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Overview

An alcove is defined as "a tiny, recessed portion of a room." An alcove bathtub is designed to fit into a bathroom alcove, which is why you'll commonly see this style of bathtub nestled under a window, in a corner, or against a wall, with three sides of the tub covered.

We'll go over alcove tubs in further detail below to help you determine if this form of bathtub is perfect for your bathroom space and personal needs.

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Buying Guide

1. Material

When it comes to selecting your new bathtub, you will have various common materials to pick from. Different materials differ in terms of cost, durability, weight, and other factors.

The alcove tubs you're probably more familiar with are usually made of fiberglass or acrylic. However, there are different materials that might make this tub more suited for your specific requirements. These are the most common materials used in alcove baths.

  • Cast Iron

Cast iron alcove baths are very frequent in older homes. These are large tubs composed of molten iron that is poured into a mold and then coated with porcelain. This coating is extremely scratch, stain, and chip resistant.

Cleaning cast iron is simple since it is resistant to any chemical cleaner you may like to use. Cast iron alcove tubs are so long-lasting that they may outlive the homeowner!

Given its longevity and the additional effort required for installation, this material is more expensive.

  • Enameled Steel

These tubs have a steel foundation and can resemble cast iron, although being much lighter. The disadvantage is that they do not hold heat as effectively as cast iron.

Enameled steel is exactly what it sounds like: a steel basis with an enamel coating on top. Porcelain enamel is scratch, stain, chip, and chemical resistant. These tubs may survive a long period, albeit not as long as cast iron tubs.

They are less costly than cast iron but more expensive than fiberglass or acrylic.

  • Acrylic or Fiberglass

By far the most popular materials for alcove bathtubs. Each is made of fiberglass, but acrylic tubs have solidified acrylic coated over the fiberglass. This results in a smoother, more resistant to scratches and dents surface than fiberglass.

Both acrylic and fiberglass are lightweight, making them easy to install, but neither retains heat as well as the other alternatives. However, the price of these tubs is pretty reasonable for individuals on a limited budget.

  • Stone Resin

2. Style

Alcove tubs are quite popular, and they are frequently coupled with a shower to form a unified bathroom unit. It is simple to install a shower with an alcove tub. It is so popular that it is frequently used as the standard for new buildings. This implies that your alcove tub may require a curtain or sliding glass doors to keep water in and provide privacy while bathing.

Alcove tubs may be modified to provide the bathing experience you desire. Models with motorized jets that create a swirling effect are available. There are also tubs that are a little deeper than typical, allowing for more in-depth soaking. All of the tubs are the standard proportions for an alcove tub. This implies that even the most expensive versions may fit into a tiny bathroom.

3. Installing an Alcove Bathtub

You must select between a left-hand drain and a right-hand drain when buying your alcove tub. This is based on the present position of the tub in your bathroom, assuming you will utilize the same plumbing. Your contractor will be able to advise you on the one you require.

Allow Modernize to introduce you to that contractor. We can put you in touch with bathroom remodeling contractors in your region who can walk you through the installation process, help you pick the correct tub to buy, and give you advice on topics you may not have thought about for a bathroom redesign.

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FAQs

1. Are alcove tubs affordable?

These tubs are among the most reasonably priced on the market, with lower-end models (which are nonetheless sturdy and will endure for many years) starting at $250.

2. Can I add a showerhead to my alcove tub?

Absolutely, and the majority of people do! Shower/tub combinations are among the most popular nowadays.

3. What are the benefits of alcove bathtubs?

Alcove bathtubs fit into small areas, keeping your bathroom minimalistic and freeing up space for other things like a larger vanity. They may be relatively inexpensive and endure for many years, are simple to maintain, and offer a number of choices, such as a shower/tub combo or jets.

Conclusion

Here is all the information we want to give you before buying an alcove bathtub. 

Pay attention to these factors might help you choose the best products that can fulfill your needs. Consider checking out our top picks, we picked out the best product for you there.