Steel Enameled bathtub Vs. Cast Iron Bathtubs
A bathtub is a bathroom feature many homeowners wouldn’t want to live without. Two popular bathtub materials are steel and cast iron. While there are similarities, steel and cast iron tubs are as different as the metals they are made of. When choosing between the two, you need to deliberate such factors as cost, durability and ease of installation.
Advantages of Steel enamel bathtub
Steel tubs may be the most practical and affordable style of tub. Steel tubs, also called porcelain on steel or enameled steel, are made with a thin, stamped steel shell and coated with heat-fused porcelain enamel. The surface of these tubs is easy to clean and maintains its gloss for a long time. It is also durable and resistant to acid, corrosion and abrasion. Steel tubs are lightweight in comparison to cast iron and are the same size as fiberglass and acrylic tubs, making them a good choice for a remodeled bathroom.
Advantages of Cast Iron enamel bathtub
A cast iron tub is made by pouring molten liquid iron into a mold so that the iron hardens into the tub's shape. Like steel tubs, cast iron tubs are coated with enamel. Because these tubs are pure iron and thick, cast iron is the most durable bathtub material, meaning a cast iron tub can potentially last for decades. The enamel finish of a cast iron tub is resistant to most chemicals, chipping and scratching. Cast iron tubs are often deep, and the thick material helps to retain the water’s heat.
Disadvantages of Enamled steel bathtub
Although much lighter than cast iron, porcelain on steel tubs weigh more than fiberglass or acrylic tubs, making them difficult to maneuver into place. The selection of shapes and sizes of steel tubs is quite limited. And if the enamel coating becomes chipped or cracked, the underlying steel will rust. The enamel coating is thick and resistant to chipping, but it can happen.
Disadvantages of Cast Iron enamel bathtub
Cast iron tubs are extremely heavy, requiring extra labor and manpower to install. The extreme weight of these tubs, combined with water weight, often requires additional floor reinforcement for support. Like steel, cast iron will rust if the enamel coating becomes chipped or cracked. Because of its durability, a cast iron tub is typically expensive.
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