Having a bathtub that suits your needs can provide so much relaxation. It's where you want to stay and rejuvenate after a long day. If you're trying to decide between a cast-iron tub and an Americast tub, keep reading. We've put together a detailed guide on both tubs based on thorough research.
A cast-iron tub is made from porcelain and iron. It's heavy and known for its durability and quality. An Americast tub is made of a mixture of porcelain and steel. It produces less sound and has excellent heat-retention ability.
In this post, you'll learn more details about the two kinds of tubs and how they will fit your styles and needs. Knowing the qualities of each tub will help you make the right choice. Stay on this page to discover more about cast-iron tubs and Americast.
Choosing Between Cast Iron And Americast Tubs
Soaking in a bathtub is relaxing after a tiring day. It's no wonder many homeowners want to have a tub in their bathrooms. Real estate agents recommend adding a bathtub in a home to increase the property's resale value. Most home buyers prefer a bathtub and shower, not a stand-alone shower stall in a bathroom.
Here you will find information on cast-iron tubs and Americast tubs to help you decide what's best for your home. Take a look at the details below in each category so that you can get the right tub.
Durability
A cast-iron bathtub is durable and has an anti-chipping quality due to its enamel layering. It does not scratch easily and can contain heavy loads and impact due to the iron content. The tub features porcelain combined with iron which creates durability.
Americast is a three-layered material. It contains a porcelain finish with enameling grade steel and composite material. It is thick and durable but light.
Click here to view this cast-iron bathtub on Amazon.
Installation
Americast weighs less than a cast-iron tub, so it is easier to install, and transport, and installation costs less. You should set an Americast tub on a mortar bed or use accessories to secure it well. In this way, installation is way faster and more affordable.
With a cast-iron tub, you need to consider the weight of the tub to match your floor reinforcement. The floor should be able to carry the weight and the size of a cast-iron tub.
Click here to view this Americast bathtub on Amazon.
Design
A cast-iron tub offers a limited range of design choices, but it is a popular style that goes back to the 1880s. Both cast-iron and Americast tubs have limited design choices due to their material. However, some cast-iron tubs are polished in bold colors like black or red.
Americast has limited color choices because its enamel layering comes in a few color ranges. It's available in white, beige, or plain colors. Americast may not be the right choice for you if you're aiming for a more specific color.
Click here to view this Cambridge cast-iron tub on Amazon.
Heat Retention
Cast-iron and Americast tubs both work well in retaining heat. Both have metal materials that are natural thermal conductors. But American Standard believes that their tubs perform better in heat retention. Cast iron easily transfers heat while Americast maintains the heat.
Space
Cast-iron tubs usually have a size of 66" and 72" and can reduce to 60" for a smaller space. It offers flexible sizes with a freestanding or drop-in structure. So you won't have great difficulty fitting the tub.
Americast is generally bigger compared to other types of tubs. You can have the luxury of an Americast tub if you have a big bathroom. Americast has a 61" x 31.5" x 16" size.
Weight
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A cast-iron tub is heavier than Americast. It is considered the heaviest among all types of bathtubs available. This can increase the installation and shipping costs. A heavy tub requires significant floor support and careful transport.
An Americast tub generally is 96 lbs. while a cast-iron tub requires 200-300 lbs. support, whether you have a small or big tub.
Comfort
A deeper bathtub yields more comfort. Americast designs deeper tubs than other tubs. Try testing the tub before buying. Are you comfortable with it? That is the best way to determine the comfort level.
Sound Dampening Ability
Online users and comments testify that Americast is significantly quieter than a cast-iron tub. It has thick outer insulation. You should opt for an Americast tub if sound is a big deal for you.
A cast-iron tub may resound and amplify sounds. To help with the noise, you may consider covering it with outer insulation, although it will cost you more effort and money.
Cost
If you're looking for a budget-wise tub, you need to consider the price of a tub. Cast-iron tubs cost around $400 for smaller sizes and up to $2,000 for larger sizes. The larger the size, the heavier tub is to transport and the more challenging it is to install, which adds to other fees.
Americast tubs are not the most expensive on the market, but they are not the cheapest. They are a little above average price. Generally, an Americast tub costs around $450.
Lifespan
Bathtubs usually last from 10 to 30 years. It depends on the tub material and maintenance. You should refinish a cast-iron tub every five to 15 years. A cast-iron tub can last much longer than other types of tubs—for up to 70 years. Note that Americast offers a limited lifetime warranty of 10 years.
How Do I Clean My Cast Iron Bathtub?
Regularly cleaning your bathtub is important. You can clean your cast-iron tub with a washing liquid mixed with warm water. Let the mixture sit in the tub for half an hour. It will protect the enamel coating of your tub. Then, empty the tub and wipe it dry with a soft cloth.
Click here to view these cleaning cloths on Amazon.
How Do I Clean My Americast Bathtub?
You can do the same method with Americast by cleaning your tub with hot soapy water and liquid dishwashing detergent. Use it liberally inside your tub and on the surface. You should never use abrasive cleaning products since they can scratch or chip the surface. Use a soft cloth or sponge when applying the cleaning products.
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What's The Healthiest Bathtub Material?
Cast-iron tubs do not have lead content, so they're considered safe. Enamel steel tubs are also safe but may contain lead in the glaze. Some enamel steel tub makers take pride in not using lead in their tubs.
Acrylic and fiberglass tubs are not considered safe due to off-gassing. Owners of cast polymer, composites, or solid surfaces may be sensitive to their gel coat coating.
What Accessories Are Safe For A Bathtub?
A wall-mounted seat is a helpful, safe accessory for your bathtub. Wall-mounted seats can be installed safely without moving or slipping. You can also use it while showering or as you get into the tub.
You may also consider installing grab bars or changing your plumbing fixtures for additional safety. Install your grab bars in a deliberate location where you can quickly grab them upon entrance.
Turning your shower heads into handheld or adjustable systems can also be helpful and convenient, whether in the shower or the tub.
Click here to view this wall-mounted seat on Amazon.
Closing
Cast-iron tubs are known for their long lifespans and durability, but they are heavy and may cost more to install. Cast-iron tubs can cost up to $2,ooo for larger sizes.
Americast tubs are lightweight and easier to install without extra considerations like floor support. The tubs are among the middle-priced tubs on the market.
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