Advantages of Acrylic Bathtubs
Taking a bath is definitely a great way to relax. You can get so much pleasure and satisfaction soaking in warm water after a stressful day leaving all your worries behind and recharging your batteries. But choosing a bathtub can be really challenging. Different tubs offer absolutely different bath experience. That’s why, you should analyze your needs carefully to be able to get the ideal tub. Due to the fact that bathtubs are not very easy to replace, you should find as much information as possible about the bathtub you are planning to buy in order to be absolutely happy with your final choice.
In fact, a bathtub can be made of many different materials including porcelain enameled steel, acrylic, cast iron as well as fiberglass and cultured marble. Some bathtubs come with an affordable price tag, while others are extremely expensive.No doubt, your choice will depend on your personal preferences, budget and the atmosphere you want to create within your bathroom space. You will definitely agree that a tub is a focal point of any bathroom and has a huge impact on the way the bathroom looks and feels.
An acrylic bathtub is one of the most favorite options available on the market today. There are different types of acrylic tubs you can choose for your bathroom renovation project. An acrylic freestanding bath is a symbol of luxury and style. It can definitely add a unique touch to your bathroom breathing a new life into it. An acrylic alcove bathtub is another popular choice. It offers a wide range of benefits as well. These tubs are made of acrylic sheets that are vacuum-formed and reinforced with fiberglass. Acrylic bathtubs have gained huge popularity among homeowners. Let’s dig deeper to find out what makes these tubs really worth buying. Plus, you will find out what things to consider in order to choose the best acrylic tub for your bathroom interior.
Acrylic Bathtubs are Affordable
Affordability is one of the main reasons why so many homeowners opt for acrylic tubs. An acrylic tub is an excellent combination of price-quality. If your budget is tight, but you still want to remodel your bathroom, buying an acrylic bathtub is exactly what you need. The average price for an acrylic bathtub is about $500-$1000. In fact, bathtubs made strictly only of fiberglass are cheaper, but they are less durable. Fiberglass is a brittle material. It is also porous in nature. That’s the main reason why fiberglass-only tubs absorb water on a regular basis and are prone to cracks. A fiberglass tub can even crack if you accidently drop a bottle of shampoo. Moreover, a fiberglass tub has poor heat retention. So, you will not be able to enjoy your bath time to the fullest just because the water cools down too quickly in this tub. Fiberglass-only bathtubs are just a short-term solution. Sooner or later, you will have to replace this tub.
Acrylic material is a bit more expensive than fiberglass, but it is definitely stronger and can preserve a high-quality look for many years to come. If maintained properly, your acrylic bathtub will always look spotlessly clean and shiny. No doubt, an acrylic bathtub is a good investment. Besides being an affordable option, an acrylic tub has some other advantages that make this bathtub the most common choice for modern homes.
Acrylic Bathtubs are Resistant to Cracking
Crack resistance that reinforced acrylic baths have is an important advantage really worth mentioning. Acrylic bathtubs are highly durable. Plus, they will not develop cracks. It is extremely important just because a crack in your tub may result in a leak that can cause a lot of other unpleasant problems. Deep cracks can hardly be repaired. If these cracks appear, you will most likely have to replace the tub. But with quality acrylic baths you can be sure that you will not have to do that for the nearest 15 years.
Acrylic is a non-porous material that doesn’t absorb water. As a result, your acrylic bathtub with not crack or warp like a fiberglass-only tub. With standard cleaning and maintenance, an acrylic bathtub will look perfect and last for a long period of time. An acrylic bathtub is a great addition to any bathroom. The best acrylic tub will bring a sense of coziness and style turning your bathroom into a luxurious oasis. Installing a freestanding acrylic bath is one of the most effective ways to refresh your bathroom and make it really stand out.
Acrylic Bathtubs are Easy to Repair
It’s worth mentioning that improper maintenance may lead to scratches or even cracks appear on the surface of your acrylic bathtub. There is no need to worry if such a problem occurs. The acrylic bathtub repair is usually simple and not expensive. You will not have to spend too much time and effort to help your tub regain its previous beauty. Some homeowners try to repair the tubs without professional help. But in some cases, it might be not a very good idea.
You can hire a specialist who can do this job for you quickly and effectively. When you deal with a professional, you can be sure that your bathtub will look beautiful and shiny again. All cracks and scratches will be removed within a short period of time. The professional will clean the tub thoroughly before making any repairs. It is an extremely important step that should not be missed. A damp sponge and a dishwashing liquid are used for this purpose. Using any abrasive cleaning cloth or chemicals is not recommended. The cleaning pads and chemicals should be gentle enough. Otherwise, even more damage can be done to your acrylic bathtub. Keep in mind that it’s better to replace a severely damaged bathtub rather than repair it. In fact, repairing this tub can be extremely expensive and in most cases doesn’t make much sense.
