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Clawfoot bathtubs were invented during the Victoria era that extended from 1835 - 1903. The original clawfoot bath tubs were manufactured with a white porcelain coating, and got their shape from the cast iron base. To obtain a hard slippery surface molten porcelain was poured into the tub.

THE DIFFERENT STYLES:

The two basic types of clawfoot bath tubs are the European and American styles. European styles tend to have no drilling for faucets (as they are an external feature on this design of tub, and are either wall or floor mounted). Thus the water level is deeper. There are however holes for the drain and overflow.

The American styles featured holes drilled for the faucets, overflow and the drain. Within these two types, there are a range of different styles. They include the Classic design, Slipper style, Doubled-ended, and Pedestal types.

MATERIALS:

Usually there are two choices when it comes to clawfoot bath tubs. Acrylic, which is fast gaining popularity and cast iron, which is the traditional material that is used.

The main benefits of cast iron is that these tubs are as close to as original as you will get. The look is the same, as is the weight. They also feel like an authentic vintage clawfoot tub should: pleasingly smooth with a subtle textured finish and some minor surface irregularities.

The benefits of acrylic clawfoot bath tubs is that they maintain the look and integrity of a traditional cast iron tub but is about 40% lighter, is warm and smooth to the touch, and will not rust or crack over time. Additionally, they are not cold to the touch, as porcelain on cast iron tubs is. Typically an acrylic tub is crafted from a mixture of high-grade sanitary acrylics, ceramic powders, polyester resins, and fiberglass. Acrylic clawfoot bath tubs are easier to clean than cast iron tubs, and also their lighter weight makes moving them around an easier effort. Finally, they are available in a range of different lengths.

INSTALLATION:

It is highly recommended that you get a reputable plumber to install your new clawfoot bath tub. Before you arrange this though, ensure that you have all the following items on hand: a tub, a drain, a faucet or shower enclosure, and a set of water supply lines.

The Faucets are available in an extensive range, from classic wall-mounted faucets through to more elegant English Telephone Handshower faucets. There are all freestanding sets that are supported by their own supply lines.

Shower Enclosures are there to allow you to use your clawfoot bath tub as a shower. It features a shower ring enclosure, shower head, faucet, along with other necessary installation hardware. The Drain and overflow allow you to drain your tub of water and prevent it overflowing if the water level gets too high.

The supply lines provide the method of getting water into your bath. These are generally available in four different styles: straight, single offset, double offset, and freestanding. Straight supply lines are used with deck-mounted faucets. Single-offset and double-offset lines are used with most tub fillers, handshower faucets as well as most shower enclosures.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE:

Some people may think a clawfoot bath tub may need more maintenance than a normal bath, but that's not true. Acrylic clawfoot baths are actually easier to move and can be rearranged to a preferred area more easily than a normal bath. Not only are they stylish and classic, but any clawfoot bath will add a touch of Victorian class to your home and give added elegance to any bathroom. For a unique touch of style from the Victorian era that will remain a timeless feature in your home, there can only be a clawfoot bathtub.

Claire Calkin