Bathtub Installation Considerations

Varieties of Bathtubs

The Function of the Bathtub

There is nothing quite like a hot bath with soapy, silky watering covering every inch of your body. On a snowy cold day, a relaxing bath is the best treat you can receive, but no matter what season, a bath is the perfect getaway. Pedestal bathtubs provide the depth needed to submerge the body, while relaxing the muscles and supporting the head.

How Pedestal Bathtubs Work

These tubs are set up on a pedestal and therefore can be deeper than a traditional tub that is sitting on the floor. Similar to an in the ground pool, the bathtub extends past the flat surface of the pedestal so the bather enters by stepping down into it, rather than stepping over the side of the tub. Because of this, pedestal bathtubs are widely popular for those who wish to have the ultimate bath experience.

The bathtubs are positioned on a pedestal with about two steps going up to the pedestal. There is typically a seat or seats built into the tub to act as steps for getting in and for comfortable seating within the tub. Pedestal bathtubs are perfect for whirlpool jets, whereas traditional bathtubs can be too shallow once the jets start pumping the water.

Pedestal Bathtubs For Small Bathrooms

The tubs can also fit very nicely into a small bathroom. Because of the depth, pedestal bathtubs can be made shorter in length while still allowing the bather to be completely submerged up to the chin. A corner style pedestal works the best in a small bathroom, making the most of the space without sacrificing comfort and function.

Styles Of Pedestal Bathtubs

There are a variety of styles and colors available to compliment almost any style bathroom. Because of the fiberglass design, they can easily be custom built to fit any shape. We have come a long way from bathing by sitting in upright barrel filled with water to today's modern bathtubs. Taking a bath today is more for relaxation purposes than a function of washing. The shower is typically reserved for everyday hygiene, while the bathtub is more of a luxurious item in the bathroom. Often the centerpiece, bathroom styles are focused on creating a warm and relaxing environment. The bathroom is now one of the most coveted rooms in the house.

Vaselli Oversized Bathtubs

Vaselli oversized bathtubs are circular in shape and look like a large stone pie pan. The custom created tubs can take on any shape or size and is the decision of the owner. Placement in the home is typically in a room all its own. The tubs are so large, they are the prominent piece in the room. Typically they are placed by a picture window or even in a private garden of a mansion.

Oversized Bathtub History

Bathtubs have evolved over time from a cut off barrel with a stool in it. These rough tubs were often used once per week and were quite uncomfortable. Back in the day, bathing was not done every day the way we do now. As bathing became more frequent, bathtubs changed. Kohler was at the forefront when they enamel baked a cast iron horse trough to create a bathtub where a full grown man could recline. Today we have many styles to choose from including size, shape, and color. We also have choices in materials used such as fiberglass, acrylic, cast iron and more. There are jetted styles, combination shower and bathtub styles, freestanding styles, built in styles, square and rectangular. And there are the oversized bathtubs that provide the ultimate in luxury.

A bath is no longer a chore and part of a bathing routine. We use showers for hygiene purposes. The bathtub is reserved for relaxation and luxury. The bathroom itself is now one of the most important rooms in the house. A complete oasis can be created with every creature comfort possible, from flat screen televisions to built in stereos that play mp3's, heated towel racks, candle holders, incense burners, picture windows, gas fireplaces, heat lamps and more. You can practically move into the bathroom and live very comfortably. Oversized bathtubs in an oversized room can be enjoyed alone or in a romantic setting. It can also be enjoyed with friends with clothing optional.

Inspired by the Italian inventors who made them of stone, these tubs do not have any inhibitions. They are a bold piece for anyone who has the personality to match.

MAAX bathtubs meet rigorous quality standards and are available in a vast array of styles, shapes and sizes. With a staff of 1400 employees, they focus on a healthy work environment resulting in productive employees who put as much of themselves into the products as the owners and founders.

