Iron Tub

How to Choose a Tub For Your New Bathroom

Remember that old TV commercial where an overwhelmed woman bemoans the traffic, the boss, the baby and the dog, then pleads, "Calgon, take me away!" Her troubles soon evaporate simply by sitting in a giant bubble-infused soaking tub.

While we can debate whether it's the tub or bubbles that soothes her, one thing is certain: It certainly is nice to push the restart button in a relaxing bath.

There are three main types of bathtubs: soaking tub, airpool tub and jetted tub. A soaking tub is your basic fixture and most commonly seen in homes. A rectangular tub is usually placed in a three-wall alcove and designed to accommodate showering, bathing or...well, soaking. Clawfoot tubs can also be placed in the soaking category, and provide an entirely different look and feel.

If you're looking for a little something extra in your soaking tub, consider an airpool tub. These feature a series of small holes along the bottom that gently jets air in. The result is a soothing, fizzy soak that's been described as a "champagne-like experience." This gentle massage is exhilarating if you're sensitive to this type of stimulus.

One unique feature of airpool tubs is that, while one person can certainly use it in perfect comfort, many are designed to seat two people. So, do you want to hog all of this comfort and relaxation for yourself or will you choose to share?

Jetted tubs are the other bathtub type. Also called a whirlpool tub, this is at the top of the food chain when it comes to tub comfort, experience and, as a result, price.

These tubs that are more powerful than those in airpool tubs and resemble those you'd find in hot tubs. They're positioned to direct warm water to comfort areas like your lower or upper back, shoulders or legs for a vigorous, comforting massage.

When you know what type of tub you want, factor in materials and aesthetics. Some materialsare more able to take on additional color and finish options.

Acrylic is hands down the most common material used in tubs. It's affordable, lightweight and can come in a variety of colors. Among its drawbacks, though, is that it can be tougher to clean, it's noisy when water is running in it, it's susceptible to cracks and it just can't hold the temperature of hot bath water as long as, say, a cast iron tub.

Speaking of cast iron, this classic material is designed to last for years (I'm resisting the urge to say "forever"), but it's also the heaviest tub material. If you're considering a cast iron tub, make sure your floor can withstand the added weight. If not, it'll probably need some type of reinforcement.

Another downside to cast iron is that it's susceptible to chipping or dulling over time. This is not an inexpensive option, but it will last a lifetime if cared for.

Other materials commonly used in tubs include fiberglass, porcelain and copper.

Always consider shape and dimensions when fitting a bathtub into a space. Most tubs employ the ubiquitous rectangular shape-which is ideal for most purposes and single-person soaks-but more spacious accommodations can be relatively easy to create, as well.

Corner tubs utilize different shapes perfect for creating a relaxing space, like one that's triangular, round or oval. Choosing a jetted tub in one of these shapes makes for a therapeutic soak as well as provides room enough for more than one bather.

The bathtub might be something we take for granted, because it's such a part of our everyday lives. But with so many different types of tubs, varying degrees of comfort and a number of shapes and sizes, you can truly customize and get creative with a new fixture.

Until next time, Happy Home Improving!

About the Author

Build.com is a leader in providing online home improvement products. We specialize in offering plumbing, lighting, ventilation, door hardware and home decor products. We offer the best selection online at the lowest prices anywhere. We can also be found on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Oval Tub Iron with Black $40.46 Oval Garden Tub Great for Craft Projects, Parties, and More Serve your guests in style with the charming look of this rustic beverage tub at your next party. This galvanized steel tub is both durable and easy to transport. Special Features Galvanized Steel - Powder Coated Black 20 1/2" L x 15" W x 9 1/2" D Galvanized Steel: 20 1/2" L x 15" W x 9 1/2" D Stands Sold Separately: See also our Matching Wrought Iron Oval Tub Stand, G29892 Low Price Guarantee Achla Designs, a Garden Accessories company, emphasizes unique, hand forged, wrought iron, European furnishings for the home and garden. Items range from small hooks and brackets to large pavilions and arbors. They also offer birdbaths, birding & garden pole systems, trellises, statuary, composting products, and wood and metal furniture. In 2004, Achla Designs introduced the Williamsburg Collection, offering reproductions as well as 17th and 18th century inspired designs for the contemporary home. Achla Designs continues to add beautiful and unique items year after year, resulting in an unusually large product line.

