Different Types of Bathtubs

A bathtub can be far more than a basic bathroom feature. Your tub can be a peaceful oasis after a stressful day. A soothing bath provides psychological and health benefits. If you choose the right bathtub for your interior design, it can serve as a beautiful and functional centerpiece of your bathroom.

When you’re remodeling or installing a new bathroom, think about choosing a tub that provides the most luxury and aesthetic enhancement for your decor. Also consider the amount of space you have, the water capacity of your home, floor weight capacity, and the tub’s intended uses. There are many different types of bathtubs, and the following nine are the most popular ones to choose from.

1. Alcove Bathtubs

The alcove bathtub is the one that you probably grew up with at your family home. After all, it is the most popular type. This classic design, also known as a “recessed bathtub,” is built against three walls in the bathroom. Its material can blend with the surrounding walls, and many different styles are available.

Alcove tubs aren’t the largest tubs, but they’re one of the most budget-friendly. They’re also easy to combine with a shower for space-saving convenience. You can choose from a range of materials, including resin, acrylic, fiberglass, and occasionally cast iron.

2. Freestanding Bathtubs

A freestanding bathtub can have a throwback style, or it can be modern and minimalist in design. Clawfoot tubs can impart a look of antiquity to complement vintage or Victorian interior design. With this type of tub, check first that it is a good aesthetic fit for your bathroom. For example, a sleek and colorful midcentury modern bath in a quaint Queen Anne might look out of place.

A freestanding tub can be a striking centerpiece that stands apart, but it is not ideal for tight spaces. One of the biggest advantages of this type of tub is ease of installation. Our installation specialists may need to enhance the flooring to bear the tub’s weight, depending on its material composition. For greater personality, you could opt for tubs that come in brass or cast iron material. Fiberglass and acrylic models are less expensive.

3. Drop-in Bathtubs

As the name implies, these types of tubs fit into a prepared deck space. It can fit into a floor or the surrounding walls. The installation process is a bit more complicated than some other designs, but it is a popular space-efficient solution. You can install tiles and other customizations in the space surrounding the tub, including holders for shampoo, soap, and candles, to enhance the design. Popular material choices for drop-in tubs include acrylic, fiberglass, and stone resin.

4. Corner Configuration

This bathtub design is similar to an alcove because it utilizes existing walls to fit into a corner. It has a 90-degree angle at one point of the design, and an overall triangular shape. The look is upscale and stylish for bathrooms to provide a spacious and luxurious experience. Corner baths don’t tend to pair well with a shower, but the design can maximize the bathroom space. With a corner design, you can envision creative layouts for an upscale look that enhances perceived value.

5. Walk-In Bathtubs

These bathtub designs provide benefits for people with mobility issues or people who like easier access to the tub. One of the sides of the tub has a door that enables you to enter without lifting your legs over the side. People who may struggle to enter tubs can enjoy greater independence and access with this functionality. They are also a choice for people who want a soothing spa-like experience.

You can enhance the tub with hydrotherapy and massage features to promote health and relieve stress. These types of tubs also work well as a shower and tub combination. Depending on the demographics and location of your home, this design can boost your home’s resale value.

6. Jetted Bathtubs

A jetted bathtub is a luxury experience for your bathroom that closely mimics the experience of a hot tub. Any tub that includes a water jet feature can fit into this category. The water jet can soothe muscles, provide massage therapy, and relieve stress. The two main types of jetted tubs are whirlpools and air jets. Whirlpools emit water streams that massage muscles and relieve pain. Air jets are soothing and stimulating, producing a bubbly sensation rather than a water stream.

A jetted bathtub is a luxury feature that enhances home value compared to regular tubs, and they offer health benefits via hydrotherapy. You will want to ensure that your bathroom is large enough to accommodate it before you install one.

7. Undermount Bathtubs

These tub designs are a great choice if your bathroom features marble or stone material. The tub mounting process places it under the surface of a marble or stone structure that stands either against a wall or in a free-standing area. The tub’s shape can be oval, rectangular, or something else, and the design is a good fit for jetted upgrades. Undermount bathtubs are ideal for homeowners who enjoy long soaks, and the elegant and clean configuration enhances upscale, modern bathroom aesthetics.

8. Garden Bathtubs

Garden tubs are growing in popularity. Designed for soaking, they provide greater relaxation. Often larger than other common tubs, they are freestanding, reminiscent of tubs that people used to have in their gardens. The oval shape and depth are ideal for comfort and longer soaking. The depth of garden tubs allows for full-body immersion. Due to the larger dimensions and weight of the tub, make sure that your floor can bear its weight and that your bathroom size is adequate. Garden bathtubs are available in plastic material to offset the cost of a larger tub. However, stone resin and enamel are more popular choices because they provide better heat retention for longer soaking.

9. Japanese Soaking Bathtubs

Japanese soaking tubs, also called ofuro, have designs that are ideal for long soaking and contemplation. Most designs are cylindrical, but oval, square, and octagonal ones also exist on the market. The distinguishing feature of a Japanese soaking tub is a built-in seat that enables long soak times in a seated position. Stylistically, this design could be a great choice if your bathroom has bamboo décor or a dark color scheme.

One of these popular bathtub types can provide you with your ideal bathing experience. The right choice will provide relaxation and comfort while enhancing your bathroom’s appearance and your home’s value. If you want to install a shower or a bathtub, Black-Haak is the company to call in the Greenville area. Since 1956, we have upheld an excellent reputation for plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical services. We always strive for the highest level of professionalism in our work and customer service.

For installation and repairs related to bathtubs, plumbing, and HVAC we’re ready to handle all types of jobs. Contact us at Black-Haak today.