Bathtub Buying Guide

 

TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Installation Location

Depending on the layout of your bathroom you may only have one logical location to install a tub. It might need to be a specific size (standard length is 60”), or a specific shape to fit your needs. 

The location might also dictate the maximum weight of the bathtub. Some materials are heavier, and larger tubs hold more water. It may be necessary to check whether or not the floor needs to be reinforced to accommodate the additional weight. 

If you are unsure how much weight your floor can handle check with a structural engineer. 

Bath Volume

The volume of water is another important consideration. The size of the tub may be dependent on who is going to be using the bathtub and how regularly. Will you need space for a single person or two people? 

The volume of the bath also determines how much water needs to be heated. The typical breakdown of bath water is 1 part cold water, 2 parts warm water. You will need to determine what type of water heating system you have, and what its capacity is. The capacity of your water heating system should be large enough to comfortably heat 2/3 of the water in any bathtub you are considering. 

Style of Bath

The style of bath you choose will largely come down to budget and personal preference. The types of bathtubs in our catalog include:

• Walk-In: Safe entry and exit with grab bar, inward facing door, and an ADA-compliant seating.
• Freestanding: These elegant baths are not meant to be put in the corner. 
• Whirlpool: Whirlpool tubs (also frequently referred to as Jacuzzi tubs) have a combination of air and/or water jets to massage sore and aching muscles. 

Drain Location

In the situation where moving a drain would become costly, or simply not possible, it may become important to consider the location of the drain in your new bathtub and make sure that it will work with your current setup. 

Doorways

Bathtubs typically come as a whole unit. Take a minute to measure your front door (or whatever door the bathtub will be entering through) and any doorways between the entrance and your bathroom. Make sure the bathtub can make it through the front door, through the hallways, around any corners, and into the bathroom where it will be enjoyed for many years.