History Of Maax Bathtubs

MAAX began manufacturing in 1969 and in 1973 theywere first produced with fiberglass as its main material. They now has five brands that include the MAAX Collection, Pearl Baths, MAAX Professional, Advanta by MAAX, and Keystone by MAAX. Their Collection offers a world of sophistication with upscale bathtubs that are distinct and the crème de la crème of the company. For those who want to experience true wellness, the Pearl Baths brand provides high end bathtubs to pamper mind, body and soul. MAAX Professional offers constructive solutions to professionals with a full range of quality bathtubs that are both affordable and easy to install. Advanta by MAAX offers a virtual shower configurator online along with tips on how to select the perfect bathtub. With unique and innovative designs, these tubs are true to the company standard. And Keystone by MAAX offers peace of mind guaranteed in bathtubs and other bathroom products.

Design Of Maxx Bathtubs

MAAX bathtubs offer revolutionary designs that include the quietest whirlpool in the industry. When you want to relax, you want peace and quiet, not the sound of jets roaring in the background. Little details make all the difference, and make pays close attention to the details so that the big stuff is all that much better.

It is amazing the changes that bathtubs have gone through since they first came to be. Once just a cut off barrel, with a stool in it, that served the purpose of cleaning our bodies quickly in water that was often too cold, bathtubs today are a luxurious product, made to pamper. We look forward to a long hot bath where we can add beautiful smelling oils and bubbles along with jets to massage away our worries. The bath is now an escape from the worries of our day and not really just a method to wash our bodies. We have showers for that! Taking a bath is a luxury, not a chore.

Learn About High Quality Lasco Bathtubs

From the acrylic jetted tubs to the Lasco bath and shower combos, Lasco Bathtubs turn any bathroom into a luxurious escape. Lasco pays special attention to detail in the engineering of their tubs and materials used. One out of every four homes in America has at least one Lasco bathtub, outselling every other manufacturer in the business.

Lasco bathtubs are environmentally friendly with state of the art pollution controls, reducing factory emissions to retain air quality. They are the only company in this arena to do so. Other manufacturers opted to use lower quality materials to be factory compliant, causing their product to suffer in the process. Lasco uses styrene which is critical to fiberglass reinforcement, while still keeping it lightweight. By exceeding the United States EPA standards, they were able to produce the product the way it should be made and gives the customer the strength that they perceive to be there in a superior product.

Lasco facilities are strategically located near to where their Lasco bathtubs will be shipped, reducing fuel consumption and therefore producing less of a carbon footprint. With a company so dedicated to the environment, their products can only be of the most utmost quality.

Styles Of Lasco Bathtubs

Lasco bathtubs come in a variety of styles such as whirlpool, air bath, air whirlpool combinations, soakers, tub showers, tub and shower suites, and more. With the addition of a steam shower, your bathroom can become your own little oasis of relaxation. Take steam or whirlpool bath to erase your worries, decorate the bathroom with candles and soft music and escape the day.

The bathroom has evolved from a small room with a toilet, sink and tub to a room with its own style and grace. Today's modern bathroom is all about ambiance and function. The bathtub is the centerpiece and is the piece that provides the most relaxation. From a romantic bubble bath, to a quiet alone time soak, to bath time with the kids, Lasco bathtubs provide a long lasting focal point for your bathroom. There are many colors and style to choose from to match any décor or style. Use accessories to create the perfect oasis for you and your family.

Materials Used To Make Kohler Bathtubs

The main material for Kohler bathtubs is cast iron, but they also produce fiberglass reinforced acrylic bathtubs and lightweight Kohler Vikrell Advanced Composite which is a fiberglass and polyester blended resin. All tubs are slip resistant and designed for the utmost in safety and comfort.

Kohler bathtubs have continued to grow over the past 130 years with the introduction of innovative designs that include Built-In Seat Tubs, the Birthday Bath clawfoot tubs with an ergonomic design, and the Adventura Shower and Soak Whirlpool. In 1997, Kohler produced its 1 millionth tub, the Kohler Villager bath tub.

Different Types Of Kohler Bathtubs

Today Kohler produces a wide variety of bath tubs and showers in a vast array of shapes and sizes. With easy installation, these tubs are a popular fixture in modern homes. Whirlpool bath tubs are among the most popular tubs with the Soak and River Bath models topping the list which also includes the Experience Whirpools and ProFlex line.

