Selecting the right bathtub involves more than just style or size. You need to consider the material itself; from cost and comfort to durability and ease of cleaning, each tub material offers unique benefits and drawbacks. In this guide, we’ll walk through the most common bathtub materials and help you determine the best bathtub material for your home.
Whether you’re planning a total bathroom remodeling project or simply replacing an outdated tub, understanding what tubs are made of is the best place to start.
Acrylic: Lightweight, Durable, and Easy to Clean
Acrylic is one of the most popular bathtub materials for modern bathrooms, and for good reason. These tubs are made from vacuum-formed acrylic sheets reinforced with fiberglass, giving them a balance of strength and flexibility.
- Lightweight construction makes acrylic easier to install, even on upper floors.
- Warm-to-the-touch surfaces provide a more comfortable soak.
- Nonporous finish resists mold, mildew, and staining when properly maintained.
Despite its advantages, acrylic is prone to scratching and can discolor over time without regular cleaning. But its repairability and low maintenance needs make it a favorite among homeowners and installers alike.
If you opt for an acrylic tub, keep it in top condition with our acrylic tub cleaning guide.
Fiberglass: Affordable and Lightweight (With Some Trade-Offs)
Fiberglass, or fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP), is another lightweight and affordable bathtub material. These tubs are formed by molding layers of fiberglass and then coating them with a protective gel resin.
While fiberglass shares many benefits with acrylic, including affordability and easy installation, it does come with limitations:
- More prone to chipping, cracking, and warping than acrylic
- Less heat retention, so water cools faster during baths
- More porous, making it more vulnerable to mold and stains
The key difference in the acrylic versus fiberglass debate often comes down to durability. Fiberglass is a great budget-friendly choice for short-term use or guest bathrooms but may require earlier replacement.
Cast Iron: Exceptional Durability and Classic Appeal
Cast iron tubs are coated with a thick layer of enamel over a solid iron core, offering solid longevity and heat retention. These tubs are incredibly sturdy, capable of lasting for decades with proper care.
- Highly resistant to scratches, dents, and chipping
- Excellent at retaining heat, keeping bathwater warmer longer
- Classic appearance adds vintage charm to any bathroom
However, cast iron tubs are heavy and may require reinforced flooring, especially in second-story bathrooms. Their high price and installation complexity make them better suited for permanent setups and large-scale remodels.
Enameled Steel: Affordable Alternative to Cast Iron
Enameled steel tubs are similar in appearance to cast iron but are made with lighter steel covered in porcelain enamel. These tubs offer a good middle ground for homeowners who want a smooth, glossy surface without the weight of cast iron.
- Lighter than cast iron, and easier to install
- Durable and scratch-resistant surface
- More affordable than many other materials
One downside is that the thinner metal doesn’t retain heat as well and may be noisier when filling with water. If the enamel coating chips, rusting can occur, so be mindful during cleaning. If you’re comparing materials, enameled steel often comes up as a middle-tier choice in terms of price and performance.
Specialty Materials: Stone Resin, Copper, and Solid Surface
Although less common, bathtubs are also available in high-end materials like stone resin, copper, or engineered solid surface composites. These materials are often used in custom builds or luxury homes, offering distinct visual impact along with premium durability.
- Stone resin mimics the look of natural stone but with less weight
- Copper offers antimicrobial properties and a striking appearance
- Solid surface tubs are highly durable and stain-resistant
These specialty tubs come at a premium price and may not be widely available, but they provide options for homeowners seeking something more distinctive.
How Are KOHLER Tubs and Showers Made?
Statewide Remodeling proudly installs KOHLER bath products, including KOHLER Walk-In Tubs and KOHLER LuxStone Showers. These systems are engineered with advanced materials that combine beauty and function.
KOHLER LuxStone walls are made from a proprietary blend of crushed stone and durable fibers, offering the upscale look of stone with the convenience of acrylic. Their walk-in tubs feature nonporous acrylic that resists mold and staining, paired with safety features like low-entry thresholds and built-in seating.
These systems are not only built for longevity but also designed for easy upkeep and accessible living. If you’re comparing what are tubs made of, KOHLER provides a compelling high-end alternative.
Maintenance Considerations by Material
Each material comes with its own care guidelines. For example, how to clean a bathroom with enamel or steel surfaces differs from acrylic or fiberglass. Use non-abrasive cleaners and avoid bleach to extend the life of your tub.
Over time, certain materials may also need refinishing or professional resurfacing. Our team can walk you through replacement options that minimize maintenance while maximizing comfort.
Considering a Shower Instead?
Some homeowners find a shower is a better fit than a tub for their lifestyle. If you’re weighing your options, we also offer insights into shower construction and materials in our shower base guide, which explains everything from acrylic pans to tile-ready bases.
Talk to the Experts at Statewide Remodeling
Still unsure which material is best for your remodel? From affordable tubs to premium KOHLER walk-in baths, Statewide Remodeling offers expert guidance and full-service installation across a wide range of options.
Contact our team today through our locations page or request a consultation to explore the best bathtub material for your home and lifestyle. Schedule your free design consultation and discover how we make your remodel simple, stylish, and built to last.
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