Bathtub Types & Materials
Updated February 20, 2026
Choosing a bathtub means deciding on two things: the configuration (how it fits in your bathroom) and the material (what it is made of). Configuration determines your layout and installation requirements. Material determines durability, heat retention, weight, and price. This guide breaks down every combination so you can match the right tub to your bathroom, budget, and bathing style.
Overview
Choosing a bathtub means deciding on two things: the configuration (how it fits in your bathroom) and the material (what it is made of). Configuration determines your layout and installation requirements. Material determines durability, heat retention, weight, and price. This guide breaks down every combination so you can match the right tub to your bathroom, budget, and bathing style.
What to Know
Comparison
| Alcove: -800, fits standard bathrooms, shower combo option, easiest installation |
| Freestanding: -5000+, design focal point, deep soaking, needs more space and floor plumbing |
| Drop-in: -2000, flexible shapes, requires built deck, custom look |
| Corner: -2000, uses corner space efficiently, usually deeper, good for smaller bathrooms with odd layouts |
Buying Tips
- Measure the bathroom first. Know your space constraints before falling in love with a tub that will not fit.
- Check floor support for heavy tubs. Cast iron and composite stone tubs can exceed 800 lbs full of water and a person.
- Match the drain side (left or right) to your existing plumbing to avoid costly rework.
- Consider your water heater capacity. A deep soaking tub is disappointing if you run out of hot water halfway through filling it.
Common Mistakes
- Buying a freestanding tub without planning the faucet. Floor-mount fillers cost -1500 extra and are not included.
- Choosing fiberglass for a primary bathroom. It degrades faster than acrylic and is harder to repair. Save it for rentals.
- Ignoring weight. A cast iron tub on a second floor can require structural reinforcement.
- Not checking the rough-in dimensions. A new tub that does not fit the existing drain location means replumbing.
Bottom Line
For most homeowners replacing a standard tub, an acrylic alcove is the best combination of value, durability, and ease of installation. Upgrading to freestanding is a design decision -- budget for the tub, the filler, and the floor plumbing. Cast iron is a lifetime investment if your floor can handle it.