When designing your bathroom, a huge decision to make is the bathtub. For the master bathroom, this is often a key feature that makes or breaks the room. There are many factors that should be taken into consideration.

In terms of style, there is the typical alcove tub, where the three sides of the tub are connected to the surrounding walls with only one side showing. This is most the most typical style and is usually the least decorated. It is usually connected to the shower.

Some bathtubs are “dropped in” to the frame or floor depending on one’s preference. If the tub is on the floor, getting in is extremely easy, but getting out can be dangerous. That is why many tubs like these have a frame built for them to be dropped in. While they are very beautiful and add a great flair to the bathroom, there is an extra cost due to the carpentry and plumbing issues that must be addressed when installing.

A free standing soaking tub

Soaking tubs are used for exactly what they sound like: soaking. These deep tubs can be installed in any way, and are perfect after a long day at the office. However, they are separate from the shower.

Tubs can be installed in the corner, called corner tubs. They are much bigger than ordinary tubs and set off the room. They can be placed against a wall or can stand alone. Depending on the installation, some tubs cannot be connected with the shower.

Freestanding tubs used to be the norm in all American homes, but now they are considered unique and add a bit of flair to the bathroom. The feet can be ball or claw, or if you prefer, has a flat bottom. It should be noted that the pipes are exposed, but this doesn’t take away from the beauty of the tub.

There are many materials that tubs can be made out of. The most popular is porcelain on steel. It is reasonably priced and extremely resistant to corrosion and acid. However, if the porcelain chips off, rust can form. Acrylic tubs are easy to clean and extremly durable, but it can scratch and become discolored over time. This material is very afordable. Fiberglass is the cheapest of the materials, and while it is very beautiful, it wears easily. Thankfully, fiberglass repairs are not costly. Cast iron tubs are significantly more expensive, but for good reason. The way the tub is made makes it highly resistant to chips, scratches, corrosion, acid, and age. Ceramic tubs are the most expensive, but they are a truly custom tub that allows one to create a beautiful design on the tub. However, this work is extremely tricky, and extra precaution must be taken in while making this tub to insure there are no leaks.

While this all may seem over-whelming, the designers here at KC Cabinetry are here to help! Come in or call today to discuss creating a bathroom that is as unique as you are.

- Cassandra Cordova, KC Cabinetry Intern