There are a number of differences between acrylic and cast iron bathtubs. Cast iron clawfoot bathtubs have been around for generations while acrylic is relatively new. Cast iron bathtubs are more durable than acrylic bathtubs but more expensive. Acrylic bathtubs are perhaps more widely used today than cast iron tubs however, many consumers continue to opt for cast iron. Consumers can purchase acrylic bathtubs and cast iron bathtubs at Lowe’s. Consumers can also find bathtubs and showers at Home Depot. A modern bathroom with newer countertops and bathtubs can easily add value to a home.
Differences Between Acrylic and Cast Iron Bathtubs
Acrylic bathtub manufacturers use synthetic materials in the creation of their acrylic bathtubs. Acrylic bathtubs are created through a process of bonding fiberglass to acrylic sheets. This process creates a finished product that is relatively durable and resistant to cracking. This type of bathtub can be fabricated into a variety of colors.
Cast iron bathtubs are perhaps a little more difficult to produce than acrylic bathtubs. They are created when iron is poured into a mold. When the iron cools and hardens, the end-result is a very durable, long-lasting type of bathtub. After the hardening process, these bathtubs are covered in enamel and fire polished to create a smooth surface.
Cost of Acrylic and Cast Iron Bathtubs
There is a definite difference between the cost of an acrylic bathtub and the cost of a cast iron bathtub. Neither of these bathtubs is linked with a very low initial purchase cost. In 2009, consumers could purchase a new acrylic bathtub for anywhere between $400 and $4,000, depending on the quality and manufacturer. Acrylic walk in bathtubs are found at the higher end of this cost spectrum. New cast iron bathtubs could be purchased for anywhere between $1,000 and $6,000 (including installation). Cast iron tubs featuring clawfoot tub fixtures are at the higher end of this spectrum.
Installing Acrylic and Cast Iron Bathtubs
A cast iron bathtub is always going to be much heavier than an acrylic bathtub. Because they can be so heavy, it is recommended that several professionals be employed to do the installation. Often times, the floor beneath a cast iron bathtub will require reinforcement to handle the new load created by the bathtub. Acrylic bathtubs on the other hand, can easily be installed by ambitious do-it-yourselfers.
Maintaining Acrylic and Cast Iron Bathtubs
Because they are so durable, it is not uncommon for a cast iron bathtub to last for several generations. They also require very little in terms of regular maintenance. Bathrooms that receive a lot of traffic would benefit from employing cast iron bathtubs. While acrylic bathtubs are relatively durable, cheaper models are known to warp and crack if they are not installed properly or kept well maintained. Acrylic bathtubs must be cleaned more often than cast iron tubs.
Bathtubs and Heat Transfer
Acrylic bathtubs do not transfer heat as efficiently as cast iron bathtubs. They do retain heat when they are filled with hot water but not as much as cast iron bathtubs. Cast iron bathtubs readily absorb heat when filled with hot water. As a result, cast iron bathtubs keep the water within them hotter for longer than acrylic bathtubs can.
Sources:
Home Improvement Corner: The Beauty of Cast Iron
Ask Ville: Advantages and Disadvantages of Acrylic Bathtubs
Garden Web: Acrylic or Cast Iron?
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