Since the bathtub is one of the most, if not the most, favorite items in the bathroom, several innovations have been made to cater to the individual and ever-changing needs of people. For instance, way back its conception, did the original makers think that fiberglass could ever be used in making a tub? Possibly not since bathtubs before were only in steel, cast iron, or even wood. But in this age, when almost everything is conceivable, several people are enjoying fiberglass bathtubs crafted specially by bathroom authorities like Aqua Glass.

"What exactly is Aqua Glass?"

Primarily, Aqua Glass, which started only as a houseboat maker, is the leading bath tub company that conceptualizes and makes quality bathtubs based on two important human demands: comfort and functionality. Any good bathtub requires both, so the absence of one marks the failure of the tub. Strictly speaking, since its company expansion, Aqua Glass has been successfully meeting these demands and continuously impressing homeowners with the outstanding line of Aqua Glass hot tubs. What made them explicitly excellent is their innovative use of fiberglass, initially a material used for houseboats, in making premium hot tubs. Thanks to extensive market research and top-notch construction of every bathtub unit, Aqua Glass has been collecting happy customers.

Aqua Glass Bathtub Collection

Bathtubs have been among the prominent bathing products of Aqua Glass alongside shower units, steams, and wall kits. Outstandingly, Aqua Glass tubs fall under three categories.

1. Whirlpool - Fiberglass whirlpool tubs come in all imaginable shapes, sizes, and colors. They usually have textured bottom, arms rests, and integral skirt that altogether contribute to a soothing bathtub soak.

2. Soaking Bathtub - A soaking bathtub is ideal if you just want to unwind a bit. As in the case of whirlpool tubs, soaking tubs have armrests and textured or smooth bottoms, and they appear in different shapes and colors as well. Now, haven't you noticed? You indeed have several options.

3. Tub Shower - This comes in two forms: dome and domeless, but regardless of the form, a tub shower has a mounted wall, soap dishes, and shelves. Domeless tub showers, by the way, boast of their mildew-resistant surfaces that are easily cleaned, thus giving them fresh new look despite their years.

Buying Tips

Now, when you buy your dream Aqua Glass bath tub, remember to consider two important buying guides.

1. Decide on the style. Do you want an egg-shaped tub? Which color do you prefer? White, peach, or beige? Does your choice match the over-all theme of your bathroom? Of course, the last thing you would want is a disorganized bathroom.

2. Consider the size options. Go and get the single-person tub if you're a solitary individual and you want to enjoy soaking in water alone, reading books, listening to music, or contemplating yesterday's meeting. But you'll sure have the sweetest time of your life if you can share a bath with your honey using a double-person tub. Now, which one do you prefer–solitude or romance?

Bathtub restoration or replacement? There comes a time when you need to decide. Bathtubs are made of a variety of materials like porcelain, acrylic, fiberglass or cultured marble. Years of use could leave your tub scarred with chips, gouges, scratches, cracks etc. Restoration of bathtubs is a process of refinishing, re-glazing, or resurfacing that could restore your bathtub to its original immaculate condition.

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Restoring Bathtubs To Look Like New

This is a very cost effective way of revitalizing your battle-scarred bathtubs. Restoration cuts down the need to replace your current tub. Replacement is a very costly proposition.

Restoration needs to be performed with the right materials and procedures. Professionals with a track record of performance, using advanced, hi-tech materials would be the answer. This process cost around 25 percent of the cost of replacement and in less time too!

Porcelain and fiberglass bathtubs can be restored to look like 'new' and if required the color changed to match with your current bathroom décor. Porcelain tubs are first cleaned, by sanding and other procedures, to remove soap and oil films. Chips, scratches, cracks and other damages are filled and repaired. The new finish is chemically bonded onto the old porcelain surface.

Fiberglass bathtubs become worn and dull after about 10 "“ 15 years of use. Fiberglass bottoms can weaken and develop cracks. These bathtubs are restored giving a new and glossy finish.

