Choosing a bath
This section should tell you everything you need to know about choosing a bath for your new bathroom. It is divided into the following sections:
- The bath's function
- Types of bath
- Whirlpool systems
- Bathtub materials
- Tub sizes
- Location of waste
The bath's function
You need to think about how you will be using the bathtub. Above all, it should be comfortable. Make sure that the size and depth are appropriate for the bodies of those who will be using it. If you have the space, you may even opt for a two-person (double-ended) tub. If you're not sure about the size, go to a showroom and sit in a few.
A bathtub can also provide several therapeutic benefits.
- Soaking in a tub lowers your blood pressure
- Floating in the water puts less demands on the work your heart has to do
- It helps to relax your muscles
A regular-sized bathtub is fine for relaxing your legs. For your back, you will want to submerge your whole body, which requires a deeper and sometimes longer bathtub.
Types of bath
Here are the most common styles of bath.
- Wall to wall alcove bathtubs. These are surrounded by three walls - easily the most popular style. They are usually 170-180cm long and are most commonly available in white. Some baths come with a side panel (and seperate panels are also available) although many people opt to tile the out-facing side of an alcove bath.
- Drop-in (or sunken) tubs are mounted on a platform, usually tiled, which may be in a corner or standing alone. They often have an oval shape. The surrounding panelling can be a good way to hide the plumbing for a whirlpool system.
- Freestanding (also known as clawfoot) baths have four legs and stand freely in the room allowing accress from all sides. We have sections for traditional, modern and freestanding whirlpool baths.
- Corner tubs are installed in a corner and typically have one rounded side exposed. For examples, see our corner baths section.
Whirlpool systems
Many baths are available with whirlpool systems pre-installed. There are also companies who will convert just about any bath into a fully functioning jacuzzi. If you are planning a whirlpool in your bathroom you will save money by buying a whirlpool bath at the outset.
There are many models available that feature strong hydrotherapy jets, pulsating neck jets, and adjustable lumbar jets with volume control. Some models offer invigorating systems that massage up and down your back in rapid succession. The amount of horsepower the pump is equipped with becomes more important as the tub gets larger, with some pumps offering up to 2 HP on 6-foot whirlpools. An integral heater that will maintain the water temperature while the motor is running, and other features such as safety grip rails, pump location, the number and placement of the jets, and convenient armrests are some other important considerations.
Whirlpool systems typically vary on:
- Number of jets - usually between 6 and 11.
- Type of controls (varying from simple on/off switches to fully computerised).
- Lights - some systems even come with relaxing underwater lights!
For examples see out spas & whirlpools range or our freestanding whirlpools.
Bathtub materials
Acrylic is the most popular material mainly due to its lower price. It is also light and therefore easier to work with and install. Cast iron baths are the next most popular. They are be heavier, more durable and usually cost a little more. Less commonly found are wood
Tub sizes
Bathtubs are measured by length, width and height. They typically have a length of at least 150cm and a width of 60-100cm. Standard bathtubs are usually 35-45cm deep. European style tubs are around 40-45cm deep, while Japanese bathtubs can be over 55cm deep.
You will want to make sure that the size of the bathtub will still allow you to walk around in the bathroom. Some space-saving designs are now available. Examples of these can be seen in our combination baths and corner baths sections.
Location of waste
It may sound obvious but make sure you plan where your bath will drain.
- End drain bathtub. When facing the tub, look where the drain is. For a drain on the left, a left hand tub is needed, if on the other side, a right hand tub will be required.
- Center drain tub: this has the drain in the middle of the bathtub. This is common for double ended baths as it prevents you from sitting on the waste pipe and adds a look of symmetry to the bath.
';
';