Choosing the Right Tub for You

Herrle Full Home Remodel (After) (12)

Imagine your dream bathroom. What does it include? So far we have discussed the unique properties and mining of one-of-a-kind stone for your home, so we’ve got the countertops covered. Maybe your ideal bathroom has a walk-in shower with multi sprays or steam options, and dark cherry glazed cabinets. Hold that thought … Where’s the tub in your dream? Everyone needs a soaking tub to ease those long days at the office, work out pains, and don’t forget the tension headaches! You cannot disregard the tub and the benefits that it offers when designing your next bathroom remodel. The tub is the hub of the room and draws your eye as soon as you walk in the door. Coincidence or is that it’s way of calling your name to come enjoy an enticing dip?

Now that you have decided to upgrade your tub, where do you start? There are many options to consider, such as size, color, style and features. From traditional to high-tech, you will want to find one that fits you, your budget and your space. Here are some of the main points to keep in mind while on your journey for the perfect tub.

  • Size matters! Make sure to take measurements before you head out to start searching for your perfect tub. They can come anywhere from a typical 60” up to your heart’s desire. Knowing how much space that you have available and where you will be placing your new amenity will give you a starting point to go off of. Not any more do you have to have your tub up against one or two walls. They can be placed in the center of a room, an alcove or diagonally in a corner just to name a few possibilities. Knowing your placement for drainage will save a lot of grief as well. Tubs can be purchased with centered, left or right drains. We recommend consulting a general contractor to discuss the cost and possibility of relocating plumbing lines if necessary prior to making any purchases.
  • Freestanding or built-in? Freestanding tubs are becoming increasingly popular for bathrooms with ample room. They have a personality of their own so to speak. If this is the style that you desire, we recommend that you steer clear of cast iron. Cast iron, while a great material for a built-in tub does pose the challenge of being heavy in weight for a standalone option. Freestanding tubs can be placed ground level, on a step up or a pedestal. Claw feet and other decorative accessories are available to complete the look you are going for.
  • White in color or shall you be daring? Not only offered in traditional white, tubs are readily available in a variety of colors from neutrals to black or even antiqued finishes. You have the option of choosing a color to match your décor.
  • Does whirlpool or jet streams tickle your fancy? The feeling of a deep tissue massage is provided with whirlpool tubs, while air jets are more soothing. There are varying types of massage sy stems on the market as well. Basic tubs with jets are typically operable by switch and consist of 6-8 jets. Some have specialty massage systems built in with optional aromatherapy, heating options and specialty lighting for a complete relaxation package. Looking for a more delicate route for your relaxing bath? Consider a simple bubble massage that is more subtle by blowing heated air into the tub.
  • Straight line or a contoured shape? While some tubs take on a more sleek straight contemporary line, others can be more curved and contoured. Both are great options and simply come down to your ultimate preference. You may like how the curves hug your body shape, prefer a natural oval figure or like the bold look of a circular tub. Some of the more contoured tubs offer armrests for your comfort as well.
  • Know your budget. If it allows you can completely custom tailor your perfect tub to fit! “If you want something a little less mainstream, custom tub brands such as MTI and Hydro Systems offer completely customized packages with heated backs, custom jet locations, in-line heaters, aromatherapy, chromatherapy and more.” suggests Ferguson, one of the leading suppliers in bath, kitchens & lighting fixtures for your home.

Are you ready to start shopping? With the above information and a little bit of preparation, finding your perfect tub can be easy and stress-free.

Todd Whittaker Drywall Inc (TWD) is a distributor of Ferguson products, so if you are looking for a general contractor with a complete bathroom remodeling package to offer, give them a try. They have a full remodeling showroom located at 9201 W. Grand Avenue in Peoria, Arizona. We recommend stopping in to see what they have to offer. With their on-staff design team ready to assist, they can work with you to bring your vision to life!