Bathtub restoration of antique and vintage tubs involves professional care to restore them to their original shine and feel. The interior and exterior of the freestanding antique bathtubs can be refinished along with metal plating the claw feet.

With the incredible results of bathtub restoration, most people cannot tell the difference between a new bathtub and a restored one.

Removing bathtubs for whatever reasons will involve the need to use professional contractors. Bathtub removal involves, along with the tub, possibly, part of the existing tub walls and surrounding tiles. This is certainly a very costly proposition and may be out of the scope of an average DIY-er. You may be able to remove your tub with a minimal of damage to the surrounding walls and tiles, but it still involves a lot of work.

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How to Remove a Bathtub

There are many things to consider before removing bathtubs. Your bathtub could be a freestanding type. Or it could be in an alcove, surrounded by walls on three sides or in a corner with walls on two sides. The freestanding bathtub may not be difficult to remove. Disconnect all the cold and hot water plumbing as well as the drain and overflow pipes, and pull the bathtub away.

Steps for removing bathtubs:

• Turn off the water before proceeding.
• To expose the piping, remove the access panel, which is probably on the backside of the plumbing wall of the bathtub.
• Disconnect the tub drain and the overflow pipe.
• If hot and cold water faucets are inside the bathtub, remove these fixtures.
• If the bathtub surround is tiled, removing one course of tiles around the tub should be enough.
• If the surrounding is not tiled, removing about 4 inches of material should expose the clips holding the tub. Remove or disengage the fasteners.
• With a pry-bar gently pry the tub away from the wall. Go completely around the bathtub. Any resistance probably means the tub is not completely disconnected from the water supply and/or the drainage system. Go back and recheck this.
• Try to move the tub straight out from the wall. Put down some skids under the bathtub so that the tub won't damage the floor as it is pulled out. It will also be easier to pull out the tub.
• If the tub cannot be removed straight out, you may need to go through the side wall. It may be a load bearing wall and you must shore up the framing - before making cuts. In such cases it is prudent to consult a house contractor or an architect.

Once the bathtub is out, you can lift and carry it with the help of others.

Bathtub caulking is a process by which you render the gaps between the bathtub and walls, and floor, watertight. Caulking stops water from entering the gaps and affecting the walls and floor behind and underneath the bathtub. Caulk, a putty-like substance, when applied properly seals these gaps.

Over years of use, the caulk around your bathtub may start to peel off. Moisture invites mildew. The black spots you notice on the caulking around the tub is mildew feeding off the caulking.

Caulking the Bathtub

When installing a new bathtub you need to carry out caulking. Old bathtubs may require re-caulking. For durability it is essential that a good quality mildew-resistant caulk be selected. Cheap quality caulks are not durable and may easily be affected by mildew. Within a short time you may require to redo bathtub caulking. There are various types of Silicon-based and Acrylic or Latex-based caulks.

Some Tips On How To Caulk Your Tub

 

• Manually scrape out the old caulk. Razor blades and scraping tools can be used. Take care that bathtub surfaces are not scratched.
• Remove all traces of soap scum, body oils etc from the surface. Rubbing alcohol is ideal as it leaves the surface spotlessly clean.
• Ensure the surface to be caulked is perfectly dry.
• Fill around half the bathtub with water. Failure to do this is a serious error.
• Get into the bathtub. Apply masking tape to both the surfaces leaving a gap for filling. Fill the mildew-resistant caulk you have selected, around the joint.
• Smoothen the caulk with a wet finger tip or a rubber spatula. The masking tape can be peeled away leaving an elegantly neat bathtub caulking job.
• After allowing a minimum of 24 hours for curing, your bathtub is ready for use.

In your most sultry dream, you are probably seeing yourself in a glass bathtub, soaking naked in the most aromatic water, with chamomile oil caressing your skin from neck down to your toes. When you smell that chamomile extract, which is covering the entirety of the room with the most hypnotic and sexy fragrance known to men, you realize it is not an ordinary bath soak. Petals are around you and overflowing so much that they literally make a flower bed on top of the water. Your favorite bossa nova goddess is singing your music as you are savoring the wine, which is strong but not enough to make you tipsy. You know it then that this is indeed the bath soak you will relish over and over.

