Is it time for a bathroom renovation? Transform your bathroom from simple to spa-like luxurious with expert tips from the #1 designer bath tub supplier in the UK. The bathtub is the focus of your bathroom; hence getting it right is key! We help you find the best designer bath tub in the UK with our expert tips. Whether you’re renovating an existing bathroom or building the dream bathroom, it pays to know the various options available.
Continue reading to find the best tips on choosing the right bathtubs for your space.

Which bathtub style is the right choice for me?bathtub-style-for-me

Before you go bathtub shopping, you need to understand the different types of bathtubs available – their features, pros and cons, so that you can choose the right one that fits your bathroom.

#1:Freestanding baths

freestanding-baths As the name implies, these bathtubs are freestanding and do not require structural support. They can stand on their own and are usually positioned in the middle or a special corner of the bathroom. They are available in both traditional styles with claw foots or contemporary styles that are sleek and minimalistic. They are available in a wide variety of sizes and materials.

Pros: It’s simply stunning. It’s a fabulous centrepiece and adds a luxurious look to the bathroom.
Cons: It’s not the best choice for small bathrooms, as it takes up plenty of flooring space.

Freestanding baths can further be divided into:

  • Traditional Roll-top Baths – These baths have a classic rolled rim and come with raised feet. This bath style is perfect if you want to create a traditional look in your bathroom.
  • Slipper Baths – These are asymmetrical freestanding baths, that are raised at one end. Hence, the bather feels immersed and supported, enjoying a luxurious soak.
  • Contemporary Freestanding Baths – These are minimalistic and sleek and come with softer lines. They add a clean and modern look to the bathroom.

#2: Built-in/inset baths

built-in-inset-baths
They are easy to fit into small bathrooms and are space efficient. They sit flat against a wall, mostly in one corner. You can get them customised to suit your room’s dimensions.

#3: Shower baths

shower-baths It’s a two-in-one bath. You can fit a shower on one end and use it as both a shower and a bath tub. It’s available in two varieties:

  • P-shaped shower bath, that has a curvaceous design
  • L-shaped shower bath, that has crisp angles

#4: Corner baths

corner-baths These baths are suited for extra small bathrooms. It has two equal edges positioned against two walls of the bathroom.

When you choose a freestanding or inset bath, you have to make an extra decision. Whether you want to go for a single-ended or double-ended bath.

  • Single-ended baths have the tap and drainage at one end. When you use the bathtub, you lie at the opposite end with your feet pointing to the tap.
  • Double-ended baths have the tap and drainage at the centre. When a single person uses this tub, he/she can lie at any end of his/her choice. These baths are primarily designed for sharing – a couple to soak or parents to wash young kids and pets.

Which material is best for bathtubs?best-material-for-bathtubs

Once you have decided the style, the next decision is – choosing the material of the bath tub. The material you choose impacts several factors like:

  • The durability of the bathtub
  • How easy it is to maintain
  • How long the bath water retains the heat
  • Weight of the tub

Here are some of the popular bathtub materials:

#1: Acrylic

acrylic It’s one of the most budget-friendly bathtub materials. It’s light, and easy to care for.

Pros: Durable and inexpensive, they are available in a variety of colours and shapes. They are easy to install and retain heat well.
Cons: They are prone to scratches, especially when you use abrasive cleaners.

#2: Copper

copper-bathtub Copper is an excellent choice for bathtubs. It adds a refined look to your space and copper has several medicinal properties that make it a great choice for bathtubs.

Pros: Copper bathtubs are available in both traditional and contemporary styles. They retain heat well and are easy to maintain. Copper bathtubs are self-healing, and over time scratches darken and blend with the material. Copper also offers various health benefits like anti-microbial, a therapeutic effect on arthritis, rheumatism, osteoporosis, sports injuries and more. A relaxing bath in a copper tub not only makes you feel rejuvenated but also healed.
Cons: Copper bathtubs are slightly expensive, but the extra initial costs are so worth it as they can easily last for a lifetime or more.

#3: Cast Iron

cast-iron Cast iron was traditionally used for freestanding baths. They are easy to clean and long-lasting. Water retains heat well in a cast-iron bath. However, it’s one of the heaviest bath tubs and costs a pretty penny.

Pros: It can retain heat well and is highly durable.
Cons: It’s not suitable for all bathroom styles. It’s one of the heaviest materials and is expensive to install. A six-foot cast iron bathtub weighs more than 200 kg, that’s before filling it with water. As a result, you may have to reinforce the floor to ensure that it supports the weight of the bath.

Expert Tips on Choosing the Right Bathtub for your Bathroom

choose-the -right-bathtub

  • Usually, you have to purchase the fittings – taps, hand shower, and shower head separately. However, all baths come with pre-drilled holes that make it easy to attach your preferred fittings. If the bathtub has no hole, then you can fit the accessories on the wall or make them stand on the wall, depending on the available space and design.
  • If you’re moving from a freestanding bath to an insert bath or vice versa during a bathroom makeover, you have to alter the pipework. So, make sure to include this cost in your budget.
  • Built-in baths can be decorated with tiles of your choice. Alternatively, you can also decorate them with wood-effect tiles to add the warmth of wood to your bathroom.
  • Want a truly luxurious bath experience? Invest in a copper bathtub or a whirlpool tub.

Decorcera is the no.1 copper bathtub suppliers in the UK. Get in touch with our team to find the perfect copper bathtub in the UK at affordable prices. Don’t forget to download our product catalogue to check out our available products and designs.