Cost of Purchasing and Installing a Bathtub

Made for cleansing or for relaxing, the bathtub is a staple in any bathroom. Having a bathtub is especially useful when you have children to bathe every night, but also just as practical when you are in dire need of some R&R after a hard day of work. 

The majority of bathtubs are made of synthetic materials like acrylic, but other materials are also available: ceramic, stone, or steel, each holding different properties.

Renovating your bathroom? Learn more about the cost and installation process of different bathtubs, and the various factors affecting overall costs.

Price and Models of Freestanding Tubs

Source : CRC - Construction Rénovation Canada inc.

Who can resist the elegance of the modern and luxurious freestanding bathtub? Just a few years ago, this type of tub was still considered the crème de la crème. This model was mostly found in large villas and opulent residences. Nowadays, they are accessible to most purse strings. With its comfortable design, this type of bathtub has everything to make you want to just let go and relax. 

Freestanding bathtubs are available in a variety of models, here are some of the most popular: 

• Single backrest: One end of the tub is inclined to support your back and the other end is reserved for fixtures. 

• Elevated single backrest: The backrest is elevated to maximize comfort. 

• Double backrest: Since the fixtures are in the middle of the tub, both ends may serve as a backrest.

• Elevated double backrest: Both ends of the tub are elevated. 

As you may have already guessed, the manufacturing material has a lot to do with the price of this specific type of bathtub, which is completely logical as some materials are more durable and comfortable than others. 

Acrylic and fibreglass freestanding bathtubs constitute the entry- to mid-level units on the market. These two materials are light and scratch-resistant, as well as easy to maintain and repair if needed. 

On the other hand, enter cast iron tubs, which are made of heavy, yet sturdy and durable material. Its main drawback resides in the fact that once damaged, it is rather difficult to fix. The same goes for stone bathtubs—this model is audacious in style and resistant to wear. The only thing to look out for when choosing this type of material is the dead load capacity of your floor. 

Marble is an elegant and luxurious material, however, it is rather expensive and cracks or fissures in the material cannot be repaired on this type of material. By all means, less common than the other materials mentioned, copper and stainless steel bathtubs are also marketed. Although cold at first glance, the thermally conductive materials allow the water to retain a good overall temperature. 

The colour of your bathtub has started to wear on you? Repaint it!

Entry-level priced freestanding bathtubs are usually around $699, for which you get a 59-inch-deep, acrylic tub with a high backrest and four adjustable feet. Similarly, mid-level acrylic reinforced by thermostable resin bathtubs is priced at $1,030. Luxury brand bathtubs are more commonly priced at around $3,871, for which the tub is made of artificial stones, following an eco-friendly procedure, as the synthetic stone is devoid of any radiation. This model is sturdy and elegant, and the material is scratch-resistant. The smooth and well-polished material offers even better comfort. 

Jetted Tub (Whirlpool)

Bathtubs are not solely used for cleansing, but for relaxing as well. Besides, for some, relaxing is the foremost reason for a bathtub. Should you be part of this like-minded group, opt for a jetted tub. That way, you can relax in the comfort of your home whenever you want!

This therapeutic bathtub functions with a pump that circulates the bath water in order to form a whirlpool. Not only will it relax you, but your muscles will be deep-tissue massaged. The sole drawback to jetted bathtubs is the necessary maintenance. Since the bath water circulates through pipes, the presence of stagnant water allows bacteria ample chance to multiply. Whirlpool bathtubs are available in various sizes; one can acquire a corner whirlpool tub, which has a practical disposition in a bathroom, similar to alcove tubs. 

Most jetted tubs on the market are made of acrylic, which can be the most cost-effective option. Multiple factors can influence the price of a whirlpool tub, most notably: 

• Number of air bubble massages powered by an air blower; 

• Water filtration system;

• Frictional heating system to stabilize the water temperature over an extended period of time;

• Automatic drain-overflow system;

• Chromotherapy option.

Expect to pay between $1,146 and $2,000 for entry-level whirlpool brands. The price can vary depending on the desired model. For example, a freestanding jetted tub will be priced between $2,000 to $3,000 and can be as expensive as $4,874, depending on the model and available features. Usually, whirlpool bathtubs have a 10 to 25-year warranty. 

Price of an Alcove Bathtub

The alcove bathtub is perfect for narrow bathrooms, and it can be installed at the opposite end where the three walls meet. This type of bathtub is practical and inexpensive, which makes it the most commonly seen in most Quebec apartments. This model has an armrest, ergonomic backrest, and a respectable depth. The formats can vary, but most often is rectangular in shape. 

Entry-level models are usually priced around $299, for a fibreglass tub. The price can go up to $869 for an acrylic model equipped with a tiling flange to facilitate installation. An alcove tub can cost up to $1,746, which is a cast-iron model with an integral apron and for which the manufacturing materials are 80% recycled.

Cost of Installing a Bathtub?

Source : MTL Contractors

If you are an experienced handyman, installing a bathtub should not be too difficult if you have the help of another person, as a tub can be heavy and hard to manoeuvre. However, should you want to avoid any unexpected surprises, it is preferable to hand the task over to a qualified professional. 

The cost of replacing your current bathtub with a newer model is about $1,500, however, the amount is likely to change depending on the model of your choosing. A ceramic tub is much heavier and more fragile than an acrylic tub, therefore it makes sense that installing such a tub would be more expensive. The cost will also depend on the amount of work that needs to be done before installing it because oftentimes the surrounding baseboards need to be removed. A plumber will also have to determine the maximum dead load your floor can withstand to ensure a secure installation. 

As for the whirlpool bathtub, the cost tends to climb as the weight of the bath alone requires 2 to 6 people to carry it to the bathroom. Furthermore, a jetted tub functions with a pump, so an electrician will be needed to ensure the wiring is correctly done.

To find out more regarding plumbing renovation costs, check out our article.