Everybody is dying to have this kind of bath soak, you know it for sure. Though there are a few who are still fantasizing over this sultry bath experience, many are now heading towards the realization of this fantasy. For Pete's sake, you only have to have a glass bathtub–or any bathtub, but better if it's glass for a sexier feel–some aromatic oil, rose petals, your favorite relaxation CD, of course a player, and a bottle of wine. Now, if you have all these items and the only thing that's missing is a bathtub, or a glass bathtub more specifically, there's a good news for you.

With the technological innovation and men's overpowering inventiveness, you can now own a glass bathtub and install it in your bathroom with no hassles at all. Right! Glass bathtubs now are becoming one of the bestsellers in the market, enticing more and more homeowners. But just a word: glass bathtubs, because of their intricacy in style and construction, are more expensive than the ordinary bathtubs, with prices that may border from $8,000 to $22,000, depending on the brand and added features.

Now, when shopping, remember to propel your level of patience a little higher because it's normally a bit hard looking for a glass bathtub. Actually, there are those glass tub owners who spent several months scouting for their desired tubs, welcoming desperation over and over until they finally found their darlings only God knows where. So remember this, when you see a glass bath tub online and find out it's not yet available in some stores, be patient. Just think that maybe the manufacturer is still perfecting your bathtub to give you the best tub and a master piece in one.

Glass Bathtub Buying Tips

So, it's clear. You need to have a huge sum of money and an equally huge amount of patience when in the lookout for a bathtub made of glass. So, what now? Okay, here are the other things you need to keep in mind.

1. Consider your bathroom space. Take note that a bathtub needs a space, and not just a space–it needs a big one. Of course, you don't want to buy a tub worth thousands of dollars only to realize later that your bathroom area is too small for a double-person bathtub. Oh, isn't that too sad?

2. Consider if kids will use the bathtub. If they will, you may need to be extra careful. Remember, we're talking of glass here. And you don't want any misfortune to befall the kid or the bathtub, right? Now, if you want a soaking tub to be freely used by kids, why not purchase an inflatable pool or a kiddie bathtub? They can tumble in and out of these versions without mommy's infuriating pleads.

People always have a penchant for big things–big dreams, big house, big yard, big office, big bag, everything big. The same is true with house rooms–big kitchen, big living room, big bedroom, and big bathroom. The problem is, there will always be a limit. You cannot always have big things. For instance, you want this really huge bathtub in your bathroom, but your space is almost cramped, and there is no way for you to install this monstrous tub unless you remodel the entire room. But you can only think of two achievable options: leave the bathroom as it is and forget the tub, or forget the tub and leave the bathroom as it is. Choose either of the two and you'll be a sorry loser. Now, if this is the case, better explore the third option: leave the bathroom as it is and get a tub. No, not that big tub you have in mind. A compact bathtub is the best piece. Is there such a thing? Of course! As you might have guessed, these compact bath tubs are small enough to be installed in the tiniest bathroom.

Compact Bathtub Buying Tips

If you have no idea how to choose a compact tub, you are advised to know some tips. Remember, a bathtub is probably one of your necessary purchases, so make sure you pick the best item, otherwise, you run the risk of wasting some of your hard-earned money.

1. Choose a bathtub that allows you to sit than lie down. Of course, those tubs made for lying down are relatively long, so they are most likely not fit for a small bathroom. Better if you choose the shorter but deeper bathtubs.

2. Consider Japanese-inspired bathtubs. To tell you, bathtubs have long been part of Japanese culture and have been widely used for relaxation. And since Japanese people have smaller spaces to accommodate the traditional-sized tubs, they came up with these deep but small bathtubs. So, instead of stretching their legs straight in the tub, they sit down and soak deep in the water.

