When you’re designing your new bathroom or looking to upgrade your look, nothing makes more of a statement than a beautiful, freestanding bath. Changing out a built-in tub for a freestanding version can transform a bathroom from ordinary to luxurious, but when it comes to baths, you have more to consider than just aesthetics.

Before you decide to buy a freestanding tub for your bathroom, you need to weigh the pros and cons to see if it’s the right fit for your space and your needs. So this post details all you need to consider so that you choose the best bath to match your budget, style, and comfort.

Advantages of Freestanding Tubs

Freestanding bathtubs, also known as standalone or clawfoot tubs, have gained popularity in recent years due to their elegant and luxurious appearance. They offer several advantages that make them a desirable choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their bathrooms. If you want to buy a freestanding tub for your bathroom, consider some of the advantages:

• Stylish design: Freestanding bathtubs are known for their eye-catching and sophisticated design. They come in a wide variety of shapes, styles, and materials, allowing you to choose a tub that complements your bathroom decor and enhances the overall aesthetic of the space. From classic tubs to modern, sleek designs, freestanding bathtubs can serve as a focal point in any bathroom.
• Versatile installation: Unlike built-in bathtubs that require specific dimensions and configurations to fit into a pre-designed space, freestanding bathtubs can be installed in various locations in a bathroom. They don’t need to be placed against a wall and can be positioned anywhere in the room, giving you more flexibility in your bathroom’s layout and design.
• Enhanced comfort: These tubs are typically deeper and wider compared to built-in tubs, allowing for a more comfortable and relaxing bathing experience. They often have sloped sides, providing additional support for the neck, shoulders, and back, which can enhance comfort during soaking or bathing. Freestanding bathtubs also offer more legroom, allowing for a more comfortable and enjoyable bathing experience.
• Easy maintenance: You’ll find these tubs are typically easier to clean and maintain compared to built-in tubs. Since they are not attached to walls or built into the floor, you won’t encounter hard-to-reach corners or tight spaces that can accumulate dirt and grime because you can access them for cleaning from all sides.
• Durability: Freestanding tubs are often made from high-quality materials such as stone, which is known for durability and longevity. Resistant to stains, chipping, and cracking, a freestanding tub makes a durable option for long-term use. With proper care and maintenance, they can retain their beauty and functionality for many years.
• Elevated aesthetic: Freestanding bathtubs are considered a luxury item, and many homebuyers find them attractive and desirable. So adding one to your bathroom can be a valuable investment that can enhance your home’s look and be a desirable element for resale value if you sell your home.

Overall, freestanding bathtubs offer a range of advantages, including their stylish design, versatile installation options, enhanced comfort and style, as well as easy maintenance and durability. If you’re looking to elevate your bathroom’s aesthetics and functionality, a freestanding bathtub can be an excellent choice.

Disadvantages of Freestanding Tubs

While freestanding bathtubs offer numerous advantages, they also have some potential disadvantages that you should consider before making a decision. These disadvantages may include:

• Higher cost: Freestanding bathtubs are generally more expensive compared to built-in bathtubs. The materials used, the design, and the craftsmanship of freestanding baths can add to their price tag. Additionally, the installation of a freestanding bathtub may require additional plumbing work and modifications to the bathroom, which can increase the overall cost. However, the investment in this kind of tub can boost the value of your home as well as add value in terms of comfort.
• Space requirements: Freestanding tubs typically require more floor space compared to built-in bathtubs. They need ample space to be positioned away from walls, and their larger footprint can limit placement options in smaller bathrooms or bathrooms with limited space. It’s essential to carefully measure and plan for the required space to ensure that a freestanding bath will fit comfortably in your bathroom.
• Installation challenges: Installing a freestanding bathtub can be more complex compared to a built-in version. Tubs typically already have plumbing in a set space near a wall unless you’re building a new home. So you may need additional plumbing work and modifications to the bathroom floor to accommodate the tub’s drain and faucet. Proper installation is crucial to ensure stability, prevent leaks, and maintain the tub’s integrity.
• Potential for messy surroundings: While freestanding bathtubs are generally easier to clean compared to built-in ones, they may have some cleaning challenges. Since they are not attached to walls or built into the floor, water may splash onto the surrounding area during use, potentially requiring more frequent cleaning.
• Limited built-in storage: Typically, you don’t get any kind of built-in storage options, such as shelves or alcoves, which are commonly found in built-in tubs. This can limit the storage space for toiletries, towels, or other bath accessories, which may require additional storage solutions in the bathroom, meaning more space is needed.
• Weight: These baths are often heavier compared to built-in tubs due to their materials and construction. This can make them more challenging to move or reposition, and they may require additional structural support for your bathroom floor. The weight of a freestanding tub may also affect its mobility, making it difficult to relocate or rearrange in the future.

While freestanding bathtubs offer many advantages, such as elevated comfort and style, they also come with potential disadvantages, including higher cost, space requirements, and possible installation challenges. Before you buy a freestanding tub, carefully consider these factors.

Take careful measurements of your space, determine the location of existing plumbing, and consider how adding a freestanding bath can impact your style as well as your comfort when bathing or cleaning your bathroom. Weigh all the benefits against possible disadvantages to make an informed decision so that you select the perfect bath for your space.