Before you jump into looking at those glass showers for your old bathroom remodel that look nice but need a lot of maintenance in the long run, let us introduce you to a better alternative that gives you literally the best of both worlds: acrylic bathtubs. Beyond the good looks, these tubs are also incredibly durable–making it a fantastic investment you’ll ever get.
So, how long does an acrylic bathtub last? This article will answer this question and explain why acrylic is the perfect choice for your bathroom.
What is an Acrylic Bathtub?
You can only understand how long an acrylic bathtub lasts once you know what it is. Acrylic is a lightweight, durable thermoplastic often used as an alternative to glass because of its shatter-proofness and versatility. Thanks to its nonporous surface, this material is also very easy to clean, completely waterproof, and, more importantly, will retain its original sheen.
The manufacturing process of this type of bathtub involves vacuum-forming sheets of acrylic into the desired shape (no wonder why it’s versatile). The sheets are then reinforced with layers of fiberglass to provide added strength. The result? A bathtub looks just like the one you dream of, with additional chip, crack, and fade resistance benefits, so it’ll look beautiful for years.
Benefits of Acrylic Bathtubs
First, let’s start with the look because we all know that’s one of the deal breakers, if not the only one. If looks are your concern, you can rest assured that they won’t be a problem because acrylic bathtubs will give your bathroom a sleek, modern look. Their glossy finish will provide a nice touch of luxury, making your bathroom feel upscale at a lower cost than other traditional materials like glass or stone.
For the love of long, relaxing baths, these tubs also do exceptionally well in retaining heat, meaning you can enjoy a warm soal without needing to constantly top up the hot water. While this might sound like a minor perk, it can significantly impact over time. Think about it—fewer water top-ups save on your utility bills and are also kinder to the planet by reducing water and energy usage.
Bathrooms are meant to be used 365 days a year by all members of your household—no wonder they endure their fair share of wear and tear. Luckily, you won’t have to worry about how long an acrylic bathtub lasts because it’s built to handle it all. Their tough, reinforced surface is designed to resist chipping, cracking, and staining, ensuring your tub remained like its old self when it was first installed. With this level of durability, an acrylic bathtub is an investment that keeps your bathroom looking its best, day in and day out.
Lastly, an acrylic tub can fit seamlessly into any space regardless of your bathroom’s size, layout, or design. Even though it’s built in a factory, it doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a generic design. With countless shapes, sizes, and finishes, it offers an incredibly versatile option tailored to your bathroom’s needs with a hint of your personal style.
How Long Does an Acrylic Bathtub Last?
Average Lifespan
Acrylic bathtubs typically last 10-15 years or longer with proper care. However, Bath Fitter of Pittsburgh products take this durability game to a whole new level with ‘full-dimensional acrylic,’ which adds around 15 more years. Unlike standard acrylic tubs on the market, full-dimensional acrylic maximizes the qualities of this material with a seamless one-piece wall system that allows for no seams.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of an Acrylic Bathtub
- Installation Quality: The length of time an acrylic bathtub lasts depends on the quality of the installation. When done properly, your tub will be securely supported and free from stress points that can lead to cracks or warping. Working with professionals also helps.
- Frequency of Use: A busy bathtub with multiple family members will experience more wear and tear than one in a guest bathroom that’s only used occasionally or a bathroom of one. Thankfully, acrylic bathtubs are built to handle all that. Their durable surface can withstand all those daily demands without compromising their look and functionality.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: An acrylic bathtub can lose its glossy finish and develop unsightly stains or discolorations without proper cleaning. Eventually, this can also lead to surface damage, reducing its overall durability and aesthetic appeal. That is why regular maintenance ensures your bathtub looks its best and prolongs its lifespan.
- Environmental Factors: Repeated exposure to moisture can encourage the growth of mold or mildew, which may affect the tub and its surrounding area. But there is no need to worry. As long as your bathroom is well-ventilated, you can maintain a stable indoor climate that preserves the tub’s structural integrity.
Tips to Extend the Life of Your Acrylic Bathtub
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
A regular cleaning and maintenance routine goes a long way in preserving your acrylic bathtub. Since it’s completely nonporous, all you have to do is use a nonabrasive spray and wipe the surface with a soft cloth, and you’ll have the look of day one thirty-plus years from now. However, ensure you use the right product, as our cleaning guide lists.
Proper Usage
Proper usage will undoubtedly impact the longevity of an acrylic bathtub. Our tip is to avoid placing excessively heavy objects in the tub, which can create stress points and lead to cracks over time. Similarly, avoid using the bathtub for purposes beyond its intended design—like cleaning heavy tools or storing sharp items—as this can damage the surface.
Protect Against Hard Water Damage
Hard water, rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium, can leave behind unsightly residue and mineral deposits on the surface of your acrylic bathtub. Over time, this buildup can lead to difficult-to-remove staining. To make sure the answer to ‘how long does an acrylic bathtub last’ is according to the standard or even more, consider installing a water softener in your home or regularly using a gentle solution to remove hard water spots before they accumulate.
Why Choose Bath Fitter for Your Acrylic Bathtub Needs?
It’s easy because we only use durable, high-quality acrylic that resists chipping, cracking, and fading, ensuring your bathtub lasts for years. To back that claim, we even provide a limited lifetime warranty to give you peace of mind. By choosing us, you choose a tub that fits your style and space and, most importantly, an installation that respects both your daily schedule and home–no demolition, no mess, as quick as one day.
Contact Bath Fitter of Pittsburgh today to get started!
