Acrylic Bathtubs
Acrylic Bathtubs
There are many types of bathtubs available on the market today. They vary in color, size and functionality. Bathtubs can also be very different from each other depending on the material from which they were made. Acrylic bathtubs are a popular option that can be found in a wide variety of colors and sizes.
Acrylic bathtubs are crafted from very large sheets of acrylic. These sheets are then vacuum molded in any number of shapes and sizes. To help ensure durability, the acrylic is strengthened with fiberglass.
The Benefits of Acrylic Bathtubs
With these characteristics, acrylic bathtubs are lightweight and generally less expensive than bathtubs constructed of other materials. Being constructed of a hard material, acrylic bathtubs have very little maintenance required for upkeep and can be repaired very easily, should scratches, cracks or dents occur.
Acrylic bathtubs are colorfast. The color, whether it is white, black or any other color, is not painted onto the surface of the material. The bathtub is constructed of colored acrylic, therefore the color is fast through and through. This prevents the bathtub color from fading over time or another color showing through scratches and cracks.
The high glossed surface of acrylic bathtubs is resistant to scratches and dents, but if they do occur, they can be repaired quite easily. The finish of acrylic bathtubs is also protected against damage from most household cleaners and chemicals. However, there are some chemicals that will damage the surface such as acetones, and paint removers or thinners. A simple household cleaner will do the job of removing tough stains from an acrylic bathtub when running water will not do the trick.
Acrylic Bathtub Variations
Because acrylic bathtubs are vacuum molded, they can be formed into just about any shape and size. Round, rectangle, and oval acrylic bathtubs can easily be found as well as specially shaped and custom bathtubs. They can be found in modern contemporary styles as well as those resembling the old fashioned claw foot tubs.
Size variations are easy to come by with acrylic bathtubs, as well. For taller people or those seeking a tub for the purpose of full body soaking, a deeper bathtub will be needed. Shallower bathtubs are suited for shorter individuals or those looking for a tub for the purpose of bathing. Both of these can be accommodated with acrylic bathtubs.
Repairing Acrylic Bathtubs
Acrylic bathtubs are very resistant to damage but scratches, burns and dents can occur. Because they are color fast, these flaws can be easy to repair without any evidence of the damage left behind. Use a liquid polish for minor scratches. Simply rub the polish over the scratch with a soft cloth or pad, and the scratch vanishes.
There may be times when there are deeper blemishes to deal with in an acrylic tub. This could be from a deep scratch or even a burn. In these cases, fine grit sandpaper will be needed. It is important to first moisten the area with water just to prevent further scratching of the bathtub. Simply sand down the blemish and finish the job using liquid polish to buff and shine the glossy surface.
For badly damaged acrylic tubs, a replacement may be warranted. The choices here include a full new tub or even a tub liner. Compare the costs and effort involved in both to decide which the best fit for the scenario is.
Acrylic bathtubs require virtually no maintenance, are sturdy and damage resistant. These traits in combination with the wide variety of colors and sizes and lower priced models make acrylic bathtubs a popular choice for new and replacement bathroom fixtures.
