The material is the most important factor when it comes to a bathtub. Your choice of material will impact the appearance, price, durability, heat retention, and ease of installation. Baths are made with various materials like fiberglass, stone, iron, wood, and acrylic. Of all these, acrylic is the most popular option in the UK. It is not only cost-effective and sturdy but easier to install at the same time. Additionally, acrylic bathtubs can retain heat for a reasonable time, making it a suitable option for most bathrooms. If you are in the market for an acrylic bathtub, it is essential to compare it with other materials available. In this article, we will discuss the crucial benefits of an acrylic bathtub in comparison to other materials.
What Acrylic Bathtub Material?
Acrylic is a type of transparent plastic that differs from standard plastic in that it offers a more robust and stiff material that provides a cleaner aesthetic. When used for bathtubs, it is typically formed using vacuum acrylic sheets that are reinforced with fiberglass, resulting in a material that is lightweight, visually appealing, and highly durable. This process enhances the inherent properties of acrylic, making it an ideal choice for bathtubs that require both form and function.
Pros of Acrylic Bathtubs Vs. Other Bathtub Materials?
You should expect the following advantages from an acrylic bathtub.
- Nonporous Material. When comparing to other available materials in a similar range then, you will come across fiberglass. It is similar in some ways, like lightweight and costs but is a porous material. While acrylic is nonporous. It makes a difference due to water absorption in it, making your bathtub surface more prone to mold. So, in that way, acrylic is a relatively good material creating fewer problems.
- Keeps Water Warm. Every bath lover knows how much it is to keep the water warm for a long time to enjoy a fulfilling bath experience. However, the type of bathtub material has a big influence on it. Perhaps, your bathtub material will decide whether the water will keep warm or not. Though acrylic is a lightweight material, it is still reasonably good at keeping the water warm. In comparison, fiberglass and steel are not good at heat retention.
- Ease of Installation. The time and effort required to fit the bathtub can significantly increase the overall cost of installation. So, your goal should be to choose the type of bath that is easier to install. When comparing all the materials, acrylic bathtubs are light, therefore, take relatively less time and effort to install.
- Availability of design. Acrylic bathtubs are available in far more designs and varieties than any other type. It is because acrylic is flexible and easy to handle when it comes to manufacturing that makes the availability of various designs possible. So, whether a double ended bath or a shower bath, you have various options available for you.
- Light Weight. You should look out for a bathtub that is easier to handle and lightweight. It helps with easier installation and setting up. Many people think that a lightweight material is usually not sturdy enough. However, it is far from the truth. Acrylic is a type of material that is light and sturdy at the same time. That’s why many homeowners prefer it.
- Possibility of Repair. Sometimes you may find your bathtub in need of repairs. However, all materials are not possible or suitable for repairs. For example, a stone or steel bath is not easily or possibly repairable. But when it comes to an acrylic bath, you can repair it easily.
- Sturdiness. It is important for your bathtubs to be reasonably sturdy. And your bathtub material has an important role to play in it. Acrylic bathtubs are durable from breakages but not as much as iron or steel baths.
- Affordable. When it comes to affordability, acrylic baths are a bit higher price than the fiberglass bath but significantly lower than steel and iron. So, when it comes to affordability, acrylic bathtubs are a great option in comparison to other materials.
How Does Acrylic Bathtub Compare to Other Materials?
While bathtubs come in various types of materials, it is important to know how acrylic bathtubs compare to others in terms of various criteria. You can explore an extensive range of acrylic bathtubs at Royal Bathrooms UK.
Ease of Installation | Acrylic Bathtub | Fiberglass | Cast Iron | Steel |
Ease of Cleaning | x | |||
Sturdiness | ||||
Scratch and Staining Resistant | x | x | ||
Keeping Water Warm | x | x | ||
Lightweight | x | x | ||
Affordable | x | x | ||
Luxury | x | x |
Final Thoughts
Acrylic bathtubs, in comparison to all other materials, are a perfect combination of pros. For example, affordable price, durability, lightweight, ease of cleaning, and installation all make it a great choice for a standard home bath installation. In case you are considering a new bathtub, an acrylic bath can be a wonderful choice.
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