After cleaning the tub, the specialist will fix scratches by using fine-grit sandpaper. Then, it is necessary to wipe the area with a damp sponge. Once it has been completed, the professional will apply a polishing compound. The damaged area will be polished and buffed with a clean, soft cloth. Do not forget to rinse your acrylic tub with warm water and enjoy the results. Keep in mind that minor scratches can be quickly and easily removed by non-abrasive toothpaste.
Even if your tub becomes dull and gets worn out over time, there is still a chance to breathe new life into it. You may wonder whether an acrylic bathtub can be painted or resurfaced. In fact, your tub can be refinished in case it is not severely damaged. This procedure will refresh your bathtub making it look attractive again.
Re-glazing is a great option for people who do not want to replace the tub. During this process surface imperfections are easily removed and your tub gets a perfect look once again. The procedure is very quick and usually takes a day to complete. Once the procedure is over, you can enjoy your renewed bathtub.
Remember that re-glazing your acrylic tub professionally will cost you about $200-$650.
Acrylic Bathtubs are Lightweight
The bathtub weight is a significant parameter you should consider before making the final choice. If you are planning to buy a heavy bathtub, it’s critical to make sure that your bathroom floor can withstand the weight of a tub. If the floor is not strong enough, you should reinforce it. Otherwise, unpleasant problems may occur.
In comparison with the other tubs, acrylic bathtubs are really lightweight. Thus, cast iron tubs are very heavy and weigh 300 pounds on average. Acrylic tubs weigh only 75 pounds. That’s why these tubs can be easily transported and installed without extra floor support. In some cases, cast iron tubs can’t be installed in upper-story bathrooms due to their huge weight. So, the vast majority of homeowners choose to buy acrylic tubs to avoid any installation problems. If you choose to install an acrylic bathtub, you can be sure that your bathroom floor can support it and no unexpected situations are likely to happen.
The weight of a cast iron tub is probably the most serious disadvantage that makes people refuse from installing it. Moving this tub is extremely difficult. It usually requires several people. And if some plumbing issues occur in the future and the cast iron tub has to be removed, the repair will be more difficult as well. However, a cast iron tub is one of the strongest and most durable tubs you can find on the market today. It is designed to last a lifetime without causing any problems. But the weight of a cast iron tub is definitely an issue.
Obviously, an acrylic bathtub is a better option if the tub weight really matters to you.
Acrylic Bathtubs are Highly Durable
No doubt, cast iron tubs are incredibly strong and durable. But they cannot be installed in every bathroom due to its heavy weight. If you are looking for a lightweight option to incorporate into your bathroom space, installing an acrylic tub is definitely the way to go. Acrylic bathtubs are known for their durability and strength. They can last for many years especially if they are reinforced with fiberglass. Reinforced acrylic baths are really worth considering. Their gorgeous look and durability make them one of the best options for modern bathrooms. Acrylic tubs can add a touch of elegance and style turning your bathroom into a peaceful oasis ideal for rest and relaxation.
Due to its incredible durability, an acrylic tub will last about 15 years until it gets significantly scratched and faded. However, with proper maintenance, this tub may last even longer. You just need to clean the tub on a regular basis. Do not forget to use mild cleaning agents to avoid damaging the surface of the tub.
It’s well-known that cast iron tubs are the most durable and can last for decades. But even this advantage doesn’t make cast iron bathtubs a perfect choice for every home.
A cast iron tub usually comes with a heavy price tag. These tubs are two or even four times more expensive than acrylic tubs. The installation is more expensive as well.
If you are on a budget, this is definitely not the best option for you. Plus, the cast iron tubs can rust if the enamel is chipped or cracked. So, when you choose to install an acrylic tub, you get a high-quality product at a reasonable price.
Acrylic Bathtubs Retain Heat
When it comes to choosing a bathtub, heat retention properties are another important factor to consider. As it has been already mentioned, an acrylic tub has a smooth non-porous surface.
This surface can keep water hot for a longer period of time in comparison with some other bathtub surfaces.
That means that an acrylic bathtub will provide you with a splendid opportunity to soak in hot water for as long as possible. It’s worth mentioning that acrylic tub stays warm to the touch even if there is no hot water in it. So, quality acrylic baths are the best choice for the most satisfying and unforgettable experience.
Acrylic Bathtubs Come in a Variety of Shapes, Sizes and Colors
Acrylic is known to be a malleable material. That’s why, acrylic bathtubs come in a wide variety of shapes, colors, sizes and styles. You will definitely find the tub that fits your bathroom style and even exceeds your expectations. With the best acrylic tub you can create a truly luxurious bathroom space that inspires and adds value to your home.
If you would like to add some elegance to your bathroom, buying an acrylic freestanding tub is the right thing to do. In fact, freestanding tubs have a lot of advantages you can enjoy. This tub can be put almost anywhere. If there is enough space in your bathroom, you can even put the tub in the middle of the room. In fact, there is a freestanding acrylic bath for almost any bathroom. If you have limited space, you can opt for a small acrylic bathtub that will incorporate easily into your bathroom design bringing a sense of harmony and style. A freestanding tub will also create the illusion of more space making your bathroom look fantastic indeed.
