If you’re remodeling your bathroom, chances are you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of bathtub options available. From sizing and placement to material and comfort features, choosing the right tub can be surprisingly complicated—and getting it wrong can impact both your daily routine and your resale value.
At ZINTEX Remodeling, we have over twenty years of experience focused exclusively on bath and shower remodels, and we know what makes a tub the right fit—not just in terms of aesthetics, but in long-term performance, comfort, and practicality. In this guide, you’ll learn about the nine most popular tub types, how much they cost, and how to choose the best one for your space and budget.
Table of Contents
- Why Consider Bathtub Replacement?
- Types of Bathtubs & Cost Range
- Bathtub Materials: Pros and Cons
- How to Choose the Right Bathtub for Your Bathroom Remodel
- Nail Your Bathroom Remodel With the Perfect Tub
Why Consider Bathtub Replacement?
Before diving into the options, let's examine why you might be considering a new bathtub:
- Enhanced Style: A new bathtub instantly modernizes your bathroom's appearance
- Better Functionality: Modern tubs offer improved ergonomics, hydrotherapy options, and water efficiency
- Replace Damaged Fixtures: Over time, bathtubs become stained, cracked, or worn
Increased Home Value: A quality, stylish bathtub can boost your property's overall value with key demographics including parents and luxury buyers
Types of Bathtubs & Cost Range
First, let’s take a look at popular bathtub types and how much you can expect to pay for each.
Alcove Bathtubs
Alcove bathtubs are installed in a three-walled enclosure, making them the most common type found in homes. They're particularly well-suited for smaller bathrooms or as part of a tub-shower combination.
Benefits:
- Space-efficient for bathrooms with limited square footage
- Budget-friendly, typically the most affordable option
- Versatile—can be paired with a shower for family-friendly functionality
- Easy installation and widely available
Cost: $300-$1,500, depending on material (acrylic, fiberglass, or steel) and additional features like jets or storage
Skirted Bathtubs
A skirted bathtub is essentially an alcove tub with a built-in "skirt" on the front that conceals plumbing. The skirt is usually made from the same material as the tub itself, creating a sleek, seamless appearance. They’re a great choice if you want the benefits of an alcove tub with design boost.
Benefits:
- Clean, finished aesthetic appeal
- Concealed plumbing with easy access for repairs
- Durable materials (typically acrylic or fiberglass) that require minimal maintenance
Cost: $350-$2,500, with mid-range options around $1,000-$1,500
Rectangular Bathtubs
Rectangular bathtubs feature the most traditional shape with clean, straight lines. They fit seamlessly into modern bathroom layouts while offering a timeless design.
Benefits:
- Classic, versatile design that complements various bathroom styles
- Spacious interior, especially in larger models
- Wide range of options at various price points
Cost: $300-$5,000 depending on size, material, and extra features
Oval Bathtubs
Oval bathtubs offer a more elegant, contemporary take on the traditional tub. With smooth, rounded edges, they're often featured in luxury designs, particularly freestanding or soaking styles.
Benefits:
- Sophisticated appearance that adds modern flair
- Enhanced comfort from rounded edges, allowing for better relaxation
- Ideal for deep soaking with a spa-like experience
Cost: $1,000-$8,000, varying based on whether it's freestanding or built-in
Arm Rest Bathtubs
Armrest tubs include built-in supports along the sides, providing added comfort during extended soaks. These tubs prioritize relaxation and user comfort.
Benefits:
- Increased support while lounging
- Luxurious, spa-like bathing experience
- Available in various sizes and materials to match preferences
Cost: $1,200-$4,000, depending on materials and design features
Drop-In Bathtubs
Drop-in bathtubs are designed to be installed into a pre-built frame or deck. The tub sits inside the enclosure, which can be customized with surrounding materials like tile or stone. Thanks to their unique shape, these tubs are ideal if you don’t have a huge bathroom but want to maximize the spaciousness of your tub.
Benefits:
- Highly customizable surrounding area to match bathroom style
- Typically more spacious, offering ample soaking room
- Versatile for custom or high-end bathroom designs
Cost: $1,000-$5,000+, depending on size, material, and custom features
Corner Bathtubs
Corner bathtubs are designed to fit snugly into a bathroom corner. Usually triangular or wedge-shaped, they maximize space in small or uniquely configured bathrooms.
Benefits:
- Space-saving design for smaller or irregularly shaped bathrooms
- Distinctive, stylish look that serves as a design feature
- Often designed for deeper soaking, enhancing relaxation
Cost: $1,000-$4,000, varying by material, features, and installation requirements
Freestanding Bathtubs
Freestanding bathtubs stand independently without attachment to walls or surrounds. Available in styles ranging from classic clawfoot to modern minimalist designs, they often become the bathroom's focal point.
Benefits:
- Creates a luxurious, spa-like atmosphere
- Flexible placement anywhere in the bathroom
- Diverse style options from traditional to contemporary
Cost: $1,500-$6,000+, depending on material (acrylic, copper, cast iron) and design features
Walk In Bathtubs
Walk-in bathtubs feature watertight doors for easy entry and exit, along with built-in seating and safety features like handrails. Walk in tubs create unparalleled accessibility and user-friendliness for seniors and anyone with limited mobility.
Benefits:
- Enhanced accessibility and safety for seniors or those with mobility issues
- Comfortable seating for a secure bathing experience
- Often includes therapeutic features like hydrotherapy jets
Cost: Typically higher than conventional tubs due to specialized features
Bathtub Materials: Pros and Cons
Now that you’ve seen what tub types exist, let’s talk about what they’re made of—and how that affects cost, maintenance, and longevity.
| Material | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-tech Polymer | Lightweight, affordable, versatile shapes | Resistant to chipping and cracking; low cost | Scratches more easily than some alternatives |
| Cast Iron | Heavy-duty, enamel-coated | Extremely durable, excellent heat retention, classic look | Very heavy; more expensive |
| Fiberglass | Lightweight and economical | Budget-friendly; easy to install | Less durable; best for secondary bathrooms or short-term use |
| Porcelain or Steel | Steel core with porcelain enamel finish | Good strength and heat retention; lower cost than cast iron | Can chip over time |
| Stone Resin | Blend of natural stone and resin | High-end appearance; scratch and stain resistant | More expensive, heavier than polymer or fiberglass |
How to Choose the Right Bathtub for Your Bathroom Remodel
When choosing your new bathtub, keep these important factors in mind:
1. Bathroom Size and Layout
Measure your space carefully to determine the appropriate tub type and size. Consider the bathroom's layout, including plumbing locations and other fixtures.
2. Usage and Needs
Think about how you'll use the tub and which features matter most. For relaxing soaks, consider deep soaking or whirlpool options. Families with children might prioritize durability and ease of cleaning.
3. Budget
Establish a realistic budget covering the tub, installation, and any additional features. Remember that higher-quality materials and advanced functions typically increase costs.
4. Style and Aesthetics
Select a tub that complements your bathroom's overall design, whether modern and minimalist or classic and traditional.
Nail Your Bathroom Remodel With the Perfect Tub
At the end of the day, finding the right bathtub for your remodel doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Now that you understand the different types, materials, and cost ranges, you’re better equipped to make a decision that fits your space, your lifestyle, and your budget.
At ZINTEX Remodeling, we know it can be difficult to balance function, comfort, and style—especially when you're trying to avoid expensive missteps or delays in your project. That’s exactly why we created this guide—to simplify your decision-making and give you clarity.
What’s next? It’s time to take an in-depth look at one of our most popular remodels: the walk in tub. Plan your budget with our guide to walk in tub costs.
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