Types of Bathtubs
In the not so distant past, a bathtub, any bathtub for that matter, was a luxury item. Indoor bathtubs were found only in the homes of the wealthy, in upscale hotels, or in bath houses. Today, however, the bathroom has become one of the focal points of our homes. Decisions on home purchases in today’s market are weighted heavily towards the buyer’s perception of the bathrooms and kitchens in the homes they are shown. If you watch any of the popular new remodeling or real estate flipping television programs, you’ll quickly learn that the major emphasis of the work, as well as the greater portion of the budget is put into these two rooms. A great bath can sell the otherwise so – so house.
The old cast iron, clawfoot bathtubs that once served the majority of homes became a heavy, ugly piece of junk that, in the minds of home owners of a decade or two back, had to be replaced with a more modern, and usually, built in tub. You had to pay somebody to haul it off for you, and many found their way into metal recycling yards. Now they are sought out fervishly by today’s remodelers, and often demand a high price. One can find the new ones which are built to supply this retro market, but the old, original hold- overs are the most coveted. Hey are now considered a luxury item.
There are pedestal tubs, built in tubs, corner tubs, sunken tubs, garden tubs, iron tubs, metal tubs, fiberglass tubs, composite material tubs, glass tubs, plastic tubs, even clear tubs in which fish can be kept in the core of the tub sides. Tubs can be found with whirlpool systems, warm air bubble systems, and built in heating systems. You can even order custom built tubs of your own design. Some of the major tub manufacturers are American Standard, Kohler, Porcher, Jacuzzi, Cheviot, Neo Metro, and Herbeau. One particular manufacturer of premium tubs is the Hoesch Company, in business since the 18th century.
Would you believe that you can now get a bath tub made entirely from foam? That’s right, foam. A foam tub is safer, in that it reduces slipperiness, has great insulating properties, allowing your bath water to stay warm much longer than standard tub types. One manufacture, International Cushioned Products of Canada offers a foam tub known as the Soft Bathtub. This premium bathtub is manufactured of a spongy Urethane, covered with a strong and flexible fiberglass. These tubs are available in different sizes and range in price from around $1700.00 to $4000.00. According to information posted on the company’s web site, www.softbathtubs.com, their units are much quieter when running a whirlpool system, because the foam construction absorbs the noise and vibration produced by the pump. It’s easy to clean and maintain, and repairs are easily accomplished. They are much lighter than most standard style bathtubs, and therefore easier to install. It has passed many tests in many countries and has a U.S. patent.
Another somewhat curious offering in premium bathtubs are tubs manufactured from wood. These bathroom wood vanities are usually made from cypress, but some manufacturers offer their products in a variety of wood. These units are strikingly beautiful, and unlike what you may think, the finishes are waterproof, long lasting and easy to clean. There are a number of manufacturers of these beautiful tubs. For more information on bathtubs, visit www.BathtubReviews.com.