Some Choices when Installing a New Bathtub

When your old bathtub starts showing its age, it’s time to make a few decisions. Do you want to replace the old tub with a new one, or would you rather refinish the existing tub? To make these decisions, you have to look at a number of factors, including the type of tub you want, the size and weight, and the cost. Never underestimate when figuring costs for installing a new bathtub, because there are a lot of options you can choose from that are going to make a difference in the final price.

The trend hasn’t changed in that most bathtubs are white. Over the years other colors have become popular, but if you don’t have the money to replace the tub every few years, it’s better to stick with white, because it’s never going to look outdated. There are some other differences in modern tubs, however. Some of them are fabricated out of flexible plastics which necessitate them being installed over a bed of mortar which will support their weight and keep them from cracking or warping. If you choose a metal and enamel tub, no additional support will be required. You also might want to consider a bathtub liner which is put in over the existing tub and walls to create a new surface.

Chances are that you’ll be overwhelmed when you first start looking at the difference choices of faucets that are available. Most home improvement stores have an aisle filled with nothing but different styles and designs of faucets. Some of them are designed to be mounted on the edge of a tub and others will have a wall mount. Besides different mounts, faucets come in a variety of different finishes from chrome to antique gold and brushed nickel. You will also need to select the type of water control system you want. Do you want to have separate knobs to control the hot and cold water, or would you prefer one rotating handle that controls both?

Before you go out to shop for a new bathtub, take some measurements of your home. Not only do you need to know if the tub will fit in the existing space, but you also need to determine whether you’ll be able to get a new tub in through the doors in your home. If you buy a bathtub that won’t fit through a door, it’s going to take a simple project and turn it into a much more difficult one. Another thought to keep in mind is the amount of water a new tub will require to fill it. If the tub you select holds more water than your existing bathtub does, it’s going to cost more to fill it, and your water heater may not even be large enough to accommodate it.

There are some other considerations you’ll have to make when the time comes for installing your new bathtub. You may be tempted by a jetted tub which won’t cost a whole lot more than a standard model, but before you can use the jetted tub in your home you might have to hire an electrician to come and do some extra wiring. If you buy a tub with the drain in a different place, you’ll need a plumber to move the drainage pipes. If the tub you choose is either larger or smaller than your existing tub, it might necessitate a carpenter to remove part of the floor or to fill in space around the edges of the tub.

If you have the skills for installing a new bathtub yourself you might choose to do so, but if you don’t, there are lots of companies that will be happy to come out and give you an estimate for doing the job for you. No matter which route you decide to go, you’ll have a good time choosing the new fixtures for your bathroom, and you’ll love the results of your remodel.

For more info visit http://www.betterbathtubs.com/.