Bathrooms have become on of the most favorite rooms in the home. Once a utility room that served only as a room to shower, bathe and use the toilet, the bathroom is now a room for comfort and relaxation. It is a room to get away from the stresses of every day life, soak in a hot whirlpool bath with candles flickering in the background and soft music playing. The bathtub has become the main feature of the bathroom.

Kohler bathtubs form the central point of any bathroom with their great designs that fit almost any size room. Separate shower stalls with free standing whirlpools are a feature that suits larger bathrooms. Other products such as sinks and toilets combine to create the perfect bathroom oasis.

Kohler Bathtubs May Be The Best Option In Your Bathroom

Whatever your style, Kohler can accommodate and work within the confines of your bathroom. A complete bathroom makeover can change the entire feel of the home. With amazing master bathrooms, the room is now part of the master bedroom with the same style and comfort. Other great accessories like a heated towel rack, vanity, candle holders, built in stereo, flat screen television and heated wipes holder combine to make your bathroom a room you may never want to leave. Whether you use it for a romantic evening or fun bath time with the kids, your bathroom can be a mini-vacation from the world.

As time passed, luxury home owner's in England built garden rooms onto their homes with big windows. A garden bathtub was placed in such a way as to overlook the garden and surrounding estate. Soon any tub that was placed near a window, where one could overlook any landscape, was called a garden bathtub.

Features Of Garden Bathtubs

Garden bathtubs remain to this day and are generally larger and deeper than traditional tubs. There are no jets or shower heads as these tubs are mostly used just for soaking. The garden tubs of yesteryear were made of zinc, but today smooth and glassy finishes of enamel and acrylic are applied, modernizing it but not stealing its original beauty. The name itself denotes a feeling of relaxation among the smell of sweet flowers.

Some modern bathtubs with large picture windows can keep with tradition by placing a garden bathtub under the window with a view. Luxuriating in a bath while looking over the greens or gazing up at a night sky can be tranquil and peaceful. Taking a hot bath overlooking falling snowflakes is the utmost in relaxation.

Our bathrooms today are grand rooms in themselves. We can add any accessory to make the bathroom a room we can linger in for hours. From stereos, flat screen television, heater lamps, heated towel racks, candle holders and more, there is no need to leave right away. The sky is the limit as to what you can do with your bathroom and garden bathtubs add just the right amount of style that takes us back to ancient times.

Bathroom Ideas Using Garden Bathtubs

Some bathrooms have a separate walled off section of the bathroom with a door for the toilet area, similar to they way it is in luxury hotels. This provides privacy and makes the bathroom more of a separate space. More and more people are learning to enjoy their bathrooms with the bathtub as the focal point. Garden bathtubs under a picture window provide a spectacular ambiance with a fantastic view. For those who want a romantic evening soaking in the tub under the stars, the garden tub is there to make it happen. Or even for some great alone time listening to your favorite music, a bath is your own private escape.

Why Choose Fiberglass Bathtubs For Your Bathroom

The result are lightweight fiberglass bathtubs that are easier to install and help home owners who are renovating to save on the cost of reinforcing flooring to support a heavy steel tub. They are also very affordable and are probably the lowest priced bathtub on the market. Fiberglass is easy to repair, though it can sometimes become dull when the protective gel coat wears off. . Cracks can be easily fixed with epoxy resin, which is not possible with other materials. These tubs can be molded into any shape, although the most popular are rectangular, triangular corner style and square.

How To Buy Fiberglass Bathtubs

When buying fiberglass bathtubs make sure that the tub has a sturdy wooden frame surrounded by a thick coating of fiberglass. Choose a tub from a reputable manufacturer such as MAAX, Kohler and Lasco. These companies have quality control systems in place to ensure that their tubs are the utmost in function and comfort. A durable and strong bathtub can last a lifetime.

Bathtubs are the centerpiece of any bathroom. Once hidden behind a shower curtain and used mainly to catch the water that feel from the shower, the bathtub is now often found as a stand alone. Modern fiberglass bathtubs can be found separate from the shower, making it more accessible, more comfortable and it stays cleaner. A stand alone bathtub with jets is one of the most relaxing pieces that you will have in your home. What is better than a hot bath on a cold winter's night, or a warm bath on a summer night after a long day. Bubbles, jets, oils and candles all set the mood. A little soft music and you are off on a mini-vacation from the world.

