When selecting the perfect bathtubs size is one of the most important aspects to consider! The difference between a 59 inch freestanding tub, 48 inch tub or a large a 72 inch clawfoot tub can make or break the design of the bathroom. Style and design are also important considerations. Use these shopping tips below to find the perfect tub for your space.

Finding the perfect tub

By Andrew Gorsek

Today I'd like to talk to you about some of the things you should consider if you're going to buy a bathtub. The first thing to consider is how are you going to install your tub if it's going to be in an alcove it needs to have a finished front on it down to the floor that's called the apron. Tubs come with that apron already installed these are called 'integral apron tubs' or the apron may be removable, but the tub could also be freestanding where it's finished on all four sides.

It could drop into a piece of furniture or something that has a cutout for it and finally there are tubs that have doors in the front that are walk-in tubs for people who have a hard time climbing in and out of a bathtub.

The next thing you have to consider is where the drain is located on your installation. As you face the tub, if it's on the left side it's a left-hand outlet, if it's on the right side it's a right-hand outlet if it's an existing installation the size is already determined.

If it's a new bathroom that you're designing you can go with different sizes and there are many sizes available, however, you need to make sure that the size that you pick will fit through the hallways and doorways of your home, so you don't have to tear your house down in order to get it into the bathroom. Average sized tubs are 30 to 40 inches and larger 40 to 54 bathtubs are most common. Traditionally bathtubs come with a cast-iron shell that has a porcelain finish on the top, this is a very durable finish but these tubs are very heavy and the porcelain kind tends to chip. However, there are tubs available now that have a reinforced lightweight shell with a porcelain finish and there are plastic acrylic tubs that are lighter with fiberglass backing on them which makes them very strong.

There are tubs that are extra deep that give you 1 to 2 inches of extra depth before the water flows out. Don't forget to consider a textured surface on the bottom of the tub which makes it more resistant to slipping and finally you may want to consider enhancing your tub purchase by also getting a whirlpool or an air bath, these can give you a spa experience!

Consider all of these things! You're not going to be buying a bath tub every day and it's a long-term purchase so carefully consider all of these things and you'll make a choice that you'll be happy with for a long long time you

See our great selection of 30 to 48 inch tubs on sale at Bathandvanities.com!