Bathtubs come in various installation types, designs and materials. Standard tubs are typically 60x30x14" and 60x32x16" and are made of materials like cast iron and acrylic. Newer installation types like free standing tubs have allowed manufacturers to get creative with materials and designs. So, bring your plans down to the showroom and let the staff help you decide which is best for you.

Bathtub materials:

• Cast iron
• Composite
• Acrylic (most popular)
• Fiberglass
• Cultured marble
• Copper
• Stone (e.g. granite, onyx, marble)

Types of tubs:

• Soaking baths
• Jetted (or whirlpool)
• Air Masseur
• Combination of whirlpool and air masseur
• Hot soaks

Typical installations:

• Free standing (like vintage claw foot tubs)
• Or more modern box types sometimes called pedestal.
• Alcove (most common, in nearly all homes)
• Drop in
• Under mount
• Corner installations

Options/Features of most whirlpool tubs:

Multi-speed pumps (or blowers depending on system) are perhaps one of the most important features of a tub. As your body is relaxing you can control the speed of the water circulating in the tub. This gives you the option of a very invigorating bath or a very calm bath just by adjusting the speed of the water.

Color changing LED lights – from the touch of a button you can control any desired color (greens, blues, and reds – depending on mood).

Built in arm rests – give your arms a comfortable place to rest while enjoying your bath.

Jetted neck pillows – when you lean against a jetted neck pillow, you can feel tension removed from your being quickly.

Back massage systems – a back massage system massages up and down the spine. This is very assistive for those with sore backs or back injuries. Many have rotating jets that give you a pin point massage. Some models mimic shiatsu massage to work out specific muscles/areas of the back.

Electronic touch pads – change settings of the bath without buttons that are cumbersome and unattractive.

Heated back rests – on air systems which draw air in and heat it and focus is in the acrylic behind your back. This eases tension and sooths sore muscles.

Grab bars – with many tubs deeper in nature, grab bars assist all age groups to get in and out of the tub safely and to bring one's self to a sitting position with greater ease.

Rotary massage jets – spinning water source directly to a given area of the body assists in tension relief and circulation in the body.

Inline heaters – as the water is circulated through the whirlpool tub, it passes over a heater that helps maintain the bath tubs temperature.

Ozone sanitation systems – this is an important point in the maintenance of a whirlpool tub to keep the pipes on the inside of the tub sanitized thus reducing repair costs long term.

Programmable, waterproof remote controls – can be programmed to operate televisions, stereos, DVRs as well as control all functions of the tub.

Aromatherapy – with just a few drops of your choice of virtually unlimited scents that can be infused into the bathtub, you can enjoy the healing capabilities of essential oils while relaxing your mind, body and spirit.

Bathtub faucets are different from regular faucets. They can be mounted in multiple ways and have higher flow rates. Bay Plumbing Supply has a huge range of bathtub faucets, including claw foot tub faucets and fixtures. Come on down to the showroom and check it out!

Many tub fillers (faucets) will include deck mounted hand showers, this is good for a thorough rinse eliminating soap residue that can cause skin irritation and for cleaning the tub in a more effective manner.

Bay Plumbing Supply displays and stocks brands such as Kalia, Zuma, Americh, Bain Ultra, MTI, Kohler, American Standard and Maax. To see all of the brands offered by Bay Plumbing Supply, click here. 

Come on down to Bay Plumbing Supply and let the helpful staff help you decide what tub is right for you!