Toilets

All toilets work the same, so choosing it when designing your bathroom should be easy. The style you choose is simply personal preference. The style preference you will consider are round or elongated, one or two piece, how high, and pressure-assisted or gravity fed. There are also a variety of colors and trim. The best thing is to sit on the toilet before purchasing it. This way you will know if the size and height are comfortable for you. Prices range $200 to $1000.

Styles and Types

One-piece or two-piece
Most commonly toilets are two-piece with separate tanks and bowls. Higher priced one-piece are available and are generally more stylish. With a one-piece, you will not have leaks and they do tend to be quieter.

Round bowl or elongated bowl
Round is most common, as it saves space. Since bathrooms have become larger, elongated bowls have become very popular. Elongated bowls are 2-inches longer than a round bowl. The standard height of toilets is 15-inches.

Gravity or Pressure
Gravity or pressure is the way the toilet flushes. Standard gravity-fed toilets use the weight of the water to force everything from tank into the bowl and through the S-shaped trap way, where a siphoning action finishes the flush. In 1984 Mansfeld introduced the first pressure-assisted toilet in the U.S. By 1986, nearly all North American manufacturer offered at least one PA model. In 1992, a law was passed by the government, which restricted toilets to no more than 1.6 gallons of water used per flush, where the older toilets used 3.5 gallons. These systems use trapped air to initiate the flushing mechanism.

Concealed Tank
A concealed toilet tank is insulated. It is mounted between wall studs on the wall rather than the floor. This makes it easier to clean the toilet.

Materials
Clay fired at high temperatures forms a high gloss, stain-resistant surface. This is called vitreous china, and is what toilets are most commonly made of. They are durable but can chip, crack, or break if abused. With normal use, they can last forever.

A bit about Bidets

The word bidet (pronounced: bee day) is French for pony. This reference is to sitting astride as if on a saddle. It is not a bathtub, shower stall or different kind of toilet (though it is placed next to the toilet) - it is a hands-free, sit-down water washing unit or basin that used in place of wiping with toilet paper. Most Americans have never seen a bidet, unless they frequent upscale hotels in the U.S. and/or Europe. European's consider the bidet to be an essential part of their bathroom, in fact, no well equipped home is without one. Bidets are offered in many styles. They range from traditional to contemporary, but they usually do match the toilet.

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Sinks and Lavatories

Bathroom sinks are sometimes called lavatories. They are available in an indefinite range of color, pattern, style, design, height, depth, width, and material. They come in pedestal, wall hung, under-counter, above counter, integrated, self-rimming, and freestanding. With such a wide variety, you can create the decor that best suits you.

Materials

Sinks are available in many materials including vitreous china, enameled cast iron, fireclay, glass, stainless steel, brass, nickel, copper, marble, and both real and synthetic stone. Each material has its own unique characteristics.

Clay would be one of the oldest materials used to make a sink. Clay can chip or break.

Earthenware is porous clay glazed and decoratively painted. Most people tend to use the china or cast iron because earthenware crackles over time.

Fireclay, or ceramic, is smooth and non-porous. It will not fade, discolor, or rust. You can get these sinks in plain, sculpted, or hand-painted.

Vitreous China is earthenware that is cast and glazed to provide a glossy, durable and stain-resistant surface. You can find these in many different colors that are hand-painted, etched, hammered, matte, and carved finishes.

Glass and crystal sinks are the hottest trend in pricey bathrooms. You can get these in vessel, pedestal, wall mount, over-the-counter, and under-the-counter models. Glass sinks are more durable than you may think, but they will and do break. Remember that your bathroom sink may be beautiful, but this doesn't always mean that it's practical. The best made tempered and laminated glass can crack and break (at least it will not shatter to a million pieces). Glass sinks can be found in a variety of finishes: textured, colored, frosted and etched. If your taste requires glass, just don't forget to use it with care.

