Acrylic vs Fiberglass Tub: Everything to Know
Soak in the right tub.
If you’re someone who loves to end the day with a relaxing bath, then the right tub is crucial for your home. With so many styles and materials on the market, you’ve probably heard of acrylic and fiberglass bathtubs and wondered what the differences are. In this guide, we’re breaking down all you need to know about an acrylic vs fiberglass tub so you can pick the right one for you and your bathroom.
Acrylic Bathtubs
Acrylic is one of the most common types of bathtub. This style of bathtub is constructed of colored sheets of clear plastic with supportive layers of fiberglass in the mix. Since their build is more complex, acrylic bathtubs are slightly more expensive but require less maintenance than other options like fiberglass tubs.
With an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years, acrylic tubs are durable and very lightweight. Acrylic tubs can be freestanding or built into the wall of your bathroom, and they are available with headrests, seats, or whirlpool jets to make your soak comfortable and luxurious.
Tip!
Find your next favorite tub in our guide: 10 Best Freestanding Bathtubs for Reaching Relaxation.
Fiberglass Bathtubs
Fiberglass is also a fairly common bathtub material. Fiberglass bathtubs are more affordable than acrylic tubs, which makes them perfect for a budget-friendly pick. The material is made of reinforced plastic with layers of interwoven glass, which are heated together then molded into a tub shape before being sprayed with a resin gel coat.
Fiberglass tubs are lightweight and have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years, though they require more maintenance than acrylic tubs since they can be susceptible to cracking or staining. They come in both freestanding and built-in versions.
Can't decide between acrylic vs. fiberglass bathtubs? Here are some quick comparisons that'll help you choose the right one for your reno.
- Cost: Though acrylic and fiberglass tubs are both relatively affordable, acrylic tubs cost more than fiberglass since their construction is more complex and therefore more durable.
- Longevity: Since fiberglass tubs are made of interwoven glass strings, these tubs are more susceptible to shifting and bending, which will cause the caulk around the tub to crack over time.
- Maintenance: Acrylic tubs are easy to maintain and don’t require anything extra other than the occasional cleaning. Fiberglass tubs, on the other hand, need to be refinished every few years or they will start to lose their color.
So which type of tub is best for your home? If durability and less maintenance are your top priorities, then you’ll love an acrylic tub. If cost is the top concern, then a fiberglass tub is the better option.
Tip!
Thinking of renovating your bathroom? Check out this guide: Shower vs. Bathtub: Which One Is Best for Your Bathroom?
