A marble bathtub adds a touch of elegance and class to any bathroom. With its luxurious cool stone and regal colors, you can drift away into tranquility while washing your worries away. Not only is it beautiful but also incredibly strong and long-lasting – plus cleaning this tub is effortless! From brilliant white to black, blue, or green hues, the majestic shades will seamlessly blend with other elements in your décor for a seamless look that exudes sophistication.
If you want to spruce up the look of your modern home, a luxurious marble bathtub could be just what it needs. But with so many shapes, sizes, and styles available on the market today, selecting one can be an intimidating task. To help out, here are some helpful tips and ideas on how to choose the most suitable tub for your bathroom renovation project!
What Is a Natural Marble Bathtub?
A marble bathtub is the quintessential symbol of luxury for your bathroom. Investing in a marble tub may be expensive, but it will last you an eternity! You can find natural marbles which have been compressed and heated from limestone over centuries to become this strong type of stone. Make sure that when making such an exquisite choice for your home, you choose only high-quality materials with reliable durability.
What Is a Cultured Marble Bathtub?
Cultured marble is a synthetic material created from natural marble, resin, and dye combinations placed in any shaped mold. Once it’s coated with gel, cultured marble bathtubs offer luxury at an affordable price that cannot be beaten! They are perfect for budget-conscious shoppers who want only the best of luxuries.
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How Much Does a Marble Bathtub Cost?
Investing in a cultured marble bathtub could be relatively affordable, as it generally costs between $1,700-$2,200 with an additional installation fee of up to $300. As opposed to natural stone marble tubs which can range from $3,000 upwards of $16,000 without any installment expenses included.
Although a marble tub is exceptionally weighty, installation costs can be as much as the tub itself. It will require more than one person to move it into your home, and you may need additional floor supports for added support.
Pros of a Marble Bathtub
Before investing in a luxurious marble tub, it’s important to understand the advantages and drawbacks associated with this expensive material.
1. Marble Bathtubs Are Gorgeous
A marble bathtub is unrivaled in its beauty. Its majestic variety of colors, patterns, and styles guarantees a one-of-a-kind look that will perfectly complement any design style or décor. Being made from the natural stone also means no two pieces of marble are ever the same – so you can be sure your bathtub will stand out!
2. Marble Bathtubs are Custom-Built
No matter if you desire a square, round, or luxurious soaking tub, you can customize any marble bathtub to fit your exact needs and preferences.
With each marble bathtub crafted to order, you are free to create a truly unique bathroom masterpiece. Design your tub with the size and comfort that best suits you – it’s all up to your imagination!
3. Marble Is Energy Efficient
In terms of energy efficiency, nothing beats marble. Marble has the remarkable ability to absorb and retain heat for long periods of time; this allows your bathwater temperature to remain warmer without needing frequent refills from a hot water faucet, in turn lowering your overall energy cost!
4. Marble is easy to keep clean and maintain
Marble bathtubs are constructed from one large, seamless piece of marble with no joints or glue. This eliminates any crevices for moisture to seep through and subsequently prevents mold from forming! Not only is it aesthetically pleasing but can provide peace of mind knowing that the tub will remain structurally sound over time.
Marble is a breeze to clean – simply wipe it with a wet cloth on the regular and you’ll keep your marble shining like new. Be sure not to use any acidic cleaners as they might damage this luxurious material! That’s all there is to it.
5. Marble is Durable and Long Lasting
Marble is a robust and tenacious material, as it’s crafted from natural stone. By taking proper care of your marble bathtub, you can ensure that its beauty lasts for many years to come – indefinitely even! When compared with other materials used in making tubs, few will be able to stand up against the lasting power of marble.
6. You Can Find Budget-Friendly Marble
Marble can be a costly investment, depending on the stone type, slab size and availability. If you yearn for an opulent bathtub but would prefer to keep it budget-friendly, consider a Marble-coated version instead. Cultured or Faux Marbles are more attainable than authentic ones yet still grant that luxurious aesthetic you seek.