Metal sinks are the most durable. They are available in: stainless steel, cast iron, copper, brass, or a combination of those. (Refer to kitchen sink materials for more information)

Styles

Pedestal sinks feature a basin that rests on a pedestal base to conceal the drain and supply lines. Mostly, they are made from vitreous china, but can be found in porcelain-coated steel. They provide a unique decor look, but have no counter or storage space. They work nicely in a very small bathroom that does not require any bathroom accessories to be stored. These sinks require the water and drainage lines in a particular place, so be sure to select the sink before construction.

Vessels look very elegant. They are made from spun glass, lead crystal, china, fireclay, earthenware, cast iron and stainless steel. They can rest above the countertop, wall-mount, be installed in a self-rimming application, or under-the-counter. Vessel sinks are usually fully exposed, so installing in a family bathroom would not be recommended.

Wall-mount sinks are a basin hung from the wall. They are place at your requested height. They can be mounted flush to the wall, recessed or semi-recessed and are available in a wide range of sizes, including small hand sinks. You do not get much storage space with them.

Self-rimming sinks are lowest prices and most common. The edges lap the countertop.

Under-mounted and integral sinks are sinks have hidden edges. Under-mounted sinks attach below the countertop. An integral sink is made out of the same material as the countertop but is fused to it, creating a seamless transition. Stainless steel, solid surface, and composite materials are flexible enough to mold integral sinks. These sink styles give a nice clean look and allow easy cleanup.

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Bathroom Wall Covering

Painting the bathroom can be a project that won't have to be redone for up to to ten years. You have great options on color, styles, texture additions, and etc when using paint. Paint can usually be easily changed. You'll want to purchase a style of paint that is specified for a bathroom since it will be exposed to dampness frequently. Most reputable paint manufacturers have a paint line specifically for bathroom for mildew-resistance.

Solid-surface material can give your bathroom a large variety of color and style. This material will likely last a lifetime, but may become quite costly if you have a large bathroom.
Wallpaper will look good for up to seven years before needing to be replaced. Wallpaper comes in a wide selection, but may vary from company to company. Keep in mind that styles of wallpaper do change often, and it is possible that you may not be able to match the wallpaper later.
Another fact about wallpaper is the moisture in the bathroom. Small bathrooms may steam up quicker and more often, so the wallpaper may damage easily.

Ceramic tile lasts a lifetime, but requires much regular maintenance. There can also be a problem with grout when ceramic tile is around dampness. Ceramic tile can look nice, but if you do not want to deal with grout and mildew frequently, you may want to opt for another wall covering.

Mirrors are an added contemporary look that can give the illusion of enlarging the space in your bathroom. They are nice to allow full head to toe views, but over time they can lose their luster and may fall apart. You may want to consider installations that will allow you to replace the mirrors after several years.

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Bathroom Vanities

Vanities hold built-in sinks and faucets. They are generally a smaller, special version of the kitchen cabinet. They are available from all kitchen cabinet manufacturers. There are basically three categories of vanities: North American frame, which is standard, Euro style, which is frameless, and Furniture.

North American frame is mass-produced by kitchen cabinet manufacturers. They are similar in style and construction to the kitchen cabinet. Framed cabinets have a "face frame" which is attached to a box where the doors hang. Less expensive cabinets will have MDF (medium density fiberboard) or plywood face frames and higher-grade cabinets have solid wood frames. Solid wood is less common for the sides of the cabinet box because the high condensation in the bathroom causes it to warp over time.

Euro-style cabinets are frameless on the face. The doors are hung directly on the cabinet box. The doors are usually made of particleboard and covered with high-pressure laminate. You can request a stronger alternative, furniture-grade flake board, because it's rigidity does not warp and split with age.

Furniture is fairly new, but more luxurious. This gives the look of fine furniture instead of a simple cabinet box. These are becoming available by more and more furniture manufacturers and are considered high-end vanities. You can have these custom designed or a small antique dresser converted to one for you by a qualified craftsman.

Materials
The most common materials for vanities are wood or synthetic. They are then veneered, laminated, or painted. Oak is the longest running favorite of woods, but maple and cherry are also quite common. For paint, white is still the most used, but second in line is biscuit color. You can also purchase thermafoil doors for an attractive yet durable alternative, which is a medium density fiberboard coated with opaque plastic.

