Things you need to know when choosing a bath tub.
The right bath tub can make great impact on a bathroom and there are a multitude of choices when it comes to shape, size and options. Here we will look at the main considerations you need to make when selecting the right bath tub for your new bathroom.
1. Available Space
2. Bath Tub Use
3. Bath Tub Type
4. Bath Tub Size
5. Additional Bath Tub Options
AVAILABLE SPACE
This is going to be one of the most important things determining the size and type of bath tub you can choose.
What is the maximum space you have available to place a bath tub?
Are you replacing an existing bath? How does this size work in the room?
Will you have enough room around the bath tub to navigate the bathroom properly?
Will you have enough room to effectively use the toilet, shower and vanity basin?
Some types of bath tubs will take up quite a large area of the bathroom. Knowing what the absolute maximum space you can use is going to make finding the right bath so much easier.
BATH TUB USE
What are you primarily using the bath tub for?
If you use a bath tub often for soaking, then maybe the better option for you is to choose a bath tub that is contoured, giving a more comfortable bathing experience.
If you are using the bath tub mainly for bathing children, a better option may be to choose a low bath so you can easily kneel beside the bath while still being able to reach into the bath comfortably and with reduced strain on your back and arms.
Will you mainly be using the bath tub for showering? If this is the case, a lower bath will be more practical in getting into and out of the bath. They will also generally have a dimpled anti-slip base.
Many people will only choose to install a bath tub to provide a bath for future occupants of the home, optimising resale. If it is a family sized home it would be safe to assume future occupants may have children or may enjoy a long soaking bath, so a contoured bath may be the best option.
For those looking for a bath tub with a WOW factor there are many amazing designs in baths and many different materials baths are constructed with. Copper, Volcanic Limestone, Marble and Timber are only a few of the materials designer baths are constructed in. These are very expensive and most, due to the size and weight of them, will generally need to be installed in the very early stages of the building’s construction.
BATH TUB TYPE
There are 4 main types of bath tubs available in Australia; Inset Built-in bath tubs, Island bath tubs, Corner bath tubs and Freestanding bath tubs.
INSET BUILT-IN BATH TUBS are the most common type of bathtub. They are a rectangular bath and are designed to sit against the wall in a corner or in an alcove. A frame is built to support the bath tub and the exposed face of the frame is generally tiled. If using a recess bath tub as a shower/bath then ideally the bath tub should have a tiling edge. The tiling edge is notched into the wall and the tiling will extend to or over the tiling edge. This is extremely important when using the bath for showering as it stops water from the shower getting into the wall cavity.
ISLAND BATH TUBS are a popular choice for baths that DON’T require a shower over. Island baths tubs DON’T have a tiling edge, and are available as a rectangle or oval bath. They are inset into a platform, hob, or set directly into the floor. Island bath tubs need more space than a Recess bath, due to the extra length and width from the platform or hob it is set in, which is normally 50-100mm on all sides. Island baths give a more luxurious look to a bathroom. They are a great choice if you have the space.
CORNER BATH TUBS are usually used in larger bathrooms. Corner bath tubs are available as an inset, island or freestanding style. Corner baths are generally made for 2 person bathing with their generous bathing area.
FREESTANDING BATH TUBS are becoming increasingly popular and are available in many amazing designs. Freestanding baths range from the traditional Claw Foot Bath, to very modern luxurious designs. Used in large bathrooms a freestanding bath will create a very grand impression.
STANDARD BATH SIZES
The most common bath sizes are listed below. Sizing will vary between suppliers but this will give you a fairly good idea of the sizes available.
Rectangle or Oval baths:
Lengths: 1500mm, 1650mm, 1700mm, 1800mm
Widths: 715mm, 755mm, 820mm, 1100mm
Depths: 330mm, 450mm, 520mm
Corner Baths:
Length/ Width: 1350 x 1350mm, 1600 x 1600mm
Depth: 380mm, 450mm, 520mm
ADDITIONAL BATH TUB OPTIONS
HEADRESTS are available for most baths, to make the bathing experience more comfortable.
OVERFLOW SYSTEMS give added piece of mind to the bath user to eliminate the chance of the bath overflowing in the case of the tap being left running. Overflow systems can only be fitted to a bath if the bath is mounted onto a base support frame. Not all baths are available with an overflow option.
BASE SUPPORT BASE/ FRAMES are available for Recessed, Island or Corner baths. The bath will sit on these frames to make installation easier. The base/ frame have adjustable feet, which aid in leveling the bath, making installation easier, and provide a strong foundation for the bath. The Support Frame, used for corner baths, has a side frame attached so the installer needs only to sheet this instead of building a frame around the bath.
FLOOR JET/ AIR SYSTEMS are air jets mounted into the base of the bath. They work different to a spa as air systems are operated by a blower and not a pump. Air is pumped through many small jets creating a gentle massage.
SPA OPTIONS. Many baths are available as a Spa, with exception of most Freestanding baths.