The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Between Freestanding and Built-in Bathtubs for Your Dream Bathroom
When it comes to bathroom remodeling, few decisions have as much impact on both style and functionality as choosing the right bathtub. The bathtub is one of the most recognized and distinctive features in any bathroom. A new style of tub can completely change the look and feel of even a familiar room. Whether you’re planning a complete renovation or simply upgrading your existing space, understanding the differences between freestanding and built-in bathtubs will help you make the best choice for your home.
Understanding Freestanding Bathtubs
A freestanding tub is a bathtub with all four sides exposed that sits directly on your bathroom floor. A freestanding bathtub becomes a visual centerpiece to a bathroom. It catches the eye because it stands alone, independent of all surrounding walls and fixtures, with the exception of the plumbing. These luxurious fixtures offer several compelling advantages for homeowners looking to create a spa-like atmosphere in their bathrooms.
Benefits of Freestanding Bathtubs
Freestanding bathtubs have become popular for their aesthetic appeal and versatility. They create a striking visual impact and can serve as a centerpiece in the bathroom. Freestanding tubs offer more design flexibility, allowing for various styles, shapes, and materials. Freestanding bathtubs allow you to use your space more creatively. Want a tub directly under a skylight in the middle of the room? Why not! While built-in tubs may need two or more walls for their installation, with freestanding tubs, anything goes!
Installation is another significant advantage. Compared to a built-in tub, a freestanding tub is painless to install. Instead of a decorator and a contractor, you’ll likely just need a plumber. This streamlined installation process can save both time and money during your renovation project.
Drawbacks of Freestanding Bathtubs
However, freestanding tubs do come with some considerations. Freestanding tubs are generally more expensive than built-in tubs, even when installation is considered. This is because they are more complex to build and have more design flourishes. Freestanding tubs have fewer options in terms of accessible storage than do built-ins. There is simply no ledge or deck on a freestanding tub to put your shampoo or your candles.
Weight can also be a concern. Many freestanding tubs can be extremely heavy, often requiring floor reinforcement. This is undoubtedly the case for cast iron tubs. Additionally, maintenance can be more challenging since you need to clean around all four sides of the tub.
Understanding Built-in Bathtubs
A built-in bathtub is installed against your bathroom walls and can be tucked into corners or alcoves. Built-in bathtubs offer several advantages. They can maximize space efficiency as they fit snugly against the walls, making them suitable for smaller bathrooms. Built-in tubs also provide an opportunity for storage or shelving around the tub area.
Benefits of Built-in Bathtubs
For homeowners working with limited space, built-in tubs are often the practical choice. Built-in bathtubs provide practicality and space efficiency: Perfect for smaller bathrooms, built-in tubs take up less space, are easier to clean, and typically cost less to install. Their enclosed design allows for shower-bath combos and offers a ledge for convenient storage, but they lack the dramatic appeal of freestanding tubs.
The standardized plumbing requirements for a built-in bathtub can make installation more affordable. Depending on the design, built-in tubs are easier to clean than freestanding or clawfoot tubs. Shelving and storage can be built around the tub or placed more closely within reach.
Drawbacks of Built-in Bathtubs
While built-in tubs excel in functionality, they may not provide the same visual impact as their freestanding counterparts. Built-in bathtubs generally require more complex installation compared to freestanding tubs. Built-in tubs need to be properly fitted against the walls, and the surrounding enclosure or tilework requires careful installation. This complexity can increase both installation time and costs.
Making the Right Choice for Your Space
In the end, the choice between a freestanding and a built-in bathtub comes down to your personal preference, bathroom space, and budget. Both types of tubs have their unique charm and advantages. A freestanding tub can serve as a luxurious centerpiece in your bathroom, while a built-in tub can provide practicality and convenience.
Consider your bathroom’s size, your budget, and how you plan to use the space. If you have a larger bathroom and want to create a luxury spa experience, a freestanding tub might be perfect. For smaller spaces or families who need efficient shower-bath combinations, built-in options often make more sense.
Professional Installation Matters
Regardless of which style you choose, professional installation is crucial for ensuring your new bathtub functions properly and adds value to your home. Whether you’re considering switching from a freestanding to a built-in tub, or vice versa, it’s important to consult a plumber to see what’s feasible. The plumbing requirements for the two types of tubs can be different. For example, a freestanding tub might need plumbing lines coming up through the floor.
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The company’s commitment to excellence shows in their customer reviews. We worked with A+ Home Remodels on two bathroom remodels this past summer and truly appreciate the high quality of custom work and professionalism that they provided from start to finish. Manny, John, and the crews wonderfully transformed our old Master Bathroom & exceptionally updated our Guest Bathroom. The Master Bathroom had major changes in look, expanding and maximizing its shower and vanity spaces, and brought out a spa-like feel.
Conclusion
Key factors to consider when choosing a bathtub: Freestanding tubs often have better aesthetic impact but may lose heat faster. Built-in tubs can retain heat longer, are better for smaller spaces, and simplify maintenance. Budget, bathroom layout, and desired functionality are critical in making the right choice.
Whether you choose the dramatic elegance of a freestanding tub or the practical efficiency of a built-in option, the most important factor is selecting a style that fits your lifestyle, space, and budget. With proper planning and professional installation, either choice can transform your bathroom into a beautiful, functional space that adds value to your home for years to come.