Cost
Vanity costs range from $95 to $1000 depending on whether it's a stock, semi-custom (built at a cabinetmaker shop to your specifications, not on site) or custom made by a carpenter on-site. The material and design will vary depending on the cost.

Medicine Cabinets and Accessories
The details of the bathroom are what make the decor appealing and personalized. Cabinets, towel bars, soap and tissue holders, shower doors, and etc all contribute to these details. To be eye-catching, everything should blend together, compliment each other, and match on some level.

There are lots of style options available for medicine cabinets: recessed, flush mounted, integrated lighting, multiple doors, multiple mirrors, double door, double-sided mirrors for better viewing, and more.

The shower doors you choose can slide, bi-fold, or swing. There are standard sizes for tub-shower combinations or one-piece shower enclosures, but you do have the option for onsite-customized showers.

Towel bars, soap and tissue holders, toilet paper holders and holders for glasses and toothbrushes are all available in a number of finishes to match your faucets. Other items you may wish to consider are things like built-in soap dispensers, hot water dispensers and water purifiers. Almost all faucets have coordinating accessories, but make sure you buy all of your items from the same manufacturer because all similarly named finishes are not identical. Try a towel warmer to compliment your new decor and add some after showering pampering for yourself. These are basically heated shower racks. They can be costly and require electric and water hookup, but can be an exceptional high-class addition to your master or guest bath.

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Bathroom Flooring

You should consider safety before appearance as you choose the material for your bathroom flooring. There are different styles of flooring available to choose from.

Vinyl linoleum flooring will be easy to clean and maintain. It will last a minimum of twenty years.

Placing marble as the flooring surface will also be easy to clean and maintain, but will last indefinitely.

If tile is installed correctly, it will also last indefinitely with ease of cleaning and maintaining.

Laminated flooring takes a little more maintenance and will last at least for a decade.

Hardwood will require much maintenance, particularly around the base of the commode. However, if maintained properly, it's possible for it to last a lifetime.
Hardwood can create a wonderful appearance and stay warmer year round, and is commonly sold in oak and pine.

Carpet can last for some time, but not indefinitely. Although it feels nice to walk on and stays much warmer, a bathroom is a difficult place for carpet. Water wreaks havoc on carpet and will eventually cause odor and mildew. Throw rugs may be a better alternative for comfort and appearance on one of the options above.

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Showers

In the past, manufacturers offered little variety when it came to showers. Today, the perfect design and style for any ensemble is available. This includes all your shower fixings, such as valves, doors, and showerheads, handle bars, jet sprays, etc. Your perfect shower is well within reach.

Shower Surrounds

Because of the moisture and excessive water usage in a bathroom, all surface materials that will be used should be installed on top of a waterproof or water resistant material. Water-resistant drywall is very commonly used for this purpose. It is sometimes referred to as "green board." Cement-board is also common because it is more durable, but is more expensive. The expense seems worthwhile with the peace of mind that comes along with it. Below is a list of various available shower surrounds.

Prefabricated
These surrounds vary from fiberglass, acrylic, vinyl, plastic laminate, and synthetic stone. You can purchase one-piece kits or multiple piece kits.

Solid-Surface
This material is lifelong and easily cleaned because of its smooth acrylic surface. Price is compared at $40 to $75 per square foot installed.

Fiberglass
Price for fiberglass units compare at $200 to $400. This makes fiberglass material the least expensive of all. It is also entirely waterproof, very durable, and easily cleaned. Most manufacturers offer three-piece and five-piece units in multiple sizes.

Shower Doors

While you may desire a simple shower curtain for enclosure, they can tear easily and are not always the most efficient way to keep water in the shower area. A simple solution against water leakage is a fixed door. Because of new designs and styles, fixed doors can also enhance the look of your shower. Due to the layout of your specific shower, you may choose from a variety of configurations. You may desire a one-piece enclosure over a tub or a custom doorway. You also may choose a sliding door, swinging door, or combination of the two. The key is to determine the best door for the layout of your bathroom.

