How to Choose Your Ideal Bathtub

You’ve probably heard the term “self-care” a lot in the past few years. The World Health Organization offers a broad definition, but at its core, self-care is about “the individual person who acts to preserve health.”

Everyone’s version of self-care will differ, but taking a luxurious bath is a popular choice—and one that’s scientifically backed. Baths can help with sleep, mood regulation, and easing muscle tension, and one Lakehead University researcher is even conducting a study into how a warm bath could help with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD. On a lighter scale, baths can help your overall mental state–a quiet space with relaxing scents and softer lighting can help ease your mind–and, if it’s your thing, promote meditation.

If you’ve spent more time in your bathtub recently but it’s no longer fitting your needs, it might be time for an upgrade. How can you be sure you’re choosing a bathtub that’s ideal—and functional—for your home? Here are a few things to consider before you make the investment.

Do you know your bathroom?

The first thing you should do before you narrow down your bathtub options is take stock of your bathroom. You’ll need to take exact measurements and note where your other features and plumbing are located. If you’re not doing a total remodel, moving your tub by more than three feet from existing plumbing can add a considerable amount to your cost.

Don’t forget to measure your doorways and hallways, too! They need to be at least 10 centimetres wider than your selected tub so the fixture can be moved into place.

Size, type, and functionality

There are a lot of great bathtub options out there, and what you select will depend on the measurements and planning you did above, as well as your vision for the room. Do you want jets to help relax your muscles? Do you want to be able to shower in the same place? Are you trying to conserve space? These are all things to consider when you start shopping for a new tub.

Photo by Michiel van Kaam on Unsplash

Three-wall alcove and corner tubs

If you have limited space, then either a three-wall alcove or a corner bathtub might be the right choice. The three-wall alcove is a tub-shower combo tucked into one end of the room. It refers to tubs that are unfinished on three sides, which are enclosed against three walls, with the fourth side facing out. The corner tub is square or triangular in design and is usually sized to fit more than one person, perfect for families with small kids.

Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash

Freestanding and clawfoot tubs

If you have a lot of space and potentially want a separate shower (which, according to Forbes, potential home buyers see as a luxury), a freestanding or clawfoot bathtub could be the way to go. A freestanding tub sits in a solid base or cradle and creates a sculptural focal point. However, it can be heavy. Do some calculations to see how much it will weigh with water and a bather so you can make sure you don’t need to add extra floor supports.

With their signature curved feet, clawfoot tubs are easy to spot. They are deep and often shaped to have a high back which supports your upper body. Like the freestanding tub, clawfoot tubs are the focal point of the room and add instant romance. You’ll also have the ability to match the material of the feet to the rest of your bathroom hardware.

Future planning

Even if you’re not planning on selling anytime soon, it’s good to think about the future when choosing a bathtub. If you dream of growing old in your home, have mobility issues, or think you may embrace multigenerational living in the future, you may want to consider having a separate walk-in shower or a walk-in tub with a hinged door and bench. Bathtubs can be slip-and-fall hazards, but you can get a bathtub with non-slip surfaces and a wider lip,making it easier for sitting and easing into the water.

Bathtubs and resale value

Now, for the big question: does having or not having a bathtub affect the resale value of your home? If instead of upgrading your bathtub you’re thinking about removing it altogether, keep in mind families with young children will often want at least one tub to bathe their kids in.

We previously spoke with Mike Sheehy, a REALTOR® from Toronto, who explained, “ideally, a home should retain at least one bathtub, although, if the demographics of a condo building is 18 to 35, a nice walk-in shower shouldn’t devalue the unit.”

If you’re still unsure as to whether your bathroom renovations may affect your resale value, get in touch with a local REALTOR® who can provide insight into what current buyers are looking for.

It may take some planning and research, but once you’ve found the ideal bathtub, enjoy it and your self-care to the full by making your entire bathroom incredibly functional.

Courtesy: realtor.ca

Posted by Teri-Lynn Jones on February 3rd, 2022

Real Estate Blog