If your bathroom is large, you can choose an acrylic corner tub. This tub will give you a sense of pleasure and satisfaction. The corner tub is not just about bathing. It is about relaxing and enjoying the hot water after a hard working day. No doubt, a large acrylic bathtub will add even more luxury turning your bathroom into a masterpiece. However, you should remember that this tub usually takes more time to fill up. Plus, more water is required for the bathroom of this size.
There is another type of acrylic tubs that is really worth considering – alcove bathtub. An acrylic alcove bathtub has a space-saving design. It is the ideal option for smaller bathrooms. With this tub, your bathroom will be not just beautiful, but functional as well. It’s worth mentioning that the term alcove refers to the installation and not the size or shape of the tub. This tub is surrounded by walls on three sides and is usually installed into a recess of your bathroom. The three sides of the bathtub are unfinished, while the fourth side is finished with a tub apron. Alcove tubs are highly efficient and provide homeowners with comfortable bathing experience. Alcove tubs are extremely popular and can often be seen in modern homes.
If you are still not sure which type of acrylic bathtub to choose, think about drop-in tubs. This bathtub doesn’t have to be placed against the wall. It can be put anywhere in your bathroom. A drop-in bathtub is a tub placed inside a frame, the outer structure of which can be finished with tile, stone or other material you prefer. As a result, the plumbing and all sides of the tub are hidden. A drop-in tub provides a deeper water level. So, it is perfect for people who really like soaking in hot water for a long period of time. An acrylic drop-in tub will turn your bathroom into a stylish escape significantly increasing the resale value of your home.
When it comes to the sizes of acrylic tubs, they differ as well. The average size of alcove and drop-in tubs is 60 inches in length, 32 inches wide and 18 inches tall. Oval freestanding tubs are usually 60 inches long, 41 inches wide and 24 inches tall. The average size of a luxurious corner bathtub is 60 inches in length, 60 inches in width and a height of 22 inches.
Due to the fact that acrylic tubs are highly versatile, they can be offered in a wide variety of colors. Along with traditional white tubs, you can also prefer, cream, biscuit, black, red, dark blue, green, grey, light blue, purple or even yellow acrylic bathtubs. So, you will definitely find the tub that will complement the whole design of your bathroom making it look stunning indeed.
Acrylic Bathtubs are Easy to Clean
The vast majority of homeowners prefer acrylic tubs not just because they are very beautiful and comfortable. These tubs are very often selected because they are easy to clean and maintain. In comparison with the other bathtubs, an acrylic tub is the easiest tub to clean. Due to a non-porous, smooth surface, this tub is stain-resistant.
With proper cleaning, your acrylic tub can last for many years. Keep in mind that you should use gentle, non-abrasive cleaning agents only. Otherwise, scratches will appear on the surface of your tub.
In order to clean an acrylic bathtub gently, some homeowners prefer to use natural products such as baking soda, lemon and vinegar. These household products effectively remove grease, soap scum and hard water stains making your tub spotlessly clean and sparkling.
When your acrylic tub gets dirty, you can fill it with hot water and add 2 cups of vinegar. The vinegar will loosen the dirt within 15 minutes causing no damage to your tub.
Cleansing your acrylic tub with baking soda is another effective way to get rid of dirt and make the tub look beautiful and shiny again. Baking soda removes soap scum, mold and mildew. You can also use borax instead of baking soda to achieve even better results. Remember that you shouldn’t use any rough sponges to scrub the surface of the acrylic tub.
Use a soft cloth or sponge instead. Fresh lemon juice can easily help you remove hard-water deposits from the surface of the acrylic tub. Do not forget to rinse the tub after cleaning it.
If you are just planning to buy an acrylic bathtub for your home, there are some important things to consider before making a decision.
What to Know Before Buying an Acrylic Bathtub
No doubt, a bathtub is a centerpiece in every bathroom. That’s why it has to look fabulous. It is extremely important to choose the tub that matches the overall design of the room and your personal style.
The shape of your bathroom is one of the most important factors to consider. You should select the shape that will suit the needs of all family members. The size of the tub is crucial as well. It should match the proportions of the bathroom to make the room nice and cozy.
If you are going to spend a lot of time in the bathtub, make sure that the tub you choose fits your body. You should also consider the depth of the tub if you are planning to bathe small children in it.
We wrote an additional post about the steps in purchasing an acrylic bathtub, check it out here!
For people who seek quality, durability and affordability, buying an acrylic bathtub is definitely the right choice. This tub will add elegance, luxury and style to your bathroom providing you with the highest levels of comfort and relaxation.
We wrote an additional post about how to choose
Read more about the key advantages of acrylic bathtubs below:
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Acrylic Bathtubs
What are the Pros and Cons of Using an Acrylic Bathtub?
Acrylic Bathtubs Pros And Cons: What Homeowners Need To Know
