Bathtub design and manufacturing have changed so much over the years. From acrylic and fiberglass to steel and cast iron, there are so many types of bathtubs, and these days, a lot of them mimic each other’s appearance. Because of that, it may be hard to tell what material your bathtub is, especially if you’ve had your bathtub for a long time or the bathtub was installed by whoever owned your home before you. Luckily, there are some tricks to help you narrow it down and find out what it’s made from. Team Tundraland can help walk you through these tricks, but first, it’s worth knowing why it’s important to find out what your bathtub is made of.

Why Should You Want to Find Out What Type of Bathtub You Have?

Trying out some of the following methods to help you discover what your bathtub is made of would be smart, and not just for the simple knowledge of what the answer is. It’s just as much about what the answer means for your bathtub’s lifespan, maintenance requirements, and any issues it has. Because not every type of bathtub lasts the same amount of time, nor does the same maintenance regimen work for every bathtub material.

Finding out what material your bathtub is made of can tell you when you should expect it to need replacing, and it can give you a chance to figure out an upkeep plan that keeps it looking its best and, in turn, prolongs its lifespan. And along those lines, knowing what type of bathtub you have can tell you whether you’ll be able to do anything about any stains, chips, cracks, or other issues that your bathtub has run into over time.

Grab a Magnet

Find a strong magnet and hold it against the wall of your bathtub. If it sticks, then your tub is made of steel or cast iron. Unlike metal, acrylic and fiberglass bathtubs are not magnetic.

Press on Your Bathtub

Firmly press your hand against the side of your bathtub. If it has a little give, it is made of acrylic or fiberglass. These materials have a little give or flexibility. Meanwhile, steel or cast iron will not have any give when pressed on.

Surface Damages

Surface damage differs by tub material. If your tub has chips or is rusty, it is made of some type of metal. However, if it has any scratches or cracks around it, it should be made of acrylic or fiberglass. Fiberglass bathtubs are also known for staining and fading over time. Acrylic bathtubs won’t fade.

Extra Supports

From removing panels and framing to looking in the crawl space or basement underneath the bathtub, there are many ways to see your bathtub’s support system. Cast iron bathtubs are extremely heavy and often feature extra supports underneath them. Most claw foot tubs are cast iron. Here’s what to look for:

Cast iron has supports that look pebbly.
Steel supports look metallic.
Fiberglass supports look like a bunch of strings.
Acrylic supports appear to be smooth.

Fiberglass Bathtub Pros & Cons

Fiberglass bathtubs have long been favored for their affordability and lightweight construction. Made from layers of polyester resin reinforced with fiberglass, these tubs are budget-friendly and easy to install. However, their durability can be a concern, as fiberglass is prone to cracking and fading over time. Additionally, the surface of fiberglass tubs may be less resistant to scratches and stains compared to other materials.

Why Choose an Acrylic Bathtub

The acrylic bathtubs we install from Jacuzzi are remarkably durable, as they are built from a non-porous material, meaning they resist chipping, cracking, fading, and scratching over time. Not only that, but these bathtubs are exceptionally easy to maintain, with no need to spend hours scrubbing grout lines – all you’ll need to do is give yours a quick wipe-down and it’ll stay looking its best for a long time to come. In addition to making them easy to maintain and clean, a non-porous surface means it’s less likely to harbor bacteria and mold, contributing to a healthier bathing environment. Acrylic is also known for its excellent heat retention properties, ensuring a warm and comfortable bathing experience every time. Moreover, acrylic tubs are available in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and styles, allowing for greater customization to suit your preferences and space requirements.

While acrylic tubs offer numerous benefits, one potential drawback is that they can be more susceptible to scratching if you use abrasive scrubbing tools. However, proper care and maintenance can help mitigate this issue, such as using gentle cleaners and a soft sponge or cloth.

About Other Bathtub Materials

While we install industry leading acrylic tubs from Jacuzzi, there are a variety of materials other bathroom remodeling companies use. Learn about the pros and cons of various tub materials!

Enameled Steel

Steel bathtubs with porcelain-enamel coating are known for being extremely affordable, though steel conducts heat, which can affect the temperature of your water. Not to mention, steel is prone to chipping and it weighs more than other alternatives.

Cast-Iron

Cast-iron tubs are also coated with enamel, but they don’t chip like steel does due to the fact that they have a thicker coat. However, the weight of these tubs is even more significant than that of steel tubs, which probably isn’t the best choice if your bathroom is on the second floor of your house.

Cast-Polymer

Mimicking the look of marble or granite, cast-polymer tubs are a popular choice among homeowners looking for unique designs. They can be a bit costly, though, and their surfaces aren’t durable, as cracks can form over time.

Turn to the Pros When It’s Time for a Bathtub Replacement

No matter what material your bathtub is, you’ll eventually need a replacement. When that time comes, finding the right team to partner with for the project is paramount. For homeowners in Wisconsin and Minnesota, that team can be found at Tundraland. We offer first-class bathtub replacement projects, and we complete these projects with wonderful nonporous acrylic bathtubs crafted by industry-leading manufacturer Jacuzzi Bath Remodel. When you invest in one of these bathtubs, you’ll absolutely love the wide array of exciting customization options you have available to you. But there’s so much more to these outstanding bathtubs. If you want to have a professional help you determine what type of material your bathtub is made from or you’re ready to transform the bathroom of your Wisconsin or Minnesota home with the installation of a stunning new Jacuzzi acrylic bathtub, contact Tundraland today.