Concrete bathtubs can be an incredibly stylish and unique addition to any bathroom. With the right design and personal customizations, concrete tubs can provide a natural, earthy aesthetic that feels both rustic and modern. In this article, we’ll explore concrete bathtub ideas to create a natural look, along with tips for choosing and customizing your perfect concrete tub.
Why Choose a Concrete Bathtub?
Concrete bathtubs have grown in popularity in recent years for several reasons:
Natural, Organic Look
The raw, unfinished look of concrete has an earthy, organic feel that brings a subtle warmth to the bathroom. Concrete tubs come in soft hues like light grey or tan, evoking a sense of nature. The matte texture also avoids the cold gleam of porcelain or enameled metal.
Customizable Style
Concrete can be cast in virtually any shape and size, allowing for complete customization. Rectangular, oval, asymmetrical – your tub can match your exact style needs. Concrete also takes paints and stains well for added personalization.
Durability
Well-made concrete tubs are extremely durable and retain heat very well. The mixture is designed to be dense, hard, and withstand years of regular use. Fiber reinforcement adds strength. With proper sealing, concrete tubs do not easily chip, crack, or show signs of wear.
Affordability
Concrete is often more affordable than imported natural stone or luxury acrylic options. The raw concrete material itself is inexpensive and can be shaped on-site. This makes custom concrete baths very budget-friendly.
With the right approach, you can enjoy all the advantages of concrete bathtubs while still having a serene and spa-like bathing experience. Keep reading for plenty of ideas!
Natural Look Concrete Bathtub Ideas
Here are some key ways to get that organic, earthy look with concrete bathtubs:
1. Raw, Exposed Concrete Finish
Embrace the bare concrete surface for a muted, mineral-like appearance. This finish highlights the subtle variations in the concrete, from tiny air pockets to fine sand grains. Neutral light grey or tan concrete has an understated yet undeniably natural vibe.
2. Simulated Wood Texture
Concrete can be stamped or molded using wood planks to mimic the look of reclaimed barnwood. Warm, multi-toned wooden bathtubs suit rustic bathrooms beautifully but still feel sleek and modern.
3. Stone Aggregate Bathtub
Adding pebbles, stones, or glass aggregates to the concrete mix yields a sparkling, granular material reminiscent of a rocky stream bed when polished. The coarse texture makes for an eye-catching organic focal point.
4. Custom Earthy Hues
Integrally colored concrete in subdued, natural tones like beige, brown, or sand can reinforce the earthy aesthetic. Or apply concrete stains in layers for dimension, like a hint of green or slate blue.
5. Minimalist Styling
Keep the tub design simple and let the concrete be the feature. A sleek, oval or rectangular shape with no ornamentation placed in a neutral bathroom allows the concrete to shine.
6. Matte or Satin Finish
Glossy finishes contradict the muted organic look. A matte or lightly sanded satin finish adds subtle sheen while retaining the low-key, raw concrete appearance.
With a thoughtful design, concrete bathtubs can feel both elegantly modern andprisingly natural.
Customization Tips for Unique Concrete Bathtubs
Part of the beauty of concrete tubs is that they can be fully customized during casting to make them one-of-a-kind. Here are some creative ways to make your tub unique:
1. Incorporate Found Objects
Adding pebbles, sea glass, shells, or geodes to the wet concrete creates an eclectic, artsy look. Items can be pressed into the surface or partially exposed for a striking decorative effect.
2. Add Color
Tint the whole tub or just the interior using oxidized metals, pigments, reactive stains, or liquid colorants to get the exact hue desired. Blended, mottled colors have an especially organic feel.
3. Indentations and Grooves
Subtle hand-carved grooves give the impression of stone worn smooth by water. Or indent fun patterns like wavy lines or organic shapes using stamps before the concrete sets.
4. Contrasting Finishes
Consider a dual finish like a rough exposed exterior with a polished, pigmented interior. Glossy coatings on edges or select sections add detail.
5. Unexpected Shapes
Go for an asymmetrical, rippled design or add rounded ends for a soft, flowing form. The beauty of concrete is it can take nearly any imaginable shape.
6. Matching Accessories
For a cohesive look, create matching concrete sinks, shelves, tiles, or vanities. Consistent concrete elements tie the whole space together.
With the right prep work and finishing, it’s easy to end up with a completely one-of-a-kind concrete tub that suits your style perfectly.
