Stand Alone Tubs: Cost and Installation Tips
We put together a stand alone tubs cost and installation guide which also includes 4 free contractor quotes for you to receive.
A stand alone tub takes your bathing session to a wholesome experience of comfort, sophistication, and elegance. It is a sculptural masterpiece that stands out as a focal point of your bathroom. A standalone tub comes with style, goes with any décor and simply looks beautiful and stunning in any setting. This type tub comes in an array of colors, sizes, and shapes, qualities that make it easy for you to have the freedom to install it anywhere in your bathroom.
A stand alone tub has a distinctive edge that brightens even the dullest of bathrooms. It is a simple addition to your bathroom that makes a statement for your home as a whole. After a long day of hustle out there, everyone wants to come home and take a long relaxing bath. What a better way to do so in a sleek, beautiful stand alone tub. This type of tub tends to give you a luxurious feeling that makes all the stress of the day fade away momentarily.
A stand alone tub is a type of bathtub that is designed in such a way to have finished sides and can freely stand alone. They are not fixed in one place like a built-in tub; rather they can be moved and placed in any location in your bathroom. They function the same way as built-in bathtub only that they are fixtures; they are more of an additional piece in your bathroom.
If you are remodeling your bathroom or looking for ideas for your new bathroom, you need to consider installing this magnificent feature in your bathroom without second-guessing. They are practical and give you the freedom to install them anywhere in your bathroom. A standalone tub is a little magic that you need in your bathroom to amplify your bathing experience.
Reasons Why You Should Install a Standalone Tub
Most homeowners install standalone tubs in their bathrooms and for good reasons. A bathtub is not just a place to take a bath and get clean; it should give you a serene feeling that allows you to escape from everything around you. If you are going to install a bathtub in your bathroom, you need to choose a tub that will make you look forward to your bath time.
Here are reasons why you should consider installing a standalone tub in your bathroom:
Practical and Functional
This type of tub is designed to be deep, and some are larger than the standard tubs. It gives you enough space to submerge your whole body and enjoy a wholesome experience of the bathtub and warm water.
Flexible
This is perhaps one of the biggest benefits of having a standalone tub. Unlike the built-in tubs, stand alone tubs can be placed anywhere in your bathroom. You can conveniently place them in a corner and create an illusion of space. Or; you can place them in the middle of your bathroom and make it the masterpiece of the room.
Whichever the case, standalone tubs give you the freedom to choose where they will be installed. You can also change its location anytime you want without breaking tiles and floors. You can change the layout of your bathroom and be creative with space if you have a standalone tub. More so, if you want to move the tub in another bathroom, you can do so with ease.
Easy To Install
Even though they can be a bit heavy, installing standalone tubs is quite an easy process. All you need to do is choose the location where you want your tub to be and connect it to the plumbing system. Since they come finished and ready to install, standalone tubs do need an additional framework and reinforcement to install them. This minimizes the cost of installation and also time.
If you are remodeling your bathroom, you should ask the plumber to re-plumb your plumbing system to suit your standalone tub. The plumber will then run the water lines including the drain lines to the tub. This is a much easier process of installing a tub compared to hiring a contractor to put up a built-in tub.
Gives an Illusion of Space
Even though standalone tubs are bigger than built-in tubs, they create an illusion of space due to the singular appearance. When placed in a bathroom, a standalone tub becomes the focal point in the room leaving the rest of the space looking free and less cluttered. It makes the room look less crowded with the illusion of one item in the room. If you have a smaller bathroom, a standalone tub can help magnify its space by just placing it in any preferred location.
Available In Different Colors and Designs
Standalone tubs come in a variety of colors, designs, and shapes. You have the option to install one that matches with the décor and theme of your bathroom. They are also available in different styles which makes them aesthetically appealing.
You can get a modern, stylish standalone tub that will create an elegant, sophisticated look for bathroom especially the sleek, egg-shaped freestanding tub. If you are more into a traditional style, standalone tubs have you covered with the classic, timeless claw-foot masterpiece tub.
When it comes to styles, designs, and shapes of stand alone tubs, you have unlimited choice, and it’s unlikely that you will miss a standalone tub that will match your taste. Unlike the built-in tubs, standalone tubs have a lot of creativity going on, and you achieve a unique style for your bathroom that is certainly out of the norm.
Available In Different Materials
Standalone tubs are available in different types of materials. If you want something that will last you for years, you can choose to install a standalone tub made with cast iron. Or if you want a bold, unique, elegant touch for your bathroom aesthetics, you can never go wrong with a stone tub. In fact, this one will create a timeless effect and set a statement for your bathroom.
