How to Select a Fantastic Freestanding Tub and Faucet
If you’re currently in the process of planning a bathroom remodel, I’m guessing adding a freestanding tub and faucet is one of the first things on your mind.
That isn’t surprising, as we have seen a rising trend over the last few years of clients having a freestanding tub at the top of their “must-have” list.
Actually, right now I am lucky enough to be in the process of selecting finishes for a brand new house with five bathrooms.
As fun as it can be, there are also so many things to consider like the style, function, and most importantly- the budget.
With so many items to purchase, I am always on the lookout for stylish, high quality items at great prices- aren't we all?
In this particular home the master bathroom will have enough room for a freestanding tub which is always a fun feature.
As I was wading through the endless options of tubs to find my perfect fit, I realized that many of you may be out there planning your own bathroom remodel and doing the same search for the perfect tub. Don't fret!
If you're considering a bathroom remodel and including a freestanding tub, start here:
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What Are Freestanding Tubs?
Freestanding tubs are essentially bathtubs that sit on top of the floor without touching the walls around them.
Depending on the style of freestanding tub, there are many different types of faucets that can be used in combination with them. There are floor mount faucets where the plumbing for the faucet comes up from the floor, wall mount faucets and tub deck faucets.
How to Select a Freestanding Tub and Faucet
Calculate What Size Freestanding Tub You Will Need
This is an obvious first step but absolutely the most important one to get right so the rest of your planning goes smoothly.
1. Figure Out What Space is Available For The Freestanding Tub:
You will want to measure your existing space and/or work with a designer to layout your new bathroom.
This is important to get right because the amount of space you have can be a big determiner of how many tub choices you may have available to you.
You will want to make sure you have room to service and clean around the tub, so plan to leave as much as 5-6" of space around the tub.
2. Decide How You Will Get The Tub Into Place
You do need to consider how you will get the tub to the location where it will be installed.
If your doorways are narrow or hallways are hard to navigate, you may need to plan extra money into the budget if you have to pay to remove doors or windows to get the tub into your bathroom to install it.
3. Don’t Be Discouraged By Small Spaces
Are you wanting to add a freestanding tub in place of an existing alcove or three wall tub? If you didn’t know - Yes, that is a possibility!
There are tons of different sizes of tubs available - and because it comes up so often in remodeling (especially older homes) we have a list of our favorite smaller tubs here: 48” Long Soaking Tubs That Will Make The Most Of Your Bathroom.
Select Your Style of Freestanding Tub
You will want to consider the style of your tub and how that will affect how you use it.
Some tubs are meant for bathing only on one side with a curved seating side and the drain and faucet located on the opposite end: single ended and single slipper tubs.
This can impact which direction you would orient the tub depending on the view from where you would sit.
Double ended and double slipper tubs feature the drain in the center and both ends are curved for seating.
If you are looking for a fancier base to your tub, there are clawfoot tubs or pedestal tubs to add classic style to your bathroom.
Consider Which Material You Prefer For Your Freestanding Tub
Freestanding tubs come in a wide variety of materials and finishes. Here is my “cheat sheet” to talk about the differences:
Acrylic is the most common, easy to clean and care for, and the most budget-friendly!
Cast iron and stone are both heavy and durable options that often have a classic appeal.
Metal options like copper and stainless steel have a very pronounced style that add drama to the space, but will require specific maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Solid surface tubs can offer integrated overflow systems that are unique and make installation a breeze.
Decide on the Type of Faucet That Is Best For Your Freestanding Tub
Depending on the type of tub you choose, you will have to pick a faucet that is compatible.
Rolled rim tubs will have to have floor mounted tub fillers.
Some tubs have tap decks, with or without the holes drilled.
You will want to pay attention so you know which options are available to you.
Some cast iron tubs have drillings on the inner wall and will need specific faucets to accommodate them.
My Favorite Freestanding Tubs and Faucets:
Typically I prefer acrylic tubs for the ease of installation and because there are so many options that are cost-effective.
I also tend to choose tubs that allow flexibility to sit on either side of the tub.
Floor mounted tub fillers with hand showers are also preferred as they do not to limit how someone may choose to use their tub.
Below, in no particular order, I share some of my favorite styles of tubs and faucets I like with each!
Budget-Friendly Freestanding Tub And Faucet
I love the shape of this super affordable and stylish freestanding bathtub. It looks like it would hug you while bathing!
You can't go wrong with this simple and stylish floor mounted tub filler and hand shower that will let your tub shine though.
Modern And Classic Freestanding Tub And Faucet - Only $950 for both!
I am a huge lover of square corners for a clean line look and this freestanding tub has that going on with a cool rectangular shape.
Contemporary, simple and square: this floor mounted tub filler and hand shower have it all to add a beautiful finishing touch to the space.
Black Freestanding Tub With Faucet - Only $950 for both!
Who else is obsessed with contrast? An amazing freestanding tub with a black exterior and rectangular shapes are in my dreams.
With such a bold color you need a bold fixture. This floor mounted tub filler and hand shower is substantial and can hold it's own in a bathroom with a contrasting tub.
Gorgeous Clawfoot Freestanding Tub And Faucet - Only $1300 for both!
A freestanding clawfoot bathtub is a stunning classic and a welcome addition to any bathroom!
A classic floor mounted tub filler and hand shower will add the style to transform the space into a classy and beautiful bathroom everyone will love.
Contemporary Freestanding Tub And Faucet - Only $1350 for both!
This classic, yet contemporary, freestanding tub also is a slightly smaller size which is perfect for a bathroom remodel where there might be a tighter squeeze.
A floor mounted tub filler with clean lines and a simple hand shower are the perfect complement to this simple contemporary tub.
Modern Round Freestanding Tub And Faucet - Only $1550 for both!
Can you even handle this modern round soaking tub? Get this, it even fits two people!
A simple, modern floor mounted tub filler with hand shower is a great addition to this modern tub.
Vintage Inspired Freestanding Tub And Faucet - Only $2600 for both!
I imagine being surrounded by candles with bubbles filling this stunning vintage inspired freestanding bathtub.
An updated classic adds the perfect transitional style with this floor mounted tub filler and hand shower - a style that everyone is sure to love!
Conclusion
I hope these suggestions have helped you in your own search for a perfect freestanding tub.
Remember to consider the amount of space you have, not only for the tub, but also to get the tub up to it's location!
Consider whether or not you want to face both directions or just one direction when relaxing.
Explore which material fits your style and budget the best.
Make sure to remember the importance of the faucet and that your other decisions will impact the style you can use.
If you have a question or want to share about your own favorite tub, don't hesitate to tell us about it.
We are always looking for suggestions of the next best option.