Sliding Doors
Most commonly used, sliding doors glide on a track installed on either the floor of a shower or mounted on the tub. These doors require much less space than any other and may be purchased in two of three sections. They can be difficult to clean though, due to the track.

Bi-Fold/Curved Doors
Also requiring minimal space, bi-fold doors are made of accordion shaped folding sections. This allows full access to the shower. Although spacious, this type of door may also be difficult to clean and excessive use may cause the track to jam. Curved doors take up little space as well and are perfect for corner showers. The curved glass panel is attached to the top and bottom frame, which allows smooth and stable operation. It is also right and left reversible.

Swinging Doors
Available from 36 inches to 48 inches, these doors are secured with magnetic catches. They are offered in a pivot style of hinge-mounted.

Glass Options
Glass doors are available for a more unique style. Generally clear or opaque, you may also desire a doorway that is obscure, fluted, etched, beveled, or stained.

Ventilation
It is important to remember your ventilation fan. This will reduce condensation, which could eventually damage materials in your shower. You may choose from various styles, but make sure to choose the proper size.

Shower Sprays

Sprays range from soft-aerated, deep, strong, massage, pulse, mist, concentrated, and a mixture of strong and pulsating. Now, the most common fixture for sprays is a fixed showerhead. This may have adjustable water direction and also adjustable spray styles as above. This all depends on the manufacturer. Another possibility is a handheld spray. In this case, you will have a hose connection in which you can mount to the shower wall or a sliding bar. These sprays are quite convenient and usually have two adjustable spray styles. Lastly, you may choose a body spray. This unit is most commonly installed below shoulder height and in groups of two or more. Spray style and water direction vary from unit to unit, but all of the above spray styles are available.

Custom Showers

Today's new trends are showerheads with multiple spray patterns and multiple valves. Unlike single-spray showerheads, these elaborate systems require a great deal of additional plumbing. If you desire a state-of-the-art shower system installation, you must consult with your plumber before construction. This will ensure your designs are correct and the system is possible. Some well and septic systems are unable to handle these units because they use an extreme amount of natural resources.

Two of the main custom showers are full body spas and carwash showers & shower towers. These consist of multiple-heads, valves, water outlets, volume controls, and handheld or body sprays.

Carwash Showers/Full Body Spas
A full body shower has vertical mounted spray nozzles, "his" and "her" temperature control valves, and a possible 6 or more water sources. It is designed to spray the entire body with adjustable volume and pressure.

Different choices available include the body spa, which is a re-circulating stand up whirlpool with a waterfall, or you may desire and electronically controlled system. This shower includes pulsating and pivoting body sprays and the possible addition of a showerhead. Usually, spas and carwash showers use approximately 80 gallons of water per minute. That is 25 times the water flow of a standard showerhead.

Another possible addition to your system is a steam generator. In this case, consult with your electrician before construction to plan out the additional layout and wiring needed.

Shower Towers
If you are trying to avoid the complicating plumbing designs, then you may prefer a shower tower. These showers are fountains that are integrated as one-piece custom units. They combine valves, body sprays, handheld sprays, and water jets using one single water line connection. If desired, multiple units can be installed. Whatever your desire, you will have a unique and luxurious custom shower.

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Faucets

Most high quality faucets are brass. They are available in several finishes ranging from powder-coated enamel to gold plated. The faucet parts can be made by machine or cast in molds. Cast processing is considered better quality. Plastic is another popular material of faucets.

Finish
When choosing the finish of your new faucet, lean towards something that is long-lasting and low maintenance that will complement your decor. There are many finishes available. Chrome plating, nickel plating, white enamel, brass, colored epoxy (glacier white, almond, biscuit and black), platinum, porcelain, bronze, stainless steel and gold or silver are some of the options available.

