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What is a clawfoot tub? A claw foot bathtub is just what it sounds like: a freestanding tub that rests on four feet. But these tubs are so much more than just a bathtub with feet! These nostalgic tubs are the ultimate classic: they’ll never go out of style.
Why is it called a clawfoot tub?
The clawfoot tub, which reached the apex of its popularity in the late 19th century, had its origins in the mid 18th century, when the ball and claw design originated in the Netherlands, possibly artistically inspired by the Chinese motif of a dragon holding a precious stone.
Why do people like clawfoot bathtubs?
PRO: Clawfoot tubs that include a hand shower are much easier to clean than a traditional tub because the flexible shower hose allows you to target water to wash and rinse any part of the tub easily. It also allows you to wash or rinse big things – like, say, a dog – more easily than you could in a traditional bathtub.
What is a clawfoot?
Claw foot is a deformity of the foot. The joint of the toe that is closest to the ankle is bent upward, and the other joints are bent downward. The toe looks like a claw.
Are claw foot tubs cast iron?
Traditional Cast-Iron Clawfoot Tubs Older clawfoot tubs are made of enameled cast-iron. Some manufacturers still make clawfoot tubs in the cast-iron variety.
What are clawfoot tubs worth?
Prices vary, but clawfoot tubs are among the more expensive tub styles. The cost of a clawfoot tub can range from $2,300 to $7,000 or more, depending on shape, material, size, brand, and features.
Does a clawfoot tub add value to a home?
According to the RealEstate.com survey, starter homes with claw-foot tubs sold for nearly 30% more than expected. Coffered ceilings also helped homes sell for 30% more than expected, and farmhouse sinks (thanks Joanna Gaines) helped homes sell for 26% more than expected.
Are clawfoot tubs outdated?
Clawfoot tubs became a part of our collective design vocabulary as a luxury item of the Victorian era. By the 1920’s, they were de rigeur, but by the midcentury, they were outdated, replaced with the more efficient built-in tubs of the 60s and 70s.
How do you pick a clawfoot tub?
Traditionally, clawfoot tubs are white, but nowadays they come in a variety of colors. Choose a hue that complements your bathroom’s palette or make a real statement with a bold, vibrant shade. Another important decision is to decide on the type of feet you prefer for your clawfoot type.
What is a claw toe look like?
There are several signs of claw toe: Your toes are bent upward (extension) from the joints at the ball of the foot. Your toes are bent downward (flexion) at the middle joints toward the sole of your shoe. Sometimes your toes also bend downward at the top joints, curling under the foot.
How can you tell how old a clawfoot tub is?
Next to the manufacturer’s name or the “Made in U.S.A.” logo, you often find the date of manufacture in the month/year format. For example, the numbers 12 31 state the manufacture date as December 1931. You might also see another number, such as 5 1/2. This number states the length of the tub in feet.
Which is better cast iron or acrylic clawfoot tub?
Acrylic tubs are lighter, stronger and easier to install than cast iron tubs. A cast iron tub requires more floor support, more labor to install and is more expensive to transport. Also, the natural warmth and thickness of acrylic tubs combine to preserve heat much longer than a cast iron tub.
Are cast iron tubs worth it?
Cast iron bathtubs have some of the best positives over many bathtubs on the market. Their only drawback is their immense weight which makes it not an ideal choice for many homes as the weight can be staggering for a bathroom to support. So make sure your home can support one before purchasing.
Do cast iron tubs hold heat?
What is a Cast Iron Bathtub? While all bathtubs’ lifespans can vary, cast iron tubs are well-known for their durability, lifespan, and ability to retain heat better than any other tub.
How far should clawfoot tub be from wall?
The Magic Number: 6 Inches As a rule of thumb, the minimum end-to-end (length) additional space you’ll need for a clawfoot, pedestal, or freestanding tub is 6 inches. Any less and the tub will look cramped in the space.
Can you put a clawfoot tub in a small bathroom?
Small bathroom? No problem! A clawfoot tub actually takes up less space than a traditional installed tub, allowing you to add a relaxing soaker to rooms where you didn’t think possible. If you love the look of a clawfoot tub, but want your bathroom to have a modern edge, choose a black painted version.
Will my floor support a cast iron bath?
Both floor systems are normally strong enough to support the weight of a cast-iron bath filled with water, and a person. If you’re concerned about the strength of the floor you could ask a professional to check and reinforce it for you. The floor is now strong and solid and ready for tiling and your new cast-iron bath!Mar 14, 2017.
How can you tell if a tub is cast iron?
1) Remove the overflow cover and popup lever from the head end of the tub and look at the edge of the hole. You should see black cast iron or bright steel. Also, if you remove the overflow cover, the material between it and the plumbing will be about 1/4 ” thick if it is cast iron.
How much can you sell a used clawfoot tub for?
The cost increases for any tubs smaller or larger than 5′ or for any tub that is unusual in any way – a wide, flat rim, a slipper-style tub, ornate feet, etc. A 5′ roll rim tub may sell for $50 while a 5′ French double-ended clawfoot tub may sell for $2000.
