What Are Soaking Tubs?

Taking its design from its roots in Japanese culture and tradition, a soaking tub is a small bathtub that is made to be significantly deeper than a standard bathtub. With a typically square or round overall shape, a soaking tub possesses higher walls, allowing the added volume capacity. The Japanese used this design to allow the bather to sit more comfortably for extended periods of time, primarily due to the fact that the bathing process was considered a ritual in many Eastern cultures. It also provided increased submersion capabilities, further adding to its relaxation benefits.

When Are Small Soaking Tubs Used?

Small soaking tubs are ideal for a number of various scenarios. For homes with small bathroom spaces, a soaking tub offers an increased water capacity in a smaller floor space. The added height possessed by the tub also gives the illusion of a larger room. For larger bathrooms, a small soaking tub makes the ideal secondary bath. In Japanese culture, the soaking tub was actually used only after one had already cleaned themselves in another tub. The soaking tub was designed for relaxation, not cleaning purposes. While most consumers will use it for there purposes, however, a small soaking tub still makes a nice addition to a standard primary bathtub. With the added features that can be installed, such as water and air jets, the soaking tub can serve as a secondary unit with a more spa-like benefit offered.

What Are My Options For Small Soaking Tub Designs?

As stated before, soaking tubs are typically square or round. For small spaces, some manufacturers offer corner soaking tubs to better work with the open floor space. Most soaking tubs are above ground tubs. Because of the high walls, they are typically fitted with one or two steps to allow easier entry into the tub. If the construction of the home allows for it, however, some soaking tubs can be mounted partially or completely into the floor. This sunken design can add a significant touch of elegance, reminiscent of bathtubs found in ancient times designed to be walked down into. Floor mounted and fully sunken soaking tubs are perfect for making a striking and bold visual statement, offering a very unique design that is highly contrasting to a standard bathtub. The partially sunken design offers a more traditional visual appeal, while also providing the benefit of the extra depth of a soaking tub.

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also help to improve our overall quality of life as well as increase their functional potential.

What Are Deep Soaking Tubs?

Taking their influence from the Furo tubs of Japanese culture, deep soaking tubs are designed to provide a greater level of relaxation and tranquility than standard American bathtubs. Soaking tubs are often square or round in design and include flat bottoms, as opposed to a standard tub’s sloping bottom. They can either be installed on top of the floor surface or, in some cases, sunk into the floor. They can also be equipped with several features not commonly found in standard bathtubs, further adding to their sense of luxury. Overall, soaking tubs provide a bathing experience closer to that of a spa environment than a bathroom setting. While most commonly found indoors, soaking tubs can be found in outdoor models as well, closely resembling a variety of hot tub or whirlpool tub.

What Features Are Available On A Deep Soaking Tub?

One of the primary design elements of a deep soaking tub is its ability to be set, either partially or completely, into the floor of a bathroom. This not only creates a unique visual appeal, it also aids the bather in entering the tub since the walls are higher than a standard unit. Models mounted onto the floor typically come equipped with steps that lead up into the tub to ease the process of entry. As stated before, the tubs are typically round or square in nature, based on the traditional Japanese design, but can be found in other shapes as well, catering to the more modern influence. They are often no bigger than a standard small bathtub, but can be ordered in larger sizes as well to best suit the consumer’s needs. The tubs are available in a range of materials, with woods tubs being the most traditional in history, but the least modern in design.

Some of the major features of soaking tubs are their incorporated jet stream systems. Many units can be equipped with either water or air jets, or a combination of both. The air jets provide a effervescence to the bath water, creating a light soothing sensation. The water jets, on the other hand, can deliver anywhere from a light massage to a fairly powerful massage action, perfect for sore muscles or deeper relaxation needs. Color changing lights can be installed in the tubs in order to deliver the benefits of chromatherapy, a belief that the colors we experience around us help influence our mental state of well being. Aromatherapy practitioners can benefit as well from scent chambers that allow the user to add their own custom fragrances to the water in order to promote certain moods or alleviate stress. While the overall cost of a soaking tub may be higher, many consumers feel the added benefits are well worth the price in comparison to less expensive standard small bathtubs.

