Creating a Luxury Bath

Everything you need to consider when buying a freestanding bathtub

Freestanding tubs are extremely popular right now for their beautiful design and luxurious feel. If you’re thinking about getting a freestanding tub for your home, there are a lot of things you should consider. First, think about your budget, and be realistic. These tubs can cost anywhere from a few hundred to 5,000 dollars. You should also see the tub in person before you buy it. A good picture doesn’t ensure a sturdy, durable, smooth tub. Here are some other things to consider when you’re finding the perfect freestanding tub.

1. Determine the Size

It’s important to know what space you have to work with. Tubs come from 52” to 72”. Freestanding tubs usually look the best when placed at least 4” from all walls. Be sure to measure an area for any plumbing you need to add. You should also think about the weight of the tub. You’ll need to plan for how you’ll get a 250-500 lbs. tub to your bathroom, especially if it’s upstairs. Also measure any doorways or stairwells the tub may need to go through. A lighter, easier option is Dadi, a tub manufacturer that makes designer tubs at builder price. These tubs are made from the same acrylic that Kohler uses, but with added support of a thick layer of MDF (a dense fiberwood) on the bottom. These tubs are sturdy, yet light and easy to maneuver. They also come pre-leveled and have an integrated P trap, so it is very unlikely that they leak.

2. Material

Freestanding tubs are made from many different materials, each with pros and cons. Acrylic tubs are the lightest tubs available and can be repaired. Cast-iron tubs are some of the heaviest and are cold to the touch. Read more about each different material to see what options are available.

Cast-iron – This material is one of the heaviest options, but it’s also the most classic. Cast-iron can be molded into many shapes, so there are lots of unique designs to choose from and colors as well. It retains heat for a long time and is the quietest when filling up with water.

Lithocast – This type of acrylic by KOHLER has the look of stone, but is warm and smooth to the touch. It’s lighter than cast-iron and very easy to maintain.

Acrylic – These tubs are on the less expensive side of things and weigh the least. They might not be as durable as other options, but they allow for a beautiful design on a budget. Acrylic also feels smooth to the touch and retains heat well.

Sculpture-stone – This unique option is created by MTI from 60% stone mixed with resin. This mixture created a solid, molded stone that has no pores. These tubs are mold, stain, and mildew resistant with a beautiful design.

Barclay – If you want a really inexpensive option, check out this material. Barclay is made of acrylic and resin making the tub light and inexpensive.

Copper – Because of the metallic properties of these tubs, they heat up fast and retain heat very well. While one of the more expensive options, the copper look complements many styles and is very long-lasting.

3. Style

When it comes to the style of your tub, it really all comes down to your vision. Do you want a vintage dream? Or a modern hideaway? Be sure to picture how you want your room to look and choose a tub that matches the style of the rest of your plumbing fixtures. You also have to consider your space. How much room do you want around the tub? Typically freestanding tubs are meant to open up a room and stand out with lots of space around them. If this isn’t what you want, find a tub that works next to a wall. Tub placement is also largely dependent on where your drain is. If your drain is too close to a wall, talk to a plumber to see what possibilities you have. Drain position should also be taken into account when looking at different types of tubs. Some tubs have drains on the side, while others have a drain in the center.

4. Tub Filler

All freestanding tubs will require a filler. These range in price from $100 to $3,000. The higher end option is a Roman tub filler. These fillers are the fastest way to fill a tub and require plumbing through the floor. Talk with a plumber to determine if cutting through the floor is a possibility in your home. If you need to save space or money, consider a wall-mount or deck-mount faucet. These options are available with certain styles of tub and can be half the price of a Roman tub filler. Consider your budget and the plumbing options in your bathroom to determine what type of filler you should choose.

5. Come See Us

Designing a bathroom with a freestanding tub can be difficult with everything to consider. We recommend buying a tub locally in case you run into any problems. It’s hard to really see the size and quality of a tub online. Cheaper tubs will often creak when you sit in them, the threads in the pipes won’t line up, and it won’t last as long as it should. Find your dream tub locally so that you can have the quality and care assured. Come to our showroom today to find the perfect tub for you!