3. Look up for claw foot bathtubs. These are deep bathtubs that allow you to get a really good dip.

4. Forget the traditional rectangular shape in the meantime and consider the corner-fit tubs that have space-friendly shapes. As you might have guessed, you can install these in the bathroom corners without occupying too much space.

5. Find walk-in bathtubs. Though widely manufactured for handicapped and elderly people, walk-in bathtubs also have versions for able-bodied individuals. These have swinging doors on the side–so users can come in and out of them with so much ease–and raised seats for a more comfortable tub soak.

6. Check the manufacturer. Ideally, you should buy your small bathtub from a widely trusted manufacturer. Just a word: those that are made by a reputable company are most often expensive. But you know, spending for a costly item is much better than buying the cheap one that after some time may prove to be inferior in quality.

Imagine a day filled with towering paperwork and endless rumbling with the boss. Though your idea of relaxation could mean a kneading comfort through a Shiatsu massage, you may no longer have the energy to go straight to a spa.  Instead, you'd rather go home and doze off only to wake up the following day with aching pains.  If you think you're the only one to encounter this dilemma, then think of thousands of other people who wish to have a relaxing retreat after work. 

Big thanks to Capri bathtubs - you can now have a soothing massage while dipping in a tub.  With its key features not only for relaxation but also for sheer convenience, these specially-designed bath tubs have an amazing set of six Shiatsu micro jets on both ends.  The fingertip pressure from a Shiatsu massage in a bathtub may enhance the energy flow of the body and relieve some body pressures.  This innovative design also includes the five 90 litres per minute centre air jets to give you a more relaxing experience in Capri bathtubs.  Aside from these, the following features can also make these bath tubs a great value to your home:

More Bath Tub Space to Share with Your Partner
The twin corners of Capri tubs hold a deeper space for immersion.  The bold straight lines is also said to be a cutting edge design for modern bath tubs.  These bath tubs feature a strong lumbar support, long towel rails, and a wider rim where you can place some bathroom products.  All these make Capri baths a center of attraction for meticulous shoppers.

Higher Standards for Quality
Capri whirlpool bath tubs are made using Englishcast, a high performance material that combine natural rock and acrylic resins. 
The durability of cast iron and other materials also provides a functional piece with a glossy finish.  These jetted bathtubs can resist stain, mold, and mildew, which make them easier to clean and maintain.  These tubs can also withstand color fading, heavy weight, and great impact.  The exterior may be painted to match the interior design or pattern.  A 25-year warranty that comes with the purchase only proves how practical it is to buy this type of modern bath tub. 

More Ergonomic Features
Aside from their standard features, these tubs offer more to their users by including two headrests, pumps, on and off buttons, air controls, water intakes, and a pop up waste.  You should also take a look at its add-on features such as the silent filler, inline heater, and the sound proof front panel.  Having recessed jets and convex back supports make Capri bathtubs an ergonomic choice.   

When shopping for Capri baths, remember to check the size or dimensions based on length, width, height, and depth.  Make sure that they'll fit the bathroom space.  You may install these tubs at the center or corner of the bathroom to maximize the use and distribution of space.

Be sure to check out Capri tubs at the Victoria & Albert site.

Other than keeping your body clean, Hinoki bath tubs from Bartok Designs will give you more reasons to soak in a warm bath for 30 minutes every day.  Not only does it promote better blood circulation, a warm bath also helps rid of body toxins.  For centuries, it has always been a known cleansing ritual in Japan.  But now that the west  has come to know this new bathing experience, expect to have a rejuvenated mind and body as a simple recipe to better life.  By using Hinoki wood for bathtubs, you may also benefit from its soothing fragrance and antibacterial properties.  If your desire insists on having a spa experience similar to soaking in a hot spring, then you better think of these five good reasons to buy Hinoki bathtubs:

1. Hinoki bath tubs add a touch of elegance in any bathroom - a wooden bath tub may exude a zen-like appeal for the bathroom space.  When adorned with candles and natural ornaments, the whole environment may convey an intense feeling of peace and relaxation.  This functional piece of bathroom fixture also provides a contemporary blend with other accessories such as a lifesize mirror or a glass vessel sink.  Simply, these Japanese bath tubs can give your private sanctuary a distinction of beauty.

