Freestanding Baths: Steel, Stone, Acrylic Or Composite?

At one time, freestanding baths were the norm, until they faded out of style and fashion after the emergence of bath-shower combinations and built-in baths. However, thanks to emerging innovative designs and materials, the free standing tub is back in vogue.

With the re-emergence of freestanding bathtubs in Australia, new regulations and guidelines have also come into force. For example, the Building Act 1995 offers clarification on the appropriate correct procedure for waterproofing when installing bathtubs and other water-related accessories. Additionally, the 1993 Standard Building Regulation provides Performance Requirements for wet area waterproofing.

Considering the variety of materials, some of the features you should know regarding the most popular freestanding tubs include:

1. Steel Baths

Steel has seemingly replaced the time-tested classic cast iron bathtub as the choice material, globally. Just as with cast iron tubs, steel baths have a coating of enamel which is susceptible to chipping. On the other hand, similar to a cast iron bathtub, a tub made of steel could last for many decades if suitable precautions are taken to avoid chipping. Fortunately, the steel tub enamel coating is easy to clean and scratch-resistant.

2. Stone Freestanding Bathtubs

A bathtub made from natural stone will always be a remarkable and eye-catching feature when placed in your bathroom. However, since it can't be moulded, the seams have to be sealed. Over time, a stone tub could start leaking or get discolored, especially at the seams. The good thing is that it can be resealed. If you opt for a stone tub, you'll be in possession of one of the most durable baths available.

An advantageous compromise may be getting a "stonecast" bath. This is essentially a composite bathtub that bears the looks of granite, marble, travertine and other stones.

Take note that a freestanding stone tub may absorb up to 50 per cent of the water heat. So, you might have to top up the hot water, although once it's warm, the stone will stay warm longer compared to other materials.

3. Acrylic Baths

If you love those quick baths, a good choice might be an acrylic tub since acrylic is generally warmer to your touch compared to other materials. Acrylic bathtubs are quite popular for several reasons:

- Available in a very vast range of designs and styles.

- Less costly compared to others.

- They are lightweight.

- Less costly when installing.

Good care should be taken as you clean an acrylic tub since abrasives could easily rub off the delicate sheen.

4. Composite Bathtubs

Composite bathtubs are produced from a mix of ground quartz or granite and resin. The blend gives composite tubs a beautiful appearance just like natural stone, but without the price tag of natural stone. Although not completely stain or scratch resistant, composite baths are extremely durable.

Installation Concerns

The installation of a freestanding bathtub is a delicate affair, especially when it comes to drainage and plumbing. It's for this reason that the Building Code of Australia has set uniform technical guidelines and standards covering structural issues as well as safety aspects like waterproofing.


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With many years of serving Australians with quality bathroom products, ACS Designer Bathrooms has gained a strong reputation. Babak has been with the Company long enough to know what clients want. He'll give you worthy suggestions for your bathroom. To get more information on this and more, visit http://www.acsbathrooms.com.au/baths/freestanding-baths.html .