A bathtub is not something you use for a short while and then dispose of.
You need its services for a couple of years. It is, therefore, essential to know what you are buying from the beginning to avoid disappointments in the future.
Fortunately, bathtubs get made using various materials. You get to choose what tub you want based on your budget and preference.
Also, it would help if you considered the fact that the materials used in making a bathtub affects its look, price, heat retention, and pain.
To help you make the right decision when buying a tub, different materials used in making bathtubs will get discussed in this article.
Materials Used for Making Bathtubs
First, the materials used in the bathtub making are many. You may be surprised at the options available for you to choose from. Factors like maintenance, comfort, cost, and looks may determine the bathtub you want.
The following are the most common materials used in making bathtubs. You can find different types of bathtubs on MyHomeZenSpa.
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Fiberglass
It also gets referred to as the fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) and is the least expensive material for making bathtubs. If you are searching for a cheap tub, one made with fiberglass will suit your budget.
Layers of fiberglass get formed into the desired bathtub shape and then coated with Gelcoat resin. You may ask why you need to go for this bathtub option. Fiberglass bathtubs come as lightweight, at a low price, a repairable finish, and is easy to install.
Unfortunately, they come with their setbacks. These bathtubs do not last long and don’t feel stable. Also, you don’t get to enjoy their services for long because they aren’t durable. You may also not like finishing. It is prone to cracking, fading, and scratching.
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Porcelain on Steel
Another name for this material is enameled steel. Like fiberglass, it is prevalent and comes at a low price. The bathtub gets made from the steel’s thin sheet, and porcelain enamel gets used in its making.
You will love the fact that these bathtubs made from porcelain on steel serve you for many years. Also, they clean easily, thanks to its ability to retain its gloss.
Besides, its finish resists the most common chemicals. Do you have an acrylic or fiberglass bathroom that you need to replace? Then it would be best if you went for a bathtub made with porcelain on steel.
Are you wondering why? Because it fits perfectly in the same opening of 5-foot. Besides, you can finish it nicely by surrounding it with ceramic tiles.
Despite its many benefits, it also has its negative side. When under the impact, this bathtub’s surface chips off easily and can rust. It also comes as heavyweight, and the sizes and designs of these bathtubs are limited.
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Acrylic
In acrylic bathtubs, fiberglass sheets get used for reinforcement below the colored acrylic sheets that get vacuum-formed.
The benefits associated with the acrylic bathtubs are similar to those of the fiberglass tubs. The only difference is that the acrylic tubs cost more.
Unfortunately, the finish discolors over time and can get scratched easily. But thanks to the advent of technology, we have better finishes that have reduced this problem to almost zero.
Besides, you get spoiled with choices as acrylic bathtubs come in different colors, shapes, and sizes. Acrylic bathtubs have no issues except that some people may not like their appeal.
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Cast Iron
Are you looking for a long-lasting bathtub? Then it would help if you went for a tub made with cast iron. In making the cast iron tubs, molten iron gets poured into a preferred shape mold. It then gets smoothened and thickly coated with enamel. You will love this tub.
Are you eager to know why? Because it is durable, and its finish resists most chemicals, denting, chipping, and scratching.
You get to choose from different colors, and the cast iron’s richness is hard to match with any other bathtub material. When you pour hot water into this tub, it remains hot or warm for long. Thanks to the cast iron bathtub’s ability to retain heat.
The only shortcoming associated with these tubs is the fact that they are cumbersome. As a result, it becomes cumbersome to move and install them. You need to add an extra floor reinforcement. Also, you may need to dig deeper into your pockets to buy one of these tubs.
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Solid-Surface Materials
The solid-surface materials are not old on the bathtub market, but contains a bunch of benefits. You need not worry about their durability, as they get to serve you for many years.
You will also love the different colors that come with these tubs, and you need not worry about your water getting cold quickly as they are good retainers of heat.
In case the finish gets damaged, it can get repaired. You also get to choose from the various sizes and shapes that come with these tubs.
Unfortunately, it’s not easy to find them and comes with a hefty budget. They are also heavy and requires a lot of labor to carry and install them.
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Cultured Marble
Limestone gets crushed and mixed with resin to make the cultured marble bathtubs. Gelcoat then gets used for their finishing.
With these bathrooms, you get to choose from various styles, sizes, and colors. A cultured marble bathtub finished with Gelcoat is long-lasting compared to that finished with fiberglass. Also, you need to prepare the right amount of money to get this bathtub.
Conclusion
As illustrated above, bathtubs get made using various materials. Depending on your budget, taste, and size, you get to choose the tub you want. But it would be best if you considered some aspects before buying one as described above.
If you want a durable bathtub, the cast iron tub will work out great. Also, consider your bathroom’s décor and color before buying a tub made from any material.
It should blend well with your bathroom’s décor. You may need to consider getting a bathtub made with materials that retain heat like the solid surface materials.