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What Is A Japanese Soaking Tub?

A Japanese soaking tub, also known as either a Furo tub or an Ofuro tub, tends to resemble what we know as a hot tub more so than our standard bath tubs. These Asian soaking tubs date back many centuries and were typically made from wood. The soaking tubs were typically square or round in nature and much taller and deeper than our standard tubs. This was designed to allow the bather to be more fully submersed in the bath water, creating a deeper sense of relaxation. They also had flat bottoms, as opposed to the sloping surfaces of our bathtubs today.

Ironically, the bathing process itself was almost always conducted elsewhere in small bathtubs often found outside the home. This Asian soaking tub was only used once the bather was already clean and would use the Furo for relaxation purposes and to help keep warm. This further led to the Japanese use of the Furo more as a relaxation tool, as opposed to a bath tub as we know them today. This also helps to further illustrate the Japanese reliance on an overall ritual process of bathing which involved separate steps for cleaning one’s self and for relaxation.

Of course, given the Japanese desire to make the most use of everything they owned, the water used in the Furo was often left to sit overnight. The following day it was then used to wash clothes and dishes before it was finally drained. This gave the water a dual purpose and eliminated the need to waste it once it had been used as part of the bathing ritual.

Why Are Japanese Soaking Tubs Appearing In Western Civilization?

As more and more people seek to learn from Eastern cultures in a variety of fields, including medicine, fitness, and overall quality of life, traditions such as the Furo tubs are beginning to gain popularity in our homes as well. Beneficial because of their smaller base sizes, the increased volume the soaking tub can hold allows them to be easily used in place of a small bathtub with a significantly lower volume. They are also ideal for larger bathrooms which take the overall influences more from a spa environment than a typical bathroom design. Japanese soaking tubs appeal to consumers who wish to gain more from their bathing experience. They are ideal for consumers who wish to use their bathtubs as a source of relaxation and rejuvenation, as opposed to just an area to physically clean themselves.

While we may never go so far as to use our bath water to do laundry the following day, we are beginning to learn techniques and practices that can lead to an overall higher quality of life.

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What Is A Soaking Bath Tub?

Traditional bathtubs in the states tend to be long, narrow, and shallow. They are designed this way primarily for easy access, making stepping in and out of the bath tub as simple as possible. In most households, the tubs are paired with shower units for added convenience. Soaking bath tubs, on the other hand, are designed to be shorter in length, slightly wider, and significantly deeper than a traditional tub. The reasoning behind this design is to allow the bather to sit more fully submersed in the water during the bathing routine. With regards to floorspace, a soaking tub takes up the same amount of room as a small bathtub. Because of their added height, however, they hold a much larger volume of water than small bathtubs are able to.

What Are The Benefits Of A Soaking Tub?

One of the primary benefits of a soaking tub is the ability to hold a larger volume of water. This added capacity is believed to create a more soothing and encompassing environment for the bather, further emphasizing the ritual nature of the bath, as opposed to simply the functional aspects. Many cultures believe the deeper submersion during the process also helps to better relax the body, as well as the mind. These beliefs are widely drawn from Japanese culture, one of the main origins of the soaking tub.

With regards to floorspace, a soaking bathtub can take up significantly less room than a traditional tub. This makes them ideal for smaller bathrooms, as well as a perfect secondary bath for a master bathroom. Even with standard sized bathrooms, square footage always seems to be at a premium, making any space saving appliance or fixture in high demand.

The features that can be found with a soaking bathtub also make them ideal for high end spa type bathrooms. Similar to hot tubs, soaking bathtubs can be fitted with water jets, creating a whirlpool tub experience within the privacy of your own bathroom. This not only provides an added level of luxury, but also helps to further soothe tired or sore muscles. Some are installed only with air jets, creating a bubble like movement in the water when a full massage experience is not needed. Further enhancing the overall spa like experience, and emphasizing the relaxation ritual, some soaking tubs are now taking use of both aromatherapy (scent therapy), as well as chromatherapy (color therapy).

What Should I Look For When Shopping For A Soaking Tub?

