Alcove Bathtubs. Alcove tubs, which are surrounded by walls on three sides. The front side is then covered with an integral tub apron. Right and left-handed drains are available and are selected depending on your bathroom configuration.

What is the difference between a bathtub and an alcove bathtub?

The term alcove doesn’t refer to the shape or size of the bathtub, but the installation. Alcove tubs are unfinished on three sides with the fourth side, usually one of the long sides, finished with a tub apron. The tub gets installed into an alcove section of the bathroom with three of its sides enclosed by a wall.

What is the difference between an alcove and a skirted bathtub?

An alcove tub and a skirted drop-in tub are very similar, with the only difference being their installation. An alcove tub is made to fit into a space joined by three walls, whereas a skirted tub will always have one completely open side.

What is the difference between a drop-in tub and an alcove tub?

Drop-in bathtubs are installed anywhere a carved out deck or structure is implemented, often times in the center of the bathroom. Alcove bathtubs on the other hand, are installed in a recess, against the wall or an alcove.

What is an alcove tub installation?

An alcove tub is designed to be attached to three walls, so it only has one finished side, which is a solid apron panel that extends to the floor. On the three open sides are flanges for securing the tub to the wall.

Can you tile the front of an alcove tub?

The aprons that are cast into alcove bathtubs simplify the tub installation, but they often come up a bit short in the style department. One way to improve the appearance of a plain apron and create the look of a built-in tub is simply to build and tile a short wall in front of the tub.

Can you put a drop in tub in an alcove?

Yes, drop in tubs can be installed in an alcove, but they’re more commonly installed in more open spaces, freestanding or jutting out from a wall. Depending on the size of the bathroom, a drop in tub installed in an alcove may provide less space; one may be able to fit a larger tub into another space in the room.

What is 3 wall alcove bathtub?

3-wall alcove tub-shower combinations are the most common tub type and are designed to maximize space. The unfinished ends usually get sandwiched between an exterior wall and a handy built-in storage cabinet. A wall-mounted shower is a typical accompaniment. Drop-in tubs are the tub shell only.

Can you put a free standing tub in an alcove?

We often get asked whether it is suitable to install a freestanding bathtub in an alcove. The answer – absolutely! Freestanding bathtubs have been around for nearly 150 years, and they are still part of every day design. Available in endless shapes, colors and sizes.

What type of bathtub is best?

• Porcelain enameled cast iron (Cast Iron) – Best All Around; See Kohler Cast Iron Bathtubs.
• Thermoformed acrylic (Acrylic) – Better to Excellent; See Kohler Acrylic Bathtubs and Aquatic Bathtubs.

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How are alcove tubs measured?

Using a power tape, measure the edge of the tub from one end to another for height and width. To measure the height of the bathtub, take measurement from the floor to the top.

What is the difference between a soaking tub and a bathtub?

Deeper than the average bathtub, soaking tubs are designed to offer the ultimate in relaxation by allowing you to fully submerge. … Some soakers can hold as many as 250 gallons of water, while the average bathtub holds between 25 and 45 gallons.

How do you attach a bathtub to the wall?

1. Mix a batch of mortar according to the package directions.
2. With a notched trowel, spread a 2-inch layer of mortar on the subfloor where the tub will sit.
3. Lift the tub in place and position it so that it’s tight against the walls. Hold a carpenter’s level on the tub and check that it’s level.

How do you turn an alcove tub into a drop on?

1. Measure the alcove space with a measuring tape. …
2. Place a piece of cardboard in the bottom of the tub. …
3. Check the subfloor where the tub will be located. …
4. Set the tub in place and mark the holes for the plumbing and fixtures. …
5. Install the plumbing. …
6. Install the tub spout and drain per manufacturer directions.

What is a recessed bathtub?

Alcove bathtubs, or recessed tubs, are designed to fit into a recessed three-wall nook. Features only one finished side, as the other three will be up against walls. Typically have wall-mounted faucets and are easily configured to incorporate a shower. … Available in many different bathtub design options.

