That old freestanding clawfoot tub in your grandmother’s home was gigantic. An entire adult body could easily submerge in it, and it could accommodate you, your cousin, and your sibling at the same time when you were kids. Freestanding tubs have a certain romantic feel to them because so many people have these memories of using them. However, it’s difficult to clean the floor around them, water gets out on all sides, and they don’t come with the seamless design of a built-in tub. It’s true that a modern, built-in tub will keep the water hot for longer, but they are not quite as pleasing to the eye. If you are having trouble choosing between the two, we have assembled some pros and cons for each option to help you choose between a freestanding or built in bath tub.
Freestanding or Built In Bath Tub Location
A built-in bath tub is going to be in a corner of the bathroom surrounded by three walls, one of which is often just a divider that is not a wall to a separate room. A freestanding tub can be placed anywhere, but if you choose to trade your old tub that was tucked away in the corner for a freestanding tub on t
he opposite side of the bathroom, you will have to route the plumbing to the new location. Even with the option to place it anywhere, most people install freestanding tubs where the plumbing is already available.
Freestanding or Built In Bath Tub Options
Both types of tub come in a wide variety of colors and options. Free standing tubs don’t always have claws wrapped around balls touching the floor. Many modern designs sit flush on the floor or on a pedestal.
If you take many more showers than baths, you will probably want to stick with a built-in tub design to avoid installing a round curtain rod above a freestanding tub, and being surrounded by wet shower curtains. A built-in tub does a much better job of keeping shower water inside the tub. In addition, it allows you the option of installing a sliding glass door and skipping the shower curtain altogether. Plus the ledges around the tub allow easier access to your shower products, and you get to design your tile tub surround.
If you have a large enough bathroo
m, prefer showers, but have your heart set on a freestanding tub, installing a step in shower as well as the tub solves this dilemma. Most people who choose a freestanding tub do so because of the gorgeous appearance. For any vintage bathroom design, a freestanding tub is a must. They are available made from a variety of materials from iron to copper.
Size
Your own size will dictate the dimensions of your tub. Just be sure that it is big enough to accommodate your height by testing it out in a showroom. Climb in, get comfortable and see where the overflow drain is relative to your body to judge the depth of the water when the tub is filled. If you are considering ordering your tub online, take measurements of your existing tub to get an idea of what dimensions you would like for the new tub. You will also need to factor the weight of the tub, water, and body on your bathroom floor. If you are remodeling an old home, have the floor inspected prior to choosing your tub.
Need to know more about freestanding or built-in bath tubs? Call or email Flooring Masters & Professional Remodelers today for a free consultation. We know you only want the best in flooring. That’s why it’s important to hire the best in the business, and at Flooring Masters & Professional Remodelers, we can guarantee you that’s us.
Flooring Masters & Professional Remodelers have been flooring and remodeling Kentuckiana for over 30 years. Our certified installers have the ingenuity and know-how to assist you in choosing the perfect floors for your home. Don’t take matters into your own hands—let us guide your next project.
