Free-Standing Bathtubs
There has been a surge in admiration of freestanding tubs; their lustrous and sleek design gives an elegant look to any bathroom. For homeowners with additional space, floor mount installation ensures the bathtub will stand out as a striking focal point and a statement piece. Additionally, free-standing tubs don’t have to be attached to the walls allowing great flexibility in choosing bathroom design.
Free-Standing Bath-Tub Material
When purchasing a free-standing bathtub, not only you have to consider a look but also a material the tub is made of. It is imperative to choose material suitable for your preferred tub style and the space dedicated in the bathroom. Cast iron tubs can be easy to clean and are not prone to scratching due to their coating. They are virtually indestructible. Additionally, cast iron tubs retain heat better than other free-standing tubs. Copper tubs retain heat similarly to the cast iron ones. Moreover, copper has been known to be resistant to mold and bacteria. However, copper is a soft material that could be easily damaged. Acrylic and fiberglass tubs tend to be more popular due to their lower price and variety of shapes and forms available. They are light in weight and easy to install eliminating the need for a floor reinforcement. The downside, acrylic has a tendency to crack and fade over the period of time. Stainless steel tubs can offer a contemporary look due to their shiny surface and require very little maintenance. Stone tubs can make a distinctive style in your bathroom; however, due to their weight and lack of natural heat retention, remain a wary choice among the homeowners.
Weight Considerations for Free-Standing Tubs
The weight of the tub cannot be disregarded while making a purchase. Cast iron and stone tubs are heavier than the rest. If you are considering a heavier tub, you will need to think about reinforcing your flooring.
Faucets for Stand-Alone Bathtubs
Once you purchased a bathtub, it is imperative to choose a faucet that compliments not just décor but also functions well with a chosen tub. There are three most popular types of bathtub faucets: free-standing, wall-mounted, and deck-mounted faucets:
- Free-standing faucets are not attached to the tub; therefore, you have more flexibility where you would like the faucet to be installed. Freestanding faucets come in many finishes and their styles are interchangeable from model tub to model tub.
- Wall-mounted faucets are typical industry standard faucets that mount through the wall to your water supply. Wall-mounted faucets tend to be more popular because they can be used with most bathtubs without attaching to the tub.
- Deck-mounted faucets pair very well with freestanding and drop-in tubs since underfloor access is required. Most of the time these faucets work well with the tubs that have pre-drilled holes and are fitted on the flat service of the tub.