One of the first things to look for when selecting a soaking tub is the size of the unit your bathroom can accommodate. If you have a larger bathroom, you should consider selecting a soaking tub proportionate to the size of the room. For smaller bathrooms, keep in mind the available floor space to ensure that the unit you are selecting will fit properly.

The next set of choices during the selection process will involve the desired features for your new soaking tub. This will depend on both your personal preferences, as well as your budgetary constraints. While you may like the idea of having all of the bells and whistles installed, they do come at a premium when it comes to the overall cost of the unit itself.

Another aspect to keep in mind is the brand name of the soaking tub you are selecting. Most of the leading manufacturers, including Kohler and American Standard, offer a variety of soaking tub models to choose from. They come in a variety of sizes and included features, and also cover a range of price points. Some consumers will choose a brand name and then select a unit from within that brand’s lineup. Others will find the exact model they prefer, regardless of the manufacturer. It truly is a matter of personal preference as to which route you choose to take.

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What Are Handicapped Bathtubs?

A handicapped bathtub is a unit designed specifically with the needs of a disabled, elderly, or otherwise impaired individual in mind. They come in a variety of designs and styles in order to provide a selection that best meets the needs of the user and their specific mobility challenges. While some handicap bath tubs are designed for use only by the disabled individual, others can be used by other residents in the home as needed. This dual purpose feature can greatly reduce the inconvenience a specialized handicap bath tub may cause.

Walk In Handicapped Bath Tubs

A walk in handicapped bath tub is designed for individuals whose greatest issue is getting in and out of a traditional bathtub, primarily because of the significant difference in the bathtub’s level from a standing position. On first glance, it appears to simply be a very tall and narrow bathtub, often two to three times the height of a traditional tub. Instead of having to climb in and out of the unit however, the bather opens a door that is built into the side of the tub. Once they close the door behind them, it creates a watertight seal, allowing the tub to be filled without risk of leaking onto the bathroom floor. Once they have finished bathing, they simply drain the water and step out. There is no need to change from their standing position, but they are still able to enjoy the benefits of a full bath as opposed to just a shower. Similar in concept to a soaking tub, with this type of bathtub, handicap individuals can also enjoy the therapeutic benefits of full immersion water therapy.

Lift Tubs

If a bathroom already has a traditional bathtub installed that needs to be converted for use by a handicapped individual, several models of lifts are available on the market that allow the user to be manually or mechanically lowered into and raised out of the tub on a chair or platform. These lifts are ideal for use in a bathroom that is used by several occupants and can often be moved out of the way to allow for normal bathing by others. While the automated lifts can be slightly costly, they are still far less expensive than replacing the tub with a walk in bathtub or other custom unit.

Stand Alone Showers

One of the most common options for handicapped bathtubs is simply a stand alone shower. While these do not offer the same benefits as a walk in tub with regards to full immersion, they do allow users to simply enter and exit the unit as needed with no need to get in and out of a floor tub. Stand alone showers can also be used in conjunction with shower chairs, designed to alleviate the need to stand for an extended period of time, and can also be installed with additional handicapped support bars, designed to be used as tools to assist individuals when standing or sitting, or simply to provide extra stability when needed.

Portable Units

There are also a variety of portable units for bathtubs handicap individual can take with them when traveling or visiting another home. These can be as simple as fold up chairs that can be positioned in showers or bathtubs, reducing the need to lower into a tub and then subsequently rise back out of it. The chairs are often lightweight and fairly compact, easy to set up, and easy to store when not in use. Some companies also offer portable lift devices that rely more on manual effort than automated design. While the extra effort these require to operate tend to restrict them from everyday use, they are portable and light enough to travel well when needed.

Overall, there are a wide variety of options available when it comes to bathing for individuals with challenges. The options are designed to address specific needs and are also available as additions to existing bathroom fixtures.

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What Are Tub Surrounds?

A tub surround is essentially a series of acrylic or fiberglass panels that are installed directly on top of your existing tiled wall. The panels are designed to fit together and can be secured with a watertight silicone gel that acts as an adhesive while also creating a barrier that prevents water from being able to penetrate the tub surround and reach the wall behind it. While most do it yourself tub surround kits come with individual panels for each wall, custom surrounds can be ordered that are molded specifically to your tub’s measurements, potentially eliminating any connecting seams.

