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Bathtubs are lovely. They are the perfect setting for folks to unwind, relax, and enjoy some valuable ‘Me Time’. Having the right bathtub in the bathroom can transform the overall bathing experience and the mood afterward.
Before purchasing a bathtub, it’s crucial to develop a list of all the important variables and spend some time reflecting on them. This ensures that there are no surprises later. The process can be overwhelming at times, but this article helps by providing a helpful checklist when purchasing a bathtub.
The Shape
Bathtubs come in many shapes – rectangular, oval, round, cornered, angled, etc. A rectangular bathtub gives a standard look, while the oval ones have smooth round edges that increase the comfort factor. The round bathtubs look cute.
For something that fits well in smaller spaces, the cornered bathtubs are ideal. To give a stylish and ergonomic appeal, there are angled bathtubs available in the market.
It all tracks down to the customer’s preferences.
The Weight
If the bathtub is to be installed on the first floor, the weight won’t be an issue. Else, the weight of the empty bathtub and the bathtub when it’s full of water must be taken note of.
The quality of the bathroom floor is the next thing to consider assessing the total weight it can hold. Calling a contractor would be best for this job.
The Material
Bathtubs are a big investment. So, it’s better to look for a sturdy material when it comes to buying it. The market is flooded with options, and each has its pros and cons. The material of the bathtub also determines the look and feel the bathroom will have. So, it’s better to choose wisely.
Some good materials for a bathtub would be Fiberglass, Porcelain, and Stone Resin. These are easy to maintain and give a luxurious look while also fitting in the budget.
The Bathroom Space
The space in the bathroom is an important factor to be considered before investing in a bathtub. Also, there needs to be a proper plan in place that includes what other things will occupy space in the bathroom. Be it a steam room, the sink, wardrobes, or anything else. It also depends on the bathroom dimensions.
With the help of a measuring tape, take the total length, breadth, and width of the space where the bathtub will be situated. The measurements should be exact and there should not be any rounding off done. The bathtub dimensions should match these measurements.
For example, if the length turns out to be 61.2 cm, don’t round it off at 61 cm. This will help give a clear idea to the bathtub provider and make an accurate choice.
Also, the bathroom door and other entry doors of the house should be four to five inches bigger than the width of the bathtub. This ensures a smooth process for the movers, and the bathtub doesn’t get stuck midway before reaching the bathroom.
The Features
To make bathing in a bathtub a safe and interesting experience, there are additional features that can be considered. Some bathtubs come with speaker panels, so while the person is bathing he can put on some of his favorite tunes, and immerse himself in the relaxation. These panels attach themselves to the tub, also sending vibration along the water.
LED lights are another great addition. These lights are wet rated and are installed on the bathtub surfaces. The colors of these lights can vary and can be adjusted as per the desired feel.
There are many features available depending on the product and its cost. While looking for a bathtub, it is advisable to check it for ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance.
The Budget
Purchasing a bathtub is not only about the cost of the bathtub. There are additional charges that need to be considered pre-hand. This includes the cost of installation, fixing the drain, shower head, bathtub hardware essentials, or more.
Doing some research can help to navigate the situation better. Some examples of this would be inquiring about the process in bathtub showrooms and talking with friends who have already a bathtub installed.
Then, calculate the estimated cost required for the product and its related services. This will help avoid any last-minute confusion and because of research, there are chances to find the best bathtub in the decided price range.
Conclusion
Bathtubs are durable, so the time and effort spent researching and purchasing one are well worth it. Following the guidelines outlined above will ensure that the individuals receive the bathtub they deserve.
