What to Expect When Purchasing an Antique Bathtub

By Team SimplyBathtubs.com . July 10th, 2009

If you’re in the market for bathroom fixtures, antique clawfoot bathtubs provide luxury, functionality, and personality to your décor. With a little knowledge, you will know what to expect when you accent your bathroom with a vintage fixture.

Antique clawfoot bathtubs complement any bathroom. They are made out of cast iron, although reproductions are made out of acrylic and other materials. Cast iron tubs conduct heat well, are very heavy, and extremely durable, but can chip or scratch. Due to their weight, extra delivery fees are customary if the tubs are carried to the bathroom as opposed to just the home. There are several styles of antique clawfoot bathtubs:
 
·         Classic clawfoot bathtubs have a traditional square-shaped end where the faucet sits. The tub is round on the opposite side. 
·         The double-ended clawfoot style has a rounded edge on both shorter ends.
·         A slipper clawfoot style has a squared end at the faucet side, but the opposite end arches gracefully outward to create a lovely slope.
·         A double clawfoot tub has an arched slope on the faucet side and where your head rests.
 
All styles can have a rolled rim, which goes around the entire tub.
 
When making your purchase, consider the appearance, size, and condition of the tub. Consider your own size, as well as the length and width of your bathroom space before determining the size bathtub you want. Generally, narrower tubs are cheaper. You want to make sure that you purchase a bathtub with original feet since refitted feet can change the support and stability.
 
Antique clawfoot bathtubs are priced from several hundred dollars to thousands depending on the condition and style. Many cost between $800 and $1800. When you need bathtub repair or refinishing, it will need to be cleaned with a non abrasive cleaner, sandblasted, primed, and resurfaced. Kits can be purchased for do-it-yourself gurus, or there are companies that can provide the service. Repair costs generally run between $150 and $500.

 

Maintain your antique bathtub with bi-weekly cleaning so that mineral deposits don’t build up. Use a soft brush to apply the non-abrasive cleaner. With proper care, you will enjoy your bathtub for many years.

Simply Bathtubs is the leading online source for classic bathtubs, walk in bathtubs, whirlpool bathtubs, antique or clawfoot tubes, corner bathtubs, acrylic bathtubs, free standing bathtubs or cast iron tubs for your home improvement project or new house. Thank you for your interest.



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