Wrought Iron Tub Stand Oval $59.95 Wrought Iron Tub Stand Step Up Floral Decor Make your planter or tub complete with one of our classy Wrought Iron Tub Stands, from Achla. Each one is crafted of durable wrought iron and powder coated black to resist weathering. Plant stands are an easy way to add interest to a floral arrangement on the deck, in the house, or on the ground. Special Features Black powder coated finish Made of wrought iron Beautifully handcrafted Great for the veranda, deck, or patio Works great with tubs or pots Oval stand dimensions: 18" H x 20" W x 12.5" D Round stand dimensions: 18" H x 16" W x 16" D Low Price Guarantee Achla Designs, a Garden Accessories company, emphasizes unique, hand forged, wrought iron, European furnishings for the home and garden. Items range from small hooks and brackets to large pavilions and arbors. They also offer birdbaths, birding & garden pole systems, trellises, statuary, composting products, and wood and metal furniture. In 2004, Achla Designs introduced the Williamsburg Collection, offering reproductions as well as 17th and 18th century inspired designs for the contemporary home. Achla Designs continues to add beautiful and unique items year after year, resulting in an unusually large product line.

Wrought Iron Tub Stand Round $54.95 Wrought Iron Tub Stand Step Up Floral Decor Make your planter or tub complete with one of our classy Wrought Iron Tub Stands, from Achla. Each one is crafted of durable wrought iron and powder coated black to resist weathering. Plant stands are an easy way to add interest to a floral arrangement on the deck, in the house, or on the ground. Special Features Black powder coated finish Made of wrought iron Beautifully handcrafted Great for the veranda, deck, or patio Works great with tubs or pots Oval stand dimensions: 18" H x 20" W x 12.5" D Round stand dimensions: 18" H x 16" W x 16" D Low Price Guarantee Achla Designs, a Garden Accessories company, emphasizes unique, hand forged, wrought iron, European furnishings for the home and garden. Items range from small hooks and brackets to large pavilions and arbors. They also offer birdbaths, birding & garden pole systems, trellises, statuary, composting products, and wood and metal furniture. In 2004, Achla Designs introduced the Williamsburg Collection, offering reproductions as well as 17th and 18th century inspired designs for the contemporary home. Achla Designs continues to add beautiful and unique items year after year, resulting in an unusually large product line.

Oval Tub with Wrought Iron Handles $49.46 Oval Tub with Wrought Iron Handles Great for Climbing Vines Serve your guests in style with the charming look of this rustic beverage tub at your next party. This galvanized steel tub is both durable and easy to transport. Special Features Galvanized Steel - Copper Color 21"L x 15"W x 9"D Stands Separately; See Our Matching Wrought Iron Tub Stands, G29892 Low Price Guarantee Achla Designs, a Garden Accessories company, emphasizes unique, hand forged, wrought iron, European furnishings for the home and garden. Items range from small hooks and brackets to large pavilions and arbors. They also offer birdbaths, birding & garden pole systems, trellises, statuary, composting products, and wood and metal furniture. In 2004, Achla Designs introduced the Williamsburg Collection, offering reproductions as well as 17th and 18th century inspired designs for the contemporary home. Achla Designs continues to add beautiful and unique items year after year, resulting in an unusually large product line.

