Introduction to Baths
A bath is the centrepiece of any bathroom, and there are many stunning, practical designs on the market for those who want to bathe in luxury. Adding a bath will transform the appearance of the bathroom and can even add value to your house..
Your Options
What thickness bath do I need?
Most acrylic baths have a thickness of between 5-10mm. Double skinned acrylic baths are much more durable and will provide you with a reliable, robust product that will last longer as a result. Generally, baths that are at least 8mm thick are a good option to go for as they have less risk of cracking.
What Material should I buy?
Baths are normally found in either acrylic, steel, or cast iron finishes.
Acrylic: By far the most common baths are acrylic versions, which is mainly due to their general affordability and versatility.
Double skinned acrylic: These options are more practical for daily use as they feature a stronger build quality overall. Acrylic baths are ideal if you want to position the item anywhere in the room, and these products will also suit any style of décor you have chosen.
Enamelled steel: These bathtubs are very sturdy, resisting scratches and general damage much easier than acrylic items. They also have the benefit of keeping the water warm for longer too thanks to their insulation properties.
These baths are a good idea if there are numerous people using it on a regular basis.
Cast iron: Great for offering an air of luxury. For a stunning traditional appearance these are the ultimate items to go for. Their high levels of durability, ability to keep water warm for long periods of time, plus fantastic styling make these bathtubs an ideal centrepiece for period bathrooms.
Natural stone: These beautifully sculpted baths look superb in contemporary environments, as their sleek, smooth lines lend themselves well to modern styling. They can retain heat for longer periods than acrylic bathtubs due to the thickness of their bodies.
They are manufactured using natural stone and a mineral resin, which is processed to give a tough, durable finish.
Additional Features
Do feet come with all types of baths?
Feet only generally come with freestanding bathtubs, providing a stylish element that complements their style. They can be added to other types of bath but they are usually reserved for more traditional looking, freestanding versions. Styles of feet include sleek, simplistic items as well as more ornate looking ball and claw examples.
Do I need a waste?
A waste is an essential part of any bath, as they provide an efficient draining method, quickly and safely removing excess water. Your bathtub will require a waste of some kind, and there is a wide variety to choose from including plug and chain and pop up options to suit the general style of your bath.
What about an overflow?
Pretty much all bathtubs will have some kind of overflow system incorporated into their design. This adds an extra level of safety, ensuring drainage is sufficient. Choose from modern or traditionally inspired options in order to create a matching aesthetic. Sleek designs such as flat, square shaped wastes and overflows look great in contemporary settings, while gold variants are ideal for period influenced setups. Many overflows come attached to the waste via a concealed pipe.