Concrete Bathtub – An Artistic Marvel for Your Bathroom in 2022!

Versatility and comfort are two important things when it comes to bathtubs, irrespective of the style and the material. If it's comfortable and fits your budget, then you are good to go. However, people are also looking for another important factor in their bathtubs: style. So, versatility, comfort, and style are the three major factors. Choosing a bathtub that fits all these categories is confusing sometimes. But if you are ready to invest a considerable amount of money, then the best bathtub that fits all three factors is a Concrete bathtub. Weighing the pros and cons of the concrete bathtub is the best way to determine whether this “marvel engineering” is the perfect fit for your bathroom. This article will explore the concrete bathtub and its pros and cons so that you can make an informed decision on your purchase. 

Concrete Bathtubs– All Things to Know:

Concrete bathtubs are best suitable for taking a long dip in lukewarm water for a longer period due to their material properties. Concrete bathtubs are usually made of concrete, water, and sand. You may think since the bathtub is made of mortar, the finished product is not as smooth as other material bathtubs. Surprisingly, concrete bathtubs feature silk-smoothness where the bather cannot feel discomfort. Another factor is the shape of the bathtub. Since concrete is easy to handle, you can easily “manipulate” it to make any type of structure you want. This also means that various styles of concrete bathtubs are available in the market. 

Pros of Concrete Bathtub:

The concrete bathtub’s finishing is one of the strongest advantages of the bathtub. Silky-smooth concrete means comfort. The next advantage is the ability to retain heat for long periods of time. Next to copper, concrete is the best heat-conducting material for the bathtub. Most concrete bathtubs have extra insulation and proper padding to retain heat without continuously using the heater during the bath. This helps to save money on bills. 

The next advantage is durability. Concrete is versatile, meaning you can mold concrete into any shape or form you want. But sometimes, if the material is versatile, it may lack durability. Concrete is different. It is both versatile and durable. It can withstand considerable external force and is resistant to structural damage. But it is still best not to drop any heavy material inside the bathtub.

Now that you understand the durability of the concrete bathtub, it’s best to see more about its versatility. For most materials, you cannot “bend” it to get the desired shape after you build the bathtub. For example, building a seat, ridges, and other features is difficult once the bathtub is fully done. However, with a concrete bathtub, you can build any feature you want, even after the bathtub is fully constructed. Also, you can modify the size of the tub. Most manufacturers allow the team to build the tub on-site if you don’t know which size is perfect for your bathroom. So if you are looking for a larger bathtub that does not fit your doors for the installation, then a concrete bathtub is the best choice for you. But it is important to note that only a handful of manufacturers allow this construction method; it is better to check before you purchase one for your bathroom. 

Cons of Concrete Bathtub:

The major disadvantage of a concrete bathtub is that it is ridiculously expensive. Concrete bathtubs start at $500, but the cheaper concrete bathtubs do not function well and do not fit in your bathroom regarding style. The raw materials for constructing the bathtub are expensive, so why is the final product so expensive? The answer is construction. Construction of a simple concrete bathtub with meticulous detail and perfect finish requires serious craftsmanship, which is the reason for the expensive tag on the bathtub. Also, installing a concrete bathtub takes considerable time because of the weight of the material.

The concrete bathtub's ability to withstand extreme temperatures is the next con. Concrete bathtubs tend to crack in extreme weather conditions. While concrete is a durable material and can withstand structural anomalies, sudden expansion due to heat and hardening during cold can cause the material to crack. But the probability of the situation happening is low, but it is better to be safe than sorry, and this is one of the factors that you should consider before purchasing a concrete bathtub if you are living in a place where weather conditions change often.

Which Is the Best Style Concrete Bathtub for You?

First, there are two types of style: Western style (where the bathtub is long and shallow) and Eastern style (where the bathtub is round and has depth). If you are looking for an “onsen” type bathtub, then a deep soaking tub is the best choice for you. It does not take much of your space in your bathroom since it is round and deep. Even though you can submerge your whole body, you cannot lay inside the bathtub, and this style may not appeal to some people. 