Chrome and brass are the most common finishes chosen because they are easy to maintain and very durable. If you choose brass keep in mind that it requires a special protective coating to prevent tarnishing. Choose epoxy finish for a bigger variety of color options. Epoxy is also very easy to clean. Today, many manufacturers use a technology called PVD (physical vapor deposition) for their faucet finishes, which makes them almost indestructible.

Basic styles
There are three basic faucet style types: center set, widespread, and mini-widespread. There are then a number of variations within those.

Center set would be the most common. They are available in single or two handle styles. With a single handle, both the cold and hot water feed through a single hole. In a two-handle set, the hot and cold water are separate.

Widespread faucets have spouts mounted separately for the hot and cold. They allow for a more flexible installation because the handles can be from 8 to 20 inches apart. However, this style does tend to be more expensive.

Single handled faucets can be widespread, but the handle is a separate unit in that case and not mounted on the spout. This is done at times for convenience or appearance.

Mini-widespread faucets are the same as widespread except they are 4 inches from center to center rather than 8 to 12.

Spouts come in a variety of styles from straight to gooseneck. Some are fixed, and some are swivel.

Valves control the flow of water. There are four basic types of valves: compression, cartridge, ball, and ceramic disc. Compression valves always have two controls, which operate by raising or lowering a stem. The stem has a rubber washer on the end to seal off the water flow. The problem with this type of faucet is that it's prone to leaks because the rubber washer wears out.

Cartridge units are offered on both single handle and two handle faucets and control water flow by a cartridge. These faucets are quite reliable and easy to repair. The ball faucet uses a single lever that controls a rotating slotted metal ball to regulate your water flow. This faucet is only available in single-lever styles. The best valve is a ceramic disc (actually two discs are used to regulate water flow). This valve is virtually maintenance free and usually carries a lifetime guarantee because it has a flat form and is very durable.

Look for quality

Inexpensive faucets may look as good as the expensive ones, but probably will not last as long. When plastic is used on integral parts, and they are lightweight, you should beware that the faucet is not going to last very long. The cost of a plumber later is going to be much worse than a quality faucet now. The average cost of a faucet is $75 to $200 plus.

Know your needs
Know the design of your countertop or sink before you purchase your bathroom faucet. Know if you need a single hole, a 4-inch mini-spread or center set, or an 8-inch widespread design.

For a tub and/or whirlpool, you will need to know if the installation calls for a wall or deck mount and if a hand spray will be required. The shower faucet is best discussed with the plumber or designer since there are so many options available. It is too easy to choose the wrong styles or supplies.

Making it fit
This is a very important detail to remember. Buy your faucet and sink together. Then you will know that they are compatible. The sink will need to be drilled or punched to match the faucet you choose, and not all units will work together.

Specialty sinks often require special faucets. If you have chosen a cultured marble top, you will need a longer spouted faucet due to the setback. Do not ever assume everything will fit. The salesperson's job is to assist you in these matters. Request their expertise in how the pieces work together. Also consider additional trim that some faucets may require. They may require them, but they also allow additional design options for your decor.

Shower Faucets
There are many types and styles of shower faucets, but the most common is a wall-mount faucet over the drain. When you choose a shower spray, keep in mind that a handheld spray head offers flexibility when you wash your hair or want to massage your back. The rough-in valve varies for showerheads, so you will have to choose this before the bathroom construction begins. Just because the package says universal, this is not always true. Be sure to have an adequate water supply if you want a fancy multiple showerhead sprayers.

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Bathroom Countertops

Since most countertops are custom made, you can be very creative with your specific bathroom decor. There are a multitude of colors, patterns, and materials to pick from. Not all the materials work well with condensation and water. The best options are marble, granite, ceramic, porcelain tiles, solid surfaces, and laminate surfacing.

Plastic laminate is available in virtually any color and texture. It is the most commonly used and least expensive. There are four major manufacturers of plastic laminate: Wilsonart, Formica, Nevamar, and Pionite. They each offer over a hundred colors and patterns. In fashion right now, is having your countertop designed in your own custom color, texture, and style. This can get costly though, so be prepared if you go this route. Laminate is very easy to clean since it has a smooth surface. The average cost is between $25 and $50 per linear foot installed.