Choosing the Perfect Concrete Bathtub
Ready to shop for your own concrete bathtub? Here are some important considerations as you evaluate options:
Size
Measure your space carefully to ensure an accurate fit. Oversize 60-70 inch rectangular tubs can create a spa feel, while smaller oval or round tubs may suit tighter bathrooms. Custom sizing is available too.
Material Quality
Opt for dense, reinforced concrete made with quality admixtures for durability and stain resistance. Thicker 3-4 inch walls hold heat better as well. High-end concrete mixes often include quartz or granite dust.
Color Tone
Look for neutral, earthy greys, taupes, and sand colors that complement most decors. Or choose white concrete for a clean, modern look. Just avoid bright whites that may appear clinical.
Finish
Matte, satin, or lightly polished finishes best match the organic vibe. Glossy finishes can contradict the muted, natural look. Consider surface treatments like waxing or lacquering if extra protection is needed.
Design Elements
Keep the tub sleek and simple, or add customized textural elements like inlays, aggregates, or grooves for a one-of-a-kind piece. Just avoid over-ornamentation.
Waterproofing
Proper sealing is a must to prevent leaks, stains, and damage over time. Multiple layers of penetrating or film-forming sealers lock out moisture.
Cost
Custom concrete tubs range widely in price from $2000 on the lower end to $5000+ for intricate designs from high-end artisans. Factor in added costs like coloring or waterproofing.
Doing your homework will ensure you get the ideal concrete tub to match your personal taste, bathroom decor, and budget.
FAQ About Concrete Bathtubs
Still have some questions about using concrete tubs? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Are concrete bathtubs durable?
Yes, concrete bathtubs can be extremely durable when made with high-compressive strength concrete reinforced with polymers and fibers. The dense material resists chipping and stands up well to daily use.
Do concrete tubs stain easily?
quality concrete mix is very stain-resistant. Additional sealers add even more protection. Stains can still occur over time, but a good cleaning usually removes them. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
How is heat retention in a concrete tub?
The thermal mass of concrete allows it to retain heat extremely well compared to other materials. You can expect the bath water to stay warmer longer.
Can concrete tubs be cleaned with typical bathroom cleaners?
Harsh cleaners should be avoided, but mild all-purpose bathroom cleaners are fine. Avoid anything acidic or abrasive. Proper sealing protects the concrete from damage.
How can I get a custom concrete bathtub made?
Many specialty concrete contractors offer custom tubs, as well as online retailers. Provide any specific dimensions, colors, textures, or designs wanted to the manufacturer. Expect 6-12 weeks for completion.
Do concrete tubs need to be sealed?
Multiple layers of penetrating and topical sealing products are highly recommended. Sealers prevent moisture intrusion, stains, etching, and general wear. Reseal every 1-2 years.
Are concrete bathtubs comfortable?
Properly installed and finished concrete tubs are very comfortable! The material retains heat nicely and forms to your body like stone. Add a textured bottom for extra slip resistance.
Can you put concrete bathtubs outside?
Outdoor installation is possible in mild climates if properly waterproofed and sealed. Freeze-thaw cycles in colder regions would likely damage an unprotected concrete tub over time.
Get Inspired By These Concrete Bathtub Design Ideas
Looking for some visual inspiration for your own new concrete tub? Here are some gorgeous examples of creative, natural concrete bathtub designs:
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Photo Credits: [List sources for each photo used]
As you can see, the possibilities are nearly endless when you use concrete! With the right thoughtful design, concrete bathtubs can become a beautiful and eco-friendly focal point in any bathroom space.
Contact Custom Concrete Contractors to Bring Your Dream Tub to Life
Are you ready to add a one-of-a-kind concrete bathtub to your home? Reach out to experienced concrete artisans in your area for help designing and casting your ideal tub.
Be sure to determine all the details like:
- Exact tub dimensions needed
- Preferred concrete color and finish
- Any custom design features
- Timeframe for completion
- Installation requirements
- Total project budget
With some upfront planning and clear communication, your contractor will be able to provide you with a durable, stylish concrete bathtub that matches your vision perfectly. The organic, earthy look of concrete brings unique personality that makes bathing a truly relaxing, spa-like escape.
Invest in a custom concrete tub today to enhance your bathroom with a beautiful enduring focal point for years to come. Your body and mind will thank you!