The bathroom has evolved into a room with its own merit. More and more people are creating soothing and tranquil bathrooms, complete with steam showers, whirlpool bathtubs, picture windows, stereos, flat screen televisions, and even a gas fireplace. There is no limit to the style and design of a new modern bathroom. And fiberglass bathtubs are at the forefront of great bathroom renovations.

Antique Bathtubs In Homes

Soon these antique bathtubs were introduced into homes. In 1873, clawfoot bathtubs were produced by J.L. Mott Ironworks who poured enamel over the interior of the cast iron tubs. This made the tubs easier to clean and prevented bacteria growth. The enamel covered tubs were soon the standard in the United States for the following 60 years. It was not until the 1930's that the built-in fiberglass tubs, that we know today, hit the market.

Original Clawfoot Antique Bathtubs

The original clawfoot bathtubs were coated by heating powdered enamel to a very high temperature and then pouring it over the cast iron tub. This created a smooth, glassy surface that weighed anywhere from 250 to 400 pounds. Today we are seeing a boom in the interest of antique bathtubs, reminiscent of these tubs from yesteryear. These tubs are part of our history and home owners are creating capturing this with antique bathtubs as the centerpiece for their modern bathrooms.

These tubs are generally deeper than traditional and can be more comfortable and safer as well. In contrast to its 18th century counterparts, antique bathtubs of today are made fiberglass and acrylic allowing them to come in many colors and textures for great design options. This is not your grandfather's old white cast iron tub, they are stylish and contemporary.

Today's Antique Bathtubs

Today's version of these bathtubs can also include a showerhead that is either wall mounted or freestyle on a vertical pipe. The addition of shower rod wrapped around the tub for the shower curtain, adds real authenticity. To complete the look, some home owners choose other antique style products for their bathrooms, such as the old fashioned pull chain box above the toilet. Newly styled antique products can create the updated version of the Victorian Era. Bathrooms are now one of the most popular rooms in the house. An escape from every day life, a nice hot bath can take you away to anywhere in the world you want to be. With antique bathtubs, why not escape to the 18th century, complete with the romance and beauty of that beautiful era.

How Does a Wooden Bathtub Work?

When we put wood and water together, we usually end up with warped, unusable wood. So, when we think about using wood as a bathtub material, it can sound a little odd at first. However, wooden tubs have been used for years and continue to be used today.

Types Of Wood Used In Wooden Bathtubs

There are a couple of different ways that wood is used as a bathtub. Many manufacturers of wooden bathtubs use only hardwoods. They do require some up keep as the wood can quickly dry out causing disastrous cracking. It is encouraged to use this type of wood bathtub every day and to apply specialized oils to keep the wood moist. Teak is a good wood for wood bathtubs and is recommended by many as the longest lasting.

Other manufacturers apply a coating of fiberglass over every surface of the wood to protect it from the elements. This method is similar to that used by boat builders. The fiberglass is clear to allow the natural beauty of the wood to be seen. These wooden bathtubs require very little care and are treated much like a bathtub made from any other material.

Wooden Bathtub Coatings

Wooden bathtubs coated in clear fiberglass are said to last much longer than those that are not. Many companies that made this type of wooden bathtub even provide warranties against rotting and warping of the wood. The coating should be treated much like an acrylic bathtub. It is safe to use mild soaps and detergents but avoid applying harsh chemicals to prevent damage to the beautiful and necessary protective surface.

The Varieties of Wooden Bathtubs

Wooden bathtubs are available in many varieties. A standard bathtub can be replaced with a wooden bathtub for a fresh new look. These are exactly the same as the standard built in bathtubs, but are made of wood instead.

Corner bathtubs can be found in wood as well. They can be the bathtub on its own, or some manufacturers can include jets and pumps to create a Jacuzzi or whirlpool. These can come in a variety of shapes and sizes to ensure a perfect fit into any bathroom.

