Common Materials Used in Bathtubs

Bathtubs are an essential part of any bathroom. The materials used to construct bathtubs have evolved over the years, with new materials offering improved durability, aesthetics, and functionality. When selecting a new bathtub, it’s important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of the most common tub materials available today. This guide will examine the key materials used in modern bathtub manufacturing.

Porcelain Enameled Steel

Porcelain enameled steel is one of the most common materials used for bathtubs today. It consists of a sturdy steel core coated with a smooth, glass-like enamel layer. The porcelain enamel finish is applied at high temperatures, bonding permanently to the steel surface underneath.

Pros

Durability – Porcelain enameled steel tubs are highly durable and long-lasting. The glass-like enamel is scratch-resistant and maintains its shiny new look for years.
Easy to clean – The porcelain enamel surface repels water and is seamless, making it very easy to clean and disinfect.
Affordability – Porcelain enameled steel bats are one of the most affordable options on the market.
Design flexibility – The enamel coating can be formulated in any color with various gloss levels from matte to high-gloss. This allows for great design flexibility.

Cons

Prone to chipping – The enamel surface can chip if struck with a heavy or sharp object. These chips can expose the steel underneath.
Noise – Porcelain enamel tubs can be noisy as sounds reverberate off the hard surface.
Heat retention – The material does not retain heat well, so bath water will cool faster than with other materials like acrylic.

Overall, porcelain enameled steel offers great durability and easy maintenance at an affordable price point. Just take care to avoid hitting or dropping heavy objects on the tub.

Acrylic

Acrylic is a versatile plastic material that has gained popularity in bathtub manufacturing. Acrylic sheets are thermoformed to create one-piece tubs with seamless designs.

Pros

Warm to the touch – Acrylic tubs retain heat well for a comfortably warm bath. The material feels warm, unlike cold porcelain enamel.
Design flexibility – Acrylic can be molded into a wide range of shapes, colors, and sizes. From curved to geometric shapes, design options are plentiful.
Durability – Modern acrylic formulas are durable and scratch-resistant. The non-porous surface resists staining too.
Easy cleaning – Acrylic wipes clean easily without harsh chemicals.

Cons

Higher cost – Acrylic tubs are generally more expensive than basic porcelain enameled steel.
Challenging repairs – Minor scratches can be buffed out, but acrylic is difficult to patch and repair.
Not recyclable – Acrylic is a plastic material that cannot be recycled like porcelain enameled steel.

For its stylish look and warmth, acrylic is a great choice despite the higher initial investment. Take care to prevent deep scratches.

Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic

Fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) is a composite of plastic resin reinforced with tiny glass fibers. FRP bathtubs are created by molding the thick, paste-like FRP material over a mold.

Pros

Durable & strong – The glass fiber reinforcement results in a very rigid, durable tub. FRP withstands cracking and impact better than other materials.
Lightweight – Weighing less than acrylic and cast iron, FRP tubs are easier to maneuver and install.
Affordable – FRP is an affordable alternative to higher-end acrylic.
Low maintenance – The smooth surface resists staining and wipes clean easily. Minimal maintenance is required.

Cons

Limited designs – Offered in basic shapes and typically white color only. Does not provide the same design flexibility as acrylic.
Porous surface – The surface is not as glossy as acrylic and tiny pores in the material can accumulate dirt and grime if not cleaned.
Not recyclable – FRP cannot be recycled like some other tub materials.

Overall, fiberglass reinforced plastic provides rugged durability at an affordable price. The basic white color and limited design options are the main downsides.

Cast Iron

Cast iron was the original material used for clawfoot bathtubs in the early 1900s. Authentic cast iron tubs are still produced today, albeit at a much higher cost than modern materials.

Pros

Unmatched durability – Cast iron is practically indestructible under normal use. Tubs last for generations.
Heat retention – Cast iron retains heat extremely well for long soaks. The material stays warm to the touch.
Vintage aesthetic – Authentic styling and elegance for a true antique clawfoot tub.
Environmentally friendly – Cast iron is easily melted down and recycled after its long lifespan.