2. They can be custom-made - though most manufacturers sell standard-sized Hinoki bathtubs, your options may also include a "build to order" design.  You may specify the size and other dimensions so the bath tub will fit perfectly in the allotted space.  You can also suggest a specific pattern, color, or design and choose the type of materials to use.  However, certain requests also mean more intense work, hence, more expensive price.

3. Hinoki tubs are easier to install - Hinoki bathroom products are usually assembled prior to shipment.  They are also ready for installation based on your specification.  If you need more instructions, you can work closely with customer service representatives who can offer suggestions for preparation.  Another good thing about these tubs is that they can be found online.  Hence, you can easily place an order through fax, e-mail, or a phone call to its numerous dealers.

4. They are best for aromatherapy - Hinoki wood from Japan is famous not only for its aroma but for its therapeutic benefits.  The warm water helps release natural oils from this wood.  The natural oils or extracts can relieve body aches and pains, which make soaking in tubs a soothing spa experience.  Because of its fragrance, using Hinoki wood for bathtubs can also reduce tension and stress.  

5. Hinoki baths offer top-of-the-line quality - Hinoki wood is known for its natural white-pink color, rich grain, smooth texture, and lemon-like fragrance, which all provide warm comfort to the body.  This type of wood is also ideal for bathtubs because of its antibacterial agents.  Through this natural property, the Japanese Hinoki wood bath tubs can resist mold and insects and withstand humidity.  Compared to other luxury items, these tubs help you save on cost and maintenance.  

Also, take a look at the Bartok Designs website.

Italy truly produces some of the most stunning designs. Case in point: the designers Giovanni Ronzoni, Luisa Frigerio and Fabrizio Proserpio from Axolo have created the one of a kind Lady X bathtub. This ultra modern minimalist  luxury bathtub is made with stainless steel, rare woods and sheets of aluminum and is sure to quite an impression. (more…)

Bathtub transfer benches help bathers get in and out of bathtubs. For persons with physical limitations, getting in and out of tubs can be an immense problem. Instead of having to step over the tub edge, these benches make it easy for people with disabilities to slide into them. People facing severe mobility problems can get into bathtubs with the aid of such transfer benches.

If, while bathing, sitting on the tub floor is difficult, there are a variety of portable tub seats, chairs, and benches available. These benches provide a safe and functional way to sit in the bathtub. Usually the seat height is adjustable and has a slip-resistant surface with drain holes.

Easy Access into The Bathtub

Bathtub transfer benches provide easy access into the tubs. These benches are designed, incorporating comfort and safety features. The height of the seats is adjustable and fit snugly inside the bathtubs. The legs are provided with slip-resistant rubber tips. These rubber tips also prevent marring of tub surfaces. Some benches fit into the tubs, some sit outside the tub, with extensions over the edge and bathers quietly slip over into the tub. Some benches have slots where bathtub curtains can be tucked into. Other than privacy, curtains ensure that water does not splash all over the bathroom.

Some models of bathtub transfer benches are wall mounted. These can be mounted onto the wall next to the bathtub without the need for wall reinforcement. These wall mounted units fold up easily for conventional bathtub use.

Benches are made of rust proof material like aluminum, vinyl and have plastic seats. Some have no metal parts to rust or corrode. Most are portable and can be disassembled for transfer.

Ensure that your bathtub transfer benches are American Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant to reduce bathtub slipping accidents.

Agreed that a bathtub is primarily used for bathing, but it can also serve as something that delights your senses and provides for a relaxing experience. In this article, we will see how various bathtub fixtures, including clawfoot bathtub fixtures, can make your bath tub even more functional and attractive to look at.

Bath tub fixtures can be used with all kinds of bathtubs, regardless of the size, shape, or style of the bath tub. By adding different bathtub fixtures to your tub, you can create just about any kind of setting or ambience in your bathroom that you desire. Whether it is a modern look that you covet, or a traditional relaxed ambience in the bath, you can get the desired effect with various bathtub fixtures.

