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jas1960 · Jan 30, 2009, 01:16 PM

Hi all. I am building a new house and having trouble deciding on tub options. One bath needs a tub/shower combo. Any thoughts on options (tub with tile, one piece unit, tub with added walls, etc) would be greatly appreciated. I will be doing the installation myself. I'm reasonably handy if I have someone to answer questions.:) Thanks.

massplumber2008 · Jan 30, 2009, 02:48 PM

Hi Jas...

Well, you asked for it. You will get as many answers to this question as there are different tubs... ;)

Best overall job, in my opinion, is always going to be the CAST IRON TUB with cement board walls and tile. This is a very heavy tub but is manageable with two men and some help from us here... :)

American Standard also makes a plastic tub (called the americast tub) that feels cast iron like as it is extremely THICK PLASTIC, and this is my second choice for tubs. It looks and acts almost exactly as the cast iron tub but is 1/4 the weight making installation a bit easier... to say the least... ;)

I also recommend cement board and tile walls with the americast tub.

I belive these are your best options as long as you are willing to maintain the tile and keep it clean.

Heck, even the acrylic and fiberglass units require maintenance but they seem to break down quickly when comparing to the cast or americast tubs.

Anyway, that is my thoughts...

Let us know if you want to discuss more. And know that we are glad to help you with the remodel as you go. Lots of people here with good experience willing to help.

MARK

Milo Dolezal · Jan 30, 2009, 08:01 PM

I agree with Mark: Get Cast Iron tub ( like Kohler Villager, non-slip bottom, front apron / Home Depot $ 240.00) and tile walls. This is the most preferable installation. We sometimes remove Cast Iron tubs that have been in use for 80-90 years and they still look in perfect condition. Cast Iron is superior to plastic tubs.

Same goes for tiles: porcelain tiles (Home Depot) will maintain its look for as long as you live in your house. However, in my area of operation, we prefer "floated walls" over Wonderboard / BackingBoard in new construction. But choice is yours...

drumerboy33 · Jan 31, 2009, 07:51 AM

Im new to this site I hope the experts don't mind me chimming in on some of these questions, I have a lot of plumbing under my belt and I love helping out,. my opinion on this one is not much different from the above answers, as far as long lasting material, you just can't go wrong with the cast iron, it is great, I have actually pulled several cast iron tubs out, and you could reinstall it somewhere else , still in great condition for someone looking for a great deal.., that just can't happen with other materials., anyway good luck..

jas1960 · Jan 31, 2009, 08:08 AM

Thanks for the input. Looks like I can't go wrong with cast iron. Forgive my ignorance, but what is a "floated wall"? Thanks.

Milo Dolezal · Jan 31, 2009, 08:11 AM

Floated Wall is when you do rough interior plaster around the tub and install tile over it using Thin Set. With Floated Walls base, finished walls feel solid, produce no cracks, and last many years longer.

massplumber2008 · Jan 31, 2009, 08:13 AM

JAS1960...

Floated walls also pretty expensive. Most contractors today use cement backer board with very good results. Just so you know all options... :)

MARK