Vintage Effect
Sometimes, you just want one item in your home that will give a timeless, classic traditional effect. Standalone tubs have that effect even when installed in a modern, stylish bathroom. The tub tends to come with a natural antique style that adds a vintage touch to your bathroom.
You can enhance the vintage effect by adding claw foot tub, classic bronze faucets or even install pedestal. This way, you will not only have a classic, timeless feature standing beautifully in your bathroom, but you will have created a royal look for the room that takes you back in time.
They Are Unique
Standalone tubs are arguably unique. They break the norm and make your bathroom stand out from the normal look. If someone walks in your bathroom, they will be drawn to your tub, and they are more likely to give it a second look. Since most homes feature the built-in bathtubs, a standalone tub breaks that look. It comes off as unique and creates a spa-like atmosphere for your bathroom that sets the room apart from others.
If you are remodeling your bathroom, the above reasons should make you look forward to having a standalone tub. It’s a simple yet, a stunning feature that for sure will make your bathroom have an amazing effect not to mention the elegant style it brings about.
Factors to Consider When Getting a Stand Alone Tub
We have already established that a standalone tub is a refreshing feature that is a must-have in your bathroom. If you are looking for ways to add elegance and class to your bathroom, you should start shopping around for one and looking for ways to fix in your bathroom.
However, before you hit the streets to go on a shopping adventure at the home improvement shops for a freestanding tub, there are some essential factors that you need to consider.
Weight
Standalone tubs are generally heavy especially the ones made of stone, or cast iron and also wood. More so, the weight almost doubles up when the tub is filled with water and even gets heavier when you factor in the body weight.
Taking the weight issue into account, you have to think about your floor and figure out if it is strong and stable enough to hold the tub and its weight. To have a definite answer, and also to be on the safe side, you should consult a structural engineer or a builder. This should be the only option especially if you have doubts about the stability of your floors or the strength of the structure of your home altogether
A professional assessment will help you know the size of the freestanding tub that is suitable for your floors. In other cases, the professional builder will advise you on measures that can be put in place to reinforce your floors and make them strong enough to handle the tub. Whichever the case, consulting a professional before installing a standalone tub is the right approach.
Location
Unlike the built-in tubs that are confined to one corner of your bathroom that is usually so predictable, standalone tubs give you the freedom to choose a preferred location especially if space is not an issue.
For this reason, you have to decide where you the tub go. Do not make this a last minute thing when the tub is already in your possession. You should choose a position that will not only bring the beauty of the tub but it the location will also enhance your bathing experience.
For example, you can choose to place it near the window, where other amenities such as the toilet or a shower would look awkward and out of place. But, having the tub placed there, it will not only make it stand out, but it will allow you to take a bath as you enjoy a nice view from the outside. Therefore, take time and study your bathroom space and settle for the perfect position to install your standalone tub.
Plan the Storage Space
One of the drawbacks that come with standalone tubs is that they may not have enough storage space around them. If you need one, you to work on it. Compared to built-in tubs that have an edge in that they are surrounded by an ample space enough to hold bottles and soaps, stand alone tubs come without this allowance.
However, with proper planning, you can overcome the storage space issue. It is important to factor a storage space that will enable you to store all the necessary personal amenities for a relaxing bath. You can place the tub next to a shelf where you can set your bathing ingredients, or you can simply place a small stool or a side table next to it and enjoy your soak with your ingredients next to you.
Alternatively, you can have a small shelving unit positioned next to your standalone tub. The shelving unit will hold all your bathing items including towels and soaps. You can paint the unit to match the décor style of your bathroom. The storage options are endless, all you need to do is make plans in advance. Choosing the right position for your standalone tub will also help you greatly with storage space ideas.
Consider the Size of Your Bathroom Space
Before you go shopping for a standalone tub, you need to know the size of your bathroom and the available space. Take the dimensions of your room into consideration including the size of your door. Remember, standalone tubs are available in different shapes and sizes. There are cases where people have bought a standalone tub only to bring it home, and it couldn’t pass through the door. To avoid this unfortunate incidence from happening to you, take measurements of your bathroom space including the entry point. Picture the tub in your space and try to see if it will stand out or crowd the space.
