6 Benefits of Acrylic Bathtubs

May 1, 2023

Acrylic bathtubs are lightweight, affordable, and long-lasting. People often lean toward using acrylic material for their bathtub over other materials for these reasons. To decide whether or not you should use acrylic for your tub, it’s important to know what else is out there. 

Acrylic is a great choice for a bathtub material because it is affordable, available in many colors and shapes, non-porous, and durable. It is more expensive than fiberglass, but it is less likely to crack or scratch, and its finish is less likely to fade. Acrylic is also easier to install than cast iron or stone, and it is lighter weight than cast iron. 

6 Benefits of Acrylic Tubs 

  1. Affordable: Acrylic is one of the most affordable materials on the market when you are remodeling your bathtub. Compared to a stone or cast-iron tub, acrylic is going to be your most affordable option. 
  2. Customizable: Because of its lightweight yet durable nature, acrylic is easily customizable with shower wall surround patterns and laser-etched tile. These plus accessibility features like grab bars, shelves, and shower seats make for a personalized experience in the bathroom.  
  3. Non-Porous: Acrylic is non-porous, meaning water or air cannot pass through it. The lack of porosity eliminates mold and scum in the tub and allows for more heat retention. Cleaning your acrylic tub is a breeze because of this!
  4. Durable: Acrylic is durable, resistant to scratches, chips, stains, and fading, and provides stability for your bathing experience. Plus, features like non-slip shower pans can be added to increase safety and avoid falls.  
  5. Easy to Install: Acrylic material is easy to work with, allowing for as little as one day installation times. An acrylic tub is a convenient option that will last you for years to come. 
  6. Lightweight: Acrylic is lightweight because it has a lower density than some of the other materials like stone and cast iron. The benefits of this include easier handling and installation, reduced risk of breakage, and lower shipping costs.  

ACRYLIC VS. OTHER BATH MATERIALS

Acrylic

An acrylic bathtub with black hardware accents.

  • Pros: Affordable, available in many colors and shapes, non-porous, durable, easy to install, lightweight 
  • Cons: More expensive than fiberglass 

Fiberglass 

A close-up of an all-white fiberglass bathtub.

  • Pros: Easy to install, very inexpensive 
  • Cons: Can crack/scratch, finish can easily fade 

Enameled steel 

A close-up of an all-white enameled steel soaking tub.

  • Pros: Affordable, lightweight 
  • Cons: Easily chipped and rusted, loses heat quickly 

Cast iron 

A cast-iron soaking tub next to a walk-in shower in an all white bathroom.

  • Pros: Durable, able to retain heat very well 
  • Cons: Very heavy, expensive 

Stone 

A stone tub lit from above.

  • Pros: Durable, likely won’t need to repair or replace 
  • Cons: Very expensive, heavy 

Acrylic, fiberglass, enameled steel, cast iron, and stone are the most common materials used for bathtubs. Ultimately, the best material for your bathtub will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable, easy-to-install bathtub that is available in a variety of colors and shapes, acrylic is a great option. If you are looking for a durable bathtub that can retain heat well, cast iron could be a good choice. Let’s dive into the benefits of acrylic tubs. 

choosing the right bath material

The material you use for your bath can make or break your bathing experience, bathroom aesthetic, and your wallet. Choosing what’s right for you and your bathroom will make a huge difference in the longevity and functionality of your bath. If you’re interested in learning more about acrylic baths or showers, West Shore Home® is waiting to answer your questions. Our expert team is trained in baths, showers, tub-to-shower conversion, and tub and shower combos. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!