If you are looking for a bathtub that can lay comfortably and still submerge your body, then a freestanding bathtub is a great fit. As the name suggests, a freestanding bathtub is a tub that can stand on its own without any external support. Also, the variety of styles in a freestanding bathtub is greater when compared to a deep soaking tub. 

So, which one is the best? It is better to go with a freestanding tub since there are many styles to choose from. If you are looking for a concrete bathtub in the market, then we recommend the Antioch Concrete Double-Slipper freestanding bathtub.

Self VS. Professional Installation for Concrete Bathtub:

The concrete bathtub is heavy and requires much craftsmanship to get what you expect. Self-installation has a higher probability of the project having errors. But if you are experienced with plumbing and construction, it is cheaper than hiring professionals. Bathtubs are not only a place where you can relax and wash off your stress, but it is also an addition to your bathroom that can substantially elevate how your bathroom feels. So it is best to get professional help to get the best concrete bathtub you desire. With professional help, you can eliminate unwanted resources and save a lot of time and money. This will allow you to enjoy your bathtub safely without any unwanted accidents. 

Tips to Maintain A Concrete Bathtub:

Concrete is a porous material that can absorb water and moisture, damaging the bathtub internally and leading to structural damage. These tips should help you to maintain your concrete bathtub in perfect condition.

Maintaining a concrete bathtub involves a two-step process:

• Cleaning
• Sealing

Cleaning:

After the bath, clean the tub with pH-neutral soap, liquid cleaner, and water. You can use a simple all-green liquid cleaner to wash your bathtub. Do not use any concentrated abrasive elements to clean your bathtub. Also, avoid using any scrubbing pads. It can etch the surface of your tub and leads to surface deformation. Do not use oil- and vinegar-based cleaners, as they can sediment the surface of your bathtub. You can get simple all-green liquid cleaners from your local hardware and online stores.

Sealing:

Re-sealing must occur for your concrete bathtub at least once a year. Usually, if you use the bathtub heavily, it is better to do it more than once. What is the best way to identify whether your bathtub is in need of sealing or not? If you see any dark patches on the tub's surface, then it's time to call the professional to do a re-seal. First, clean your tub with a simple all-green cleaning liquid to clean off the sediments, and dry it with a soft cotton cloth. Allow the tub to dry for an hour before applying any sealing. For sealant, it is better to go with Pro-seal DP36. Apply the sealant to the affected area till it is saturated. After 15 minutes, reapply the sealant for as much time as needed. Once you see the saturation, wipe it off with clean cotton. Leave the tub overnight for setting, and you can use the tub the following day.

FAQs:

Are concrete bathtubs expensive?

Yes, concrete bathtubs are expensive. Construction of a simple concrete bathtub with meticulous detail and perfect finish requires serious craftsmanship and that craftsmanship is the reason for the expensive tag on the bathtub.

Do concrete tubs hold heat?

Yes, concrete is the next best material to copper that can hold heat for a longer period without using a heater continuously. This helps to save money on electricity bills.

What type of concrete is best for bathtubs?

Regular thin-set mortar and floor-leveling substances are much more suitable for constructing bathtubs. This also allows you to get any shape or form that you desire.

Conclusion:

Bathtubs are a great getaway from the real world. Washing your stress by submerging your whole body in lukewarm water is an experience everyone must encounter. Soaking in the bathtub can also have a medicinal effect. For example, adding some herbal products to warm water can help you to relax your muscles, regulate blood flow, heal the broken muscle fiber in your body and ultimately give you a peaceful mind. A concrete bathtub can be expensive, but it does come with the style and functionality that most other bathtubs fail to deliver. Feel free to check out our carefully curated collection of concrete bathtubs to identify the one that best meets your needs.