What To Look for When Buying a Stone Bath

A freestanding stone bathtub is the epitome of luxury and sophistication, offering a timeless appeal that can elevate any bathroom. Crafted from either natural or engineered stone, these baths bring a touch of nature indoors, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere.

In this blog post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about stone baths, including how they’re made, the different types, pros, cons, and how to choose the right bathtub. Whether you’re busy building your dream home or just remodelling your bathroom, this guide will help you understand the charm of stone tubs and decide if they are the perfect choice for your home.

How Are Stone Baths Made?

Stone baths are crafted through a detailed process starting with selecting high-quality natural or engineered stones. The chosen material is then extracted from quarries and cut into manageable slabs. These slabs are then shaped into the desired bathtub forms.

After shaping, the tubs undergo finishing processes, including polishing or texturing, and surface treatments to enhance durability and water resistance. For multi-piece designs, the bathtubs are assembled and sealed to ensure watertightness. Rigorous quality control ensures the final products meet high standards for durability and craftsmanship.

What Stone Is Used in Baths?

Various stones can be used in crafting bathtubs, each offering distinct characteristics and benefits. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular stones for bathtubs:

Marble Bathtubs

When it comes to natural stone bathtubs, marble is a very popular choice. They’re celebrated for their luxurious look and elegant veining. However, marble is also relatively soft and porous, which can require regular sealing to prevent stains and maintain its pristine appearance.

Granite Bathtubs

Granite baths are considered one of the best stone baths, due to their exceptional durability and resistance to scratches and heat. Granite offers a sleek, polished finish and is less porous than marble, making it easier to maintain. Its natural variations ensure each bathtub has a distinctive, high-end appearance.

Sandstone Bathtubs

Sandstone tubs provide a warm, earthy aesthetic with a natural, textured surface. This stone is ideal for creating a rustic or traditional look. While durable, sandstone is also more porous and may also require regular sealing to protect against water and stains.

Quartz Bathtubs

If you prefer engineered stone bathtubs, quartz is a good option. Quartz offers a non-porous, durable surface that is highly resistant to stains, scratches, and chips. A quartz bathtub can come in a wide range of colours and patterns, providing both beauty and practicality.

Pros of Stone Tubs

There are many benefits and reasons why people prefer having stone baths over other types of tubs in their bathrooms. Here are some of the key advantages that set stone baths apart from other materials:

1. Durability

Stone tubs known for their long-lasting durability, withstanding regular use and resisting damage from heat and scratches.

2. Aesthetic Appeal

They add a luxe and timeless look to any bathroom, available in a variety of styles and finishes.

3. Unique Patterns

Natural stone bathtubs feature unique veining and patterns, ensuring each piece is one-of-a-kind.

4. Heat Retention

Stone retains heat well, helping to keep the bathwater warm for a longer period.

Cons of Stone Tubs

Understanding the benefits, as well as the potential drawbacks, can help you make an informed decision about whether a stone tub is the right choice for you. Here are some of the challenges to consider:

1. Cost

Stone tubs can be significantly more expensive than other materials, both in terms of initial cost and installation.

2. Weight

They are typically heavy, which may require structural reinforcement in your bathroom to support the weight.

3. Porosity

Natural stones like marble and sandstone can be porous, requiring regular sealing to prevent water damage and staining.

4. Installation Complexity

The installation can be more complex and labour-intensive, often needing professional installation.

What To Look for When Buying a Bath

When buying a bathtub, keep the following tips in mind to ensure you choose the best option for your needs:

1. Material Quality

Check the quality of the stone. Ensure it’s from a reputable supplier and meets your durability and aesthetic requirements.

2. Finish and Texture

Consider the finish and texture of the stone. Each finish affects the bathtub’s appearance and maintenance needs.

3. Size and Dimensions

Measure your bathroom space carefully to ensure the bathtub will fit properly. Also, check the bathtub’s weight to confirm it can be supported by your floor.

4. Sealing and Maintenance

For natural stone bathtubs, ensure proper sealing is applied and be aware of the maintenance required to keep the stone in good condition.

5. Installation Requirements

Verify the installation requirements and ensure you have access to professional installation services. Stone bathtubs often require specialised handling and installation.