A platform bathtub is a luxurious and modern bathing option that provides an accessible and relaxing spa-like experience right at home. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about platform bathtubs, from types and benefits to installation and maintenance tips.
Defining the Platform Bathtub
A platform bathtub is a bathtub that sits atop a raised platform or deck. This platform fully surrounds and supports the tub, creating a seamless entry and exit point that allows you to simply walk right into the bathtub.
Unlike a traditional tub that has high walls to step over, the platform design provides easy access without any obstructions or tripping hazards. It offers the experience of stepping into a recessed spa, providing a feeling of immersion right in your own bathroom.
The platform hides all of the plumbing hardware, hoses, and valves, giving the tub area a clean, smooth aesthetic that complements modern bath designs. The tub itself can be a typical drop-in style that sits into the platform or a freestanding style that sits on top.
Platform tubs have been growing steadily in popularity over the past decade. Industry reports show that demand increased by 22% from 2014 to 2019. Homeowners are increasingly attracted to the walk-in accessibility, spa-like ambiance, and high-end look of platform tubs.
Types of Platform Bathtubs
There are two main types of platform bathtubs:
Freestanding Platform Tubs
As the name suggests, a freestanding platform tub sits freely atop the platform, not attached to walls or surrounded tiles. The tub is a prefabricated self-contained unit.
Freestanding tubs come in a wide array of shapes, sizes, depths, and materials such as stone composites, solid surface, acrylic, copper, and more. Their sculptural, stand-alone look provides an artistic element to the bathroom design.
Benefits
- Wider variety of shapes and materials
- Easier installation
- Can be installed anywhere on platform
- Provides flexibility if remodeling space
Considerations
- Generally more expensive than drop-in tubs
- Limited surround customization options
- Needs spacious platform for walk-around access
Drop-In Platform Tubs
A drop-in platform tub is partially or fully recessed into the platform. The tub rim or lip overlaps the platform as it is lowered into place during installation.
Drop-ins allow for more customization of the tub surround. Tile, stone, glass, or waterproof decking can be integrated seamlessly into the tub design. Built-in seating nooks, storage spaces, or steps can also be incorporated.
Benefits
- Allows for greater customization
- Surround can utilize various materials
- Storage nooks can be built in
Considerations
- Installation is more involved
- Surround must be waterproofed carefully
- May require more maintenance if tile is used
The Rising Popularity of Platform Tubs
Platform bathtubs have seen steady growth in popularity over the past decade. From 2014 to 2019, consumer demand for platform tubs increased by an estimated 22%.
Several factors are driving this growth:
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Aging population – The walk-in design provides safe, easy access for those with mobility challenges.
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Smaller spaces – Platform tubs allow small bathrooms to feel more spacious.
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Spa-like experience – Platform tubs provide a feeling of immersion, warmth and hydrotherapy.
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Clean look – The hidden plumbing hardware provides a smooth, sleek aesthetic.
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Custom designs – Platforms allow for creative customization with Various Materials shapes, and features.
With their high-end look and spa-like ambiance, platform tubs create an inviting, accessible oasis within the home. It‘s no wonder they are becoming a highly sought-after bath design feature.
Benefits of Platform Bathtubs
There are many reasons homeowners choose to install a platform tub:
Easy Accessibility
The walk-in entry provided by the platform allows easy access for all ages and mobility levels. No climbing over high walls or slipping on narrow tub edges. This makes platform tubs ideal for both aging populations and busy families with young children.
Relaxing, Spa-like Experience
Platform tubs provide a feeling of immersion, warmth, and hydrotherapy when outfitted with jets. The spacious platforms allow for lounging and warm soaking. Chromotherapy lighting and heated surfaces can add to the home spa ambiance.
Highly Customizable
The platform element allows for amazing design flexibility. Platforms can incorporate stone, tile, glass, or decking materials. Unique storage nooks, steps, benches, or planters can also be built in.
Space Saving
Without the need for exterior steps, platform tubs can fit into tight spaces and make small bathrooms feel more open. The seamless entry point makes the most of limited square footage.
Easy Maintenance
The hidden plumbing and smooth surfaces means fewer crevices for dirt and mildew. Simple wipe-downs keep most platform tubs looking fresh between deep cleanings.
Indoor or Outdoor Use
Platform tubs can be installed indoors or outdoors. Enjoy a relaxing soak surrounded by fresh air and views of nature on your deck, patio or in your backyard.
Choosing the Right Platform Bathtub
Selecting a platform tub for your bathroom involves weighing a few key considerations:
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Budget – Prices span from $1000 to over $10,000 depending on features. Materials like stone, copper and solid surface sit at the high end.
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Tub shape and size – Consider rectangular, oval, round or corner configurations. Measure space carefully to ensure proper fit.
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Material – Choose from acrylic, fiberglass, stone composites, solid surface, wood, copper, and more. Each has pros and cons.
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Special features – Look into jets, mood lighting, heated surfaces, built-in loungers, and chromotherapy options.
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Tub capacity – Larger tubs require more water and a heavier structure to bear the weight when full.
