Acrylic Versus Porcelain Tubs

Our freestanding bathtub material guide will allow you to get a better understanding of the different types of bathtubs on the market today.

Acrylic versus porcelain tubs.

A porcelain bathtub is usually constructed on a base made of iron or steel glass or tile. Acrylic is most commonly used to form seats headrests whirlpool jets. If you re on a tight budget go for an acrylic tub. Other companies can outfit your tub with an acrylic liner molded exactly to its size shape and style.

Acrylic bathtubs are usually molded through a thermal process that bonds an acrylic finish over fiberglass reinforcement. These tubs are durable and easy to clean. Refinishing or lining your tub is a great way to take care of unsightly chips and stains. They re also lightweight very durable and require less maintenance unlike other materials.

Acrylic tubs have better heat retention than porcelain tubs. Although steel bathtubs can last for decades if maintained properly the newer models of acrylic baths can last for several years as well. Acrylic comes as a solid sheet of material which is molded in the appropriate bathtub shape and creates an entirely waterproof membrane. The finish is resistant to most common chemicals and.

The reason is simple acrylic tubs come in a wide variety of shapes designs colors sizes and are often cheaper and reasonably priced than steel baths. Acrylic what is it. Porcelain tubs are created by layering a. Commonly the base is porcelain enamel coated and then high temperature fired.

In bathtubs this material is reinforced with fiberglass to ensure it is sufficiently strong. Compare stone resin cast stone acrylic cast iron fiberglass and porcelain freestanding bathtub materials. This means that acrylic has much more flexibility when it. The tub is stamped from a thin sheet of steel then finished with a layer of porcelain enamel.

Once the tub has cooled down a coat of a glossy material such as acrylic porcelain or enamel is added. Acrylic tubs are slightly more expensive due to the manufacturing process. Of the two acrylic is much lighter than porcelain. Some companies can refinish your tub with a polyurethane coating that gives it a hard high gloss surface.

If you re torn between acrylic vs cast iron tubs your needs are what will determine what you go for. Acrylic tubs are colored sheets of clear plastic reinforced with layers of fiberglass. Cost and installation differences.