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If you’re contemplating replacing your bathtub, you have a real adventure ahead of you, because the options are many, and selecting the best one can be an overwhelming task.

To make it a little easier, here are some tips for you:

Decide on a Budget

A new tub can be relatively inexpensive or can cost as much as a several thousand dollars. Deciding what you can afford at the beginning of your search can save you a lot of time.

Put a Plan on Paper

Think about the current dimensions and arrangement of your bathroom, then make a blueprint. Measure all of the walls, corners, and alcoves so you can know exactly how much room you’ll have for the tub. If you’re planning to put the new tub where the old one is, measure the footprint of the current tub.

Will You Be Moving the Tub?

If you want to move the tub to a different part of the bathroom, you have to consider the plumbing ramifications. Moving the tub more than a few inches can considerably increase the cost and may require opening up walls and floors.

Basic Tub Types

• Three wall alcove tubs are the most common. They’re closed in by 3 walls, like a shower stall, and the tub has only one finished side that will show. That side is called the skirt.
• Drop in tubs are just the tub shell. They’re fitted inside a framed enclosure that’s designed to match the décor of the bathroom, and the tub shell is dropped in.
• Undermount tubs are similar to drop ins and are often installed at floor level. In this configuration, flooring tiles cover the lip of tub.
• Corner tubs are variations on the alcove and drop in designs. They’re usually large and squarish and as the name states, they fit in a corner of the bathroom with two walls typically exposed.
• Freestanding tubs feature a sculpted bowl and are on a solid base.
• Clawfoot tubs are classic. As the name states, they’re freestanding tubs with four feet resembling claws.

Tub Material

Once you’ve decided on the type of tub, you’ll still have to decide on the tub material. Tubs come in acrylic, fiberglass, porcelain enameled steel or cast iron, stone, and stone resin. Each one of these requires specific maintenance and cleaning, so keep that in mind.

To make the best decision for yourself and your family, you should contact the professional design team at Capitol Design Build. For over 30 years we have been delivering high-end kitchen and bath renovations to property owners from Springfield, VA to Washington, D.C. Our expert designs and quality workmanship have allowed us to earn a sterling reputation for excellence. We treat you like family and your home like our own, and always strive for 100% customer satisfaction. To learn more about our services or to schedule your free design consultation, visit our website or call us at 703-436-2069.