7. A Marble Bathtub Boosts the Value of Your Home
Investing in a marble bathtub is an excellent decision, as it will significantly up the value of your home. Besides being functional, such a tub also brings with it the sophistication and luxuriousness that prospective buyers look for – real estate agents from high-end markets can corroborate this! Thus, installing one in your primary bathroom could be the definitive factor that wins your attention.
4 Cons of a Marble Bathtub
1. Marble is Expensive
Determining the cost of marble largely depends on its style, color, and availability. To remain financially prudent during your bathroom renovation project, it’s wise to establish a budget beforehand. The costs associated with installation are based upon both the tub’s weight as well as any necessary remodeling efforts required in order for it to fit into its designated space.
2. Marble Is Heavy
A marble bath could weigh a staggering 3000 pounds (1360kgs)! To make sure the bathroom floor can support such immense weight, it is important to reinforce the flooring before installing your new marble tub.
3. Marble Can Stain and Crack
Some marble types must be sealed regularly to avoid marring and staining. Chemicals used in cleaning can stain the surface of the marble or potentially cause discoloration when left on for extended periods. As well, some varieties are particularly vulnerable to thermal shock and risk cracking if exposed to water that is too hot.
4. Marble is Slippery
Marble’s natural luster and surface texture can lead to a slippery bathtub if not treated properly. As such, it is important to take extra caution when stepping in or out of the tub. Fortunately, some marble suppliers offer non-slip solutions that you may wish to consider before making your purchase.
Types of Natural Marbles Tubs
Calacatta Marble Tub
This type of marble is characterized by its white background and bold, dark streaks. It’s often used in luxury bathrooms due to its elegant appearance.
Statuary Marble Tub
Statuary marble tubs feature a creamy white base with soft grey veins running through it. It is perfect for creating a classic, timeless look in your bathroom.
Carrara Marble Tub
Carrara marble tub is typically pure white with minimal grey or blue streaks running through it. It’s perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any home!
Emperador Marble Tub
An opulent option, the Emperador marble bathtub is characterized by its rich brown background, highlighted with white and grey veins.
Marble Bathtub Styles
The style is just as important as its material. Depending on your preferences and bathroom space, you can choose from a variety of styles that include:
Freestanding Marble Bathtubs
These are perfect for homeowners who want to make a statement in their bathrooms. Available in various shapes and sizes, these bathtubs can be placed at the center of the room to create a dramatic effect.
Drop-In Marble Bathtubs
Ideal for space-saving, these tubs are installed within an enclosure such as a platform or decking area. They offer easy access and are perfect for busy households with children.
Corner Marble Bathtubs
If you’re looking to make the most of a tight corner, these tubs could be the perfect solution. They are available in various sizes and can easily fit into awkward spaces.
Alternatives to a Marble Bathtub
Travertine
Travertine is a limestone-based stone that’s often marketed as marble, yet they are not the same. Marble derives from metamorphic rocks while travertine comes from sedimentary materials. Travertine bathtubs provide an anti-slip texture for those looking to remain safe in the shower or tub area – making them a desirable product over competing options on the market such as ordinary marble!
Granite
Granite is a stunning natural stone that has comparable colors, features and characteristics to marble. It’s even tougher than Marble, which makes it more resilient against scratches and chips.
Quartz
More formidable than marble, yet evoking the same aura of opulence and grandeur.
Quartzite
Quartzite is a natural stone that’s extremely tough and resistant to heat, scratches, and stains. It shares the same elegant aesthetics as marble but offers superior durability.
So Is a Marble Bathtub Worth It?
Yes, a marble bathtub is worth it if you’re looking to add an elegant and luxurious touch to your bathroom. Marble offers unique colors and patterns that can turn your bathroom into a spa-like oasis. It’s also tougher than other natural stones such as limestone and travertine, making it the ideal choice for busy households with children. Be sure to consider the type and style of marble bathtub that you want, as well as alternative options such as quartzite or granite. With careful consideration and research, you can create a beautiful bathroom retreat with a marble bathtub at its center!
