Probably the most difficult part of selecting a
bathtub or shower for a new bathroom is deciding which one will
best suits your preference and budget. Bathtubs and showers come
in countless sizes, shapes, styles, and prices.
Bathtubs
Bathtubs are available in both traditional and untraditional types.
Below are some current choices available:
- Basic traditional bathtubs – standard
rectangular tubs built into a box design; widely available for
around $600.
- Traditional clawfoot bathtubs – porcelain
on iron or steel construction, with a contour shape; supported
by decorative “claw foot” legs. Price is around $1600
for a basic design; up to $5600 for more elaborate styles.
- Special shaped drop-in tubs – available
in oval, rectangular, corner, and other shapes. In various sizes,
usually constructed from acrylic; ranging in price from $760 to
$2300.
- Free-standing ceramic or acrylic tubs –
some in some unusual but nevertheless attractive designs. Some
supported by dark decorative hardwood stands. Prices range from
$3800 to $11,000 and up.
- New design “walk in” tubs –
featuring watertight doors that close and become part of the tub
itself. Ideal for the elderly or physically challenged; price
range starts at around $3000.
- Whirlpool and air massage bathtubs –
available in a variety of shapes and sizes; prices range from
$1500 to $8,100 and up.
- Rustic-looking cedar plank bathtubs –
simulating wooden barrel construction; prices range from $3300
to $4000.
- Stainless steel tubs – various styles,
types, and sizes are available, although limited. Prices start
at around $15,000.
- Copper bathtubs – an exotic choice with
a very contemporary yet rustic look. Several styles and sizes
are available; priced from $11,500 to 42,000 on up.
- Stone tubs; granite, marble, limestone, and onyx
– available in different styles, shapes, and sizes. Prices
range from $12,000 to $24,000 on up.
Showers
Showers can be either the stand alone kind (free standing), or part
of a tub/shower combination. Stand alone showers can be obtained
as a pre-formed unit, designed to install into a prepared space.
Or elaborate custom showers are available made from a variety of
materials, including tile and natural stone.
Tub/shower combinations can be as diverse as a clawfoot tub with
the addition of a shower curtain and shower fixture. To a pre-formed
tub/shower unit utilizing either a shower curtain or glass shower
door insert. Consider the following:
- Clawfoot tub conversion kits that include a shower head, shower
curtain, and attaching shower curtain frame range from about $125
to over $2100.
- Conversion kits that include a water-proof panel system (plumbing
fixtures are not included) are available for $300 to $400; pre-formed
units (corner, cubicle, and tub/shower units) range from $120
to $2500 and up.
- Custom-built showers or tub/shower combinations are limited
only by imagination and pocketbook. They range from a modest standard
bath tub installed into a ceramic-tiled cubicle, or simple ceramic-tiled
shower stall with shower curtain and rod. To lavish “garden
pond” settings; created stone masonry. Complete with planters
for living plants and tiered shelving for scented candles; the
ultimate in “mood setting” features.
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