it is a strong material, it can create chips when objects are dropped. There might be limited options with regard to the shape and colour, and it loses heat quickly, which is not a good thing when you want a warm bath.
Acrylic
Pros
Acrylic is a low cost finish for tubs, not to mention lighter than porcelain enameled steel. It’s versatility in colour, shapes, and sizes makes it a popular option for most homeowners. Moreover, the surface is easily repairable, further adding to the perks of this type of finish.
Cons
When cleaning an acrylic tub, it is important to note that abrasive cleaners are a no-no since it can scratch the surface quite easily. Furthermore, while installing the tub, stress points have to be reinforced to prevent damage to it.
Fiberglass
Pros
Fibreglass is probably the most inexpensive in our list and the lightest in the bunch. It is fairly easy to install in the bathroom and takes less effort in cleaning and maintenance. It is usually the material of choice when creating a shower/ tub combination.
Cons
As it is inexpensive and light, it isn’t as durable as other materials. Furthermore, the finish can fade with use, and even if it can be repaired, it is prone to cracks and scratches. There are also limited options when it comes to colour.
Cast Iron
Pros
For those who seek the most durable bathtub finish, cast iron would be it. This finish is resistant to any chipping, denting, or scratching, and most chemicals won’t do any harm to it. You can choose from a variety of colours, and the best part is that it shines in heat retention, allowing you to enjoy warm baths longer.
Cons
The downside of picking cast iron is that it can be extremely heavy. As such, extra labor and floor reinforcement would be needed upon installation of this type of tub in your bathroom. Given the pros mentioned above, it is expected that it’s the most expensive in the bunch.
Cultured Marble
Pros
Cultured marble is probably one of the most stylish options out there currently. It offers versatility when it comes to size, style, and colour, and the gelcoat makes it even more durable.
Cons
Since cultured marble is a mix of crushed limestone, resin, and gelcoat, you can expect the price to be more expensive than acrylic, but just below cast iron.
Ceramic Tiles
Pros
The great thing about ceramic tiles is that you can choose whatever shape or size you like, and it can be made on site. As such, you have more flexibility in terms of how it is molded, making it the perfect material for unique tubs.
Cons
The biggest problem with ceramic tiles is grout and maintenance. The irregular interior might not be the most comfortable feeling for some people.
And those are some of the bathtub finishes and materials. Which one do you pick? Choose wisely!
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