The number of sizes, colours, shapes, materials, and bathtub styles can make it difficult for you to decide which one to purchase. The price range varies as well. The cost of installation will add an average of £450 to £800 to the bath price and the installation price goes higher when you have to move the plumbing fixtures.

Features of a bathtub you should consider

A bath is irresistible to many homeowners because of the aesthetic, comfort, convenience, and enhanced bathing experience it provides.

Thus, if you are in the market for a bath, here are some of the essential features you should know.

• Drain placement. This is the most important feature to check. You should know where the drain is located in your bathroom so that you can choose appropriately. A bath’s outlet can be universal, right, left or centre. It’s cheaper to find the bath with the right drain location than re-positioning the drain in your bathroom,

• Bath and shower. If space is tight, consider a style that combines a bath and shower, such as a P-shaped bath. If space allows and you have a separate shower, consider who will be using the bath. Would you like a bath where you can sit up or want one where you can lie down and soak for a long time?

• Freestanding bath. It will give your bathroom a focal point and provide the room with a sense of indulgence. Some are installed flush on the bathroom floor. If you want a more rustic feel, you can get one with claw feet.

• • Shapes and sizes. It is not easy to decide which shape will be right for your bathroom. You can browse the various designs and shapes of bathtubs at http://www.jtspas.co.uk to give you an idea of how they will look in your bathroom. Aside from the standard rectangle, you’ll find squares, hexagons, ovals and rounds. The bath’s size and shape should conform to who will be using it the most and their needs and preferences.

• Material. Today, baths are made from various materials, such as porcelain, acrylic, fibreglass, copper, cast iron, wood, ceramic, stone resin, and cultured marble.

• Weight. The difference in the weights of baths depends on the material used for their construction. You should first consult your plumber whether the bathroom floor can handle the weight or may need new structural support.

• Height and depth. Again, the bath’s height and depth depend on your preference and what your bathroom floor can handle. An inset tub saves space and makes it easier to step into it. If you want to have elaborate bathtub surrounds, you need an elevated tub. If you prefer to soak in the bath, you need one that is about 30.5 to 56 centimetres deep.

• Bath hardware. Consider the fixtures. The modern way to fill the bath is to install floor-standing taps, perfect for freestanding bathtubs. There is a bath filler where the water passes through the overflow. Or you can install the fixtures on the bathroom wall. The new fixtures avoid spoiling the look of the bath and make it easier to clean the tub.

Before deciding, ask yourself how you plan to use the bath and how much space you have in your bathroom. A bathtub is an investment, so you have to make sure that your bathroom can handle the extra weight and requirements.