CobraCo Black Iron Moon and Stars Fire Tub $197.95 CobraCo Black Iron Moon and Stars Fire Tub CobraCo(R) Fire Pits and Fire Rings are a great way to socialize with family and friends - all year long! Each fire pit and ring is easy to assemble and comes complete with hardware. Our fire pits and rings are made of heavy-duty construction that will last for years. All fire pits include a FREE screen and a vinyl protective cover. The CobraCo(R) Black Iron "Moon & Stars" Fire Tub features an enchanting die-cut "moon and stars" design and comes with a mesh protective screen insert for added safety. FREE screen and vinyl protective outdoor cover are included to help maintain the beauty of your fire pit. This fire bowl is perfect for a small cozy get-together on your patio or for adding to the atmosphere of a larger party or celebration. Features: . Heavy-duty construction for years of use . Black iron fire pit bowl . Comes with a mesh protective screen insert . Screen and vinyl protective outdoor cover included Item Specifications: Dimensions: 24"W x 27"H Finish: Black Finish

Iron Will $4.99 Iron Will

Iron $9.49 Iron

K-809-HN-0 Kathryn Collection 66 Drop In Jetted Bath Tub with Reversible Drain: $3199 White Cast Iron Drop-In Jetted Whirlpool Tub

Vintage Mini Tub in Wrought Iron $59.99 SpecificationVase Materials: Metal Vase Dimension (inch): H7.5 Net Weight (kg): 1 Shipping Weight (kg): 3

Queen Elizabeth 67-inch Classic Cast Iron Clawfoot Tub $2182.83 This elegant 67-inch clawfoot tub features classic cast-iron feet that can be easily removed for transport. This tub features a brand new white porcelain enamel over its cast-iron construction. Measurement Charts67-inch classic cast iron clawfoot tubExtended gentle slope backrest Sits on vintage ball and claw feet made of solid brassWhite porcelain enamel over cast ironFeet come unattached for easy handlingEasy cleaning using soft cloth and mild detergent Slip-resistant floor Overall dimensions: 67 inches long x 30 inches wide x 22 inches high (see line drawing for complete details) Predrilled drain and overflow holes Tub weight empty: 360 pounds Filled weight: 820 pounds Overflow: 14 inches Water capacity: 55 gallons (filled to overflow) Full installation instruction included Required accessories: Faucet, drain and supply lines

Woodstream FB6500 Black Iron Moon Stars Fire Tub $195.19 This attractive black iron fire bowl features an enchanting diecut moon and stars design. The CobraCo Black Iron Moon Stars Fire Tub comes with a mesh protective screen insert for added safety. A screen and vinyl protective outdoor cover is included. This fire bowl is perfect for a small cozy gettogether on your patio or for adding to the atmosphere of a larger party or celebration. Dimensions are 24"W x 27"H. Specs:. Dimensions: 24"W x 27"H. Black iron fire bowl. Comes with a mesh protective screen insert. Screen and vinyl protective outdoor cover included.

World Imports 164697 Slipper Cast Iron Tub with Tub Rim Faucet Holes White Polished Brass $2895.75 The Elizabethan Classics collection provides everything you need to complete the kitchen or bath of your dreams. Classic cast iron clawfoot tubs acrylic clawfoot tubs bath faucets Victorianstyle water closets pedestal lavatories and console lavatories all inspired by the days when style was warm comfortable and appealing with just a flourish of understated sophistication. Oldworld charm with contemporary function. Slipper Tub With tub rim holes. Dimension: 61.5 x 30.75 x 30.25 . Ball and claw feet. Capacity: 46 gallons. Slip resistant surface. Use with rim mount faucet models. White porcelain interior with pure white exterior. Tub exterior can be jobsite painted to match room decor. Crate charge included in price. Requires SSL Straight Bath Supplies and LTD or LTD03 Drain. 7 centers faucet holes in tub rim centered above the overflow. Installation Type: Clawfoot. Finish: White/Polished Brass. Material: Cast Iron. Drain: 2.25 . Tub Shape: Oval.