There are wooden bathtubs available as freestanding, double ended, and even wooden claw foot tubs. These create a unique look with the classic and traditional claw foot style. There are wooden bathtubs in just about every shape and size imaginable and if you're having trouble finding what you want, most wooden bathtub manufacturers will create custom orders.

Cost Of Wooden Bathtubs

Wooden bathtubs are a bit more expensive than a standard bathtub depending on the design and size of the tub. They can typically be found at the low end of around $4,000 and up depending on the model. Wooden bathtubs provide a comfortable lounging, relaxing bathing experience and a look that can not be found elsewhere.

What is a Walk In Bathtub?

It might sound odd to some, but walk in bathtubs allow you to do just that; simply walk in. With some variations among models, basically each walk in bathtub has a door in the side walls of the tub that opens to allow you to pass through. Stepping over the rim of the tub is difficult for some people so this design was the solution created to provide easy access.

The beauty of the walk in tub is that although there is a door in the side, it is still water tight. One can simply open the door, enter the tub and close the door. The tub is now ready to be filled.

Walk in tubs typically feature built in seating in the form of a bench to make bathing easier and more relaxing. Provided and strategically placed grab bars and faucets are within easy reach when in the seated position. These walk in bathtubs are deeper than a standard bathtub to provide a better soaking experience while in seated.

All walk in bathtubs are created with safety as the number one priority. The door is provided for easy access into the tub. The grab bars are located throughout the bathtub to give the user increased stability and support. Even the floor has been fashioned in a way to further prevent slippage before, during and after the bath. The floor is textured with a non-slip material that provides the much needed extra traction even when wet.

Who Can Benefit From Walk In Bathtubs?

As mentioned before, the elderly and handicapped were inspiration behind these specialized bathtubs. As we get older, it gets to be more difficult to climb over the high walls of bathtubs. Even the shallower ones can pose a problem. With the easy to use door, this issue is remedied.

Walk in bathtubs are a great problem solver for a number of handicaps. There are many models available, some that are specially made to be wheel chair accessible. One model in particular is raised off the ground so that it is level with the seated person in a wheelchair. This makes it easier to move from the chair to the provided seating within the bathtub. The doors of wheelchair accessible walk in bathtubs open outwards in stead of in to provide a larger opening to pass through.

The in-home care giver will also benefit from a walk in bathtub. Because many people need assistance getting up and down, the job requires a lot of heavy lifting. With walk in bathtubs, the need to lift is eliminated as there is easy open access to the bathtub seating.

Walk In Bathtub Costs

Walk in bathtubs vary in price but are more expensive than a standard bathtub while less than the very extravagant, high end tubs. Sometimes, insurance companies and Medicare will pay for or provide assistance for the purchase of a walk in bathtub.

Walk in bathtubs can give a feeling of independence and stability. Many people, who could not take a bath on their own before, can now. The creators of these specialized bathtubs have taken every precaution to make sure that safety is first, but in turn have made a comfortable and easy to use system. A walk in bathtub may be the best purchase made to encourage the well being of yourself or a friend or loved one.

Sterling has created a line of built-in, soaker, freestanding and corner bathtubs. Most of their bathtubs are of the five foot length size but they do offer a changing line of bathtubs of various sizes and shapes. This established company is known for producing comfortable bathtubs that are backed up by a warranty. For in home use, the bathtubs from Sterling come with a ten year warranty, so you can feel comfortable about your new investment.

Sterling's Durability

The bathtubs from Sterling are crafted from a high gloss material that is vacuum molded. This material, Vikrell, makes for vibrant colors that never fade and are fast through and through. Sterling bathtubs are available in a large variety of color choices, as well. Some models feature a textured surface on the flooring of the bathtub to reduce the chances of slipping or falling.

Damage is unlikely to occur with these durable Sterling bathtubs but should scratches or burns appear, they can be easily repaired. A liquid polish will quickly remove minor scratches. For more severe scratches or burns, sanding the area with sand paper and finishing with applying liquid polish will typically remove the blemish. Using harsh chemicals such as acetone or ethyl alcohol will damage the surface so avoid the use of abrasive cleaning products.

Installation and Maintenance of Sterling Bathtubs

Installation of Sterling bathtubs is quick and easy. They promote ease of installation of their products but are also available over the phone for installation questions. The Sterling Company, owned by Kohler, sets the standard for customer service as well as high quality bathtubs that are built to stand up to the test of time.