Ceramic and porcelain tile would be the most versatile material to use for your countertop. You can create specific looks, such as contemporary, retro, traditional, rustic, country, and more. The bad part of using tile means you will have to deal with grout lines. This requires regular maintenance and much scrubbing, but the tiles themselves are actually easy to clean. Cost is $50 to $80 per linear foot, installed. Plain-colored tiles cost from $2 to $40 per tile with hand-painted tiles running from $5 to $75.


Corian and solid surfacing is made of either a pure acrylic product or a polyester-acrylic mix. The most common is Dupont's Corian, which is 100% synthetic. You can get Corian from other manufacturers also in a wide range of colors and textures: Wilsonart, Formica, and Avenite are a few. You can get Corian in solid color, but most will have flecks that resemble real stone, which will cost more. Cost is $75 to $150 a linear foot, installed.

Granite slabs hold their weight and look great, but cost the most. If you truly want the look of granite, but can't handle the cost, try opting for granite tiles. The costs will vary quite a bit according to the type, quality, finished edge, and availability at the time of purchase. Cost varies from $75 to $200 a linear foot, installed.

Composite stone is a rival to granite and has become very fashionable. It is a synthetic stone composite made of 90% quartz particles and 10% acrylic or epoxy binder. Some of these look like natural stone, but are not identifiable. Some look so much like granite that you cannot tell the difference. Since composite stone is man-made, you will not get the variation you do with granite or marble, and it will not require sealing. Silestone, Okite, CaesarStone and DuPont's Zodiaq are the main manufacturers and all use the same process. The differences in the manufacturers are the colors and textures offered. The four companies together offer more than 130 countertop choices. Cost is $110 to $250 a linear foot, installed

Finally, although wood is attractive and versatile, it is very vulnerable to water damage and is hard to clean - especially in the bathroom. If you really want a wood countertop in your bathroom be sure it's well sealed with polyurethane or marine varnish. Note: extra care should be taken to seal around the edges of plumbing fixtures so standing water can't seep in and cause wood rot. Cost is $25 and $40 a linear foot, installed.

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Bathtub Basics

It is worth the investment for quality in the planning of your bathroom. Far too often a bathtub is quickly sketched on a blueprint and the end product is not enjoyable and can be uncomfortable. It is important to discuss bathtub basics, such as length, water capacity, and accessories, as soon as possible with a contractor. Generally, the bathtub is installed in the first stage of construction.

Function
Comfort is particularly important when choosing a bathtub. Designers have introduced every conceivable size, shape, and material into our homes. The best way to decide is to experience them for your self. Go to store showrooms and search for the right comfort level for you.

Bathtub Basics
Whether you are a petit person wanting a shallow tub with armrests built-in, or a tall person who may want an extra wide and totally submersible contour, the size of your tub is important. You may want a tub that will fit two. Think about ergonomics. A standard bathtub is 14 to 17 inches in depth. A European style is 18 inches deep and a Japanese (or Greek) style is 22 or more inches in depth.

Tub Styles

There are numerous makes and models of bathtub styles including built-in, freestanding, soaking, and whirlpool.

Alcove
These tub styles have only frontal exposure. It is the most common American design and is quite basic. Alcoves have limited finishes and the designs and styles are shallow and usually combined with a shower. If you decide on this style, be sure to think about the drainage, shower doors, and the surrounding area around the alcove. Tip: Waterproof material is a good choice for surrounding surfaces, such as ceramic tile or waterproof paint. You also need to decide whether you would like a shower door or a curtain.

Tub and Shower
Generally in this design, the walls around the bathtub will be lined with ceramic tile to enclose the area. This style also accomplishes two needs in one space, saving room. Even so, it may be difficult to clean every day because of the grout lines. If this may be a problem, a manufactured tub and shower combination is an option. An example is a sectional acrylic over fiberglass unit. Over time, color will fade with this material, but when installed properly it should never leak.

