Want a classic, vintage look after Houston bathroom remodeling? A clawfoot tub may provide that antique look you desire. However, there are several things to keep in mind before you place a clawfoot tub in your bathroom. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the pros and cons of clawfoot tubs to help you decide if this type of bathtub is right for your bathroom.
Considering a Clawfoot Tub for Houston Bathroom Remodeling?
A clawfoot tub is a freestanding tub that sits on four feet that hold the tub above floor level. There may be many reasons you’re considering a clawfoot tub for your bathroom. Most people choose these tubs because of their elegant, classic look. The clawfoot tub was common in the late 1800s and early 1900s, slowly becoming out of style by the mid-century period. However, they’ve made a serious comeback, with many people installing clawfoot tubs during Houston bathroom remodeling projects.
Today, there are many clawfoot tub styles that may work well in your bathroom. Some feature ornate, classic claw feet, while others have sleeker, more modern-looking designs. Nevertheless, a clawfoot tub isn’t typically the first choice for an ultra-modern, minimalist bathroom. Instead, these are typically better for traditional, art deco, or farmhouse-inspired spaces.
Pros of Installing a Clawfoot Tub During Houston Bathroom Remodeling Project
There are many advantages of having your Houston plumbing company install a clawfoot tub in your bathroom. Here are some of the many benefits that clawfoot bathtubs have to offer:
Classic, Elegant Look
We mentioned it briefly, but clawfoot tubs are stunning for many different styles of bathrooms. If they will work well with your interior design style, they may be the perfect accent to your space after a Houston bathroom remodeling project. Because of their intricate design, they really stand out and can easily become the focal point of your bathroom. That’s what draws many people to these types of bathtubs.
Large Soaking Space for Your Bathroom
Another great reason to choose a clawfoot tub is that they are often larger and deeper than the standard built-in tub. If you love the idea of soaking in a nice, deep tub, then a clawfoot tub may be the right option for you.
Your Houston Plumbing Company can Place a Clawfoot Tub Practically Anywhere
Built in bathtubs typically require a special alcove for installation, but freestanding tubs like clawfoot bathtubs can be placed anywhere. This is because clawfoot tubs usually use exposed water supply and drain lines that come up from the floor. So long as your Houston residential plumber can move the supply and drain lines for your bathroom, you can choose almost any location in your bathroom for your clawfoot tub.
Drawbacks of Clawfoot Tubs for Your Houston Bathroom Remodeling Plans
Of course, there are some drawbacks that you should consider as well before installing a clawfoot tub. For some people, it’s simply not their style and doesn’t match their bathroom aesthetic. You might not like the look of the feet or the exposed tub fillers. Here are some other potential disadvantages to a clawfoot tub:
They Need a Lot of Space
We mentioned that clawfoot bathtubs are typically larger and deeper than the average built in tub. This is both an advantage and a disadvantage, as that means you might need more space. A clawfoot tub may not be the best option for small bathrooms because of the extra room they need. Also, don’t forget that you may need a higher-capacity water heater to fully fill the larger bathtub.
Cleaning Clawfoot Tubs can Be Difficult
During a Houston bathroom remodeling project, you’re probably thinking about how gorgeous your bathroom will look, but don’t forget some of the practical implications as well. Installing a clawfoot tub can make your bathroom more difficult to clean. First, because the tub doesn’t sit flush against the floor, you’ll need to consider how to sweep and mop underneath the tub. Also, the feet often feature intricate designs with nooks and crannies that will need a good wipe down from time to time as well. Therefore, make sure you’re ready for that cleaning commitment before you buy a clawfoot tub for your home.
Clawfoot Tubs can Complicate the Plumbing for Your Houston Bathroom Remodeling Project
While this isn’t always true, sometimes plumbing for a clawfoot tub can be a little more tricky than a built-in. With a built-in tub, the supply lines are generally inside the wall, while the drain is inside the floor. A clawfoot tub typically has a freestanding tub filler that uses supply lines inside the floor, where the drain also sits. In some bathrooms, it may be difficult for your Houston plumbing company to move these plumbing lines to the floor.
Clawfoot Tubs are Heavy
The average clawfoot bathtub is made of cast iron and porcelain enamel. This means they can be incredibly heavy, often between 200 and 400 pounds when empty. Therefore, they may not work in every bathroom. Some homeowners may need to reinforce the floors and install a harder, more resilient flooring to support these large, heavy bathtubs.
Showers are Possible, but Complicated
Tub shower combos are a common option for saving space and making your bathroom more flexible for the family. Now, with a clawfoot tub, this is an option, but it’s a little more complex. There are freestanding tub fillers and shower heads that work for clawfoot bathtubs. However, many people don’t like the look of tall exposed shower plumbing. Also, you will need a special round shower curtain rod to help prevent moisture from splashing onto the floor while showering.
Less Storage Space
As you picture taking a nice, long soak in your clawfoot tub after your Houston bathroom remodeling project, think about where you picture grabbing your soap or shampoo from. With built in bathtubs, usually you store these things on the ledge of the tub itself, but you typically don’t have that option with a clawfoot tub. Therefore, you will need to consider which storage solutions you will need for your bath products to keep them in reach during your bath. This might include extra shelving or small tables at the side of the tub. While this may not be a dealbreaker, it is a potential drawback of installing a clawfoot tub.
Houston Residential Plumber for Repairs, Replacements, and Remodels since 1974 – Santhoff Plumbing Company
If you’re starting a remodeling project, hire our team at Santhoff for all your plumbing needs. We are a top Houston plumbing company offering a wide range of expert services. Whether you need help with a bathroom or kitchen remodel or need an emergency plumber fast for a burst pipe, you can trust our team for the job. We are proud to serve the Greater Houston community with prompt, friendly service and unparalleled expertise. Contact us today to request plumbing service or call our 24/7 line at (713) 360-2185 for plumbing emergencies.