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what is the difference between a skirted and alcove tub

by Miss Stefanie Dietrich I Published 3 years ago Updated 3 years ago

What is a skirted bathtub?

  • Skirted tubs. The visible finished side, also called an skirt or apron, can be flat or bowed. ...
  • Alcove Bathtub. The term alcove doesn't refer to the shape or size of the bathtub, but the installation.
  • alcove. On the front side, you can place a shower curtain or bathtub door to provide privacy. ...

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.Feb 27, 2020

Full Answer

What is the difference between a skirted and alcove tub?

Jan 19, 2020 · The main difference is that while an alcove bathtub fits into a space between three walls, a skirted bathtub is one that has walls behind it and to one end.

How to install a skirted bathtub?

Dec 19, 2021 · 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. Besides this fact, there really isn’t much difference between the two.

What is a skirted tub?

Aug 26, 2018 · Drop-in bathtubs are much more expensive than alcove tubs. Alcove vs skirted tubs Quite similar to alcove bathtubs, skirted bathtubs are drop-in bathtubs that have a skirt or rim that covers the entire bathtub itself. The rim is flair outwards, providing a grip or edge for it to rest on top of, allowing for easier install.

Do all suites have a jacuzzi tub?

Feb 27, 2020 · As stated before, an alcove tub is usually installed in a designated space whereas a skirted tub has an open, exposed area. This gives a skirted tub more freedom in how it’s placed and how it’s space can be designed. You can install it in a similar space as an alcove tub or elect to have just two walls with one exposed side.

What does skirted mean on a bathtub?

Skirted. A Skirted tub has one finished side and is placed between two walls and attached on the back side.Aug 23, 2021

What does an alcove bathtub mean?

An alcove bathtub “is any tub enclosed on three sides by walls,” says Eric Phillips, a plumber and the founder of Dripfina. It's the most common bathtub installation, according to The Home Depot. You'll see them in all kinds of properties: houses, apartments, hotels and more. They're also called recessed bathtubs.Sep 20, 2021

Whats the difference between alcove and standard tub?

An alcove bathtub can be used as a regular tub, but some models come fitted with powered jets and offer a more therapeutic, relaxing bathing experience. Some alcove tubs are deeper than others, which can be great for enhanced muscle relaxation.

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.Nov 21, 2017

What is an apron tub?

What are skirted tubs. A Skirted tub is a style of tub that is finished on one side with a skirt or apron that is either flat or bowed. This skirt covers the entire length of the bathtub itself with the intent of making it much easier to install and provides an area to rest on.Feb 27, 2020

Can you put a free standing tub in an alcove?

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.

Can you tile over an alcove bathtub?

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 is a 3 wall alcove tub?

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. A wall-mounted shower is a typical accompaniment. Drop-in tubs are the tub shell only.

What is the difference between an alcove tub and a skirt tub?

The only large difference is their overall design. As stated before, an alcove tub is usually installed in a designated space whereas a skirted tub has an open, exposed area. This gives a skirted tub more freedom in how it’s placed and how it’s space can be designed.

What is a skirted tub?

What are skirted tubs. A Skirted tub is a style of tub that is finished on one side with a skirt or apron that is either flat or bowed . This skirt covers the entire length of the bathtub itself with the intent of making it much easier to install and provides an area to rest on. For drop-in skirted tubs, the skirt also protects ...

What is a drop in tub?

Drop-in bathtubs cover a wide range of bathtubs and are among the more common bathtub styles. When compared to skirted tubs, Skirted tubs have slightly more flexibility in terms of installation as they are available in drop-in and non-drop in variants, making some styles easier to install than just the traditional drop-in bathtubs.

What bathtubs come with skirts?

Below are the common bathtubs that come with a skirted option. Whirlpool/Jacuzzi.

What is the difference between tile and beadboard?

Tile is constructed from either ceramic or natural stone, then placed on the outside of your tub. Beadboard is a series of boards that are lined up on the outside of your bathtub, secured then painted in whatever color you wish.

What are the most common designs for skirted tubs?

That being said, the two most common designs today are tile and beadboard.

Do they make 2 sided tubs?

Do they make 2 sided skirted tubs. Yes , 2-sided skirted tubs are available, and though they are a tad more expensive than just one-sided skirted tubs, they are generally seen as a better option. A 2-sided skirted tub has two finished sides, providing an almost seamless barrier between your bathtub and the bathroom itself to prevent minimal flooding.

Why is a drop in tub more expensive than a skirted tub?

Installing a drop-in tub requires more work and possibly more expense than a skirted tub because it has to be dropped into an existing frame or platform. This means a deck must be built to fit around the tub so that the tub can be dropped into it.

