If you are in the market for the ultimate experience in luxury soaking, you are not alone. Quite a few manufacturers cater to the needs of people who are longing to step in, scoot down, and luxuriate in the warmth of a nice relaxing bath. The styles of tubs have grown to encompass an entire medley of delightful shapes, sizes, colors, and styles.
Deciding what you want to purchase can be quite a bit more difficult than choosing between a bubble bath and a scented oil soak. It can also be a lot more difficult than deciding how many candles to line up alongside the tub. In fact, looking for a tub that will accommodate those very same candles can help homeowners to make their decision as to just which bathtub is the right one for them. Ten things to think about before running off to the store to purchase your new bathtub are listed below.
How much space do you have?
Today's bathtubs are also designed to accommodate two people instead of just the more common bathtub for one. They are larger simply because they are roomier. Homeowners should consider the available space in their existing bathroom first before selecting an option to purchase a two-person bathtub. If the inclusion of a tub this size cuts down on the roominess of your bathroom, you might want to opt not to purchase it.
How much money can you afford to spend?
The type and model of a bathtub that you purchase will determine the price range that you can expect to pay. The standard tub is by far the least expensive tub. The more features or custom designs that you add to a bathtub, the more expensive the bathtub will be. Whirlpool tubs are more expensive than standard bathtubs. An air-jetted bathtub is more expensive than a water-jetted bathtub. Soft bathtubs and claw-footed bathtubs are also more expensive than standard tubs.
Do you want a jetted tub?
If you think that opting for a whirlpool tub is an easy decision, think again. You will still be faced with deciding between air jets and water jets in the tub. Air jets are quieter than water jets. Plus, with an air-jetted bathtub, the bather can enjoy a bubble bath, bath laced with scented oils, or a bath that is generously filled with sea salts. Water jetted tubs on the other hand do not offer the same possibilities.
Additionally, a bathtub with water jets will provide stronger more vigorous bursts of water, while an air-jetted bathtub will present weaker bursts of water. Alternatively, water jets are fewer in number than air jets in a tub. Since the models vary, it's important to take notice of the placement of the jets within each particular model of jetted tub.
Do you want a hard or a soft bathtub?
The hard bathtub is the least expensive of all of the models. It is also the one that you find in the homes of most people. This type of bathtub usually fits into the corner of the bathroom, sits upon the floor, is rectangular in shape, and is available in a limited assortment of colors. It is also going to require a bath pillow if you intend to lounge for any period of time. On the other hand, a soft bathtub mirrors most of the above characteristics. Soft bathtubs are rectangular in shape, sit upon the floor, fit into the corner of most bathrooms, and are sold in a small variety of colors. The biggest difference is that this type of bathtub has soft cushioning and a non-slippery surface to offer to its occupants.
Will a specific tub hurt the resale value of the home?
Today's bathtubs are available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and more. Homeowners who are considering purchasing something out of the ordinary should also consider the impact such a decision could make on the resale value of the home.
Is your electrical up to code for the model of bathtub that you are getting?
Some of today's more deluxe bathtubs require electrical wiring. Homeowners should always check to ensure that their existing electrical set up could support any new acquisition to the home's furnishings.
Will you need to remodel the bathroom to fit the tub in?
Quite possibly the bathtub that is responsible for this question the most is the claw footed bathtub. The style is distinctive and might not blend well with existing sinks, toilets, and mirrors.
Does the color blend in with the décor of your bathroom?
Although the color of the bathtub might seem to be a minor concern compared to some of the other issues, it could quickly become a major one. If the color of the new tub does not blend well with the existing décor of the bathroom, you could be looking at some expensive remodeling costs.
How will you dispose of your old bathtub?
Disposing of an old bathtub can be difficult for some individuals. You need to discuss the removal of the old bathtub with the company from whom you are purchasing the new one. Will they take it away for a small fee? If removal is not part of the service, even for an added fee, then you need to investigate your other options such as checking with your trash removal company and scrap yards.
What type of repairs are you going to have with a particular tub?
Obviously, the custom designed bathtubs will be the most expensive to repair. A claw foot bathtub has exposed pipes, making plumbing repairs a relatively simple task. The jetted tubs will be the most expensive to repair, especially since electrical wiring is part of the package.
Eye up the prospects and make your selection wisely. A bathtub isn't something that you replace every day.