Types of Bathtub Materials in Nigeria

Porcelain Tubs. As the top two most common and popular bathtub materials, the full acrylic and porcelain are frequently compared to one and another. Both are great options—it just depends on what you’re looking for. Keep in mind that acrylic tubs are typically less expensive.

What is the most durable material for a bathtub?

Cast iron tubs are made by pouring molten iron into a mold of the desired shape, then smoothing it and coating it with a thick layer of enamel. It’s probably the most durable tub available, and the finish is resistant to chipping, scratching and denting, as well as most types of chemicals.

What is the best material for a bathtub?

Fiberglass is the best bathtub material for a lightweight, inexpensive and easy-to-clean tub. Porcelain-enameled steel and wood retain heat extremely well, while the best bathtub material for a quiet sound while filling is porcelain-enameled cast iron.

How can I tell what material My bathtub is?

If you hold a strong magnet near the wall of the tub, it should stick. You may already have magnets on the bottom of your shower curtain to hold it in place and keep the water inside the tub. If the magnets do not stick, that is a definite indicator of fiberglass or acrylic.

What are the different types of bathtub materials?

5 Common Materials Used in Bathtubs

• 01 of 05. Porcelain Enameled Steel. Porcelain-enameled steel is a very common and often inexpensive option.
• 02 of 05. Acrylic.
• 03 of 05. Fiberglass (FRP)
• 04 of 05. Enameled Cast Iron.
• 05 of 05. Cast Polymer (Cultured Marble, Granite, or Onyx)

What is better porcelain or acrylic tubs?

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 breaks and chipping from heavy impacts.

Which is better fiberglass or acrylic tubs?

Fiberglass is sprayed with a gelcoat mixture over a mold. This means that the whole acrylic process is more hands on and not as they had manufactured. Acrylic is exceptionally durable and the likelihood of this material chipping, breaking or fading is rare. Fiberglass tubs can quickly fade and breaks and scratch happen often.

Do acrylic tubs feel cheap?

Durability, versatility, heat retention, and smoothness… with an affordable price tag. Acrylic tubs are easy on the eye, the body, and the wallet. There’s a reason this tub material is a favorite on the market. It’s comfortable, low-maintenance, warm, and lightweight, and, best of all, it’s affordable.

How long will an acrylic tub last?

Unlike fiberglass, acrylic is an affordable and durable option for your bathtub, especially when combined with another strong foundational material, like a high-tech polymer. On average, acrylic tubs last around 10 to 15 years, significantly longer than a fiberglass tub.

Do acrylic tubs break?

Acrylic is non-porous, meaning that an acrylic bathtub will not absorb water, leading to a longer lifespan. The material is also more durable to heavy impacts and will not chip or crack.

Are Acrylic Freestanding tubs good?

Acrylic bathtubs are the most popular choice for freestanding tubs because they are perhaps the best all-around material in terms of durability, versatility, and affordability. They are strong and lightweight, which makes them easier to carry and install, especially on upper levels.

Are acrylic showers any good?

A non-porous material, it provides reliable waterproofing, which means your shower can impede mold and mildew growth, and it lowers the chances of water damage in your home. Once installed, an acrylic shower is easy to clean and maintain. In fact, a soapy water mixture is enough to keep it shiny.

Do acrylic tubs turn yellow?

Acrylic tub – These tubs are created by heating and molding (vacuum forming) sheets of acrylic which are reinforced underneath with full well fiberglass. Since the material is non-porous it will not allow mold and mildew to build up. Color is solid through the acrylic so it won’t yellow like a fiberglass bathtub.

Is it OK to use bleach on acrylic tub?

Many acrylic tub manufacturers warn against using bleach or other abrasive cleaners as this “may void the warranty” on your bathtub. So, no matter what type of cleaner you prefer, make sure to use a soft cloth or a squeegee to avoid damaging your tub’s finish.

Can you use vinegar on acrylic tubs?

To gently clean your acrylic tub, you can use natural products like vinegar, baking soda and lemon. You can also buy commercial cleaners designed for acrylic tubs.

Is steel or acrylic bath better?

Acrylic baths are warmer to the touch than their steel counterparts. There’s nothing like a nice warm relaxing soak in the cold, winter months, but lying back on cold, hard steel isn’t quite the same. This said, steel is pretty good at transferring heat quickly, so it doesn’t stay cold for long. Acrylic is non-porous.

Is my bath acrylic or enamel?

Understanding Your Tub

Acrylic is pretty easy: If it looks plasticky, it’s an acrylic tub. If not, a simple test can help you to determine whether your tub is made of enamel or porcelain: put a magnet on it. If it sticks, the tub is enameled metal; if not, it’s porcelain.

Are steel baths slippery?

If you have children or elderly or someone with special needs in your family, then Steel tubs may not be the ideal choice as the surface can be very cold and slippery.

What are the strongest baths?

Steel baths

They are considered to be more durable and are much stronger than the plastic version. In fact they are even stronger than a cast iron or stone bath. For this reason they will last a long time. This type of bath will retain the heat of the water much longer than acrylic.

What is the thickest acrylic bath?

Most acrylic baths have a thickness of between 5-10mm. Double skinned acrylic baths are much more durable and will provide you with a very 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 breaking.

Are Carronite baths heavy?

Carronite™ baths are stronger and heavier than standard acrylic baths. The additional finishing layers crafted during the Carronite™ process create a uniquely reinforced product. The added weight requires a bespoke fitting system that only adds to the stability and rigid feel of our Carronite™ baths.

How do I choose a bath?

Generally, if your home can support it and you have the space for it, a larger tub is fully recommended. In the case of freestanding and corner bathtubs, if you have the requisite space, then by all means, choose those styles. But, if your space is more limited, alcove, drop-in, and soaking might be more suitable for you.

How do I choose a freestanding bath?

Think about the size and consider a slipper bath or a short roll-top bath. If you are lucky enough to go for a freestanding bath of any size, place it in the centre of the room – it will give your bathroom a luxurious feeling.

Are L shaped baths worth it?

L or P shaped baths are the solution to a roomier showering experience, without either installing a standalone shower.

They’re designed to be sleek and compact and accommodate more room for showering. They’re ideal for homeowners, who want a spacious showering experience but don’t have the room for a standalone shower.

What are L shaped baths for?

Modern, straight edges and added space for showering are what define an L shape bath. One end, usually the shower or tap end, is wider to allow you all the space you need when showering.

Wrapping Up

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. Bottom line is that acrylic is a stronger material than fiberglass.

Acrylic tubs effectively resist wear and tear for years on end, while fiberglass is prone to scratching and cracking. Fiberglass also fades more quickly, especially if exposed to sunlight coming in through a window.