As you shop, take measurements of the tub to see if it will be a perfect fit for your bathroom space. In addition, consult with the store’s staff. If you have measurements, they can help you narrow down your choices. Another drawback of standalone tubs is that they can be unsuitable for small areas or space. But if you have your room’s dimension well figured out, you can still find a design and a size of a tub that will fit perfectly in your limited space.
If your bathroom seems not to have enough to place your tub, you can get creative and figure out on ways to get space. For example, look for unused space that can fit the tub and utilize it. If you think about your space and plan on it, you will be able to get the right tub that will perfectly fit in and bring the best out of a space that initially seemed limited. You should never shop for a standalone tub without proper measurements unless you have a big bathroom that will take in any size and design of a tub.
Think about style
We already mentioned that standalone tubs are available in various designs and styles. In fact, we can say that any style you envision of, you are likely to get it with a standalone tub. The style choices are endless, and you will definitely get a tub that will fall into place with the rest of your décor.
Therefore, before you go shopping for a tub, figure out the kind of style you are looking to achieve. Do you want a tub that will give your bathroom space a stylish modern look? Or do you want a tub that will fit in a traditional classic setting? Or do you want a tub with feet or one without?
The style of the tub of the tub you choose should reflect on your personality and taste. Or else, you can go for something unique and unusual like a standalone marble tub that makes a statement and emphasizes your personality. Or, you can be adventurous and infuse a traditional and contemporary look, each with moderation. The choices, as mentioned are endless. Take your time and plan. Choose a tub that not only adds to your personality but one that also makes your bathroom space unique and stunning.
Pick a Color Preference
Another wonderful thing about standalone tubs is color. These tubs do not limit you to one or two colors; instead, they are available in an array of colors. You can match your tub to your color scheme, theme, and décor. If you want, you can choose a color that will create a beautiful contrast and make the bathtub a focal point of your room. The color choice should smoothly blend in with the rest of the space.
Some standalone tubs such cast-iron tubs are normally painted with an undercoat only to allow you to add to a final shade of your preferred color. This way, you not only get to choose your color theme, but you also have the freedom to create a unique look for your tub.
You can choose to have your tub all white and match it with white walls and ceiling and still have a stunning contrast with a brown wooden floor. Or, you can paint the tub to match with your floors or; opt for a vibrant color that will make your standalone tub standout in the room like an oasis. The color you choose should reflect your style, personality, and taste. With the right choice of color, you can create a masterpiece for your bathroom.
Think About the type of the tub you want
Standalone tubs are made from different materials. There are tubs made of cast-iron, marble, concrete, stone, copper, etc. If you are remodeling your bathroom, then let your choice of tub make a statement. For example, a standalone tub made from stone can make an impressive impact, it stands out and enables you to be creative with the rest of the space. With this type of a tub, you can create a soft theme on its surrounding with a subtle backdrop.
Choose Your Taps Carefully
When choosing a standalone tub, you have to think about the taps. There are several options for you to choose but you need to pay close attention to each and consider your budget. For a cost-effective option, you can go for bath-mounted taps. You can you can decide on where they will be fitted; it could be in the middle or at the end of the tub.
Alternatively, you choose to have the floor standing option or go for bath taps that are mounted on the wall; the choice will depend on your budget, style, and preference. Also, the space available in your bathroom will be a great determinant of the type of tap to install.
The quality of the taps you choose will have a great impact on the overall look of your tub. You shouldn’t compromise on the quality. Your taps can reflect the style of your bathroom if you make the right choice. Depending on your bathroom theme, you can choose to go for modern taps or traditional ones, or a type that will resonate with a mix of both styles.
In addition, the finish is also equally important. Chrome is considered to be affordable while options like brass copper, silver, and nickel can cost you a lot more but they complement your tub and make it look exquisite. Don’t forget to check if the tub you are planning to buy has tap holes and note where they are positioned. This will help you know the type of tap to buy.
Cost of Installing a Stand Alone Tub
If you are remodeling your bathroom, you should consider adding a standalone tub to make your bathing sessions something to look forward to. Standalone tubs are luxurious and create a spa-like atmosphere for your bathroom.
However, these great additions come at a cost, and if the installation involves changing the plumbing work, it can be a labor-intensive project. In some cases, you might have to hire a professional plumber especially if you need to change the location of your plumbing lines. If you already have your plumbing work well in place, fixing a standalone tub can be quick and a simple process that you can try through DIY.