World Imports 297729 Slipper Cast Iron Tub with Tub Rim Faucet Holes White Satin Nickel $2895.75 The Elizabethan Classics collection provides everything you need to complete the kitchen or bath of your dreams. Classic cast iron clawfoot tubs acrylic clawfoot tubs bath faucets Victorianstyle water closets pedestal lavatories and console lavatories all inspired by the days when style was warm comfortable and appealing with just a flourish of understated sophistication. Oldworld charm with contemporary function. Slipper Tub With tub rim holes. Dimension: 61.5 x 30.75 x 30.25 . Ball and claw feet. Capacity: 46 gallons. Slip resistant surface. Use with rim mount faucet models. White porcelain interior with pure white exterior. Tub exterior can be jobsite painted to match room decor. Crate charge included in price. Requires SSL Straight Bath Supplies and LTD or LTD03 Drain. 7 centers faucet holes in tub rim centered above the overflow. Installation Type: Clawfoot. Finish: White/Satin Nickel. Material: Cast Iron. Drain: 2.25 . Tub Shape: Oval.

Large Wrought Iron Floor Stand $70 Prop up your tub with these wrought iron stands from Achla Designs. -Designed to fold for easy storage. -Please note tub is not included. See companioned items for compatible tubs.

World Imports 403441 Cast Iron Roll Top Tub with Tub Wall Faucet Holes WhiteWhite $2310.75 The Elizabethan Classics collection provides everything you need to complete the kitchen or bath of your dreams. Classic cast iron clawfoot tubs acrylic clawfoot tubs bath faucets Victorianstyle water closets pedestal lavatories and console lavatories all inspired by the days when style was warm comfortable and appealing with just a flourish of understated sophistication. Oldworld charm with contemporary function. Finish: White/White. Material: Cast Iron. Shape: Oval. Dimensions: 551/2 x 3018 x 227/8 . Ball and Claw Feet. Capacity: 29 gallons. Slip Resistant Surface. 33/8 centers faucet holes in tub wall centered above overflow. White Porcelain interior with Pure White Exterior. Use with TubWall Mount Faucet Models. Tub exterior can be jobsite painted to match room decor.

World Imports 403445 Cast Iron Roll Top Tub with Tub Wall Faucet Holes WhiteChrome $2310.75 The Elizabethan Classics collection provides everythg you need to complete the kitchen or bath of your dreams. Classic cast iron clawfoot tubs acrylic clawfoot tubs bath faucets Victorianstyle water closets pedestal lavatories and console lavatories all inspired by the days when style was warm comfortable and appealg with just a flourish of understated sophistication. Oldworld charm with contemporary function. Ball and Claw Feet. Capacity: 29 gallons. Slip Resistant Surface. 33/8 centers faucet holes tub wall centered above overflow. White Porcela terior with Pure White Exterior. Use with TubWall Mount TW Faucet Models. Tub exterior can be jobsite painted to match room decor. Material: Cast Iron. Shape: Oval. Finish: White/Chrome. Dimensions: 551/2 x 3018 x 227/8

Model T3113WR: Kingsley Wrought Iron Trim Kit for Moentrol Tub/Shower $383 -Trim kit for Moentrol tub/shower -fits M-PACT system -lever handle -Moenflo XL single function showerhead, arm and flange -6" slip fit diverter tub spout -Showerheads 2.5 gpm (9.5 L/min) max.

Model T2113WR: Kingsley Wrought Iron ADA Trim Kit for Tub/Shower $289 -Trim kit for Posi-Temp tub/shower - fits M-PACT system -lever handle -- Moenflo XL single function showerhead, arm and flange - 6" slip fit diverter tub spout -Showerheads 2.5 gpm (9.5 L/min) max.

