September 11, 2018 Maddy Kim

Understanding Terminology of Kingston Brass Bathtubs

When browsing the endless pages of Home Depot, Wayfair, Amazon, or more for the perfect bathtub, there are several new terms one may come across that they have never heard of before. It is most opportune to know the proper vocabulary of the bathtub field before selecting one that will most likely reside within your home for years. Choose a tub that fits both your home and lifestyle with the help of this summarizing bathtub glossary!

Acrylic: acrylic tubs are made by joining a fiberglass shell with a 4-6 mm thick layer of acrylic sheet. The fiberglass encasement provides structural integrity, while the acrylic makes for a smooth, non-porous exterior. The acrylic is molded into a fiberglass shell via heat and vacuum system, and once cooled off, it is transformed into a single integral unit. Acrylic tubs are extremely beneficial due to its ability to be easily repaired and its effortless transportation and installation.

Aqua Eden 60″ Contemporary Acrylic Freestanding Oval Tub

Alcove: a tub surrounded by three walls with its fourth wall (the apron) serving as a decorative front. This type is very common and was most likely the tub you bathed in as a child.

Aqua Eden 66″ Acrylic Alcove Tub with Right-Hand Drain Hole

Cast iron: an enduring material kilned with a white porcelain enamel for the interior then finished with a white-painted, hand-smoothed exterior. It is excellent in heat retention and durability and it is the original material used for tubs.

Aqua Eden 72″ Cast Iron Double Slipper Clawfoot Bathtub

Clawfoot: the original design of the bathtub and a predecessor of the freestanding tub, a clawfoot tub is also freestanding but embodies a more traditional look. It is typically adorned with ornamental lion feet, and is the tub one would imagine a queen would bathe in.

Aqua Eden 72″ Cast Iron Double Slipper Clawfoot Bathtub

Freestanding: a type of tub that stands alone from any wall, as the name implies. This type of tub is the signature tub of modern times as it typically embodies contemporary architecture. It is applauded for its mobility and adaptability to any bathroom, as it can be easily placed and maneuvered wherever needed.

Aqua Eden 69″ Contemporary Freestanding Acrylic Bathtub

Pedestal: a tub supported by a solid base ring bordering the bottom perimeter to provide support and raise it off the floor. It is commonly a feature of a clawfoot tub.

Aqua Eden 72″ Cast Iron Double Slipper Pedestal Bathtub

Roll top or Double Ended: this type of tub has a leveled rim and its sides are not quite as sloped like slipper tubs, providing more floor space inside. It is commonly a feature of a clawfoot tub.

Aqua Eden 67″ Double Ended Acrylic Tub

Slipper: a bathtub wall that is sloped and generally higher than the rim of the tub. They allow bathers full body water coverage and to comfortably recline. Tubs are usually available in either single slipper or double slipper configuration, double typically sought after for its ability to fit two bathers.

Aqua Eden 60″ Cast Iron Slipper Clawfoot Tub

Stone resin: a material made out of a mixture of acrylic resin, aluminum powder, and ground-up mineral material, such as granite or any other type of stone. The mineral provides hardness, structural stability, and heat retention. The aluminum allows for expansion and contraction to adapt to temperature changes. It is the newest material used to make tubs.