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Home Renovation Tips - Bath Design Basics
By Frank | April 12, 2008
The following extract is from a series of home design articles, tips, videos and information about bathroom remodeling …
If you need to remodel a bathroom, then start by looking at the bath tub. Bath design has come a long way and there are fantastic products available that will make your bath a luxurious experience. In this article, we’ll tell you what you should keep in mind when choosing a new bathtub.
The first decision, when considering a new bath design, is the purpose of the room. Are you remodeling a guest bathroom? Is it your kids’ bathroom or a master bath? Will this be a handicapped bath for an elderly parent? The next obvious thing to consider is your budget. Tubs with a lot of features can be expensive, so decide what you’re prepared to pay for. If you love soaking in a tub, then investing in a good tub is money well spent. However, you can get a jetted tub, spa or soaking tub nowadays at fairly affordable prices if you compare different home product suppliers.
You also need to consider the available space and what it will take to get the tub installed. Check to see if extra carpentry will be needed for installation and find out how much the tub will weigh when it’s filled. A bathtub full of water must be adequately supported, so check your framing. Cast-iron tubs, whirlpools, soaking and sunken tubs usually require additional support. A tub sized for more than one person will put extra demands on the home’s hot water heater also, so you may also require an upgrade or a separate water heater.
Besides the typical rectangular shape, tubs also come in corner, oval, circular and freestanding styles. Built-in tubs can be alcove, drop-in or corner style. An alcove tub is standard in most homes and are often tub-shower combinations with waterproof surrounding walls. Drop-in tubs can be sunken into the floor or a tub deck. Drop-in models that are mounted into their own frame or deck will need additional carpentry or framework, which can add to the total cost. Corner model built-ins are installed in the corner, with surrounds on two sides. A free-standing tub has legs or ball-and-claw feet. These tubs frequently have rolled edges and slipper backs for soaking.
The perfect bathtub should cradle you comfortably, so try out a few different styles. The ideal bath design for a soaker tub should have a depth of at least 15 to 20 inches. The material the tub is made of will also dictate comfort and cost. Most are constructed of porcelain on steel because of its durability. For a less expensive alternative, fiberglass is an option, but it’s not as durable. For something more eye-catching, consider cast iron, solid surfacing and natural stone. No matter which bathtub you select, remember to add beautiful bathroom accessories and everyone will praise you for your bathroom remodeling ideas.
For more information on home interior design, go here: DIY Home Renovations
Topics: Bathroom |
