The installation of a brand-new bathtub is a surefire method to raise eyebrows with your bathroom remodel. Most modern bathtubs are made of acrylic or porcelain. But which option should one pick? We have looked over both options for bathroom fixtures.
Bathtub Comparison: Porcelain vs. Acrylic
Porcelain Bathtubs
Steel or iron enamelled with porcelain is used to create porcelain baths. Glass infusion into this material leads to melting and hardening after being heated to about 1,300 degrees Fahrenheit. Porcelain tubs are heavy and long-lasting in the typical household. Examining the pros and cons of porcelain bathtubs is in order.
The Benefits of Porcelain Bathtubs
Durability
It's well knowledge that porcelain baths last for generations. They're not just scratch-proof, but simple enough to mend on your own if they do happen. When the coating on these bathtubs is in good condition, rust will not form.
Easy Cleaning
Porcelain bathtubs are excellent since they last a long time without needing to be replaced and they can be cleansed with just about any mild soap. Paste made of baking and water can be used to clean these tubs on a regular basis. Fiberglass tubs are less susceptible to surface scratches than acrylic tubs, but you must still take precautions to avoid using harsh scouring pads or harsh cleaning agents. It's just as easy to clean an acrylic tub as it is a porcelain one. Your acrylic tub needs weekly cleanings for optimal condition. It's important to clean without using any harsh chemicals or abrasives to protect the surface. Any abrasive cleansers or cleaning chemicals might produce scratches.
The same mild detergent or paste of hot water and bicarbonate soda will work just as well on a porcelain bathtub. Scrubbing powders can scrape the bathtub's finish, leading to visible wear and tear over time. Scratched surfaces are more likely to show signs of dirt, oil, and soap buildup. The longer the stains are left, the more difficult they are to remove. Avoid using acid-based cleansers on your porcelain if you value its long-term condition.
Long Lifespan
A properly maintained porcelain tub has a minimum lifespan of 20 years. Their durability is a direct result of their well-thought-out design and manufacturing, which makes them far more long-lasting than most alternative bathtub materials.
It is available in standard sizes.
Popularity has resulted in a 60-inch by 30-inch standard for porcelain tubs. However, these tubs can be custom-ordered to fit any space.
Porcelain Tubs' Disadvantages
High Prices
Due to the higher cost of the raw material and the increased complexity of the manufacturing process, porcelain tubs are frequently more expensive as acrylic tubs. They may require extra maintenance to avoid getting dull with age.
Cracking on the surface
A porcelain tub will survive for many years. However, they can break or chip if dropped with sufficient force. However, if indeed the enamel layer breaks, the underneath sheet metal is left more susceptible to rust.
There is no heat retention.
Porcelain tubs often lose their warmth to the touch more quickly than acrylic tubs. However, many versions come with foam insulation, which is effective at preventing heat loss.
Thick Material
The installation and removal of a porcelain tub from a bathroom can be challenging, especially if it has a steel or cast-iron base. These tubs typically weigh between 200 and 500 pounds. Because of this, it's probable that you'll have to fortify the ground close to the bathtub.
Colors and Styles
Porcelain tubs, in contrast to tubs made of other materials, are often only available in white or off shade. Different colours like eggshell, black, gray, and beige are available for newer versions.
Acrylic Bathtubs
Modern bathtubs often consist of a sheet of Acrylic installed over a fibreglass substructure. It is a top choice for bathroom fixtures because of how long it lasts. Acrylic tubs are preferable because they are just as long-lasting as standard fibreglass tubs, but they have an extra layer of protection in the form of acrylic. Though acrylic can scratch, with the right maintenance it can last for years. Both the pros and cons of acrylic bathtubs will be discussed here.
The Benefits of Acrylic Tubs
Durability
An acrylic tub will last for many years due to its durability and robustness. Their longevity is further enhanced by the fact that their nonporous surface does not allow water absorption. You won't have to worry about their shattering or chipping as porcelain does.
Lightweight
These tubs are more convenient to move around than the typical bathtub just on market today due to their lightweight fiberglass bottoms. This is especially helpful for multi-story homes due to the simplicity of erecting and dismantling their lightweight design.
