Love the vintage look? Then opt for an antique clawfoot tub built for today’s modern plumbing. Choose from dual, rolltop and slipper models that are contoured for lumbar support. Styles range from simple ball and clawfoot models to opulent styles that make a statement all their own.
ApplicationThe trend today is shifting back to the elegant style and luxury of a soaking clawfoot tub. Homeowners are tearing out their dime-a-dozen built-in tubs and replacing them with reproduction roll top footed tubs and other beautiful models. These are now available in both classic cast iron and the lighter weight acrylic; clawfoot bathtubs are produced in a variety of styles and foot finish options.
MaterialAcrylic – Acrylic tubs are crafted from high-quality cast acrylic with a bonded construction which provides a high-gloss shine inside and out. Acrylic tubs maintain the look and integrity of a traditional cast iron tub but are lighter, warmer and smoother, and will not rust or crack over time. The non-porous interior surface will not stain, discolor, or retain any odors. It also cleans easily with a warm, soapy cloth– use no harsh abrasives which may damage the tub finish.
Cast Iron – Cast Iron tubs are made from quality vitreous porcelain-over-cast-iron. They are finished inside and outside, ready to mount on their appropriate feet. Cast iron has superior natural heat retention that helps to keep your bath water warm for longer bathing periods.
Selecting a StyleThere are many variations of the clawfoot tub, such as, traditional roll top, slipper, dual (or double ended), and pedestal.
Dual clawfoot tubs have each side rounded for your choice of bathing positions. These bath tubs have a center drain configuration and side-mounting faucet. The double-ended slipper tub offers both ends with high-back construction.
Rolltop or roll rim tubs are the most common and familiar clawfoot tub featuring a curved roll rim all around. The designs are based on the original cast iron tubs which were made by the millions between 1890 and 1940. The typical vintage roll rim bathtub measures 5' long – just big enough to fit into the standard post-World War I American bathroom. We offer our new tubs in a variety of lengths to fit all sizes of people and spaces.
Slipper Tubs are distinguished by their high-back construction which provides a more comfortable seating position. If you prefer to lounge in the tub with a place to rest your head, the slipper bathtub gives you all the support you’ll need. When installing a slipper style clawfoot tub, please keep in mind that one end is higher than the other on the single high-back style. They are also available in double-ended styles for your choice of bathing positions.
ConsiderationsTub, tub filler (faucet), handshower, drain, supply lines and shut-off valves are ordered separately. Some tubs accept universal parts, while others need parts made for that particular tub. Our Product Specialists will gladly help you select the right products.
Clawfoot tubs are available in a variety of sizes and depths, so the water capacity will change with each tub. This will change the weight; tub + water, so before starting your project confirm the weight bearing capacity of your floor. You may need to reinforce the floor to carry the total weight of a filled tub. When choosing your clawfoot bath, please refer to the technical specifications for each product, tub weight empty, tub weight filled, gallon capacity (to ensure you have enough hot water to fill your bath), and water depth which is measured from base to overflow.
When installing a slipper style clawfoot tub, please keep in mind that one end is higher than the other on the single high-back style.
Important - once the tub is set in place, the plumber should make sure it’s level. If you are placing the tub onto a gloss tile floor or installing an acrylic tub, we recommend using porcelain tub feet coasters to limit any movement. And, make sure your plumber turns on the water and tests the tub and hardware for proper operation and drainage before leaving your home.
