Is it time to retire your old bathtub? Before you buy a new tub, be sure to know your options. Read on for the best bathtub replacement tips for Northern Illinois homeowners.
Believe it or not, about 38 percent of people in the United States soak in their bathtubs at least once a week. If you’re one of them, you know that nothing helps you unwind after a long week like a hot bath. But your old bathtub might make that experience less relaxing.
If you’re not comfortable in your bathroom, you don’t have to settle for that underwhelming space. You just need to invest in a bathtub replacement.
There’s more to finding the right replacement than just picking the first tub you find. Use these tips to help you get the tub of your dreams.
1. Choose the Right Style
It should come as no surprise that there are hundreds of different styles of bathtubs on the market. And you don’t have to replace your existing tub with the same type or model. You’re free to choose something that fits your personal aesthetic and preferences.
Think about how you want your bathroom to look. Are you trying to achieve a classic or vintage design or do you want something more modern?
If you’re replacing other bathroom fixtures at the same time, let the replacements guide your choice. This way, you’ll create a cohesive look that speaks to your unique sense of style.
2. Think About How You’ll Use the Tub
Style is just one part of choosing the perfect bathtub replacement. You also need to think about how you’ll use your new tub.
Do you plan on taking baths several times a week or do you prefer using the shower? Are you the type of person who loves hot tubs and wants to have that experience in their bathroom? Or do you just want a tub that’s deep enough to submerge your sore muscles in after a long day?
Knowing how you’ll use the tub will help you choose a model with the right features in place. Remember, the more features you want, the more expensive the tub will be. But if you get features you’ll love and use regularly, it’s well worth the cost.
3. Consider Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning the bathroom is one task that very few homeowners enjoy. But some materials are simply easier to clean than others.
Think about the amount of time you’re willing to put into keeping your bathtub clean. For example, cleaning a sleek and modern tub, even with built-in jets, can be easier than cleaning a vintage-inspired clawfoot tub.
Discuss your concerns with your installation team and don’t be afraid to ask for their input. They know which tubs will be the easiest to clean and maintain and can help you find the right fit for your bathroom.
4. Pay Attention to the Accessories
The tub is only one part of a successful tub replacement project. You also need to think about the types of accessories you want to have with it.
This can be something as simple as a grab-bar to make it easier to get in and out of the tub or a raised ledge around the bathtub to give you a place to put your favorite beverage while you soak.
There’s no right or wrong answer here. The right accessories for your bathtub are the ones that you’ll use and enjoy. Don’t worry—there’s something that will match your design and your tub.
Bring these ideas to your installation experts and let them know exactly what you’re looking for.
5. Don’t Neglect the Future
Traditional tubs aren’t the only option for your home and in some cases, they’re far from the best option. Think about how long you plan on staying in the house.
If you’re planning on staying in your home well into retirement, it could be worthwhile to install a walk-in tub instead of a traditional bathtub. These units look just as great as standard tubs, but greatly reduce the risk of tripping and falling as you step in and out of the tub itself.
Furthermore, a walk-in tub can increase your home’s value and may make it easier to sell the property in the future. The more accessible the house is, the more buyers will show interest in the property.
A bathroom that works with more restrictive mobility needs sets the house apart from others on the market.
6. Make Sure Your Water Heater Can Keep Up
No matter what type of tub you choose, you need to be able to fill it with hot water. Otherwise, you’d be better off just taking a shower.
Take a look at your home’s hot water heater. Make a note of its capacity and take that number into consideration when you choose your tub. If the tub holds more gallons than your hot water heater, the water heater won’t be able to keep up.
If this is the case, you’ll either need to choose a smaller tub or upgrade to a higher capacity hot water heater after the installation.
7. Go with a Brand You Can Trust
Your bathtub gets a lot of use over the course of its life. That means you’ll want to invest in a high-quality tub from a reputable brand you can trust.
When searching for a tub, choose a brand that stands behind their products. Look at the warranties offered for each tub and choose one that you’re comfortable with.
No matter what type of tub you choose, make sure it gets installed by an experienced professional. This way, you won’t have to worry about voiding the warranty and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that the installation gets done correctly the first time.
Ready for a Bathtub Replacement?
If you’re ready for a bathtub replacement, these tips will help you create the space you’ve been dreaming of. Though simple, a new tub can make all the difference in your home. Just make sure you work with an experienced installation team for the renovations.
If you’re ready to transform your bathroom, don’t wait to bring your dreams to life. Contact our team to get a free quote on your bathroom upgrade today.
