An Essential Comparison Between Built-in Baths and Freestanding Baths: What You Should Know

When you’ve decided to remodel your bathroom or are looking to outfit the bathroom in your newly-built home, it takes a lot of careful thought.

Before you can commit to any major bathroom elements like baths, make sure that it’s the right choice, not just for your bathroom space and needs but also for your lifestyle and preferences.

If you’re thinking of either a freestanding bath or a built-in bath, know that there are distinct advantages that come with each.

Of course, your final choice will depend on your priorities – but it can be a challenge to decide if you don’t have the details in hand! If you want to make the right choice, here’s an essential comparison between built-in baths and freestanding baths: what you should know.

A. Freestanding baths

1. Merits

Freestanding baths stand out because of their appearance and appeal, and they’re indeed prettier to look at than a regular built-in tub. Therefore, they can become the centrepiece of your bathroom and its focal point, and they can draw the eye of any visitor.

One merit of freestanding baths is that you have a lot of choices, and various styles can be perfect for your bathroom, from claw-footed baths to egg-shaped baths to slipper baths and more.

Moreover, since the freestanding bath doesn’t come with limitations regarding installation (meaning you can place it against a wall or in the centre), you get to unleash your creativity and make your bathroom shine.

Freestanding baths look great, and they are often ideal if you want to make a statement! But apart from this, installing a freestanding bath is easier than built-in baths, and you may only require the expertise of a plumber rather than a contractor and decorator as well.

2. Considerations

Freestanding baths will usually be costlier compared to built-in baths since they come with more complex designs.

The weight of the tub can also be a consideration depending on the material you choose, and some materials, like cast iron or natural stone, are heavier than others.

Finally, storage may be something to think about since freestanding baths don’t come with the storage options of built-in models. But you can always go for a rolling shelf or caddie.

B. Built-in baths

1. Merits

Built-in baths are less expensive, and they are sensible and practical.

They can also save more space since they sit evenly with your bathroom wall, and you can have more storage options with wall-mounted shelving or the area around the bath itself.

2. Considerations

The built-in bath’s placement will not be as flexible as a freestanding bath because you’re limited to just placing it against the wall or one of the room’s sides.

You also have fewer choices, and most built-in baths rely heavily on the surround for design rather than the bath itself. Freestanding baths are also less complex to install, even if they may require new plumbing work.

Built-in baths need mounting, the building of a surround, and sealing. Whilst your ultimate decision will essentially depend on your personal preference, there is no doubt that freestanding baths will always outshine built-in units. 

At the end of the day, it’s a personal choice. But make sure your choice fits your preference, lifestyle, budget, and other needs. Look for something that can add value to your home, and you can’t go wrong.