Steel Vs Acrylic Bathtub: What Are the Differences Between Them?

Are you planning to renovate your bath space to include a bathtub? Can’t decide upon whether to have a steel or acrylic bathtub.

Then, this post “steel vs acrylic bathtub “can help you a lot to decide between these two choices.
Steel and acrylic are two of the most popular bathtub materials nowadays. There are many benefits to both, which make these two materials close contenders.

So, it can be tricky to decide which one is best for you.

When it comes to choosing whether to have a steel bathtub or an acrylic one, you need to be well informed on why you might want to choose one or the other.

So, how do these two materials compare? Let us take a look.

This article will present the different pros and cons of Steel and Acrylic and how steel bathtubs differ from acrylic bathtubs.

Steel Vs Acrylic Bathtub – How Do They Compare?

While comparing both types, I’ve considered the following criteria:

1. Durability
2. Style and Design Options
3. Heat retention
4. Ease of installation
5. Ease of clean and maintain
6. Price/ Affordability

1. Durability

Steel:

Steel is much stronger than acrylic. This variation is also very rigid. For this reason, it is often an ideal family choice. The durable construction of steel tubs can easily withstand the test of time. This often reflects in the generous warranty period that comes with certain bathtub brands.

Steel tubs are more resistant to staining and scratches than acrylic tubs. Steel tubs that feature porcelain-enamel coating prone to chipping if heavy items are dropped inside them. A little extra care can give a steel tub a longer lifespan.

Chips or other similar flaws may expose the metal core of the steel tub that increases the chance of rust.

Acrylic:

With advanced technology and manufacturing process, acrylic tubs are just as robust as steel ones. However, because of the material’s flexibility, the chance of cracks is higher in acrylic made tubs than steel ones.

Acrylic bathtub construction features fiberglass, which is covered in acrylic plastic. This construction gives this tub a unique plastic appearance that feels truly strongly. This type of material is also resistant to rust.

Anything with a sharp edge or too much scrubbing can create scratches on acrylic tubs. Even harsh chemicals may negatively affect acrylic. However, it is easy to repair and polish out, unlike other materials. Different types of acrylic bathtub repair kits are available to get the job done.

2. Style and Design Options

Steel: Steel tubs are limited to design, shapes and styles.

Acrylic: When it comes to diversity in design, acrylic tubs have a wider variety of shapes and styles. It is available in any shape- triangular, oval, square, and, of course, the classic claw-foot tub. So you have many options to match the décor of your bathroom.

3. Heat Retention

Steel:

Being a good conductor of heat, steel is not good at conserving optimal heat. So, it makes bath water cool down faster. Nevertheless, it takes less time for the tub to warm up when filling with warm water.

Acrylic:

Acrylic tubs are good at retaining heat. So, the water stays hotter longer. It makes filling the tub more economical. You can enjoy a relaxing long warm bath without refilling the tub with warm water to regulate the temperature of the water in the bath.

4. Ease of installation

Steel bathtubs are heavier than the acrylic alternative. The average weight of a steel tub is 150 to 200 pounds- some weigh even 500 pounds. This makes the installation process labor-intensive and tricky.
On the other hand, acrylic ones only weigh between 50 and 100 pounds. The lighter it is, the easier it will be to install. Acrylic baths are lightweight, so easy to transport and install.

Steel tubs don’t tend to flex and hold their shape. So, for installing this type of tub, you won’t need any special support system. On the other hand, acrylic tubs are less rigid than steel. So, they require support to prevent pressure points that may cause the tub to warp or crack.

5. Ease of clean and maintain

Both types of tubs are easy to clean and maintain. However, acrylic tubs require regular cleaning to prevent mold and staining growth.

6. Price/ Affordability

Both the acrylic and steel baths are relatively inexpensive options compared to other bathtub materials such as stone, marble, and iron. But comparing these two choices in terms of price is somewhat difficult as the price difference largely depends on the specific model.

Steel:

In general, a steel bathtub is a little pricier when compared to an acrylic one.

Acrylic:

These bathtubs tend to be more affordable than steel while providing almost the same design aesthetic and features. However, the more detailed the design of an acrylic tub, the higher the price tends to be.

A Quick Glimpse- Steel Vs Acrylic Bathtub

Don’t miss the following section.

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So, In the Steel Vs. Acrylic Bathtub Debate, Which Is the Winner?

There you have it…

From the above discussion, we’ve found that both the materials have benefits and drawbacks, covering everything from strength, heat retention, ease of cleaning, price, and so on.

When compared in terms of versatility, smoothness, ease of installation, acrylic baths are the winner. This type of tub is easy on the body, the eye, and the wallet. It’s lightweight, low-maintenance, comfortable, warm, and, best of all, it’s affordable.

On the other hand, steel baths are a better choice for you when it comes to durability, ease of cleaning, and maintenance. However, if you don’t like having a cold surface of the steel, an acrylic bath is a better option for you.

At the end of the day, which is best for you all depends on what factors you prioritize.

Good luck on your bathtub buying journey!

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