Get matched with top bathtub replacement pros in Smiths Station, AL

Adding a soaking tub can increase your return on investment (ROI) for a bathroom remodel, with many people recouping a 60% ROI when adding a soaking tub. To get the best value from installing a soaking tub, make sure that your floor plan allows the tub to act as a focal point in your bathroom, adding aesthetic value as well as being practical.

There are several ways to save money on a bathroom remodel through proper planning and savvy design strategies. To reduce costs, consider the following:

• Purchase your own materials: Buy your own bathroom fixtures, hardware, and other materials to avoid contractor upcharges and delivery fees.

• Shop smart for big-ticket items: Save on pricey items like tiles and tubs by shopping sales and at discount stores.

• Avoid major layout changes: Keep plumbing in its current location. Opt to replace fixtures rather than moving them to avoid significant renovation work.

• Focus on high-impact, low-cost updates: Make affordable but impactful smaller changes, such as upgrading hardware, installing new lighting, and adding stylish but economical accessories.

• DIY where possible: Handle easier parts of the remodel yourself, like painting or installing light fixtures, to save on labor costs.

• Time your remodel strategically: Consider remodeling in the spring, which tends to be a lower-demand time of year and may result in lower costs.

Different bathtub materials have various advantages and disadvantages. Cast iron and copper are considered the most durable materials because they are dense and resistant to damage from scratches or dents. However, cast-iron tubs are heavy, expensive, and may not be suitable for upper floors. Copper offers unique benefits but requires regular chemical treatment to prevent a patina from forming, making cast iron a less maintenance-intensive option. Porcelain is a good second choice for durability. For those on a budget, acrylic is a popular option, though it is less durable.

Fiberglass tubs last between 10 and 15 years or more if they’re well-maintained. Proper care will help them last as long as possible. However, fiberglass bathtubs are prone to cracking, fading, and scratches over time. Bathtub installation by a plumber is one of the best ways to ensure your tub has the right support to last its full lifespan.