How to Buy a Clawfoot Tub

Clawfoots are highly sought-after vintage bathtubs.

Clawfoot bathtubs are often sought after by homeowners looking to design both vintage and modern bathrooms, but the specifics of purchasing a clawfoot tub can be confusing to consumers. These freestanding, classic tubs come in a host of styles and materials, may require special plumbing and are not ideal for those looking to incorporate a shower with the bathtub. Clawfoot bathtubs are heavy, both empty and filled with water, so a reinforced floor is required, especially when installing them on a second floor.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape

Instructions

Measure the Bathroom

1. Measure both the length and width of the space where the clawfoot will be installed before shopping for the bathtub. Whether the clawfoot will be installed in an existing bathroom, or bathroom remodel, it is important to know exactly how much space is available for the bathtub because clawfoot tubs come in a variety of sizes.

2. Decide on a style. Clawfoot bathtubs come in five distinct styles, each with its own look and space requirements. Classic rolled-rim clawfoot bathtubs are those with one flat end and one rounded end where the drain will attach. Double-ended clawfoot bathtubs are similar to the classic tub, but have two rounded ends. Slipper tubs are clawfoot bathtubs with two rounded ends, where the end opposite the drain is elongated for greater support while bathing. A double-slipper tub is similar to the slipper tub, but has two elongated ends and a drain in the middle. Pedestaled tubs are clawfoot-like tubs without the clawfeet and come in all of the classic clawfoot shapes.

3. Select a material. Clawfoot tubs are available in three material types, each with its own cost, weight and space requirements. Cast Iron is the most traditional material, dating back to Victorian clawfoots. Cast iron is a very cold material, and it conducts heat well which keeps the tub warm longer, but it is both heavy and expensive. Acrylic is more modern, is lighter than cast iron, will never rust, and is a warmer material than cast iron. Fiberglass tubs are available, but fiberglass is not as durable as cast iron or acrylic, making it a less attractive alternative.

4. Choose the tub's fixtures. Unlike other bathtubs, where the only fixtures to choose are the faucet, and potentially the shower fixture, clawfoot bathtubs often come in pieces. Once the tub style and material is chosen, buyers can select the faucet and drain styles, and the style of feet, which are often modeled after animals' feet, and come in a variety of materials. Feet can be painted, unpainted, and come in several different metallic finishes, including brass, steel and brushed nickel.

Tips & Warnings

• Pay attention to the bathtub's size and where the plumbing attaches, as additional plumbing may be required.

References

• Clawfoot Bathtub Buyer's Guide
• Clawfoot Tub