Here are the different types of bathtub fixtures available to choose from:

1. Handheld Showers: These are perfect additions to any bathtub as they allow you to have the option of taking a shower if you so desire. With handheld showers, you can easily wash those parts of your body that do not get immersed in the bathtub.

2. Bathtub Faucets and Taps: It is common knowledge that all bathtubs need faucets, but did you know that depending on the faucet you choose, you can completely enhance the look of even the most basic of bath tubs? Yes, faucets made from polished brass or gleaming chrome can add that touch of sophistication and style that may be missing from your bathtub. You can choose from mixer faucets or have separate ones for hot and cold water.

3. Bathtub Surrounds and Shower Enclosures: If you do not have the space for a separate shower stall in your bathroom, you can choose bathtub surrounds and shower enclosures that help to convert your bathtub into a shower whenever you want. Not only do these add to your tub's functionality, but can enhance the look of your entire bath.

4. Bathtub Accessories: Different accessories such as tub caddies (for soap, napkins etc), tub mats, bath tub baskets, supply racks, and even clothes drying racks can help to showcase your personal and individualistic style, while at the same time adding to your bathtub's usability.

Clawfoot Bathtub Fixtures

These include clawfoot bathtub drains, lines, tub feet, clawfoot shower risers, and bathtub safety bars that can be affixed on your clawfoot tub for a better bathing experience.

Thus, by using various bathtub fixtures as shown above, you can ensure that you have the perfect bath every time!

Although there are plenty of bathtub models and styles available to choose from, picking the right bath tub for your needs can be a tricky task, more so if you have a small bathroom. If you are unable to fit a standard 5 foot long bathtub in your bathroom, it is time to look for some small bath tubs. This article discusses everything you need to know about small bath tubs.

Yes, bath tubs do come in smaller sizes than the standard 5 foot long ones that are seen in most homes. Therefore, if you simply do not have the space to fit in a big bathtub in your bathroom, you do not have to forego the pleasures of a bathtub entirely but can go in for a small bath tub. Here are the various options at your disposal.

Small Soaking Bathtubs

For me, the most basic function of a bathtub is for relaxation. Some may argue that a bathtub is primarily needed for washing and bathing; but as far as I am concerned that is what showers are for. A bath tub on the other hand is for when I have the luxury of time to spend at least half an hour soaking in the tub. Thus, small soaking bathtubs are a great idea for those who have smaller bathrooms.

Soaking bathtubs are much deeper than standard tubs, thereby making it easier for you to immerse your entire body in the bathtub. With soaking bath tubs, you no longer have to slide down into the tub to cover your full body but can do so in a comfortable reclining position. And since small soaking tubs are deeper than they are wider, they make the perfect choice for smaller bathrooms.

Walk-in Bathtubs

Another option for people with small bathrooms is the walk-in bathtub. As the name suggests, you can walk into the bathtub through a door on its side. Most models even have tub seats for you to relax on. The advantage of a walk in tub is that it allows you to enjoy a relaxing bath but can still fit into a smaller bathroom as it occupies much less space than a regular bathtub.

However, the disadvantage of a walk-in bath tub is that you have to get into the tub first and then fill it and can only get out of the bathtub after you have completely emptied it of water.

Thus, depending on what suits your needs better, you can choose between these two types of small bathtubs for your small bathroom.

Wasauna, a maker of bathroom products based in Scottsdale, Arizona, is now shipping the 2007 Safe Hands Bath™ Walk-in Bathtub. This tub is designed to make it easy for the elderly and the disabled to safely enter and exit the bath. 

Since no wall has to be climbed, the risk of injury is greatly reduced. Rather, the walk-in bathtub has a door that swings outward, and the floor has a non-slip texture. Molded arm rests add to the comfort factor. Optional jets provide a soothing massage (more…)

Bathtubs are fixtures that can be used for years on end. Even if your bath tub develops nasty cracks or is completely stained, you can still save a great deal of money by replacing your tub instead of buying a new one. However, if you have decided to change your bathtub, here's what you need to know about bathtub removal.