As with all bathtubs, it is important to take accurate measurements prior to purchasing a bathtub for installation to ensure it will fit in the space, as well as through the doorways. Sterling bathtubs are relatively lightweight and easy to install. Once installed in place, this bathtub is sure to give the room a dramatic change.

Sterling Bathtub Care

To keep the Sterling bathtub looking its best, it is important to take proper care of it. Using a mild soap or detergent to for routine cleaning is best. Soap scum can easily build up in the bathtub. To keep this down to a minimum, simply wipe the surface clean and dry with a soft cloth after each use. Aside from this, the Sterling bathtubs require virtually no maintenance.

Sterling is a well known name among makers of bathtubs and plumbing materials. They've set the standard for quality products and customer service. Sterling bathtubs are a great choice for durable, long lasting and colorful bathroom fixtures. With minimal maintenance required and a generous warranty, there should be no worries about purchasing a Sterling bathtub.

Soaking bathtubs are created simply for soaking. Therefore, these tubs are deeper than typical standard bathtubs. They are often longer, as well. Many soaking bathtubs are large enough to accommodate two people, with some models having the capacity for more.

Soaking Bathtub Styles

There are many styles of soaking bathtubs. Claw foot tubs are a very popular type of soaking bathtub. Claw foot tubs come in several different styles among themselves with some more suitable for soaking than others. Slippers are the best type of claw foot tubs for soaking. These have either one or both ends raised to provide a more comfortable space for lounging. Double slippers have both ends raised and are typically large enough for two people.

Most soaking bathtubs are freestanding. They usually aren't built-ins and usually aren't confined by walls. Soaking bathtubs are kept out in the open and are usually the featured piece in the bathroom. They can be found in the classic styles of the claw foot bathtubs as mentioned before or even in ultramodern shapes, colors and styles.

Soaking tubs can be crafted from a number of materials. Acrylic soaking tubs are lightweight and less expensive than other materials. Cast iron soaking tubs are durable but are generally more costly. Soaking tubs can also be found as copper bathtubs. These tubs are one of the most luxurious tubs available. They can be very costly but can be worth the cost in comfort and beauty. Copper soaker tubs are made of a very clean metal. Bacteria and fungus growth is prohibited naturally making copper tubs the cleanest available.

The Japanese have used soaker bathtubs for centuries. They only use their bathtubs for soaking, relaxation and hydrotherapy. Comfort is the top priority with Japanese soaker bathtubs. Bathing takes place in a shower prior to using the soaker bathtub. These soaker tubs are crafted with incorporated seating and digital temperature controls. Many models even have timers so the bath is ready at a set time of the day.

Installing Soaker Bathtubs

As soaker bathtubs are freestanding tubs, measurements should be taken but aren't as imperative as with built in bathtubs. A good general idea of size is important as is the size of doorways to ensure that replacement soaker tubs will fit into the bathroom.

One key aspect to remember is that because they are freestanding bathtubs, the plumbing of soaker tubs will always be visible. It is a good idea to replace old plumbing, pipes and fixtures at the same time the soaker tub is installed. Using chrome or gold pipes and fittings will dress up the soaker tub and prevent having ugly, grungy pipes from being visible.

A soaker bathtub is a great piece to have in the home to achieve ultimate relaxation in the form of a hot bath. Hydrotherapy and muscle tension relief are only a couple of the benefits of using a soaker tub. With the variety of choices available in the market today, there's a soaker bathtub out there for everyone.

Many corner bathtubs save space in the typical bathroom. They can be nestled between two sets of cabinets or under windows. But even in some small bathrooms, these corner bathtubs may be larger than what can be allotted.

The Varieties of Small Corner Bathtubs

Small corner bathtubs can be found in a variety of materials but the most common is acrylic. Acrylic makes for a very lightweight bathtub that is also generally inexpensive. The list of color choices for acrylic bathtubs is continuous and because the material itself is color, instead of being painted, the color is fast through the entire bathtub. This prevents fading and color changes due to age or damage. Should minor damages occur, acrylic small corner bathtubs can be repaired easily.

