Pros of owning a marble bathtub include the option to choose between natural marble or cultured marble. Additionally, marble comes in a range of distinctive styles and colors that allow for customization. On the other hand, marble bathtubs require consistent maintenance, have unique cleaning requirements, and can be among the more costly of bathtub materials.
Marble bathtubs include cultured marble or natural marble. Natural marble bathtubs usually emphasis artisanship and are often created by master artisans who carve the tub from a solid block of stone. A cultured marble tub, however, is a manufactured product created by pouring a mold of polyester resin and limestone to give the appearance of marble. Either option can provide bathtubs customized in grander sizes, making them more comfortable for enjoying extended soaks and fitting larger individuals.
Due to the beauty of the stone, marble can be a beautiful addition to any bathroom, often capable of giving the bathroom an elegant or luxurious feel. These marble bathtubs have few limits in shape, and customization is possible. This means that tubs do not have to feature the same standard styles found in acrylic tubs and that it is possible to custom order an oval, circular, or other marble bathtub that will best fit the style and space of an individual bathroom. Available marble bathtubs can also include the use of freestanding tubs such as clawfoot, which have a more lavish design. Romantic, rustic, or contemporary bathroom styles can all be achieved when using a marble bathtub as the bathrooms focal point.
Marble is known for its glossy polished finish. One of the pros of deciding on a marble bathtub is the range of rich color choices that can suit the decor in any different bathroom style. A sleek black marble bathtub, for instance, is a neutral color that may require less maintenance than light-colored marble bathtubs.
With any style of marble bathtub, however, owners will have to devote more time to maintenance. Natural marble, for instance, is porous and soft and can easily develop scratches. Users will have to carefully work to keep the surface clean and dry to avoid this complication. These bathtubs can also respond to thermal shock, meaning that if the marble becomes too hot from the temperature of the water, cracks may occur.
Discoloration is also a concern with marble, especially with white marble tubs, as they can develop yellow stains over time. Cleaners that contain acids such as lemon can cause permanent damage to the marble surface, as can abrasive cleaners and products containing bleach. To avoid these issues and maintain the look of the marble, owners may have to purchase separate cleaning products for the bathtub specifically designed for cleaning the marble, such as stone soap.
The final decision to choose a marble bathtub may be complicated by the cost. In general, marble bathtubs cost more than porcelain, steel, or acrylic tubs. Due to the heaviness of marble and cultured marble tubs, installing a marble bathtub or removing the bathtub may end up being more expensive than when dealing with tubs made from other materials. For a marble tub that is fading in color or cracking, refinishing the tub can repair the damage but may still be a significant expense.