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Acrylic vs. Porcelain Tubs: What to Choose for Your Bathroom

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published January 23, 2025

Selecting the best bathtub for your bathroom involves weighing several factors, including its material. It is often confusing to choose between an acrylic and porcelain tub since each of these offer unique benefits. Explore the key differences between acrylic v/s porcelain tubs below.

What is An Acrylic Tub

An acrylic tub is a type of bathtub made from lightweight yet durable plastic. The plastic or acrylic is further reinforced with fiberglass material. This addition improves the strength and insulating properties of acrylic bathtubs. They are easy to install and are available in numerous sizes, shapes and colors.

Pros of Buying an Acrylic Tub

Let’s have a look at the advantages of installing acrylic bathtubs:

  • Since acrylic sheets are lightweight, it is easier to work with this material. As a result, you can find acrylic bathtubs in a variety of shapes and sizes. For instance, you can choose from drop-in, freestanding, alcove, drop-in and undermount, clawfoot or a walk-in acrylic bathtub.
  • Acrylic bathtubs are quite easy to install. DIY enthusiasts can fix these bathtubs by themselves in a few steps.
  • You can get acrylic bathtubs with a variety of bath therapy features. Some of these include a soaking bathtub, air bath, whirlpool tub and a combination tub with whirlpool and air bath.

Cons of Buying an Acrylic Tub

Some of the disadvantages of an acrylic tub include:

  • Like most types of plastic, acrylic material is highly vulnerable to scratches. These tubs may not be the best choice for families with pets and kids.
  • Acrylic tubs can discolor and warp after some years. They can last up to a decade after proper maintenance.

What is A Porcelain Tub

A porcelain tub is often referred to as a porcelain-enameled steel bathtub. These bathtubs are made from steel or cast-iron sheets and coated with a thick layer of porcelain enamel. This enamel is then baked until it develops a smooth and glossy finish.

Pros of Buying a Porcelain Tub

Here are some reasons why you should consider buying a porcelain tub:

  • The porcelain enamel has a smooth finish and does not develop any scratches.
  • Porcelain bathtubs can be considered as a long-term investment. They can last for a lifetime with some maintenance.
  • A porcelain bathtub is considered a luxurious addition to any bathroom. It can increase the resale value of your home.

Cons of Buying A Porcelain Tub

Now let’s have a look at the disadvantages of buying a porcelain bathtub:

  • The initial cost of porcelain bathtubs is higher. It is not suitable if you are on the lookout for a budget-friendly bathtub.
  • The porcelain enamel can chip or crack easily. You will have to be extra careful when using the bathroom with a porcelain bathtub.
  • You will need to hire a professional to install a porcelain bathtub. It is too heavy and cannot be considered a DIY project.

Acrylic v/s Porcelain Tub

Here is a close look at the differences between an acrylic and porcelain bathtub.

An image explaining the differences between acrylic and porcelain bathtub.

Factors to Consider

Keep the following factors in mind when deciding between acrylic v/s porcelain bathtubs:

Longevity

Acrylic bathtubs do not last for long and are suitable if you are looking for cost-effective tubs. Once they fade, you can replace them with a new one. However, if you prefer a long-lasting bathtub, opt for a porcelain bathtub.

Installation

Consider hiring a professional for bathtub installation. This would be necessary if you buy a porcelain-enameled tub.

If your bathroom is on the second floor or higher, it would be wise to opt for a lightweight acrylic tub. They are easier to handle and are ideal for those looking for a quick tub installation.

Shape of Bathtub

Confirm the shape of the bathtub that would be suitable for your space. Acrylic bathtubs are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes. On the other hand, porcelain bathtubs are usually oval or rectangular.

Thermal Properties

If you enjoy long, warm baths, an acrylic bathtub would be an ideal choice. It can retain the heat and keep the water warm for a long time.

Soaking Depth

Check the suitable soaking depth of your bathtub. Usually, acrylic bathtubs have a soaking depth of 8 to 35 inches. You may find fewer options with porcelain tubs. They are usually available in a soaking depth of 8 to 14 inches.

Drain Location

Consider the drain location on the bathtub. It should be compatible with the existing plumbing in your bathroom. You can find acrylic bathtubs with the drain location in the center, reversible, right, left, front center or back center. Porcelain bathtubs usually have drains at the left or right side of the bathtub.

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