What Are The Benefits Of Acrylic Tub Surrounds?

Acrylic tub surrounds are not only the most affordable option, often costing less than $100 for basic models, they are also the easiest to install. If you are selecting an acrylic tub surround, keep in mind that the thicker the acrylic, the longer the unit will be able to hold up to use. If you are purchasing the surround for a guest bathroom, a thinner, and less costly, acrylic should suffice. If the surround will be installed in a main bathroom, however, you should pay the extra cost for the thicker acrylic models since they are able to better withstand daily use. While fiberglass surrounds may have a better touch to them, acrylic surrounds are now available in a variety of textures that help distract from their plastic feel. Just like the more expensive fiberglass models, acrylic surrounds easy to clean and maintain, can be found in a range of colors, and have numerous optional design features that can be incorporated into their designs.

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What Are Tub Surrounds?

A tub surround is basically a plastic-like shell that goes over a tiled bathtub wall enclosure. While tile is the traditional material for use on tub enclosures, after time it can begin to wear and the grout can start to crack.
Grout lines also make tile walls difficult to keep clean, even more so once they have begun to age as the weakening of the grout allows more mildew and mold to form. For consumers looking to renovate their worn out tile, a tub surround in an affordable option that saves the time and money associated with re-tiling the walls. The rigid panels are designed to fit flush against the tiled wall, connecting to each other with a watertight seal. Some designs even include a bathtub shell that fits directly over the existing tub, ideal for older bathtubs that are stained or worn.

What Are The Benefits Of A Fiberglass Tub Surround?

Fiberglass tub surrounds are slightly more costly than acrylic models, but tend to be able to withstand more frequent use and resist wear better. The added durability comes from the fact that fiberglass is reinforced with glass strands that allow it to withstand much higher pressure levels than traditional acrylic. While acrylic surrounds tend to have a plastic feel to them, fiberglass models have a warmer texture. Like acrylic models, they can be purchased in a range of colors and include a choice of optional add ons, such as built in towel bars and soap dishes.

Regardless of which material you choose, a tub surround is an affordable way to breath new life into an old bathroom. More affordable and less time consuming than re-tiling, installing a tub surround requires minimal effort and can be done in a matter of hours. While fiberglass tub surrounds may cost you a little more upfront, the more natural feel and lasting durability will more than make up for the slightly higher price tag.

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What Are My Options?

The largest problem with tiled bathtub walls, over time, is their susceptibility to water damage. This is due largely to the fact that, while the grout may do a significant job at repelling water, over time it tends to lose its effectiveness and begins to chip, crack, and wear away. As this happens, tiles may become loose or water may begin to seep behind the tile surface and into the wall behind it. On occasion, some people just get tired of having the same bland tile walls in their bathroom and want something visually different.

Out With The Old, In With The New

As you begin to experience problems with your walls, your first option is to remove the old tile and replace it with new tile. While you may have experience with floor tile, bathroom wall tile is much more detailed of a process and usually requires professional installation. Redoing your tile walls can take several days, during which you will be unable to use your shower, or sometimes even your bathroom. It can be a very messy process as not only the tile needs to be removed and replaced, but the backing board behind it as well. A typical tile replacement job is also costly, often averaging upwards of $1,500.

Solid Surface Paneling

If you are looking for a quicker process and aren’t necessarily fixed on tile walls, there are several companies that offer professionally installed solid surface wall panels. These panels are interlocking pieces that give your bathtub walls the appearance of one solid surface. Instead of replacing the tile walls, the panels are simply installed on top of them. The tile is treated first to rid it of any mod or mildew that may have formed up and then the panel system is placed over it and sealed together, forming a watertight surrounding for your shower enclosure. The panels come in a variety of designs and styles, even offering several optional features, such as built in soap dishes and towel racks. While this may seem like an ideal option, taking only a matter of a few hours t install, the materials and installation can be very costly. Most professionally installed solid surface panels run upwards of $2,000 to $2,500, with costs increasing for various options available.