Low Cost
The acrylic tub is indeed a wonderful option if you need a low-cost bathtub option. Their pricing flexibility has kept them popular among customers. Although more expensive than other fiber-glass tubs, this one is still a good value when compared to the cost of bathtubs made of materials such porcelain, iron, or steel.
Colors and Styles
Acrylic tubs can be found in an abundance of designs. White, off-white, and beige are the most common colours for bathtubs. The good news is that you may find a wider variety of colours in retailers that focus on bathtubs.
Surface that is nonporous
The nonporous shell of an acrylic tub does an excellent job of retaining the heat of the water inside. In addition, its sturdy exterior will not succumb to the likes of mildew, rust, or mould as a result of regular use and upkeep.
The Disadvantages of Acrylic Tubs
Scratches Easily
While acrylic tubs are durable, one of its biggest downsides is that their top scratches readily. Keeping the bathtubs in good condition calls for gentle cleaning products and gentle cleaning tools.
Life expectancy is decreasing.
A properly maintained acrylic tub has a 15-year lifespan. They won't deteriorate or bend over time, though, so that's a load off your mind. It's important to note, however, that exposure to hard water and some cosmetics might cause them to gradually fade and yellow.
Which Material Is Best For A Freestanding Tub?
When looking for the greatest freestanding tub, look for one that is both durable and sturdy. How well the tub keeps in warmth is also crucial. In this post, we'll take a look at some of the most well-liked freestanding tubs on the market today.
Acrylic
These tubs are indeed the gold standard for standalone bathrooms due to their durability and reliability. Because of their lightweight design, they are easy to put up and manoeuvre around corners and up stairwells. And unlike steel or iron, we won't need to support the floor too keep the bathtub in place.
Cast Iron
For a substantial and long-lasting freestanding tub, iron is a terrific material to consider. There is a broad variety of these bathtubs available, many of them are classic designs that will last for years to come. Since they retain heat so effectively, they are perfect for a relaxing bath before bed.
Solid Surface
Tubs made of resin and solid surface materials provide a more modern aesthetic. This durable composite material doesn't show dirt or stains easily and can be kept that way with minimal effort. Since the tubs are lighter than competing freestanding options, they can be installed in less spacious areas or on upper floors with less structural alteration. Not as good in retaining heat as, example, cast iron, but much nicer to the touch.
Stone
Aiming to wow guests in your washroom? To achieve the desired effect, a stone tub is all that is needed. These tubs not only keep heat in exceptionally effectively, but also come in several stylish designs. And their finish is thick and solid, so they'll last a long time and hold up well.
What Is the Difference Between a Porcelain and a Enamel Bathtub?
The easiest and quickest way to tell if a bathtub is porcelain and enamel is to apply a magnet and observe if it sticks. Most bathtubs have a steel or wrought iron frame that holds up the porcelain exterior. Enamel-coated tubs are not. If the magnet sticks to the bathtub, it's not enamel but porcelain.
How Long Does An Acrylic Bathtub Last?
An acrylic tub typically lasts between 10 and 15 years before it loses its shine and needs to be replaced.
How Much Do Acrylic Tubs Cost?
Many alternatives to acrylic tubs can be purchased nowadays, with various prices from about $350 to already over $3,500 for elevated models. To compare, the going rate for a standard acrylic tub is between $600 and $800.
Do Acrylic Bathtubs Discolor?
Age can cause the acrylic in a bathtub to yellow. The discolouration is a result of soap, shampoo, and moisture residue. The use of the wrong cleaning products might also generate a yellowing effect. The easiest way to prevent these stains is to clean the bathtub frequently and avoid using abrasive detergents that include harsh ingredients.
How Much Do Porcelain Bathtubs Cost?
Porcelain bathtubs can cost anything from $400 to well over $2,000. Costs range from $365 to $700 for a small porcelain tub. The price will increase as the dimensions, features, and luxuries of the tub change.
How Long Does A Porcelain Bathtub Last?
The lifespan of a rising porcelain tub could be increased by around 20 years with regular cleaning and maintenance. But the tub's finish could lose its shine and darken over time. If you want to avoid spending a lot of money, refinishing the tub is a great option.
