How to Compare Bathtubs
The bathtub is one of the most important and costly components of a bathroom, whether you're planning a simple functional space or your dream home spa. Along with a wide range of styles, colors and prices, you also must consider materials, installation requirements and connectivity. Comparison shopping will be necessary to help you find the right style of bathtub at the right price to fit your needs. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Choose a price range that fits your budget. Bathtubs can cost $110 to $6,000 or more.
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Choose a style. Options include jet or whirlpool tubs, standard bathtubs and clawfoot tubs, which go well with classic decor. Whirlpool bathtubs are available in all price ranges, but if this isn't important to you, you might want to put your money toward a higher-quality standard bathtub.
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Decide whether to go with a name brand such as Kohler, Jacuzzi, American Standard, Whirlpool, Duravit or Swanstone. One advantage of a name brand includes the availability of spare parts, and name brands also can have better warranties. However, you might find better prices with a lesser-known brand.
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Determine which installation style is appropriate for your bathroom. The most common are drop-in, corner, three-wall alcove and deck-mounted. Other styles include undercounter, wall-mounted, pedestal, and countertop. The choice might be limited by the layout and available space in your bathroom.
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Choose a material. The most common materials are fiberglass, acrylic, PVC and enameled cast iron. Fiberglass bathtubs are lightweight and inexpensive, but they scratch easily and show wear in about 12 years. Acrylic bathtubs are more durable than fiberglass, and can be found in the mid-price range. Whirlpool tubs are made from acrylic. The most durable is cast iron. The price is higher, but cast iron bathtubs will last the life of a home. Stainless steel, copper, glass, stone and even gold and platinum also are available.
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Choose a color that fits your decorating scheme. Common colors are white, black, almond and biscuit. A wide array of shades in tan, pink, yellow, green and blue also are available.
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Determine the proper plumbing connection diameter. The most common are 1-inch, 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch, but some bathtubs require a 3/8-inch, 1 1/2-inch or 2-inch diameter connection.
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Consider other features such as a slip-resistant bottom, a self-leveling base, lumbar support or an integral skirt.
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Tips & Warnings
Many bathtub reviews are available online on manufacturer and store websites.
Employees at home improvement stores can answer many of your questions.
