Victorian Bath Tubs

Clawfoot Bathtubs: A Review

Christopher Smith

Victorian furnishings were lavish, elegant, and created a look unlike any other. As products of this Victorian age, clawfoot bathtubs are beautiful to look at, large, roomy, and very functional. People are once again beginning to appreciate how wonderful clawfoot tubs are and are having them installed in their bathrooms. After all, the sheer comfort and definitive character of clawfoot tubs has been lost to most modern bathtubs. You may be considering installing one in your own bathroom, which means you’re going to want to read this article to find out some tips that will help you in your quest.

The original clawfoot bathtubs were made of extremely heavy cast iron. These tubs were very difficult to install and required solid support under the floors they sat on. Now you have the advantage of finding beautiful reproductions of these antique tubs which are made of lighter acrylics which aren’t nearly as heavy and have the added benefit of being rustproof.

One thing to keep in mind is that a clawfoot tub will be freestanding which means you’ll have to think of ways to camouflage the plumbing. You’ll probably want to install the tub in a place where as many of the pipes as possible can be hidden. However, if this isn’t possible, you may want to add a bathtub skirt or use copper pipes which will give the installation a classier look.

No matter what type of clawfoot bathtub you choose, it will have to be cleaned carefully. You will want to keep away from harsh cleansers that can damage either a porcelain or acrylic surface. In addition, after you’ve cleaned the tub you will need to completely get rid of all of the residue left by the cleanser which can also be harmful for the surface of the tub.

Once again, if you decide you want to install an antique cast iron clawfoot bathtub, you’ll have to make sure your floor is given adequate support in order to carry the excessive weight. This is especially important if the tub is being installed on the second floor or above a basement. If you don’t prepare for the heavy tub, your home could develop structural problems.

A clawfoot bathtub will look wonderful and elegant in any bathroom. It will also provide you with all the comfort and relaxation you need after a long, hard day. Just be sure to keep plenty of bubble bath on hand, because clawfoot bathtubs and bubble bath have a long history together.