If you’ve been considering different types of bathtubs for your bathroom, you may have found yourself wondering, “what is a freestanding tub?”, “are freestanding tubs comfortable?” or “will a freestanding tub look good in my bathroom?” Well, our bathroom products & design experts are here to help! We have compiled a list of things to know before you purchase a freestanding tub to help you make an informed buying decision.
What Is a Freestanding Bathtub?
A freestanding bathtub has all four sides exposed and usually sits directly on the floor.
True freestanding tubs have no feet or platform supporting them. They function much the same as any other tub and are available in a variety of sizes and shapes.
The Best Materials for Freestanding Tubs
There are several chic options for freestanding tub materials, and each one offers its own set of advantages. It’s important to decide which material you would like your freestanding tub made from before you buy.
Acrylic Tubs
Lightweight and easy to install, acrylic tubs are also durable and easy to maintain. They’re affordable and retain heat well. Because of the way they are molded, acrylic freestanding tubs allow for tub foam insulation, which increases the level of heat retention even more.
Cast Iron Tubs
The most durable material available, cast iron offers resistance to most chemicals and is incredibly strong. Cast iron bathtubs also resist scratching, denting, and chipping. Heavier than their acrylic counterparts, cast iron tubs offer added stability.
Copper Tubs
Luxurious and durable, copper tubs are mold-resistant, anti-bacterial, rust-proof, and retain heat longer than acrylic and copper tubs As they are a natural material, they will patina over time, adding to their beauty as years go on.
Marble Tubs
Marble bathtubs are elegant, pure, available in a huge array of colors and patterns, and very durable. They’re easy to maintain and are luxurious enough to elevate any bathroom.
Stone Tubs
Stone bathtubs retain heat well, they’re extremely durable, and they are easy to clean and maintain. Any scratches to the stone can easily be removed with polish.
Solid Surface Tubs
A solid surface freestanding bathtub offers a non-porous surface that is easy to clean. These are made of high-grade solid surface materials that are leak-free and offer a smooth, consistent finish.
Pros and Cons of Freestanding Bathtubs
There are lots of factors to consider when purchasing a new tub, including cost, freestanding tub installation, durability, and your personal preference for style. It’s a good idea to become familiar with the pros and cons of freestanding bathtubs before you get too involved in your shopping.
Pros
Here are a few pros of freestanding bathtubs that you should know before you buy:
- Versatility: They come in almost endless shapes and sizes, so there are fewer challenges with design or space restrictions.
- Easy Installation: Freestanding tub installation is simple, especially compared to the installation of built-in tubs.
- Distinct Style: A freestanding tub makes a statement in any bathroom. Depending on its style, it can become the focal point in anything from a Victorian bathroom to a contemporary one.
- Flexibility: Freestanding tubs allow more freedom of placement, letting you use your space more creatively.
- Ideal for Smaller Spaces: Since freestanding bathtubs are not built in, they can show off your beautiful walls, which gives the illusion of extra space.
- Easier to Use and Clean: With no walls to get in your way, using and cleaning a freestanding tub is a breeze.
- Lightweight Material: It’s important to note that many of the best freestanding bathtubs are made of acrylic, which makes them very lightweight. In fact, acrylic tubs are light enough to be installed on any level of a home.
Finally, many homeowners enjoy freestanding tubs because of their elegance. They offer a graceful appearance that is similar to that of a spa, and they can really level up a bathroom.
Cons
Aside from price, there are only a few potential problems with freestanding tubs, most of which can easily be rectified. These include:
- Storage: Built-in tubs often have storage areas on the sides or on the wall that freestanding tubs often lack. Most people use a rolling storage caddy, a shelf that runs across the width of the tub, or a basket that hangs off of one side as a storage solution. The Randolph Morris Shelved Acrylic Freestanding Bathtub also offers a shelving unit built-in for those looking to keep their storage options while taking advantage of all freestanding tubs have to offer.
- No Shower: Although many people are under the impression that it’s difficult to integrate a shower when you have a freestanding tub, it really isn’t. All you need is a shower rod suspended from the ceiling and oval shower rods around the tub to keep water from splashing. With a large shower curtain, a freestanding tub and easily transform into a fully surrounded shower.
- Weight: Many tubs can be heavy, especially those that are stone or cast-iron. However, reinforcing the floor under the tub with plywood is a cost-effective solution.
Our Recommendations
Now that you are no longer wondering, "What is a freestanding tub?" and you've read some of the pros and cons, here are a few recommendations on specific models for your home.
The Philo Freestanding Tub is the perfect addition if you are aiming to achieve a lavish look. It is stain-resistant and built to last a lifetime.
The Mia Double Ended Tub is perfect for a bold and modern design that will be a focal point in your dream bathroom.
The Lugano Resin Freestanding Tub offers a classic design and is made from a unique, renewable resin material.
If you were wondering, "Are freestanding tubs comfortable?" the Zoey Freestanding Tub is for you. The deep design is great for long baths with a luxurious feel.
The Chloe Acrylic Double Ended Freestanding Tub fits flawlessly into modern designs and also includes a freestanding tub faucet.
Despite a couple of minor problems with freestanding tubs, they are still an excellent addition to almost any home bathroom. If you are ready to move forward with your freestanding tub, look no further than Vintage Tub & Bath.
We've been crafting stunning tubs for over 25 years, and we have an industry-leading freestanding tub selection. If there's anything else you want to know before you buy, or if you are ready to move forward with your tub, give us a call.
Shop the Blog
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Noah 59 Inch Acrylic Double Ended Freestanding Tub - No Faucet DrillingsStarting at: $1,499.00 -
Duchess 67 Inch Acrylic Slipper Freestanding Tub - No Faucet DrillingsStarting at: $1,562.00 -
Chloe Acrylic Double Ended Freestanding Tub - No Faucet DrillingsStarting at: $955.00 -
Lieke Shelved Acrylic Freestanding BathtubStarting at: $1,695.00 -
Philo Acrylic Double Slipper Freestanding TubStarting at: $945.00 -
Mia Freestanding Acrylic Soaking Tub - No Faucet DrillingsStarting at: $899.00 -
Lugano 68 Inch Resin Double Ended Matte TubStarting at: $3,589.00 -
Chloe Acrylic Double Ended Freestanding Tub Package - No Faucet DrillingsStarting at: $1,236.00
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