What Are the Primary Distinctions Between Acrylic and Porcelain?
Acrylic bathtubs are made by bonding an acrylic coating to the a fibreglass tub, whereas porcelain bathtubs are made by applying an enamel coating to an iron tub. Since porcelain tubs are much more solidly built, they weigh considerably more than acrylic tubs, that can complicate the installation process. Similar to how acrylic is readily destroyed by severe knocks, porcelain's stiffness makes it surfaces more resistant to wear & scratching than those made of acrylic.
Here are the main distinctions:
Weight
The acrylic option is the more lightweight choice, but porcelain is the more long-lasting one. Because of this, installing an acrylic bathtub is more easier than installing a porcelain tub, and it may be placed anywhere in the bath without risk of water damage. Since it is lightweight and flexible, it may be shaped to fit a wide range of needs. sets the limits on the range of dimensions and shapes that may be obtained. The heavier nature of porcelain makes installation more challenging, limiting the variety of available porcelain tile sizes and shapes.
Retention of Heat
Heat is not retained as well in a porcelain tub as it is in an acrylic one. Porcelain bathtubs are created by glazing a metal or steel tub with porcelain. Having created a thermal barrier between the coating and also the tub's structural material, this layer may allow for much more rapid heat loss from the tub's interior.
However, Acrylic is constructed from fibre glass reinforcements. Because it is fashioned from a single piece of material, it retains heat over a longer period of time since it has nothing to collect or transfer the heat. Some porcelain tubs have foam insulation, which is even more effective than Acrylic at keeping water warm.
When picking between an acrylic tub and a porcelain tub, heat retention is an important factor to consider. To the touch, porcelain tubs might seem cold, and they tend to lose heat at a faster rate than their acrylic counterparts. When fired, some porcelain is encased in foam for insulation, which greatly reduces heat loss.
Acrylic (and other nonmetal) baths are superior to porcelain ones at retaining heat because to their nonporous surfaces. Those who enjoy long, relaxing soaks in the tub will appreciate this.
Cost
Because of their more complex design, porcelain bathtubs often cost more than their Acrylic counterparts. The price of a porcelain tub reflects the fact that it is more difficult to instal and requires more care than an acrylic tub.
Durability
When compared to porcelain, acrylic has much more durability. Although Acrylic tubs are less likely to be damaged by hard knocks and drops, porcelain tubs are more resilient and can handle scratches and dents better. Acrylic, being a much more forgiving material, can withstand greater abuse from severe conditions before totally breaking down. Porcelain, in general, is more rigid than Acrylic. One cannot scratch this porcelain coating. It's bad that powerful chips could be used against you. Rusting may develop if the tub is damaged.
Acrylic has much less of a barrier to scratches than porcelain does. As a result, a high-quality acrylic bathtub is a wise investment if you want to lessen the chances of scratches and stains. However, if you mix baking soda with toothpaste into a paste and push it firmly into the scratch with the heel of your hand, it may help.
Maintenance
Porcelain and acrylic both require similar maintenance routines. Each requires a great deal of care when cleaning to ensure that the material is not harmed. In contrast to porcelain, acrylic can be cleaned with regular soap and water. Porcelain, on the other hand, requires a hand wash with either a vinegar solution, flavored seltzer, or water and soap. You should never use steel wool or other abrasive brushes on your porcelain tub. Both materials will alter in tone without regular upkeep.
Restoration
Even though an acrylic bathtub is somewhat simpler to replace or repair than just a porcelain one, the technique is identical for both. A damaged or dented plastic tub can be repaired by placing a fresh coating over the injured section using a refinishing kit. Similarly, porcelain bathtubs could be refinished using a DIY kit, however some repairs may be better handled by a contractor.
An acrylic bathtub's once-shiny finish may become dull if this occurs. Using a buffer as well as some rubbing substance, you can restore the sheen. A professional repair or careful sanding may be required if the finish has been severely damaged. If the surface of your porcelain bathtub has been damaged due to improper cleaning or chipping, you can get it refinished.
