If you’re planning to remodel or add a bathroom to your San Jose, CA, home, you’ll need to make several important decisions. One is determining which bathtub to install. Your bathtub selection plays a significant role in the comfort, overall style, and functionality of your bathroom. To simplify the process, here’s a comprehensive guide to selecting the perfect bathtub for your bathroom.
Assess Your Space
Before you can choose a bathtub, it’s important to take a close look at the space available in your bathroom. There are a couple of limiting factors that will influence your decision. One is your budget. The other factor, and perhaps the most crucial one, is the size of your bathroom, which is less flexible. This is why measuring your available space is the first step to narrowing your options.
Remember to leave enough room around the tub for easy access and exit. Also, consider how the new tub might impact the usability of other bathroom fixtures, such as the sink and toilet. For example, if your remodel includes replacing a standard toilet with an elongated model, you’ll have less space for the bathtub. Be sure to factor in these considerations as you make your decision.
Understand Common Bathtub Styles
Once you’ve measured your space, you can start becoming familiar with the different types of bathtubs available. Understanding the various styles and their installation requirements will help you continue narrowing your options. Here are some of the most common bathtub styles:
Freestanding Bathtubs
Freestanding bathtubs sit directly on your bathroom floor without being attached to any walls. These tubs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and this makes them a flexible choice for many bathroom designs. One popular option is the clawfoot tub, which features decorative feet and adds a touch of vintage elegance to your bathroom. If you prefer a modern look, you can select a freestanding tub with a sleek, minimalist design.
Another option within the freestanding category is the pedestal tub, sometimes referred to as a skirted tub. These tubs are slightly elevated off the floor, creating the illusion of being connected to the ground. Pedestal tubs come in oval and rectangular shapes to give you plenty of design flexibility.
Soaking tubs are another popular freestanding option. Deeper than standard bathtubs, they allow for full-body immersion. There are two main styles of soaking tubs: the tall oval design and the round Japanese-style soaking tub. If you have limited space but still want the luxury of a soaking tub, the Japanese-style version is an excellent choice.
Alcove or Recessed Tubs
Alcove tubs — also known as recessed tubs — are one of the most common bathtub styles found in San Jose homes. Installed against three walls, these tubs leave one side open. Many alcove tubs include a built-in shower, making them a practical choice for bathrooms where space is at a premium. Fitting neatly into a designated area, alcove tubs are an efficient option for small bathrooms, as they don’t require additional floor space.
Corner Tubs
Corner tubs are similar to alcove tubs, but they fit into the corner of your bathroom, bordering two walls instead of three. These tubs often have a rounded or angled third side, which gives them a unique shape. While corner tubs typically don’t include a built-in shower, some models come with a handheld sprayer for added convenience.
Jetted Tubs
Jetted tubs, also known as whirlpool tubs or Jacuzzis, come in a variety of styles and are equipped with water or air jets for a spa-like experience. These luxury tubs are ideal for homeowners who want to turn their bathroom into a relaxing retreat. While jetted tubs can be more expensive than standard models, the added comfort and therapeutic benefits can make them a worthwhile investment.
Choosing Between Available Materials
The material of your bathtub is another key factor to consider. Different materials offer different benefits, and some may be better suited to your needs and budget than others. Let’s take a look at some of the most common materials used in bathtub construction.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is one of the most affordable bathtub materials available. It’s lightweight, which makes it easier to install and reduces the need for floor reinforcement. If you’re considering a larger tub but don’t want to make structural changes to your bathroom, fiberglass is a great option. Fiberglass tubs are also durable and easy to clean, though they may not be as long-lasting as some made of other materials.
Acrylic
Acrylic tubs offer many of the same advantages as fiberglass, but they are more resistant to scratches and wear. Acrylic also retains heat better than fiberglass, and this is what makes it a more energy-efficient choice for homeowners who enjoy long, relaxing baths. Acrylic tubs are a bit more expensive than fiberglass ones, but their durability and energy efficiency can make them a better long-term investment.
Porcelain-Enameled Steel
Porcelain-enameled steel tubs are highly durable and resistant to chemical damage, and this makes them easy to clean. However, they are heavier than fiberglass or acrylic tubs, which can complicate installation. These tubs are also prone to chipping, so they may require more maintenance over time. Despite these drawbacks, porcelain-enameled steel tubs are often as affordable as acrylic models and offer a classic, timeless look.
Cast Iron
Cast iron tubs are similar to porcelain-enameled steel tubs but are much heavier and more expensive. Their weight makes installation more challenging, but their durability makes them a long-lasting option. Cast iron tubs can be resurfaced as the porcelain finish wears, ensuring that they maintain their appearance over time. If you’re looking for a bathtub that will last for decades, a cast iron tub is a solid choice.
Cast Polymer
Cast polymer tubs, made from materials like onyx, cultured marble, and granite, offer a luxurious, high-end look. These tubs combine ground stone with polymers to create a durable and water-resistant finish. Cast polymer tubs are nonporous, which makes them easy to clean and resistant to water damage. If you’re looking for a bathtub that mimics the look of natural stone without the high maintenance, cast polymer is a great option.
Other Considerations
Before you make your final decision, there are a few other things to keep in mind. One important consideration is whether your bathroom will need any modifications to accommodate your new tub. For example, if you currently have an alcove tub but want to install a freestanding model, you may need to refinish walls and reroute plumbing lines. These changes can add to the overall cost of your bathroom remodel.
If you’re installing a jetted tub, you’ll also need to consider the electrical requirements. Basic jetted tubs usually need a 15-amp circuit to power the pump, while models with built-in heaters may require an additional circuit. In some cases, you may need to upgrade the electrical system in your home to accommodate the new tub.
Neighborhood Tub Installation Experts
When you’re ready to install a new tub in San Jose, trust Plumbtree Plumbing & Rooter to handle the job with care and precision. Our experienced plumbers specialize in bathroom remodeling. We also offer a full range of plumbing services, including drain repairs, gas line installation and 24/7 emergency repairs. We’re proud to have been screened and approved on HomeAdvisor and recognized as a Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave. Our team is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating and has earned Diamond Certification.
To get started, contact us today at Plumbtree Plumbing & Rooter!
