Blogger Pittsburgh, PA on Jun 24, 2012

Bathtub Options

Hi Everyone,

Attached is a photo of the existing shower/tub that my brother wants to replace. Together we're going to replace the tub and then tile around it using either ceramic or porcelain. The questions is this, what type of tub material should we use (e.g. cast iron, fiberglass, etc.)? I've read the Americast Tub by American Standard is a great option but wanted to get everyone's opinion on this renovation. Thanks :)

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Dated bathtub :(

11 Comments

Steve G Fort Collins, CO

I recommend solid acrylic. Cheaper and lighter than cast iron but more durable and attractive than fiberglass.

on Jun 24, 2012 · Like 0
Steve G Fort Collins, CO

Here's an article that addresses tub materials, too:
http://www.networx.com/article/replacing-a-t...

on Jun 24, 2012 · Like 0
Home Repair Tutor Pittsburgh, PA

Thanks Steve for your tip and the link to your article. I will pass your info onto my brother.

on Jun 25, 2012 · Like 0
Nichter's Home Services C... Islesboro, ME

The Villager by Kohler is one of my clients most favorite tubs. Good price for a metal tub and comfortable shape. It is low to step over for handicapped, but that leaves you out of long deep soaking to some degree.
Be sure to use cement backer board and not sheet rock for the tile.

on Jun 25, 2012 · Like 0
Home Repair Tutor Pittsburgh, PA

Thanks Nichter for the comment. I agree with you on the cement backer board and enjoy using the NextGen Durock product.

on Jun 26, 2012 · Like 0
Leslie D Las Vegas, NV

Is this tub upstairs or downstairs? The reason I ask is that a cast iron tub can weigh 400 or more pounds. When filled with 40 gallons of water (at 8 lbs plus a gallon), that weight can increase to 750 pounds or more, then add a large person and a cast iron tub may not be a good choice for an upstairs area unless you're able to confirm that the structural support under the tub is sufficient, including a good subfloor and no sagging structural beams. It's hard to determine that unless ...»
you have everything opened, or are willing to open up the subfloor to add additional support in that area. Cast iron holds the heat of the water and transfers it back, which acrylic or fiberglass will not do, so comfort is another consideration if anyone takes long, leisurely baths. Other than that, it's mostly an aesthetic choice. If you have a local Habitat for Humanity ReStore, check there for a new tub. Our local Kohler showroom donates new tubs to them when they are returned for one reason or another, or has an open box unit that may have been delivered incorrectly. I've seen $3500 new Kohler tubs sell there for $200, still in the box. We want to see pictures when you're done!

on Jun 26, 2012 · Like 1
Woodbridge Environmental ... Colonia, NJ

Americast. real strong, heavy enough to keep water temps if you bath a lot and good quality.
Steer clear of steel tubs in my opinion, they tend to chip easy. Cast of course is the best, but in most houses it is almost impossible to get into bathroom at several hundred pounds.

on Jun 26, 2012 · Like 2
Home Repair Tutor Pittsburgh, PA

Wow, thank you so much Leslie for letting me know about the ReStore option. We do have one close to us and I know my brother would be super happy to get a good deal on a great tub. I will definitely tell hime about that option.
The tub will be on the first floor since the house is a ranch. We've given a lot of thought about support and want the tub to be safe. It's crazy how expensive cast iron can be, so I'm not sure ...»
he'll go that route. Once we get the project underway I will certainly post pictures.

on Jun 26, 2012 · Like 0
Home Repair Tutor Pittsburgh, PA

Thanks Woodbridge for your comments. I was hoping you'd see my post and provide some great insight. Cast iron is such a strong material and it's weight is unbelievable until you have to smash one to bits and realize just how heavy they are. I told my brother I wouldn't be looking forward to installing a cast iron tub but would do it for him. LOL.

on Jun 26, 2012 · Like 0
Fastnacht Shavout

i would love to see how this turns out, because it looks exactly like my one-butt bathroom in the front of my home. i am handicapped, and i moved into this bathroom, to spare my husband having to look at my medical equipment. as you know, there is no room in here for anything! my husband gets to have the back bathroom, which has a garden tub, but i cant get in and out of it without help. i grabbed the rack on the wall for support, and it pulled out. so i am stuck in shower mode in a kiddie size shower stall! ROFL!!

on May 01, 2013 · Like 0
Hewitt Remodeling Service... Virginia Beach, VA

To echo Bob (Woodbridge), we have put in close to 50 of the Americast product tubs from American Standard without an issue. It goes without saying, the best product out there isn't worth a hoot if it isn't installed properly... Tim

on May 03, 2013 · Like 1

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