In order for this method to be effective, porcelain porcelain must be applied. For minor surface damage, DIY repair kits are on the market. Expert implementation, however, may improve outcomes. The most obvious advantage of hiring a professional is the assurance that their work will be guaranteed against any defects in materials or workmanship.
Popularity and resale value
The demand for and value on the secondary market for each of these materials is quite considerable. Acrylic is more modern and can be made to match any colour scheme, whereas porcelain has more of a classic look and feel. Both types antique porcelain are practically worth the same currently because many houses have a mix of modern and classic elements.
Other Considerations
Find out from your local municipality how old bathtubs are to be disposed of. It's possible that porcelain isn't even recyclable in some areas.
Conclusion
Nowadays, acrylic or porcelain are the most common materials for bathtubs. Porcelain bathtubs are resistant to scratches and easy to repair if damaged. A weekly cleaning of your acrylic tub is required to prevent the buildup of debris, oil, and soap. Acrylic tubs are recommended because they are equally as long-lasting as regular fibreglass tubs, but they have an additional layer of protection in the form of acrylic. Porcelain bathtubs typically cool off faster than acrylic ones.
Since they are so long-lasting and dependable, acrylic tubs are the best option for private bathrooms. Their portability and small weight make them simple to set up and manoeuvre in tight spaces like hallways and on the stairs. For a strong and long-lasting standalone tub, iron is also a great option to consider. To create an acrylic bathtub, a fibreglass tub is coated with acrylic and then bonded together. With regular cleaning and care, the life of a porcelain tub can be extended by about 20 years.
However, the tub's finish may dim and tarnish over time. When a metal or steel tub is glazed with porcelain, the result is a porcelain bathtub. This separates the coating from the tub's structural material, preventing heat transfer. There is less risk of cracking or breaking an acrylic tub from a strong knock or drop. Acrylic is far less fragile than porcelain and can easily be repaired after being scratched.
To protect your bathtub from scratches and stains, consider purchasing a high-quality acrylic model. It's best to wash porcelain by hand with a vinegar solution, flavoured seltzer, or plain old water and soap. Porcelain tubs can be resurfaced if they have been damaged by cleaning errors or chips. Do-it-yourself repair kits are available to address minor surface damage. However, it may be worth the extra money to have a professional handle the implementation.
Content Summary
- Adding a new bathtub is a certain way to get compliments on your renovated bathroom.
- The porcelain tubs seen in most homes are substantial and built to last.
- It's time to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of porcelain bathtubs.
- If you're looking for a low-maintenance tub, an acrylic option is just as simple to maintain as a porcelain one.
- If you want to keep your acrylic tub in good shape, you should clean it once a week.
- A porcelain tub can be cleaned using the same gentle detergent or a paste of hot water and bicarbonate of soda.
- Porcelain tubs are usually more expensive than acrylic tubs because of the higher cost of the raw material and the extra complexity of the manufacturing process.
- You can count on a porcelain tub to last for decades.
- It can be difficult to instal or remove a porcelain tub with a steel or cast-iron foundation from a bathroom.
- These days, it's not uncommon for a fibreglass support structure to sit atop an Acrylic skin in a contemporary bathtub.
- Because of its durability, it is frequently used in bathroom fittings.
- Acrylic tubs are recommended because they are equally as long-lasting as regular fibreglass tubs, but they have an additional layer of protection in the form of acrylic.
- Despite its vulnerability to scratches, acrylic can serve you well for many years if you take care of it.
- The benefits and drawbacks of acrylic tubs will be covered in this article.
- Due to their lightweight fibreglass bases, these tubs are more portable than the standard bathtub on the market right now.
- There is a wide variety of styles available for acrylic bathtubs.
- Acrylic tubs are great at keeping the water warm because their exterior is impermeable.
- Although acrylic tubs last for a long time, the surface tends to chip easily.
- To maintain the quality of the bathtubs, it is necessary to use mild cleaning solutions and soft cleaning cloths.
- A well-maintained acrylic tub can last for up to 15 years.
- Consider the tub's durability and stability when shopping for the best standalone tub.
- Similarly important is the tub's ability to maintain a comfortable temperature.
- Today, we're going to have a look at some of the most sought-after freestanding tubs available.
