The Clawfoot Tub

When planning bathroom renovations, the choice of bathtub is one of the most important factors to consider. Since the tub is likely to be the most prominent feature of your bathroom, it sets the tone for whatever style you're after. If you're going for a traditional look, a clawfoot tub is one of the most popular choices.

The clawfoot tub is one of the oldest tub designs around. Dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times, it had a resurgence during the Victorian era and hasn't gone out of fashion since. Today, clawfoot tubs are available either new or as an antique, vintage tub.

Clawfoot tubs are generally made of cast iron, although newer models are available in acrylic. There are pros and cons to each material:

Cast Iron
Pros: Cast iron has been the material of choice since clawfoot tubs made their comeback 150 years ago. So, if authenticity is important, cast iron is the way to go. Cast iron is easy to maintain and the nearly indestructible porcelain glazed finish can be cleaned with any kind of household cleaner, and even re-surfaced if necessary.

Cons: Cast iron is extremely heavy, so precautions must be taken to ensure that the floor can hold the weight of not only the tub, but the tub when filled with water and a bather. Also, cast iron dissipates heat quickly so your bathwater will cool faster.

Acrylic
Pros: Acrylic can be a less expensive option than cast iron. It is much lighter, making it a better choice for bathrooms on a high floor or in a high-rise apartment. And acrylic retains heat better than metal, so it will keep your bathwater warm longer.

Cons: Acrylic is not as durable as cast iron and scratches easily. Special non-abrasive cleansers must be used with acrylic tubs and, over time and frequent use, acrylic can discolor.

Clawfoot tubs come in a variety of styles:

• Classic: This generally has one rounded, sloped end for leaning back, and one squared-off end where the drain is located. This is a good choice if you're placing one end against a wall or will have the filler at one end.
• Double Ended: This has two rounded, sloped ends so you can sit in either direction, or bathe with a friend. The filler must be placed in the middle of the tub along one side. This design works well if the tub will be freestanding or placed lengthwise along a wall.
• Slipper: The slipper shape is a bit more luxurious. The rounded end rises so that the bather can rest his or her head while soaking. The other end may be rounded or squared-off to accommodate the filler.
• Double Slipper: The double slipper rises at both ends giving this tub a sumptuous, sensuous look. The bather can rest his or her head back while sitting in either direction. Or this shape can accommodate two bathers if water conservation is a concern.

How you position the tub will narrow your choices of styles. If you plan to place one end against a wall, you'll need a classic or single slipper design. If you're placing it lengthwise against a wall or in the center of the room, your choices expand to include the double ended models.

Think about your plumbing, too. The traditional look of a clawfoot tub often includes plumbing rising from the floor. If you're placing the tub against a wall, you have the option of having the filler protrude from that wall.

So whether freestanding or against a wall; classic, double-ended or slipper; cast iron or acrylic; a clawfoot tub will give your bathroom a timeless, classic look that is unlikely to go out of style for at least another 100 years. By then, it's unlikely you'll be worried about remodeling.