How to Choose Freestanding Baths: Types and Materials

When it comes to choosing what type of freestanding tub is for you

A freestanding bath is the ultimate luxury item, an ornate and sophisticated place to soak your troubles away which just so happens to be a real style statement in your home. These types of baths are at the higher end of the scale with regards to expense, but if you have the cash and space then this will prove to be a very sound investment.

When it comes to choosing what type of freestanding tub is for you, there is much to consider with regards to size, style, cost and materials. Let’s take a look then at what options you have before you, to help you decide on that dreamy freestanding bathtub.

Styles of Bathtub

First, let’s get started with the various styles of the bathtub which you could choose from.

- Pedestal - A tub which sits on its own pedestal foundation.

- Clawfoot - Clawfoot tubs have four feet, which the tub elegantly sits on.

- Japanese Soaking Tub - These, small, freestanding tubs are deep and are to be sat in rather than lounged in, often featuring wooden seats on which to sit and soak.

- Slipper - A tub with either one sloping side, or two, offering the chance to comfortably recline.

- Roll Top - This tub has a simple design around the edge, curved outwards to give a rolling effect.

Materials to Choose From

Getting the right material is an important step as each option comes with its own longevity, cost, weight and style, all important factors in your new bathtub. Once you have settled on the style of the bath which you are interested in buying then you should select the material that is right for you, to help you decide, let’s break down some pros and cons of each.

- Acrylic - Most popular choice owing to their affordability and flexibility, a great all-round choice which is easy to install and care for. Cons are that it is a material which is more likely to crack over time.

- Cast Iron - Cast iron tubs look gorgeous, they are extremely durable and they retain heat better than most other options. This is an expensive material to buy and to install, and they are very heavy which means that you may have to reinforce the floor first.

- Stone Resin - Stone resin offers a durable and easy to clean material, which also retains heat well, although not to the level of cast iron. Tricky to install given additional weight, beyond that not many cons, the price of this material is mid-range.

Extra Options

Once you have settled on the style of bath and the material, there are some potential extras which you could consider. Many like to select a jetted tub for their bathroom, and there are a number of options here too. From whirlpool tubs with jets to an air tub which pumps out massaging bubbles, these are options which can enhance the bathing experience. It is usually best to select these extras before you install the tub, as they are easier to add now than later.

The key points for you to consider here are understanding what your budget is, how often the tub will be used, what kind of bathing experience you want, and how much space you have to play within the bathroom.