The cost of installing a standalone tub will depend on the modifications to be done in your bathroom. Nonetheless, the installation cost ranges from $1000 to $4,500 with the average cost coming to about $2500. However, in some cases, the installation cost can go as high $8000, depending on various factors. The cost of the tub itself will depend on its size, design, and type of the tub, i.e., materials used to make to the tub. Most range from $150 to $2300 or even more for more intricate designs expensive materials.
Types of Standalone Tub and Associated Costs
Standalone tubs are available in different types of materials and finish and each cost differently. The choice of material will depend on your budget, taste, and preference. It will also depend on how you frequently plan to use your bathtub. Each of these bathtub materials has its unique qualities as well as cons. The choice of bathtub materials will influence the overall cost of your tub.
Fiberglass Stand Alone Tubs
This type of tub is considered to be one of the most cost-effective types of a standalone tub in the market. It is an economical choice for a homeowner especially if you’re working on a tight budget. It is available in a wide range of colors and readily available in most stores.
However, standalone fiberglass tubs do not retain heat well making them only suitable for short bath sessions. If you are looking for a tub for long soaks, fiberglass tubs will not work for you. After just 15 minutes, your water might turn cold and make your relaxing bathing moment quite uncomfortable.
The cost of fiberglass standalone tub (about 60 inches) ranges from $200 to $500. This cost does not include the cost of installation and associated costs.
Acrylic Stand Alone Bathtubs
Acrylic material is one of the most common versatile bathtub material. Acrylic standalone tubs are available in a variety of shapes and designs. If you are looking for a unique or oddly shaped bathtub, then, you are more likely to get an acrylic one.
The acrylic material does not fade. It’s resistant to abrasion, a quality that makes it long lasting and can generally stand the test of time. For this reason, they are suitable for families with young children and can generally be used by the entire family.
In addition, an acrylic material is non-porous which makes it fairly easy to clean. However, acrylic standalone tubs are susceptible to scratches. However, this is a problem that can be taken care of easily by scratching and light buffing the surface using a non-abrasive cleaner.
Acrylic standalone tubs fall in the middle range bathtubs. A 60 inch acrylic standalone tub will cost you about $500 to $900. This cost does not include the cost of installation.
Cultured Marble
Cultured marble standalone tubs are one of the most elegant and luxurious tubs. They are available in an array of beautiful, stunning patterns, designs, colors and style. Cultured marble standalone tubs are spectacular, sleek and stylish. They stand out in your room magnificently and automatically become the focal point of your bathroom space. Its non-porous nature makes it easy to clean and maintain.
However, marble is known to be brittle and tends to scratch easily. It is also a bit heavy which can pose a challenge to your floors especially if they are not strong enough to accommodate the weight.
Nevertheless, installing a cultured marble standalone tub is a great investment for your bathroom that will increase the chances of getting a better deal if you plan to put your home up for sale in future. A 60-inch standalone cultured marble tub will cost you around $1500 to $2200 exclusive of the installation cost.
Enameled Cast-Iron Standalone Tubs
This type of a standalone tub is beautiful, durable, strong and pretty solid. If you are looking forward to having long luxurious soaks, then this is the perfect tub for you. It retains heat well, and once you fill your tub with hot water, you will enjoy long periods of relaxing baths.
However, just like marble, enameled cast-iron standalone tubs are heavy, and in some cases, you will have to do an extra reinforcement to your floors before installing it. A 60-inch standalone cast-iron tub will cost you an average of $500 to $2500. This cost does not include installation costs.
Steel Stand Alone Tubs
Steel bathtubs are a cheaper option compared to cast- iron tubs. They give off a rustic look for your bathroom. They weigh less making their installation and placement fairly manageable.
However, steel tubs chip easily and due to the nature of this material, they are quite noisy when filling them with water. If you are looking forward to having a quiet, serene atmosphere during a bath session, this option might not be ideal for you. A standard 60-inch steel standalone tub costs about $300 to $2000. The cost does not include installation costs.
| Types of tub | Average cost – (60-inch standard tub) |
|---|---|
| Fiberglass standalone tub | $200-$500 |
| Cultured marble standalone tub | $1500-$2200 |
| Acrylic standalone | $500-$900 |
| Enameled cast-iron steel | $500-$2500 |
| Steel standalone | $300-$2000 |
Other Installation Cost Considerations
Other than the cost of purchasing the tub itself, you are likely to incur installation cost. This happens if your floor needs some structural reinforcement or the location of the tub needs a change in plumbing work.
Plumbing Cost
If you are renovating your bathroom, the process of installing a standalone tub can be easy. However, if the location of the tub involves moving the plumbing lines, you have to hire a plumber. The drain lines in your bathroom usually run in a specific direction and changing them is another process that can be costly.
