A bath is a great way to relax and unwind after a busy day. Today’s homeowners want to de-stress in luxurious, spa-like surroundings. When undertaking a major bathroom remodeling project, a primary consideration may be choosing a freestanding tub or a built-in tub. The answer may come down to personal design preference.
Freestanding tubs, sometimes called soaker tubs, evoke images of luxury and romance. They are beautiful to look at and are often the focal point of the room. Freestanding tubs are available in both vintage and contemporary design styles. They may stand on feet, like the traditional claw foot tub, or be flush to the floor or mounted on a pedestal for a more modern look. A range of organic shapes and dimensions can be chosen to fit the available floor space. Freestanding tubs are replacing the jetted tubs that were so popular a few years ago.
A freestanding tub doesn’t need to be placed against the wall, which allows more flexibility in laying out the bathroom. It’s a good idea to climb into the tub being considered to make sure it fits the body comfortably.
There are some potential cons to freestanding tubs. They can take up more floor space and may be heavy, depending on the type of material used for the tub. Heavier tubs may require the floor to be reinforced. Plumbing in the bathroom will need to be modified.
A freestanding tub certainly makes a statement in any bathroom. Consult a bath design expert to incorporate one into your bathroom remodel.