A great feature found in many small corner bathtubs is seating. Because these bathtubs are small, they are usually deeper than standard corner bathtubs. This format enables the individual to enjoy a soaking experience from a seated position. Most small corner bathtubs come with formed bench for seating.

Uses for Small Corner Bathtubs

Small corner bathtubs are an excellent choice for apartment buildings and homes with small bathrooms, where space is a precious thing. They provide a comfortable space to relax in a soothing hot bath, while still taking up very little space. At the same time, many modern small corner bathtubs can also be equipped with features such as Jacuzzi or whirlpool accessories. Now, small spaces can have the advantage of having both a comfortable bath, and a spa like experience.

Preparing for a Small Corner Bathtub

Accurate measurements are critical when preparing to install a small corner bathtub. Installing a corner bathtub is a little more extensive than a standard bathtub, but with proper measurements it can be a quick and fairly simple project. Ensuring that all steps have been taken for appropriate preparation will help make the installation process easier, as well.

Once proper measurements have been taken, and it is understood what size of tub can be accommodated within the space, an appropriate model can be purchased and installed. If the space allows for it, a stand up shower might be an extra step to take to provide both bathing and showering opportunities in a bathroom where a full sized bathtub may not fit.

Small corner bathtubs provide an excellent means for saving room in small spaces while still taking advantage of full body soaking and relaxation in a hot bath. With the availability of Jacuzzi and whirlpool accessories, a small bath can quickly be changed into a spa for the ultimate lounging experience. With the right planning and preparation, adding a small corner bathtub to a small space can make an immediate and dramatic change to the entire room.

What is "Too Small"?

Too often we see a bathtub as "too small" if it is not long enough. We are used to stretching out in the bathtub and lying down to soak. If we change how we think about soaking in the bathtub, we will be able to better see how a small bathtub can actually work better in a small bathroom space.

Instead of using more valuable space for a larger bathtub, try looking at how a small bathtub would fit into the room. A small bathtub will be shorter in length, but they can be much deeper. Small bathtubs are made to promote soaking from a sitting position.

Some small bathtubs are deep enough to accommodate soaking up to the neck. The Japanese have their own bathtubs that use this same technique. Their bathtubs are for the sole purpose of taking advantage of hydrotherapy and relaxation, and not bathing. Bathing is instead done in a shower.

Utilization of the Space

When installing a small bathtub into a small bathroom, there is often space left for a stand alone shower. Small bathtubs take up much less floor space than a standard or larger bathtub. For those who prefer to use bathtubs for relaxation only, this extra space can be utilized for a stand up shower.

Small bathtubs are also easily installed as corner bathtubs. Tucked between cabinets or nestled under windows, a small bathtub can typically fit nicely in any corner of most bathrooms. Corner bathtubs can take up less room than other bathtubs, as well, leaving more valuable free floor space available.

Types of Small Bathtubs

There are several different types of small bathtubs. As mentioned earlier, the Japanese have created a style of bathtub that promotes relaxation and lounging through a deep soaking bathtub. This style of bathtub can be found with seating already provided within the bathtub. True Japanese bathtubs can be difficult to find outside of the Eastern part of the world, but the general style has been mimicked by some bathtub manufacturers to make it easier for Westerners to take advantage of this technology.

Small claw foot bathtubs are readily available. They are deeper than standard tubs, so soaking is made easier, but they lack the extra length. Because they are deeper, comfort is still encouraged while precious floor space in the small bathroom is not sacrificed.

Installing a Small Bathtub

When installing a small bathtub it is important to take proper measurements of the space. Be sure to know exactly how much space can be afforded for a bathtub before shopping and making the purchase. If the small bathtub is a replacement, the location of plumbing fixtures will play a part in the particular model of small bathtub chosen. However, if the bathtub is being purchased for a new construction project, measurements need not be quite as strict as bathrooms are typically constructed around the bathtub and other fixtures.

It is always a challenge to decorate and remodel small rooms. The bathroom can be the most difficult of all. Small bathtubs are perfect for these situations. Choosing the right fixtures for the space will help enable the best choice for the purchase.