What is a skirt tub?

Called a skirt, the finished surface typically fits the entire length of the tub and is installed on the side from the top edge to the floor to finish it, hiding the plumbing and subfloor beneath.

What is drop in tub?

Drop-in tubs are installed in a platform base, which hides all sides. For most residential baths, the design options can be divided into two types of tubs: drop-in and skirted tubs. These two types of bathtubs are different in design and installation, so your choice may be limited to the size of your bathroom and the existing plumbing.

What is a bathtub?

A bathtub is more than just a vessel used to get clean. It's a place to relax and wash away the stresses of the day, so choosing one that works well for your space can help you create the perfect bathroom for your home. Advertisement.

Is a drop in tub finished?

Drop-in tubs aren't finished on the outside. They're designed to drop into and sit inside a frame or a platform that conceals the subflooring and plumbing as well as the unfinished sides of the tub. This frame or deck is then finished, often in tile. They're common in larger bathrooms that also have a separate shower.

Do drop in tubs have a center drain?

Drop-in tubs are more versatile. Some may have a center drain. Because you're dropping the tub into a finished platform, you can usually turn it to locate the drain wherever it needs to be. Advertisement.

Do you need to build a full structure on all sides for a skirt tub?

Skirted tubs require only support for the back and the ends of the tub. There is no need to build a full structure on all sides because the skirt provides a finished decorative edge along the exposed front portion. Advertisement.

Things to Consider

Now that you are familiar with some of the best alcove bathtubs on the market, we are next going to be looking at some important things you need to know to narrow down the best bathtub for your unique needs.

The best decision for your bathroom – great features of an alcove bathtub

Since you are likely going to be using your bathtub every day, it is important that you choose a good one. Most people choose alcove bathtub over others out there because of the following reasons:

What you should know about an alcove tub

As you probably know, the bathtub is an old invention that dates back to ancient Rome. It was gradually modernized as time went by. In the 1900s, companies like Kohler pioneered the modernization and upgrade of this bathtub. Their goal was to make it suit people with small bathrooms.

Tips on installation of an alcove bathtub

Installing an alcove bathtub isn’t as complicated or difficult as you may think. All you got to do is to follow the step by step instructions that come with it.

Features to consider while buying the best alcove bathtub

As you probably know, there are different types of alcove bathtubs on the market with wonderful designs and amazing features. Before you head to the local bath store in your area or buy the first one that catches your attention online, there are some important features you first need to consider.

Our Verdict

If you are looking for the best alcove bathtub on the market, then our editor’s choice, the KOHLER K-1118-RA-0 Expanse will be perfect for you. With an impressive water capacity of 55 gallons and a size of 60x 30 x17’’, you can be assured that you will fit comfortably in it and will be covered with water at all times.

What is the difference between an alcove tub and a freestanding tub?

So, what are the base difference between alcove VS freestanding tub? As the name suggests, freestanding tubs are stand alone tubs without any support. Moreover you can set them anywhere in your bathroom. Alcove tubs are meant to have support.

How many sides does an alcove tub need?

Usually alcove tubs are built or fully fitted in the bathroom. It needs wall or full support at least 2 sides. However, some tubs have 2 small walls for top and bottom support. After that, a full wall at the side.

What is a freestanding tub?

Freestanding means you can get into the tub from all sides. That’s why, you must have a large bathroom to have enough free space around the tub. Therefore, we can easily say, freestanding tubs take more area comparing with same size alcove tubs.

Can you put acrylic tubs on the floor?

Acrylic tubs are lightweight comparing with metal or stone tubs. You can easily set it on the current floor without any extra floor reinforcement.

Do you need a built in shower with an alcove?

Generally, people use shower along with alcove tub. However, some tubs may not come with built-in shower. You have to install shower separately or set the tub close to the bathroom built-in shower. If your bathroom already have hand shower installed then its not needed.

What is an alcove tub made of?

It’s common for alcove tubs to be made from acrylic, like the KOHLER K-1118-RA-0, but you can also find models made from other materials, such as cast iron, like the Toto FBY1515RPNo.01, or with a mixture of materials like acrylic, fiberglass, and porcelain, as seen in the Fine Fixtures Alcove Bathtub.

What is an alcove bathtub?

Put simply, an alcove bathtub is one that is installed in an alcove of the bathroom, against the walls.

What is the right hand drain on an alcove tub?

These terms describe the drain system of your tub and basically tell you which way around the tub needs to be installed in relation to your existing plumbing in order to work properly.

How many jets are in a Jacuzzi bathtub?

