TUBS& FITTING
Posted: Mar 01, 2011 | Category: BathRoom Sink FaucetsIn many bathrooms, the tub is the focus of the room, a gratifying symbol of luxury and relaxation. In new installations, whirlpool tubs now available in more traditional tub styles and sizes are in high demand. Put a whirlpool on a platform; wrap windows around it ; let a skylight beam down some sunshine or starlight; mount built-in speakers for soft background music: the tub becomes a destination in its own right. But for on-the-go workday bathing, a separate shower, unless space prohibits, is a nearly universal request.
Tub choices
The market overflows with bathtub styles. The 30- by 60-inch tub, which often controlled the dimensions of the 5- by 7-foot bathroom, no longer rules the buyer. Tubs come in new and more comfortable shapes and sizes and are available in a wide range of colors.
The basic bathtub. The boxy, familiar tub is enameled steel, relatively inexpensive, and lightweight but noisy, cold, and prone to chipping. Built-to-last enameled cast-iron tubs are more durable and warmer tothe touch, but very heavy (they may require structural reinforcement). They’re manufactured in many colors.
Rectangular tubs come in two styles: recessed and corner. Recessed tubs fit between two side walls and against a back wall; they have one finished side. Corner models have one finished side and end and may be right or left-handed. A 72-inch-long model is better than the standard 60 inches, if space allows; a depth of 16 inches or more is more comfortable than the standard 14.
Square tubs are commonly 4 by 3V2 or 4 feet; often they include an integral seating ledge. Square tubs are manufactured for both recessed and corner installation.
The age of plastics. The most innovative tubs these days are usually plastic either vacuum-formed acrylic or injection-molded thermoplastics like ABS. These lightweight shells are easy to transport and retain heat well.
But best of all is their range of contours and sizes. Plastic tubs are available in neutrals and in the latest colors from soft pastels to glossy black. The one drawback: those shiny, elegant-looking surfaces tend to scratch or dull easily.
These tubs are usually designed for platform or sunken installation. Built-in features vary.
Freestanding tubs. An old-fashioned freestanding tub, such as the enduring clawfoot model, makes a nice focal point for a traditional or country design. You can buy new reproductions or a reconditioned original. Such tubs can double as showers with the addition of Victorian-inspired shower-head / diverter / curtain rod hardware.
Looking for traditional fixtures and fittings? Recently, many new sources for renovators’ supplies have sprung up: check specialty shops and antique plumbing catalogs.
Whirlpool tubs. Think of these hydromassage units simply as bathtubs with air jets. Unlike an outdoor spa, the whirlpool uses a standard hot-water connection; once your soak is over, the water is drained.
A motor, pump, and jets are what make the whirlpool go. Jet designs vary: generally, you can opt for high volume and low pressure (a few strong jets) or low pressure and high volume (lots of softer jets). Typically, the more jets, the easier it is to pinpoint an aching body part though some users find these setups less comfortable. The best whirlpools are adjustable for water volume, air-water mixture, and direction.
Looking for extras? Consider adding digital temperature controls, timers, built-in fill spouts, or cushy neck rolls for comfort.
Because of their extra weight, whirlpool tubs may need special floor framing. They may also requirean extra-capacity main water heater or separate in-line heater.
Soaking tubs. Soaking tubs, like Japanese furos (made of wood), have deep interiors. Ideal for small spaces, they come in recessed, platform, and corner models, with rectangular or round interiors of fiberglass or acrylic. Hot tubs, which use a wooden barrel-design and continuous water supply, can present moisture prob-lems in all but the best-ventilated spaces. They are probably best confined to a deck or private garden.
Tub fittings
For tubs and tub/showers, you can use either single or separate controls. Tubs require a spout and drain. Tub/ showers need a spout, shower head , diverter valve, and drain. These may be deck- or wall-mounted, or a combination. The best fittings are made of brass and come in several finishes, including chrome, pewter, gold, and enamel. You’ll also find color-coordinated pop-up drains and overflow plates.
Ever had a tub spout poke you while you were trying to relax? Mount it along the back wall or deck. Position handles where you can get to them easily, such as at the front and slightly to one side. Roman or waterfall spouts are striking-looking and fill tubs much faster than standard fittings.
Unfortunately, tubs, especially whirlpools, aren’t great for really getting clean. For that, add a separate hand shower controlled by a nearby diverter valve.
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