Cons

Expensive – Low availability and high production costs result in very high prices.
Heavy – Cast iron construction means an old-fashioned tub weighs several hundred pounds. Installation is difficult.
Requires refinishing – Over time, cast iron loses its shine and requires draining for professional refinishing.

For its classic charm and heat retaining ability, cast iron is unrivaled. The premium price and installation challenges limit cast iron tubs to dedicated antique-lovers.

Stone Resin

Stone resin bathtubs offer the look and feel of real stone at a lighter weight. Tiny stone fragments and particles are blended with polyester resins to create a composite stone-like material.

Pros

Natural stone look – Convincingly mimics the look of stone with realistic variations in veining and shading.
Durable & scratch-resistant – The blended stone-resin material is extremely durable, long-lasting, and resists scratching.
Lighter than stone – Weighs less than real stone but offers the same visual impact. Easier to maneuver and install.
Heat retention – The solid surface retains heat well compared to porcelain or acrylic.

Cons

Higher cost – More expensive than porcelain and acrylic tubs but lower than real stone.
Limited designs – Stone resin typically only mimics marble or granite looks.

For the natural beauty and durability of stone without the extreme weight, stone resin delivers on aesthetics and functionality. The material cost places this tub option in the premium category.

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel bathtubs feature a zinc coating applied to the outer steel layer. The zinc serves to protect the underlying steel from rust and corrosion.

Pros

Corrosion resistance – The zinc coating sacrifices itself to prevent rust, even if scratched or nicked. Lifespan is extended.
Strong & stable – Very rigid construction that resists dents and deformation under load.
Quick heat-up – With good heat conductivity, galvanized steel baths heat up shower water faster than other materials.
Value pricing – Cost is more affordable than acrylic, stone, and other options.

Cons

Dated aesthetics – Limited to basic shapes and often a dated look.
Noisy – Tendency to amplify sounds from water drips and movements.
Prone to scratches – The glossy surface is susceptible to unsightly scratches over time.

While basic in style, galvanized steel delivers on functionality at an affordable price point. Best for utility rather than looks.

Common Materials Used in Bathtubs: Comparisons

Most Durable Bathtub Materials

When selecting a bathtub, longevity is often a key factor. Materials that stand the test of time despite heavy usage can save the expense and headache of replacement down the road.

Cast iron – Nothing beats real cast iron for ultimate durability. These vintage tubs are practically indestructible under normal use. Authentic cast iron provides generations of service.

Acrylic – Modern acrylic bathtubs are surprisingly durable and scratch-resistant, especially on the higher end. With proper care, an acrylic tub will last for decades.

Steel with porcelain enamel – Porcelain enameled steel offers great durability thanks to the glass-like enamel surface bonded to the steel structure. Just avoid direct impacts from sharp objects.

Stone resin – The blend of real stone particles in resin creates an extremely hard, durable finished product. Stone resin tubs easily withstand years of use.

Fiberglass reinforced plastic – Thanks to the glass fiber reinforcement, FRP bathtubs resist cracking and hold up to inadvertent impacts well. Great option for busy family bathrooms.

Best Bathtub Materials for Heat Retention

For long, soaking baths, the ability of the tub material to retain heat is key. Some materials are naturally better insulators.

Cast iron – Once again, old-fashioned cast iron is unmatched when it comes to heat retention. The thick iron walls hold bath water piping hot for over an hour.

Acrylic – Acrylic plastic has inherently good insulating properties. It prevents bath heat from dissipating into the air and feels warm to the touch.

Stone resin – The dense composite of stone and resin does an admirable job of retaining heat compared to porcelain and steel. Heat is radiated back to the water.

Fiberglass – Insulation is one of the core properties of fiberglass. FRP bathtubs retain heat marginally better than steel or porcelain.

