There is nothing like a nice hot soak after a long day. When you are remodeling your bathroom, there are many choices that you have when it comes to the bathtub material that you choose. You need to look at the pros and cons of each choice, along with determining how the rest of the bathroom will look before you pick a material.What are some of the materials that are available for bathtubs? Read here to find out.
Fiberglass
A fiberglass choice of material for bathtubs is easy to install, inexpensive, and relatively easy to clean and maintain. While this is true, there are fewer color options available with this choice of material. Additionally, it is not as durable as other materials and can end up cracking and reducing the finish. Fiberglass consists of many layers of surface coat, fiberglass reinforcement, and polyester resin.
Cast Iron
Cast iron is one of the most durable materials on the market. The material is molded iron coated with enamel. Because it is molded iron, it is heavy. If you choose this material for your bathtub, you need to make sure that your desired location can handle the weight either the way it is, or it can be modified to handle the weight. Cast iron retains heat very well, the enamel coating is resistant to chipping, and the look for this tub is timeless.
Cultured Marble
Cultured marble material retains heat, and comes in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. Like cast iron though, it is a heavier material. So again, you need to make sure that the space can handle the weight. Even though it may get surface scratches, these can be buffed out with the right tools. Cultured marble is made from limestone and resin that is covered with gel coating. Along with making sure the tub can fit into the space, if it is heavier you want to know where you want to put it before you place it in the room. It can difficult to have to move it several times because it doesn’t look right.
Acrylic
The acrylic option for your bathtub is a popular option. The material is lightweight, durable, and affordable. When cleaning this material, you should use care with abrasive cleaners because they can scratch the surface. Acrylic tubs are comprised of sheets of material that are molded into a bathtub shape and reinforced with fiberglass. Like cultured marble, acrylic tubs can come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. So, it is best to determine the functionality and décor of your bathroom when considering the color and size choice for your bathtub.
