Exploring the wide variety of freestanding bathtub styles, sizes, and materials can be overwhelming. Being familiar with the options available as well as knowing your needs will not only make your tub hunt easier, but will ensure that you are selecting the perfect style for your new spa-like sanctuary.
Understand What Size Tub You Need
Knowing how much space you have to work with is important, and will prevent major headaches after the tub is already on-site. Measure the area where the bathtub is going to be placed.
Choose Your Freestanding Tub Style
Think about what purpose the tub will serve. Will it frequently be used for long, luxurious soaks? If so, tub depth will be a high priority.
This timeless, classic design is the most common tub style found in traditional homes. This style features one rounded end which is sloped for lounging, with the opposite end reserved for your drain and faucet. You can typically find these tubs anywhere from size 48"-70".
Like the single-ended style, single-slipper tubs feature one end meant for lounging with the opposite end reserved for plumbing. Single-slipper tubs have one elevated end to form the shape of a slipper. This type of bathtub will provide heightened back support, resulting in more comfort. It is common to find single slipper tubs sized in the range of 43"-73".
Double ended tubs have two rounded ends to provide the option of bathing on either side, however the ends are not raised. Both walls are gently sloped for comfort, and can fit two bathers depending on its size. This style of tub will feature a center drain and faucet location, and are offered in a variety of sizes usually between 55"-72".
Double-slipper tubs are raised on both ends for comfortable reclining at either side. Depending on the length of the tub, this style can accommodate two bathers in a couple's suite. The drain and faucet location on this style of tub will be in the center, at the tub's low point. Size options in this style typically range from 59"-78".
Clawfoot tubs have been available since the 1800s and remain a popular style of tub today. These are perfect for replacing your old clawfoot tub with something new, while maintaining the traditional look in your bathroom. Clawfoot tubs are commonly available with single-ended, single-slipper, double-ended, and double-slipper designs in a variety of sizes typically between 48"-72".
Pedestal, also known as skirted, tubs, supplement a traditional art deco design by resting on a plinth rather than claw feet. Pedestal tubs, like clawfoot, can be found in single ended, single slipper, double ended, and double slipper designs. These can be found sized anywhere from 52"-78".
Select A Bathtub Material & Finish
Acrylic
Acrylic tubs are the most popular choice for freestanding tubs today, with a large variety of both modern and traditional designs available. They are relatively lightweight, which makes them easier to maneuver and carry up stairwells and to install. They also won't require reinforcing your floor if installing on an upper level, unlike heavier materials like cast iron and resin.
Cast Iron
Cast iron freestanding tubs are extremely durable and heavy. They are made the same way today as they were centuries ago, which have lasted generations and you may still find in century-old homes today. Due to their classic appeal, cast iron tubs are the choice for traditional renovations in historical homes. These tubs are made of iron with a coating of porcelain enamel that is tough to scratch and easy to clean. Cast iron tubs tend to retain heat very well, which make them ideal for longer soaking.
Solid Surface
Solid surface tubs are typically made of a resin material. These tubs generally have a more contemporary design, and are made of a high-quality composite material that has a hard surface. These tubs feature an integral drain and overflow system built into its walls, which makes installation a breeze and eliminates any exposed drain piping. Solid surface tubs are available in a gloss or matte finish, and require very little maintenance..
Copper
These gorgeous hand-crafted tubs are available in a variety of unique shapes, styles, and textures. Copper's ability to conduct heat allows the water to maintain a steady temperature, like cast iron. Copper also has its health benefits, since it is naturally resistant to mold and bacteria.