Porcelain enamel and galvanized steel – Due to higher heat conductivity, hard metal materials like steel lose heat rapidly. Not ideal for heat retention.

Common Bathtub Sizes

Bathtub dimensions can vary widely based on the design and intended use. Here are some of the most common size standards found in residential bathtubs.

Standard tubs – Range from 60 to 72 inches long and 30 to 42 inches wide. Provide a basic bath for a single bather.
Oversized tubs – Extra deep or wide tubs measuring 80 inches or longer. Allow two bathers or ample room to stretch out and relax.
Alcove tubs – Shorter in length (52 to 60 inches) and designed to fit in a semi-enclosed alcove in the bathroom. Require less floor space.
Corner tubs – Range from about 35 to 41 inches square and maximize use of corner space. Require two exposed sides.
Freestanding tubs – Similar to standard sizes but stand alone, not surrounded by walls. Range from 61 to 71 inches long and 28 to 37 inches wide.
Clawfoot tubs – Vintage style tubs on feet, available in 60 to 72 inch lengths. Require unobstructed access on all sides.

Common Bathtub Styles

Beyond the material, the style and design of the bathtub play a huge role in the overall look and function. Here are some of the most popular configurations.

Alcove Tubs

Alcove tubs are designed to fit into a small Bathroom niche or alcove. One to three sides are surrounded by walls. The shorter length saves space while still allowing a reclined bathing position.

Clawfoot Tubs

Clawfoot tubs have vintage style feet supporting the tub above the floor. High sides allow a deep soak. The striking exposed tub design serves as a centerpiece.

Corner Tubs

Corner tubs maximize unused bathroom corners. Walls surround two sides while the other two finished sides are exposed. Great space-saving option.

Drop-in Tubs

Drop-in tubs have an outer lip that allows the tub to drop into and be supported by a surround deck or platform. The lip aligns the top of the tub with the deck.

Freestanding Tubs

Freestanding tubs are not attached to the floor or walls. The exposed tub design makes a dramatic style statement in the bathroom.

Soaking Tubs

Extra deep tubs designed for immersive soaking and relaxation. Allow more water volume for body coverage. Reclined bather position.

Walk-in Tubs

Walk-in tubs have a door that provides safe and easy access for users with mobility challenges. Integrated seats and grab bars provide support and stability.

Whirlpool Tubs

Whirlpool tubs feature water jets that shoot streams of air and water to provide a therapeutic massage effect. Most are equipped with push-button controls.

FAQs About Bathtub Materials

What is the most luxurious bathtub material?

Authentic cast iron or natural stone are generally considered the most luxurious and high-end tub materials. Cast iron offers unmatched heat retention and vintage styling. Natural stone showcases the beauty and feel of real rock.

Are two-piece bathtubs as durable as one-piece?

One-piece tubs with seamless designs tend to have greater overall durability than two-piece assemblies which rely on waterproof caulking where the pieces join. With quality construction, two-piece tubs can offer decent longevity.

Can you change the color of a bathtub?

Bathtub resurfacing or refinishing allows you to change the color and restore the surface gloss. The process involves cleaning, sanding, and spraying on new coats of acrylic enamel paint. Porcelain and cast iron tubs are commonly refinished.

What’s better: bathtub or shower?

This depends on personal preference and needs. Showers provide a quick, invigorating wash. Bathtubs allow relaxed soaking and de-stressing. Many homeowners opt to install a combination bathtub with showerhead to get the benefits of both.

How much does a new bathtub cost installed?

The typical range is $400-$1200 with more premium materials running up to $4000 or more. The size, material, and complexity of the installation impact the total project cost. Luxury options with jet systems can reach $10,000 installed.

Conclusion

From practical porcelain steel to luxurious stone resin, today’s bathtubs offer advantages across a range of criteria. Focus first on the material characteristics that matter most – heat retention, durability, style, and budget. With this foundation of tub knowledge, you can zero in on the ideal material to meet your needs and design vision.