What is integral apron?

Integral apron Exposed external wall of a bathtub or whirlpool bath. It may be integral to the overall structure of the fixture or may be removable for access to whirlpool pump and motor.

Can you put tile on outside of bathtub?

Tiling the entirety of a plastic tub is a do-it-yourself-only project. A plastic tub is not a solid enough surface to adhere tile to, as there is too much flexibility, which means it is not rated for adhesion with the mastics and thinset mortars available with tile, with the exception of epoxy.

Do you tile over tub lip?

The best approach when installing cement board or other tile backer around a tub is to keep the cement board out of the lip area. Apply it to the wall with the bottom edge about 1/4 in. above the lip of the tub. Then apply a generous amount of thin-set to the bottom bathtub tile and position it 1/8 in.

How much does it cost to install a tub surround?

Cost To Install Tub Surround The average cost to install a tub surround is $600 to $1,800 for the materials and labor. The labor cost to replace a tub surround is $300 to $600. Basic acrylic and fiberglass tub surrounds cost $200 to $1,000, while solid surface surrounds cost $600 to $2,000, plus installation.

Can I put freestanding tub against wall?

I’ve worked with new freestanding-like bathtubs called “back-to-wall” tubs that are designed to be installed against a wall. This design may fit smaller spaces and allows for back of tub access for an easier install.

Are freestanding tubs going out of style?

The freestanding bathtub is a current bathroom remodeling trend that may soon be going out of style. … Freestanding bathtubs are also very heavy and may require a reinforced floor. Doorless showers. A doorless shower may increase the amount of floor space in your bathroom, but it also creates a problem with humidity.

Which tub is better acrylic or fiberglass?

Acrylic is much more durable than a fiberglass tub. The chance of an acrylic tub chipping, cracking or fading is unlikely. Fiberglass tubs can fade and get cracked and scratched over time. Both styles can be cleaned with simple cleaning solutions.

What is the most comfortable bath shape?

Oval bathtubs are a common choice for aesthetic and comfort purposes. The most popular oval configuration is the oval freestanding tub (for statement-making purposes), though oval drop in tubs are popular as well, combining the curves of an oval with the linear appearance of a rectangular tub.

Do acrylic tubs crack?

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.

Which tub material is most popular?

Acrylic tubs are a very popular option due to their versatility, durability, wide range of options, and low cost. This type of tub is made from vacuum-formed acrylic sheets that are reinforced with fiberglass. Acrylic tubs are lightweight and relatively easy to install.

Are 60 inch tubs actually 60 inches?

In general, standard dimensions will give you a rough figure for the size of the bathtub. However, they all vary depending on the shape and type of bathtub you are looking to purchase. For a typical standard, wall-wall bathtub, the measures will be roughly 60 inches long, 30-32 inches wide.

How much space do you need for a full bathroom?

A full bath requires a minimum of 36 to 40 sq. ft. The finished room must measure at least 5 ft. in one direction to accommodate a tub.

How much does the average bathtub hold?

Most people use about 30 gallons of water for a bath, according to industry estimates. When filled to capacity (just below the overflow), a standard bathtub holds 42 gallons, but some of that water will be displaced when you get into the tub.

Can you use a soaker tub as a shower?

They were small bathtubs that were really more intended to be used as showers. But, if you had small children –they look like they were a great size for bathing them when they were small. Then, as they grew, they could transition to using the space as a shower.

Can you take a bath in a soaking tub?

Its size means that it can be used in more settings than a full-length bath, without compromising on comfort. In other respects, most deep soaking tubs are similar to an ordinary bathtub. For example, they can be used with an overhead shower and bath/shower screen.

What is a Japanese soaking tub called?

An ofuro (also called furo) is a Japanese wooden bathtub often with deep, straight sides. Simple and beautiful, ofuro tubs are intended more for relaxation and warmth than for actual bathing and washing.