Bath Tub Recommendation

2 years ago

last modified: 2 years ago

I've had a hard time finding a soaking alcove bath tub. I thought I could get a cast iron tub like I have in my other bathroom (tub is 73 years old and showing it's age), but many bathroom showrooms don't even carry cast iron tubs and, more significantly, the sales people have tried to talk me out of cast iron. Someone told me that the problem is that the two main American producers of cast iron porcelain enamel tubs don't make them here anymore. The process was very laborous, dangerous, and uses a lot of chemicals. Now most cast iron tubs are made in China and the enamel is very thin and easily damaged. So when I read online that a cast iron tub could last 70 years, that's not true anymore. Once a cast iron tub is damaged it can never be permanently repaired, and I don't know how long a modern cast iron tub can even last. However, online I've read that an acrylic tub should last 10-15 years. That seems ridiculous. I cannot afford to replace this tub in 10 years. I imagine that replacing it might involve replacing all the tile too. I've looked at a lot of different brands, trying to decide what to buy: MTI Cameron 2 (acrylic), Kohler Underscore (acrylic), Bain Ultra De Ville (acrylic), American Standard Cambridge Americast (similar to cast iron). What have been other people's experiences with these bath tubs, or is there a "perfect" tub I don't know about? My contractor needs me to choose a tub within the next two weeks and I have no idea what to buy. The tub will be used by four people daily (it will have a showerhead for my husband... the rest of us only take baths (two little kids)). Thank you!!!

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Comments (3)

Jake The Wonderdog
2 years ago
last modified: 2 years ago
I'm in the same boat you are in.

I'm not willing to install a tub that will only be good for 10 years - if that. And there are far too many horror stories about cracked acrylic tubs. Yes, a cracked tub means replacing the tile.

I know that proper installation is key (do it by the manual, including the mortar bed) - but even then, too many have cracked. I'm looking for a 30 year solution, not a 10 year solution.

The Kohler products "Should" be a good choice - at $1,200 by the time you add in the drain kit - but looking at the reviews on Build.com will certainly make you think twice. Too many people said that they chip or otherwise were damaged easily or looked bad after a couple of years - and too many cracked. I'm just not okay with that.

Because of quality issues - and "age in place" issues, I've decided against a tub and am going with a cast iron shower base. Kohler seems to have some quality control issues with that as well, but if I get one that's not warped, then it should hold up.
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Patricia Colwell Consulting
2 years ago
That is pure BS as the longevity of acrylic I have an 18 yr old alcove soaking tub I bathe every night for those 18 yrs the tub still look slike new and it was not an expensive choice either I usually use Maax for tubs the prices are decent the quality great and installers love them becuse they do not weigh like cast iron so no need for a crew to install the tub. I expect my tub to alst as long as I want it to last it is installed properly and no change of cracking unless done on purpose . BTW it also holds the water temp quite nicely too and honesly we all have hot water at our finger tips so no big need for cast iron . I aslo think nothing uglier than a cast iron tub with a chip out of the finish
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Debbi Washburn
2 years ago
Acrylic tubs can be repaired in place. We have had to have that done for a couple of our customers. I had a tub from MAAX in one home - it was 26 yrs old when I moved out and was just fine. Don't use anything abrasive to clean it. I also used Gel gloss with it.

I currently have the Americast from American standard. It's been there for almost 20 years and looks the same as when it was installed. You must watch out for their whites. Their white is a little on the warm side. I believe they off a " whiter white" now.

Whenever you do any tile work, you should always save a box or 2 of tile. It doesn't take up much space and you will be thankful if you ever need it!

Good luck