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Alcove Bathtubs. Alcove tubs, which are surrounded by walls on three sides. The front side is then covered with an integral tub apron. Right and left-handed drains are available and are selected depending on your bathroom configuration.
What is the difference between a bathtub and an alcove bathtub?
The term alcove doesn’t refer to the shape or size of the bathtub, but the installation. Alcove tubs are unfinished on three sides with the fourth side, usually one of the long sides, finished with a tub apron. The tub gets installed into an alcove section of the bathroom with three of its sides enclosed by a wall.
What is the difference between an alcove and a skirted bathtub?
An alcove tub and a skirted drop-in tub are very similar, with the only difference being their installation. An alcove tub is made to fit into a space joined by three walls, whereas a skirted tub will always have one completely open side.
What is the difference between a drop-in and alcove bathtub?
Drop-in bathtubs are installed anywhere a carved out deck or structure is implemented, often times in the center of the bathroom. Alcove bathtubs on the other hand, are installed in a recess, against the wall or an alcove.
What is an alcove tub installation?
The term refers to the bathtub being installed into a recess in your bathroom, which means quite commonly they are installed with three joining walls or a pocket alcove in your bathroom, with some modern designs only having two walls or a large window to remove the confined nature of this installation method.
Are alcove tubs good?
Whether you have a large or a small bathroom, the alcove bathtub will be good for you. Unlike other bathtubs out there, the best alcove bathtubs are stylishly designed to take very little space and to give you an excellent bathing experience.
Can you put a drop in tub in an alcove?
Yes, drop in tubs can be installed in an alcove, but they’re more commonly installed in more open spaces, freestanding or jutting out from a wall. Depending on the size of the bathroom, a drop in tub installed in an alcove may provide less space; one may be able to fit a larger tub into another space in the room.
Can you tile the front of an alcove tub?
The aprons that are cast into alcove bathtubs simplify the tub installation, but they often come up a bit short in the style department. One way to improve the appearance of a plain apron and create the look of a built-in tub is simply to build and tile a short wall in front of the tub.
What does skirted mean on bathtub?
Skirted. A Skirted tub has one finished side and is placed between two walls and attached on the back side.
How are alcove tubs measured?
Using a power tape, measure the edge of the tub from one end to another for height and width. To measure the height of the bathtub, take measurement from the floor to the top.
Why are drop-in tubs more expensive?
Drop-In: A drop-in tub can be more cost-efficient because of install and materials, these tubs are often acrylic and not cast iron. Because it sits atop the horizontal deck, it comes with a lip that sits atop the horizontal surface to prevent water from overflowing – though some people don’t like this look.
Can a freestanding tub replace an alcove tub?
We often get asked whether it is suitable to install a freestanding bathtub in an alcove. The answer – absolutely! Freestanding bathtubs have been around for nearly 150 years, and they are still part of every day design. Available in endless shapes, colors and sizes.
What is a 3 wall alcove?
3-wall alcove tub-shower combinations are the most common tub type and are designed to maximize space. The unfinished ends usually get sandwiched between an exterior wall and a handy built-in storage cabinet. They’re fitted inside a framed enclosure that’s finished to match bathroom cabinets or tile.
How far should wall extend past bathtub?
Plan to extend the tile 2 or 3 in. beyond the tub and to leave at least a half tile along the wall if possible. Don’t stop tile even with the end of the tub. This leaves the walls along the front of the tub vulnerable to water damage, and doesn’t look as finished as tile extending to the floor.
What should I look for in an alcove tub?
Smaller than most alternatives: While there is some versatility in alcove sizing, overall, alcove tubs are smaller in length, height and depth than most other varieties. If you want a Jacuzzi soaker tub in which you can spend hours, other styles might be a better choice.
What kind of bathtub is best?
What Is the Best Kind of Bathtub to Get? Porcelain enameled cast iron (Cast Iron) – Best All Around; See Kohler Cast Iron Bathtubs. Thermoformed acrylic (Acrylic) – Better to Excellent; See Kohler Acrylic Bathtubs and Aquatic Bathtubs.
What is the top rated bathtubs?
The Best Bathtub on the Market of 2022 Aqua Eden Kingston Alcove Bathtub. American Standard 5-Foot Bathtub (Our Top Pick) Sinkology Heisenberg Claw-Foot Bathtub. Kohler Expanse Bathtub. Vista Copper Euclid Roll-Up Bathtub. Ove Decors Houston Freestanding Bathtub. Buchanan Cast Iron Slipper Tub.
How do you turn an alcove tub into a drop on?
Measure the alcove space with a measuring tape. Place a piece of cardboard in the bottom of the tub. Check the subfloor where the tub will be located. Set the tub in place and mark the holes for the plumbing and fixtures. Install the plumbing. Install the tub spout and drain per manufacturer directions.
What is the deepest alcove tub available?
On the other hand, alcove soaking tubs can vary on their depth and size, but will generally have a depth of 19-20 inches with 14 or more inches of soaking depth.
How do you build a tub surround?
Drop in tub surround with full access Step 1: Frame out surround. Step 2: Install proper substrate on framing. Step 3: Install finished surround material. Step 4: Finish top deck. Step 5: Place tub and Shim/level. Step 6: Secure the bottom of the tub. Step 7: Install drain/overflow. Step 8: Install high flow tub filler.
How do you install a tub apron?
Install the apron by sliding the upper edge of the apron under the edge of the bathtub and centre the apron between the two walls. Maintain the apron in position and insert the plastic thumb screws through the holes under the lower edge of the apron and in the hardware (Fig. 7.1). Do not over-tighten.