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Freestanding vs drop-in – Freestanding offers flexibility; drop-ins allow for greater customization.
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Door access – Doors offer walk-in accessibility for those with mobility challenges.
This chart provides an overview of common platform bathtub materials:
| Material | Cost | Durability | Maintenance | Customization |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic | $ | High | Low | Medium |
| Fiberglass | $$ | Medium | Low | Medium |
| Solid Surface | $$$ | Medium | Low | High |
| Stone Composite | $$$ | High | Medium | Low |
| Wood | $$$ | Low | High | High |
| Copper | $$$$ | High | High | Low |
Consider the factors above along with the look you want to achieve. Your installer can also provide guidance on which materials work best for your space and needs.
Installation Tips and Considerations
Proper installation is crucial to ensuring your platform bathtub provides enjoyment and relaxation for years to come:
Structural Reinforcements
The combined weight of the tub and water requires robust underlying support. Consult a structural engineer for load capacity guidance.
For upper level installations, the subfloor may need additional bracing with joist sistering to disperse weight. On concrete slabs, verify thickness and add reinforcement.
Examples of platform reinforcement
Building the Platform
- Platform height is typically 16-18 inches, allowing tub rim to be 30+ inches above floor.
- Use multiple layers of waterproofing such as rubber mats, tiles, and RedGard. Leaks can cause major damage.
- Ensure platform remains perfectly level during construction; shims can help.
- If tiling around tub, use cement board. Wood requires intensive waterproofing.
- Account for access to plumbing and drainage.
Installing the Tub
- For drop-ins, lower tub into platform cutout and attach securely to supports.
- For freestanding tubs, lift onto platform and anchor.
- Seal all edges and seams thoroughly with quality silicone caulk.
- Make plumbing connections from access point under platform. Follow codes.
- Surround tub with finish materials like tile, glass, stone, or decking.
Platform tub installation tips
A professional installer can ensure your platform tub is properly reinforced, secured, and sealed during the installation process.
Maintaining Your Platform Bathtub
With proper care, your platform tub can provide decades of warm, relaxing soaks:
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Clean after use – Wipe down all surfaces with a soft cloth and mild, non-abrasive cleaner suitable for the tub material.
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Disinfect regularly – Every 2-3 weeks, do a thorough cleaning using antibacterial wipes or cleaners made for bathtubs and showers. This prevents mold and mildew growth.
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Inspect seals – Check caulk around the tub yearly and re-apply fresh caulk anywhere sealing has deteriorated. A continuous seal prevents moisture damage.
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Avoid harsh chemicals – Never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can damage the tub surface.
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Check accessibility features – For walk-in tubs, test door seals and locks periodically to ensure proper function. Repair any issues immediately.
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Reseal natural stone – For stone composite tubs, reapply protective sealant yearly to prevent staining and damage.
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Protect wood finishes – For wood tubs, sand and reapply protective coatings regularly per manufacturer instructions.
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Clear drains – Prevent clogs by using drain catchers and flushing with enzyme cleaners monthly.
Regular maintenance will keep your platform bathtub in the best condition as you enjoy the benefits for years to come.
Heating Options for Platform Tubs
Warm baths can soothe sore muscles, boost circulation, and promote relaxation. Platform tubs offer a few heating options:
Hydrotherapy jets – Jets release warmed water into the tub for a spa-like experience. Some systems allow temperature control.
Inline water heaters – These heat water to desired temperature before it enters the tub. Timer controls help conserve energy.
Heated tub surfaces – Microheating wires or heated coils behind tub walls maintain warmth. They can also prevent surface condensation.
Tankless water heaters – On-demand heaters only run when the tub is in use versus storing heated water constantly.
Solar heating systems – Roof panels harness the sun‘s thermal energy to heat water flowing into the tub.
Choosing an energy efficient heating system allows you to customize your ideal bath temperature any time for soothing hydrotherapy.
Design Inspiration for Platform Bathtubs
The gorgeous possibilities are endless when designing your dream bathroom around a luxurious platform tub. Here are just a few inspiring ideas to spark your creativity:
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An airy, sunlit spa bath with skylights shining down on a curved pedestal tub with heated slate walls
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Zen-like walk-in stone tub encased by bamboo accents and a warm dark wood platform
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Freestanding copper tub wrapped in tile mosaic accents of turquoise and coral
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A sleek corner soaker tub with jets recessed into a white quartz or solid surface surround
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Grab bars and floating wood benches built right into the tub surround for handy accessibility
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Glowing LED lights along the tub rim and walls to set a relaxing mood
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Double walk-in showerheads adjacent to the tub offering the best of both bathing worlds
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Glass block walls that diffuse natural light into the tub area for a sparkling atmosphere
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Natural stone planters, candles, and greenery adorning the tub‘s platform for an earthy spa vibe
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A cast iron roll top tub on claw feet atop a weathered wood platform showcasing old world charm
With good planning and creative vision, your dream platform oasis can become a reality. The gorgeous possibilities are limited only by your imagination and personal tastes. Investing in a platform tub invites relaxation, renewal, and luxury into your personal home spa.