- When it comes to private bathrooms, this model of bathtub has set the standard for decades.
- Iron is a fantastic option for a heavy and long-lasting standalone tub.
- These bathtubs come in a wide range of styles, with many being timeless classics.
- Using a magnet to determine if a bathtub is porcelain or enamel is the quickest and most reliable method.
- The bathtub is not enamel but porcelain if the magnet attaches to it.
- In most cases, you'll need to replace your acrylic tub after only 10 to 15 years.
- In contrast, a regular acrylic tub will run you somewhere between $600 and $800. The acrylic in a bathtub can age and turn yellow.
- A modest porcelain tub can be purchased for $365-$700.
- As the size, number of jets, and other amenities of the tub are adjusted, so too will the price.
- However, the tub's finish may dim and tarnish over time.
- Porcelain's rigidity makes its surfaces more resistant to wear and scratching than those made of acrylic, which is easily ruined by hard hits.
- Weight Acrylic is the lighter of the two options, but porcelain is the more durable.
- This makes acrylic bathtubs more flexible than porcelain ones, as you may put them anywhere in the bathroom without worrying about water damage.
- A porcelain tub will lose heat faster than an acrylic one will.
- You should think about how well each material keeps heat when deciding between an acrylic tub and a porcelain tub.
- Some porcelain is insulated with foam before being fired; this significantly lowers heat loss during the firing process.
- For this reason, nonporous acrylic (and other nonmetal) bathtubs are preferable to porcelain ones for this purpose.
- Cost Porcelain bathtubs are more expensive than its Acrylic counterparts because of their more intricate design.
- An acrylic tub is less expensive and easier to maintain, while a porcelain tub is more expensive because of the extra work involved in installing it.
- Therefore, if you want to reduce the likelihood of scratches and stains, purchasing a high-quality acrylic bathtub is a good idea.
- On the other hand, if you combine baking soda and toothpaste to make a paste and apply it to the scrape, rubbing it in with the heel of your hand, you may see some improvement.
- Maintenance The upkeep procedures for porcelain and acrylic are the same.
- Each one needs to be cleaned with extreme caution to prevent damage.
- Acrylic, in contrast to porcelain, can be cleaned with simple soap and water.
- You should never scrub your porcelain tub with steel wool or any other abrasive brush.
- Restoration Although a porcelain tub may be more difficult to replace or repair, the process is the same for both acrylic and porcelain tubs.
- Plastic bathtubs are easily repaired by applying a new coating over the dented or scratched area with a refinishing kit.
- You can get the lustre back with the use of a buffer and some rubbing compound.
- If the finish has been substantially damaged, it may need to be repaired by a professional or sanded by hand.
- Your porcelain bathtub can be refinished if the surface has been damaged from excessive washing or chipping.
- To achieve the best results with this technique, the use of porcelain porcelain is required.
- Do-it-yourself repair kits are available to address minor surface damage.
- One clear benefit of working with a professional is the certainty that your work will be protected against faulty materials and workmanship.
- All of these materials have high secondary market demand and values.
- In today's market, the value of either sort of antique porcelain is essentially identical.
- Find out from the government how old bathtubs are to be discarded.
- Some regions may not even accept recycled porcelain.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bathtub
Acrylic is generally a much more durable material when compared to porcelain. Although porcelain tubs have a much harder surface and are more resistant to scratches when compared to acrylic, the harder surface is much more susceptible to cracks and chipping from heavy impacts.
10-15 years. Acrylic bathtubs are very easy to install and have a lifespan of 10-15 years.
While acrylic tubs are easier to repair than many other tub materials and can be chip resistant, they are prone to staining and scratching when improperly maintained or cleaned.
Common Causes of Cracks. Fibreglass is very flexible and easily bends under weight. Continuous pressure from weight combined with improper support can lead to cracks over time. A heavy object is the second culprit. When heavy objects are dropped in a bathtub, small divots and dents begin to form.
A quality porcelain tub can last for about 20 years if well maintained. Though, you may notice that the tub's finish may become dull and slightly discoloured over time. If you'd rather not replace the tub, you can have it refinished for a fraction of the replacement cost.