World Imports 403461 Traditional 61 in. Cast Iron Roll Top Tub with Tub Wall Holes WhiteOil Rubbed Bronze $2544.75 The Elizabethan Classics collection provides everything you need to complete the kitchen or bath of your dreams. Classic cast iron clawfoot tubs acrylic clawfoot tubs bath faucets Victorianstyle water closets pedestal lavatories and console lavatories all inspired by the days when style was warm comfortable and appealing with just a flourish of understated sophistication. Oldworld charm with contemporary function. Finish: White/Oil Rubbed Bronze. Dimensions: 601/2 x 301/2 x 235/8 . Ball and claw feet. Capacity: 40 gallons. Slip resistant surface. Use with tub wall mount faucet models. White porcelain interior with pure white exterior. Tub exterior can be jobsite painted to match room decor. Crate charge included in price. 33/8 centers faucet in tub wall centered above overflow.

World Imports 403501 Traditional 67 in. Cast Iron Roll Top Tub with Tub Wall Holes WhiteOil Rubbed Bronze $2603.25 The Elizabethan Classics collection provides everything you need to complete the kitchen or bath of your dreams. Classic cast iron clawfoot tubs acrylic clawfoot tubs bath faucets Victorianstyle water closets pedestal lavatories and console lavatories all inspired by the days when style was warm comfortable and appealing with just a flourish of understated sophistication. Oldworld charm with contemporary function. Ball and claw feet. Capacity: 47 gallons. Slip resistant surface. Use with tub wall mount faucet models. White porcelain interior with pure white exterior. Tub exterior can be jobsite painted to match room decor. Crate charge included in price. 33/8 centers faucet in tub wall centered above overflow. Finish: White/Oil Rubbed Bronze. Dimensions: 671/2 x 303/8 x 235/8 .

World Imports 405921 54 in. Cast Iron Roll Top Tub with Tub Wall Faucet Holes WhiteSatin Nickel $2427.75 The Elizabethan Classics collection provides everything you need to complete the kitchen or bath of your dreams. Classic cast iron clawfoot tubs acrylic clawfoot tubs bath faucets Victorianstyle water closets pedestal lavatories and console lavatories all inspired by the days when style was warm comfortable and appealing with just a flourish of understated sophistication. Oldworld charm with contemporary function. 33/8 centers faucet holes in tub wall centered above overflow. Ball and claw feet. Capacity: 29 gallons. Slip resistant surface. Use with tub wall mount faucet models. White porcelain interior with pure white exterior. Tub exterior can be jobsite painted to match room decor. Crate charge included in price. Finish: White/Satin Nickel. Dimensions: 551/2 x 301/8 x 227/8 .

TS213WR Waterhill Wrought iron two-handle high arc roman tub faucet includes hand $1080 The intricate charm of a Waterhill Roman tub faucet with hand shower will instantly add character to your home Charming high-arc spout provides ample clearance at the tub and the matte black wrought iron finish is reminiscent of rich antique elegance

Vintage Slipper 61-inch Cast-iron Clawfoot Tub with 7-inch Drillings $3474.45 This elegant 61-inch classic cast iron clawfoot tub is perfect for a lounging soak. Relax into up to 40-gallons of water in this tub that will give your bathroom decor a relaxing and unique update.Available in your choice of feet finish: Polished chrome feet, polished brass feet, oil rubbed bronze feet, satin nickel feet, white feetExtended gentle slope backrestSits on vintage ball and claw feet made of solid brass with your choice of finishBrand-new white porcelain enamel over cast iron constructionDurable white enamel finished exteriorFeet come unattached for easy handling through small door spacesEasy cleaning using soft cloth and mild detergentSlip-resistant floorOverall dimensions: 61 inches long x 30 inches wide x 29 inches highFaucet drillings: 7-inch side rimPredrilled drain and overflow holesTub weight empty: 250 poundsFilled weight: 600 poundsOverflow: 14 inches Water capacity: 40 gallons (filled to overflow)Full installation instruction includedTub exterior can be painted to match room decorRequired accessories: Faucet, drain and supply lines (not included

Tags: bathroom, bathtub, cast, iron, iron tub refinishing, iron tube, iron tubing, iron tubs, tubs, wrought iron tubing

This entry was posted on Tuesday, November 13th, 2007 at 2:11 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.