Removing a bathtub is something that can be done on your own. But, you will need another helper to assist you during bathtub removal and sometimes you may have to hire a plumber to attach the drain lines and faucets after you have finished removing the bathtub.

The first thing you need to remember before removing bathtubs is to shut off the water supply to that particular bath. Once that is done, you have to then move on to bathtub faucet removal, bathtub drain removal, and removing any other accessories your bath tub may have.

Bathtub Faucet Removal

If your bathtub is the free standing type, the faucets can be removed very easily. All you have to do is unscrew the faucets and remove the entire tap along with the hot and cold mixers if any. For built-in bathtubs, you have to first remove the water connections that run behind the faucets. Simply remove the screws holding the water pipes in place. After that, unscrew all the nuts and bolts on the faucet from the front and simply pull the faucet out. Make sure to remove the faucet spout and stem as well so that they do not protrude and hamper bathtub removal.

Bathtub Drain Removal

Once again for freestanding bathtubs, you simply disconnect the drain lines and lift the entire drain out. Since you have easy access to these, drain removal is an extremely quick job. For built-in tubs, you have to uncover the drain pipes that run either below or to the side of the tub. Unscrew these pipes to get the drain out. Make sure you remove the drain pipes as well as the overflow pipes (if any). Once the pipes are unscrewed, you can easily remove the bathtub drain.

At this point, free standing tubs can be removed from the bathroom. For built-in tubs, after you have removed all the bathtub accessories, you should remove the bathtub surround (if any) and unscrew the tub. The bathtub should now be free from all attachments and can be removed from the bathroom.

While removing certain bathtubs, you may have to cut some sections of the wall out in order to remove the tub properly. If this is the case, it is best to get professional help with bathtub removal so that the tub is removed properly without damaging the site for the new bathtub.

(From Trendir.com)  These must be the sleekest and most elegant wooden bathtubs that I have ever seen! A group of Swiss yacht designers has come up with these ultra-modern bathtub designs, covered with a special varnish for optimal protection. As an option, you can even get Jacuzzi versions. (more…)

(ARA) Makeovers are the rage today. Dozens of home improvement television shows, magazines, and even cable networks are devoted to redecorating and remodeling. Experts tell us what we should have, what color to make it and how to do it. Unfortunately for many, the money for makeovers doesn't come as easily, especially for a bathroom remodel.

The cost of removing and replacing the avocado green bathtub and pink tile surround can cost several thousand dollars, not to mention the time it takes.

If you're on a limited budget like most homeowners, you can have your dated or worn out tub, tile, sink and even your vanity surfaces professionally refinished in any color with the look and feel of new. It can be done in just one day, not weeks, and at a fraction of the cost of removal and replacement.

Miracle Method, with more than 100 locations, has refined the surface restoration process making porcelain, ceramic tile, fiberglass, acrylic, cultured marble and laminate surfaces look and feel like new again.

"People not only want a new look, they also want the surface of their tub and tile to feel like new again," says Chuck Pistor, President of Miracle Method. About half of Miracle Method's customers are some of the world's most recognized hotel chains, including Marriott, Hilton, Holiday Inn and Sheraton. "When people hear that we have done work for hotels like Bally's in Las Vegas or the Sir Francis Drake in San Francisco, they understand the quality and durability of our product," he adds.

The key to a durable surface-refinishing job is the process of cleaning, preparation and bonding. "What separates Miracle Method from other refinishers is not only our attention to detail but also our proprietary bonding agent. It both makes the new finish stick to the old surface, and eliminates the need for dangerous, toxic acids often used by other refinishers," says Pistor.

Mike and Sue Porter of Portland, Ore., thought they had no choice, but to tear out their tub and tile. "Gutting the bathroom was simply not in the budget. When we found Miracle Method, we loved the samples we saw. They turned the clock back on our bathroom from 1965 to 2004 in just one day. It's amazing how bright and smooth the finish is."