If you are positioning the tub on the opposite side of the plumbing system, you are more likely to spend an average cost of $1100. The total cost will depend on the complication of the plumbing work, materials used in plumbing and the drain lines. In general, plumbers charge about $45 to $65 per hour.
The overall cost of installing a standalone tub can also go higher if there is an existing tub that has to be removed to create space for the new tub. The cost will depend on the tub to be removed, but typically, the removal cost ranges from $270 to $540 or even more depending on the complexity of the process.
Water Heater Costs
Installing a new tub could impact on your hot water requirement thus you might have to update the current water heater to one that is sufficient for the new tub. Alternatively, you can install another water heater to supplement the existing one. A new water heater costs about $670 to $1100.
While still on the issue of water, you also have to factor in your water tank in relation to the size of your new standalone tub. Typically, your water tank should be 2/3 the size of your tub. For instance, if you have a tub of 80- gallon capacity, a 60-gallon heater will be adequate for it. Your water heater should have enough capacity to heat your tub. Similarly, your water tank should have enough capacity to fill in your tub with the right amount of hot water for its operation.
Structural Reinforcements Costs
Standalone tubs tend to be heavy especially if you choose to install a cast-iron tub. This might necessitate you to reinforce your floors to accommodate the weight of the tub without causing any structural damage to the floor. When purchasing a standalone tub, you should factor its weigh, more so when filled with water and the body weight.
A structural reinforcement for your floors requires you to hire a structural engineer or builder. For this, expect to spend about $150 to $350 per joist.
Relining Your Standalone Tub Cost
If you already have a standalone tub in place, instead of installing a new one you can choose to use other alternatives methods to make it look good as new. Bathtub liners are a good option to for this alternative.
With time, a bathtub will start to experience normal wear and tear, and when this happens, you do not have to incur replacement costs. Bathtub liners are made to suit your existing tub, and more so they can be custom made to the color of your choice.
The cost of a new tub liner including installation cost comes to about $800 to $2400. The process of installing a tub liner involves removing the existing drain and overflow, cleaning the tub and then installing a new one.
You can make the cost of installation by doing the cleaning and removing the old drain and overflow and then leave the installation of the liner to the installer. The installer will make sure that the liner is in place and then they will proceed to place in a new drain and overflow. After this, they will caulk the seams to secure the liner. The whole process of replacing a tub liner takes a day and once done, you can proceed to use your tub immediately.
Refinishing Costs
You can also refinish your standalone tub once it shows some form of wear and tears instead of replacing it. Even though you can refinish your tub through DIY, it’s usually advised that you hire a professional refinisher due to the hazardous chemicals associated with the process.
The refinisher uses hydrofluoric acid to remove the existing glaze and then scraps off the surface to allow the new glaze to settle in. The refinisher will then apply the new glaze in layers and then finish off by polishing the tub. Once refinished, the tub will be ready for use after a day or two. The cost of refinishing a tub will depend on the size of the tub and the color. The refinishing costs range from $200 to$500.
| Installation cost | Average cost |
|---|---|
| The typical range of installation cost | $1000-$4000 |
| Average cost | $2500 |
| Plumbing cost( relocating drainage lines) | $1100 |
| Plumbers charges | $45-$60 per hour |
| Removing an old tub | $270-$540 |
| Adding a new water heater | $670-$1100 |
| Structural reinforcement –floor | $150-$350 –per joist |
| Relining a standalone tub | $800-$2400 |
| Refinishing a standalone tub | $200-$500 |
Conclusion
A stand alone tub can add to the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom. They are beautiful, exquisite and dramatic. They create a beautiful focal point in your bathroom and bring about a minimalist effect. This type of tub will take your bathing experience to a whole new world of luxury, comfort and maximum relaxation.
They are available in different sizes, colors, shapes, and designs. Most of them are deeper and larger than the standard tubs, a quality that allows you to be able to submerge your body and enjoy a long relaxing soak. When choosing one, make sure you consider the size of your bathroom space and the weight of the tub itself.
In addition, consult a professional builder if you are not sure if your floor structure can accommodate the weight. During installation, assess your plumbing system and determine if you need a plumber to realign and change the drain lines position. Take your time and choose the right material, color and design for your standalone tub and your bathing experience will never be the same. Standalone tubs not only add beauty and elegance to your bathroom but they will serve you adequately for a long time.