Do It Yourself Tub Surrounds

If you are looking for an option that is as quick to install as solid surface paneling, without the higher price tags associated with it, as well as re-tiling, installing a bathroom tub surround, also known as a shower tub surround, may be the ideal solution for your needs. A tub surround is essentially a do it yourself version of a solid surface paneling. They are typically made from either fiberglass or acrylic and are installed directly over the existing tiled walls. Shower tub surrounds are water repellent and, when properly installed and sealed, watertight. They come in a variety of colors and styles, often with the same optional features as the solid surface panels. Tub surround panels my be slightly thinner than solid surface panels, but they can still be quite durable. Tub surrounds are typically made from acrylic or fiberglass, with the pressed fiberglass models being designed to handle more frequent use and possess a higher level of durability. Bathroom tub surrounds also come in a variety of textures ranging from smooth to slightly pebbled or rough.

One of the main advantages of bathtub surrounds is the elimination of any professional installation costs, coupled with the fact that a standard tub surround kit ranges from $75 to $150. Even the more upscale models with additional features are in the $400 to $500 price range, making them significantly cheaper than either retiling or having a solid surface panel system installed.

Overall, do it yourself bath tub surrounds are affordable, require a minimal effort to install, and can be quite beautiful and long lasting.

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Which Measurements Are Important?

The key measurement that will determine if your new or remodeled bathroom is suited for a corner bathtub is the amount of wall space available in the corner of the room you wish to install the tub in. You also need to measure for the length of the tub from side to side, which shouldn’t be an issue if you have measured the side length correctly. Last, but definitely not least, you need to determine the width of the tub from the front edge to the back corner. If you are looking at getting a sunken tub, also check to make sure your home can accommodate the extra space needed below flooring level for the added depth.

What Are The Standard Sizes?

The most common size of corner bathtub on the market today is five feet in length along each wall. This means that you should measure your bathroom from the corner outwards along the wall to ensure you have at least five feet of clearance in either direction. If you have the necessary five feet of clearance on both sides of the tub, as long as the area from point to point on the walls is clear, then the length of the tub shouldn’t be an issue.

The width of the tub, from front to back, is important primarily because of the various styles of tubs on the market. There really is no standard measurement on the market for depth since the measurements will vary greatly depending upon which shape of tub you choose. Five sided corner tubs require the least amount of width but some consumers choose to go with a bow front corner bathtub which may require extra space depending on the size of the arch.

As with any bathtub, custom sizes can be ordered, however, they do come at a significantly higher price than standard units.

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Why American Standard?

Unlike other manufacturers that rely on their bold designs, American Standard has long depended on their motto of ‘Style that works better’. They essentially take a functional bathroom or kitchen fixture and do whatever it takes to have its beauty and style of design match or exceed its functionality. They are known for making standard objects beautiful and elegant, not necessarily breaking too far from traditional appearances, but adding a touch of sophistication in order to make their product stand apart form the rest. American Standard puts an emphasis on producing a quality product that is stunning to view, yet affordable at the same time.

America Standard Corner Bathtub Options

American Standard currently has three styles of corner bathtub units in their collections, the Scala, the Cadet, and the Colony.

The Scala is a traditional five sides corner bathtub comprised of an acrylic fiberglass blend for durability and feel. It comes in a variety of colors measures five feet in length on each main side, providing ample bathing space to meet the need of any consumer.

The Cadet is a three sided unit with two straight sides that sit flush against the wall and a rounded front edge the creates a luxurious bowed effect on the front of the tub. It also has built in seats and arm rests that are incorporated into the bathtub walls. Like the Scala, it is created from acrylic and fiberglass, measures five feet on its main sides, and can be ordered in several colors.

The Colony is very similar to the Scala at first glance with may of the same features and measurements. The primary difference between the two is the fact that the Colony corner bathtub has the water faucets built into the sides of the tub, unlike the Scala which incorporates a traditional water faucet on the top surface of the unit.

Regardless of which model you choose, an American Standard Corner bathtub will provide years of beauty with a timeless style that will never fade.

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