If you’re remodeling or upgrading your bathroom and considering different kinds of tubs, few choices are better or more versatile than freestanding tubs.
They offer a wide array of benefits when it comes to health, design and functionality, but it’s important to know which freestanding tub is right for you.
You can use this guide as a road map. It lays out the options, explains the advantages and gives you the information you need to make the best choice and find your ultimate freestanding tub.
Can a Freestanding Tub Be Jetted?
Yes! There are plumbing issues that can come into play with any freestanding tub, but getting one that’s jetted is one of the best ways to increase the comfort you get from bathing and many of the health benefits that freestanding tubs can provide.
Are Freestanding Tubs a Good Idea?
Freestanding tubs are a great idea if you’re looking for a specific high-end design, an upscale look or plenty of choices when it comes to materials and colors.
They’re also easier to install than a built-in tub if you’re doing a bathroom remodel, and you can place them almost anywhere in whatever design you choose.
Which Freestanding Tub is the Most Comfortable?
This is somewhat based on preference, but the consensus among experts is that freestanding oval tubs offer the highest level of comfort because of all the choices you can make when it comes to positioning you body when you use these tubs.
You can choose from any number of lumbar angles, and if you get a freestanding soaking tub the extra depth will help you work out the kinks in more areas of your body.
Cost Factors with Freestanding Tubs
Freestanding tubs are generally more expensive than built-in tubs, largely because they’re harder to build due to their complexity, and they tend to have more design flourishes as well.
You can mitigate those cost factors to some extent with cheaper materials like acrylics, but it’s important to be aware of hidden cost factors.
Freestanding tubs tend to be heavier as a general rule, which means you may need to consider flooring reinforcement if you have your heart set on a particular design or model. Their extra size means they weigh more when they’re full of water, so that should be taken into account, too.
Fiberglass freestanding tubs tend to weigh less, but the choices in fiberglass are somewhat more limited, and they can be more expensive.
What is the Best Size for a Freestanding Tub?
There are several factors you should take into account when you decide the best size for your freestanding tub:
- The size of your bathroom
- Are you doing a remodel, moving into an existing house or moving into new construction?
- Budget
- Design preferences vs practical considerations. Some people have their hearts set on a particular style, no matter what obstacles may stand in the way. Others take a more practical approach to freestanding tubs based on the above factors
- Plumbing issues. The age, style and configuration of your existing plumbing can all play into the decision to add a freestanding tub. Make sure you have your plumbing evaluated before you make the final choice.
Freestanding Tub Sizes for Your Bathroom
As a rule, there are three basic sizes when it comes to freestanding tubs:
- Standard. The most common dimensions for a freestanding tub are 5 feet/60 inches long, 30 inches/2.5 feet wide with a water depth of 19 inches/1.89 feet
- Smaller freestanding tubs can have different dimension, but the standard here is 55 inches/4.58 feet long, 27 inches /2.25 feet wide, with a water depth of 15 inches/1.25 feet.
- Larger/Custom. You can get freestanding tubs in larger sizes, of course, if you’re willing to pay the extra money and deal with any design issues that come up. Athletes, for instance, may need a longer freestanding tub or a deeper soaking freestanding tub, and plus size buyers may also need to take those kinds of considerations into account.
Small Freestanding Tubs
Small freestanding tubs give you more choices when it comes to the location in your bathroom, and cost-wise they can make it easier to get a specific design look.
Installations tend to be easier, and they give you the ability to use your bathroom space more creatively when you go to choose a design.
Large Free Standing Tub
A larger freestanding tub can make it easier to stretch out and relax, and you can even get a two-person tub if you’re so inclined.
Young adults tend to be taller and better suited for a larger freestanding tub, and you need to make sure the tub is comfortable for a single person and multiple users if that’s going to be the case with your family.
Acrylic Freestanding Tub
Acrylics are among the strongest material when it comes to freestanding tubs, and they tend to be better at handling wear and tear than fiberglass. Color-wise they’re very versatile, and they’re easy to install, too. The lifespan of an average acrylic freestanding tub is 10-15 years.
Cast Iron Freestanding Tub
Cast iron freestanding tubs tend to be heavier, but the look they give you is totally unique. They go well with a vintage remodel, but the bottom line is that if you’re creative enough, you can get a freestanding cast iron tub work in just about any setting.
Pedestal and Clawfoot Tubs
Did you know you can get freestanding tubs with feet? They’re called clawfoot tubs, and you can also get pedestal tubs, which have a solid base instead.
Kohler Freestanding Tub
Kohler has been in business for over 150 years, and they have a reputation for innovation as well as excellent, high-end bathroom and kitchen products. That’s true for their freestanding tubs as well, which represent a great value even if they are a high-end choice.
Which is Better a Soaking Tub or a Jetted Tub?
It depends on your personal preference. Some people fall in love with the experience of a deep soak in a tub that’s built for it, while others have an analogous experience with jetted tubs. They both provide the same kinds of benefits, though, and they’re both great choices.
What is the Difference Between a Jetted Tub and a Whirlpool Tub
Jetted tubs provide a stream of heated bubbles that are basically the equivalent of a soft tissue massage. Whirlpool tubs generate a stronger stream that’s not unlike a deep tissue massage.
Freestanding Bathtubs in Alcove with Shower
One of the best ways to show off freestanding tubs is to create a special place for them, then include a shower when you design your alcove. It’s a unique luxury statement that will set your freestanding tub apart.
Get a Great Freestanding Tub from Hydro Massage
Regardless of your choice, you can’t go wrong if you use Hydro Massage to help you select your freestanding tub. We’ve done this with thousands of happy customers who have been enjoying them for years.
To find out more, call us at (303) 356-7427, and you can also visit us at hydromassageproducts.com, where you can do a live chat and check out our products. We also have some great videos and blog posts that will complete the picture when it comes to freestanding tubs and give you the essential information you need.
