What is the Best Bathtub to Buy?

Is it time to replace a bathtub in your home? If you're like many homeowners, you've probably been using the tub that was in your bathroom when you bought your house, and there's a good chance it doesn't really suit your preferences. A tub replacement is a terrific opportunity for you to buy the best bathtub that meets your needs and fits your budget. But the best bathtub for some homeowners may not be the best one for you. For example, are you looking to replace a standard tub in your guest bathroom with a new one of the same style and construction material? Would you prefer a more luxurious bathing experience for your master bathroom, with a deep tub that allows for full immersion? Or perhaps someone in your home is having difficulty getting in and out of your standard tub due to mobility issues - in that case, a walk-in tub may be the ideal investment for you.

Types of Bathtubs to Consider

One of the first decisions you'll need to make is what type of bathtub you want. Here are some of the options:

Standard Tub

This is the most common type of bathtub, and it's likely to be your most affordable option. Most models are about 5 feet long and more than 2 feet deep. If luxurious bathing isn't a priority for you, this type of bathtub may be the best one to buy.

Soaking Tub

This type of tub has become quite popular in recent years. Unlike a standard tub, it's deep enough to allow you to fully immerse yourself in warm water, thus enjoying a long, relaxing experience while you bathe.

Spa-Like Tub

A whirlpool or air-jet tub is equipped with strategically placed jets that shoot out water or air, providing a massage-like experience that can provide the ultimate in relaxation as well as soothe aching muscles and joints.

Walk-In Tub

If you'd like to provide a safer bathing experience for an aging loved one, you'll definitely want to consider buying a walk-in tub. The primary allure of this type of tub is the watertight door that allows a bather to enter and exit without climbing over the high edge of a standard tub. Your new walk-in tub may also come with additional safety features, including grab bars, an easy-to-use shower wand, and a heated seat.

Of course, there are variations on all of these types of bathtubs. For example, standard tubs are the most common models to find in a tub-and-shower combination, but in some cases, you may be able to have a shower combined with a whirlpool tub. What's more, you can have a soaking or walk-in tub that comes with hydrotherapeutic jets.

What's the Best Tub Construction Material?

This is another question that has no set answer. Although fiberglass tubs are among the least expensive options, some people prefer the durability and low-maintenance aspects of acrylic. This material resists cracking and staining, and it can be treated with antimicrobial technology so that it wards off bacteria and mildew, thus reducing the need to use harsh chemicals to keep your tub clean.

No matter what type of bathtub is best for your home, you'll want to make sure it's installed by highly trained professionals that you can count on to adhere to the manufacturer's installation guidelines.

If you live in the Austin, San Antonio, or Dallas-Fort Worth areas of Texas, the experts at Expo Home Improvement will be happy to discuss your upcoming bathtub replacement project and help you choose the best tub to meet your needs. Contact us today to get started.