Freestanding vs. Built-In Bathtubs: Which Works Best for Your Utah Bathroom

Are you a Utah homeowner thinking of a bathroom remodel? 

Whether you are doing it because you can no longer stand the old look or want to meet your family’s changing needs, you will need to make some choices. In this post, we are going to talk about deciding between a built-in bathtub and a freestanding bathtub. 

Both are great choices and come with their unique benefits, but you may want the one that best suits your needs and budget. Read on if you are planning a bathroom remodel soon.  

What Is a Built-In Bathtub 

A built-in bathtub sits inside a framed alcove or on a deck. It’s the classic, familiar option you will see in most Utah homes, both old and new. The three sides are usually enclosed with one side open for access. 

Built-in bathtubs are:

• Space-friendly, as they can easily fit in small bathrooms. 
• Offer a perfect shower combo, with an alcove tub and a curtain or a door.
• Typically, a more affordable option. 

Modern built-in bathtubs may come with add-ons like tiled surrounds and even whirlpool jets. Since they are enclosed from three sides, these tubs may retain heat longer. This is good news if you love a long soak, especially in Utah’s colder months. 

What Is a Freestanding Bathtub

On the other hand, a freestanding bathtub, as the name suggests, stands on its own without any additional support. It doesn’t have to fit into an alcove or a deck. 

Freestanding bathtubs:

• Make a strong style as they become a centerpiece. 
• Are easy to place as they don’t need to fit into an alcove.  
• Can be replaced quickly and cost-effectively with a newer design.

These bathtubs come in different shapes and sizes, with the dimensions ranging from sleek and compact for smaller bathrooms to large luxurious ones designed for spa-like retreats. Sometimes, you see freestanding bathtubs with a shower. 

Built-In and Freestanding Bathtub: Pros and Cons 

Both bathtubs offer unique styles, advantages, and drawbacks. That’s why you will need to think this decision through before going ahead with your bathroom remodel. 

Here’s what you must do: 

1. Think about the Available Space 

One of the first things you will need to consider is the available space. A built-in bathtub is hands down the best choice if you want to remodel a small bathroom in your Utah home. It can easily fit into an alcove or a corner and provide you with more floor space. 

Unlike these tubs, their freestanding counterparts require more space. It’s best to speak with a bathroom remodeling contractor to see if your space is large enough to accommodate a freestanding bathtub. If it does, you will have a stylish addition to your bathroom. 

2. Know the Installation Costs and Scope 

Installing a bathtub may require structural changes, particularly plumbing. Installing a built-in bathtub typically involves standard plumbing and a finished surround. 

Since you can fit a built-in tub into a corner, installation requires relatively fewer plumbing changes and lower budgets. That’s what makes built-in bathtub design ideas more popular among Utah homeowners. 

Freestanding bathtubs may require customized plumbing since they sit right in the middle of your bathroom. You might have to run plumbing and electrical lines under the floor if the existing plumbing isn’t accessible. 

Moreover, if you plan to add a shower, you will need additional plumbing. This increases your overall costs. But many Utah homeowners still see a freestanding bathtub with a shower as a worthy investment because of the style statement it makes. 

3. Consider Your Style and Design Options 

There is no shortage of bathroom remodeling ideas on the internet. If you have a specific design in mind, ask your contractor if it can fit into the available space.

Typically, built-in bathtub design ideas are easier to incorporate since they require less space, can be executed using the existing plumbing, and need a lower budget. You can also surround the walls with a custom design or something like laser-etched tiles. 

It’s easier to add supports like grab bars or shower benches in built-in bathtubs. That should be a consideration if you want to make your bathroom suitable for aging in place or more accessible for someone with mobility issues. 

Freestanding bathtubs come in virtually unlimited shapes, sizes, and styles. They are the perfect choice if you want to create a spa-like retreat in your Utah home. You can also get them in different materials, ranging from acrylic and fiberglass to cast iron and stone. 

Built-in bathtubs often fall short of style and design options compared to the freestanding options. You can pick up a style that matches your comfort and budget. 

4. Don’t Ignore the Maintenance 

You need regular maintenance to keep your bathtub and the rest of the bathroom looking beautiful and clean. But since hard water is common in Utah, your bathtub will gather mineral buildup quickly over time. 

The water will leave mineral scale on tubs and fixtures, which builds faster on textured surfaces and around gaps. Since freestanding bathtubs require cleaning underneath and around all sides, you could spend more of your weekends on cleaning duty. 

While materials like acrylic are easy to clean, stone and metal tubs require special care. Still, if you are willing to burn some elbow grease, you can install a freestanding bathtub. 

Built-in bathtubs are relatively easy to clean as they are usually closed on three sides. However, if you have installed wall surrounds with grout, you will need regular maintenance to prevent mold or mildew buildup. 

5. How Do You Plan to Use the Bathtub

Whether it’s a built-in bathtub or a freestanding one, think about how you are planning to use it. Because built-in tubs are surrounded by walls, they often come with shower curtains or sliding glass doors. That makes them more suitable for a bathtub shower combo. 

Plus, many modern built-in bathtubs come with whirlpool jets. They can be a perfect addition to your bathroom if you want a practical and relaxing bathroom. 

A freestanding bathtub with a shower, although less common in Utah, is a more practical option for your bathroom. But getting in and out of freestanding bathtubs can be a bit tricky. It may not be the right option if you plan to age in place or have a family member with limited mobility. 

Want to Know Which Is Better for Your Utah Bathroom? Let’s Talk!

Both built-in and freestanding bathtubs have unique benefits for Utah homes. But your decision must focus on what’s more suitable for your lifestyle, budget, comfort, and the available space. 

If you need expert help while making the decision and installing the bathtub, call Lifespan Bath Remodel. Our experts will help you choose, plan, and install the bathtub. We have helped many Utah homeowners design the bathrooms of their dreams. Call (801) 532-2000 or contact us online now to get your free estimate.