Floor Mounted Sunken
This style can be very dangerous for some. Because of the high step it may be difficult to step out of. For this reason, most floor-mounted bathtubs are deck-mounted in a separate frame. This requires extra carpentry and will raise the costs. Most are integrally manufactured with faucet ledges for easier access. Although great for soaking and cleaning, this style is costly to repair due to the hidden plumbing.

Corner
Corner bathtubs are designed as customized or standard drop-in and are fitted into an angled deck corner. Whether set alone or placed into the room, they are a good way to set off a room. Tip: Some models are not suitable for overhead showers.

Garden
With its rich origin, this large, deep bathtub is used only for soaking. It has no capabilities for a shower or whirlpool.

Roman
With no integrated showers or jets, this much deeper bathtub is similar to the garden tub. The filler spout rises off the deck rather than through the walls of the tub.

Japanese (Ofuro)
Deep enough to immerse your body when sitting, these tubs are products of polypropylene reinforced with fiberglass. Traditionally they were made of wood, tile or metal.

Freestanding
In the past, roll-top and cast-iron tubs were the trend. Now this classic remains in the same form- sloped back and straight front with ball and claw or pedestal legs. Materials range from cast iron, porcelain and steel, and acrylic. Available in 4 to 6 feet, the freestanding tub comes in a variety of colors. It is important to remember that the pipes are exposed in this style.

Whirlpool
Piping, electric pumps, and water jets circulate throughout for an even message. This is referred to as a soaker tub. Designs vary in size, style, color and shape. Usually they are comprised of fiberglass/acrylic or cast iron. They are very durable. Again, it is good to use showrooms to test the comfort level of these bathtubs. Whirlpools are offered in alcove and drop-in models.

Bathtub Materials

As you know, tubs come in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles. Your decision regarding a bathtub should be based on your needs, desires, and budget. Porcelain on steel, acrylic, fiberglass/gel coat, composite, cast iron, cultured marble, and wood are the materials with which bathtubs are manufactured.

Porcelain on Steel (POS)
This is possibly the most practical and affordable style. It consists of a thin stamped steel shell, coated with heat-fused porcelain enamel. The pros of POS are that it is resistant to acid, corrosion, and abrasion. It is flame proof and colorfast. The con is that if the surface area is chipped or cracked, it will rust.

Acrylic
Sheets of acrylic and reinforced fiberglass are vacuum molded to create this material. Therefore, it is quite durable. It has a natural luster to it, is economical, and lightweight. It may be easy to clean, but is easy to scratch and susceptible to discolor over time. Some grades are durable enough to withstand a hammer.

Fiberglass/Gel (FRP)
This is generally the least expensive of the materials. Because it is lightweight and easily installed, it can be molded into varying shapes. A pigmented polyester resin spray that is applied to a mold forms the Gelcoat surface. There are thick layers of fiberglass and foam insulation that line the sleek style of the unit. Although it looks similar to acrylic, this material is much thinner and much less durable. The finish will show wear after 10 to 15 years and will scratch and/or fade. On the plus side, it is easy to repair.

Cast Iron
Because this enamel-coated material is considered the most durable, it is therefore the most expensive. Casting is the method in which molten iron is poured into a specific mold for shape. Due to its thick material, the surface is resistant to chemicals, chipping, scratching, and denting. Generally, a lifetime warranty will accompany also.

Cultured Marble
Marble is man-made from crushed limestone and polyester resin. It has a gel coat for a surface finish. Because of the process in which it is made, the material has a unique array of colors, patterns, and veining. Marble also has a tough, durable, and transparent surface resistance.

Wood
Wood just isn't a long-term investment for a bathtub. Naturally water and wood do not react well together leaving a short-term life. The bathtub's appearance will be beautiful for several years, but will eventually warp, crack, and rot. Also, many areas of the US do not permit wooden tubs in local building codes.

Mosaic/Ceramic
Completely customized, a tub will be lined with ceramic or mosaic tile. Inexperienced installation could result in a hazardous and unsealed bathtub. Therefore, be sure to find an experienced professional for this type of work.

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