This high end luxury alcove jacuzzi bathtub has a lot of advanced features, including hydromassage jets. There are 11 jets in total, four around the foot region, three around the body, and four more at the lumbar region.

How big is a 54 inch bathtub?

Tubs can come in a wide range of sizes, from a 54 inch alcove bathtub up to a 66 inch alcove bathtub and even bigger too. The Fine Fixtures Alcove Bathtub stands out for being one of the most compact models on the market, measuring up at just 48 inches in length and 32 inches in width.

How many gallons of water does a bathtub hold?

Capacity is another key feature to think about when buying a bathtub, and tubs can vary quite wildly in terms of capacity. Some models hold just 30-40 gallons of water at a time, while others can go over 70 gallons, like the PROFLO PFS6042LSKWH.

How big is a Cayono tub?

As well as being strong and sturdy, the Kaldewei Cayono is also a pretty large tub, measuring up at 60” x 30” x 14”. It offers enough length and width to suit users of all body types, but at 11” in depth, it may not be quite as deep as some users would prefer.

What is an alcove bathtub?

Alcove bathtubs are almost always rectangular and many standard bathrooms are designed for alcove bathtub installations. The three walls or three wall type setup is designed with the dimensions of a standard alcove tub.

Why do people use an alcove tub?

The main reason people choose an alcove tub is to maximize the available space in the bathroom. I like the alcove bathtub because of: The price. Both the purchase price of the bathtub and the installation fees are affordable, as long as you don’t need to remodel the space. The size.

What are the problems with alcove bathtubs?

Problems with alcove bathtubs are: The design. While you can buy an alcove bathtub in any color or style, the tub has to fit into the alcove. As a result, you have no flexibility when it comes to the shape of your tub. The size. Usually, alcove tubs are smaller in length, depth, and height than most other tubs.

What is the best material for an alcove bathtub?

Most alcove bathtubs are constructed from acrylic, fiberglass, enameled steel, stone resin, or cast iron. Let’s discuss each of these materials to see which is better for your purposes and space: 1. Fiberglass. Fiberglass is the cheapest material available.

What is the name of the side of a bathtub that is unfinished?

The three sides of the tub are unfinished and each aligns against a wall. The fourth and front side of the tub, one of the longer sides, is finished and is called an “apron.”. The apron covers the exposed side of the alcove and adds support and style to the bathtub. The alcove tub is named for the installation method used.

How many joining walls does an alcove tub have?

A traditional alcove tub is installed into a recess in the bathroom between three joining walls. Some modern designs use two joining walls and a large window for a more airy feel to the space. The alcove bathtub is highly efficient and offers all the comforts of a regular bathtub.

How deep is a drop in tub?

You can find drop-in tubs in a variety of shapes including circles and ovals. However, the average depth of a rectangular drop-in bathtub is 16 – 18 inches. And the average dimensions of a rectangular drop-in bathtub are: Length: 60 inches (152 cm) Width: 30 inches (76 cm)

What is an alcove tub?

Also known as a fitted or recessed bathtub, an alcove tub is one that fits between three walls. While other tubs like drop-in and undermount tubs can also be fitted in these spaces, these tubs have no finished sides and must have a base constructed around them in order to be installed. An alcove bathtub, on the other hand, ...

How long is an alcove tub?

Standard sizing: Many bathrooms are designed specifically for alcove installation and have three walls set up with the exact dimensions of a standard alcove tub, which Nimvo says is 60 inches long and 30 inches wide.

What brands of bathtubs sell alcove tubs?

Most bathtub manufacturers sell standard alcove tubs, including Kohler, American Standard, Americast and Toto.

How much does an alcove tub cost?

In fact, Fixr says that a standard-size acrylic alcove tub will average around only $350 with prices usually ranging between $250 and $500.

What is the most common bathtub style?

Other Common Bathtub Installation Methods. While alcove tubs are the most popular bathtub style because they work well with showers and are inexpensive, they are far from the only option. Other types of bathtub installation methods include: Corner: These are very similar to alcove baths only they are designed to fit in a corner.

How to categorize bathtubs?

There are a few different ways to categorize bathtubs, and one common way of categorizing tubs is by installation method. The most common of these is the alcove bathtub. The basics of these frequently used tubs are fairly simple, but it's important to understand the characteristics of an alcove tub before purchasing one for your bathroom. ...

What is the best material for a bathtub?

The majority of these tubs are sold in an acrylic, fiberglass or enameled steel, all of which are both lightweight and affordable, but it's also possible to get tubs in more high-quality materials such as porcelain, stone resin and cast iron, which are all longer lasting.

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