The following extract is from a series of home renovation articles and videos about bathroom remodeling …

If you're worried about the cost to remodel bathroom fixtures and components, then maybe you don't need to start from scratch. Giving your bathroom a new look may be as simple as upgrading your bathtub. Bath design has come a long way and you can choose designs that range from classic to contemporary. In this article, we've got valuable advice on choosing a tub that will have you soaking in luxury.

The first decision, when considering a new bath design, is the goal of the room. Are you updating a guest bathroom? Is it your kids' bathroom or a master bath? Will this be a handicapped bath for an elderly parent? The next obvious thing to consider is your budget. Tubs with a lot of features can be expensive, so decide what you're willing to pay for. If you love taking baths, then purchasing a good tub is money well spent. However, you can get a jetted tub, spa or soaking tub nowadays at fairly reasonably prices if you compare different suppliers.

You also need to consider the available space and what it will take to install the tub. Check to see if additional carpentry will be required for installation and find out how much the tub will weigh when it's full. A bathtub full of water must be adequately supported, so check your framing. Cast-iron tubs, whirlpools, soaking and sunken tubs often require additional support. A tub sized for more than one person will place additional demands on the home's hot water heater also, so you may also require an upgrade or a separate water heater.

Besides the common rectangular shape, tubs also come in corner, oval, circular and freestanding styles. Built-in tubs can be alcove, drop-in or corner style. An alcove tub is standard in most homes and are often tub-shower combinations with waterproof surrounding walls. Drop-in tubs can be sunken into the floor or a tub deck. Drop-in models that are mounted into their own frame or deck will require additional carpentry or framework, which can add to the total cost. Corner model built-ins are installed in the corner, with surrounds on two sides. A free-standing tub has legs or ball-and-claw feet. These tubs frequently have rolled edges and slipper backs for soaking.

You wouldn't buy a car without test driving it, so hop into a bathtub at the store and check it for comfort. A tub fit for soaking should have a bath design depth of at least 15 to 20 inches. The material the tub is made of should also be considered. Porcelain on steel is the most common bathtub material and is resistant to corrosion, acid and abrasion. Fiberglass is one the least costly tub materials but it's not as durable. Other material options include cast iron, solid surfacing and natural stone. Regardless of which tub you choose when it's time to remodel a bathroom, remember to soak up the pleasures of a luxurious bath experience.

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