Is Refinishing Right For You?

Do You Need to Save Money?

If you want a new look for your bathroom, but don't want to spend thousands of dollars remodeling, then refinishing is your best value. Removing and replacing a bathtub can cost as much as $3,000. With refinishing, you only pay about 15 percent of the cost of replacement. And anyone who has ever replaced the tiles or sink in their bathroom knows the mess and hassle of demolition, as well as the hole it can put in their wallet.

Do You Need to Save Time?

Refinishing a tub can take as little as four hours. You can shower or bathe the very next day. Replacing a tub, however, can take weeks, when you factor in the time to rip out your old tub, tear out walls and plumbing, and install the new tub, plumbing and fixtures.

Is a Refinished Tub Durable?

Refinished tubs or ceramic tiles can easily last 10 to 15 years or more when the right process and bonding is used. A new porcelain bathtub may last a few years longer, but the cost of a new tub alone can be nearly triple the cost of refinishing. Not only is it more cost-effective, but refinishers like Miracle Method are also able to provide extras, like slip-resistant surfaces and custom colors.

Judith from Easthampton, Mass., is still satisfied with the look and feel of her refinished tub after 14 years, "My tub still looks good and is easy to clean. Before refinishing it was pitted, porous and impossible to clean." Refinishing is also great for repairing small chips and cracks, making it ideal for fixtures that are otherwise in good condition. Professional restoration companies like Miracle Method guarantee their work, so be sure to ask about warranties when shopping for a refinisher.

Do You Need a Special Color?

Miracle Method can match nearly any color, allowing you to change that 50s or 60s color to what fits your current décor. Changing colors is especially important for previously owned homes that were decorated by someone else. The tub may be fine, but the color is horrid. Custom colors add to making refinishing a great redecorating value.

When choosing the right refinisher for your bathroom-remodeling project, remember to do a little research. "Refinishing is a great process if it is done with the right materials and techniques, but all refinishing is not the same so be sure to ask the right questions. Ask how long the company has been in business, if they use corrosive acids in your home, do they ventilate the room, and do they offer a guarantee. And definitely ask for references," says Pistor.

To see pictures of refinishing and to learn more about bathroom restoration or franchise opportunities, visit Miracle Method's website at www.miraclemethod.com, or call toll free (888) 271-7690.

Courtesy of ARA Content

Bathtub surrounds are a simple, economical and great way to upgrade your tub and bath and give it a new look. A bathtub surround, also known as a wall kit or tub wall, is a kind of a wall that is installed from the tub end to the ceiling. As the name suggests, surrounds encircle the tub from three sides, leaving one side from which to enter the tub.

Benefits of Bathtub Surrounds

• They provide a good way to make your bathroom look new.
• A bathtub surround provides a watertight barrier around your tub which protects your walls from water seepage.
• Bathtub surrounds are easy to maintain.
• They can be installed over most surfaces such as cement, plaster, drywall, bathtub tile, etc.

Installing Bath Tub Surrounds

It is important that it is installed properly so that it provides adequate water proofing and does not come loose. Here are the basics involved in putting up bathtub surrounds:

• Get the walls ready by removing all the fixtures such as taps, showers, soap dish, etc, from the walls.
• Repair the surface if need be to make it flat and solid.
• Measure the size and location of the fixtures and cut out the appropriate holes in the wall surround panels.
• Fix the panels on the wall temporarily and see that the holes for the fixtures are in the correct place and that the panels are aligned properly.
• Once the placement is absolutely perfect, attach the bathtub surround with the use of adhesive. Use enough adhesive but not too much. Some panels also have peel-and-stick tape that you can use to attach the panels of the bath tub surround to the wall. Let the adhesive take hold, which may take up to 24 hours.
• After that fix the fittings, and you are done!

Most bathtub surrounds come with specific instructions for installation. Refer to these and follow the guidelines for proper installation.