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Choosing the right bathtub material affects more than just aesthetics. It impacts how warm your bath stays, how easy the surface is to clean, how long the tub lasts, and how much it costs to install or replace. So, what are bathtubs made of in 2025?
From lightweight acrylic to luxurious stone resin, each material comes with its own benefits and tradeoffs. This guide helps homeowners and remodelers understand today’s most popular bathroom tub materials, how to compare them, and how to identify what type of tub you already have at home.
Whether you're replacing an old unit or upgrading to a spa-like model, understanding the types of bathtub materials available will help you make a confident, well-informed decision.
Before diving into the individual types, here’s a side-by-side preview of the most common bathtub materials in use today.
| Material | Heat Retention | Durability | Weight | Maintenance | Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiberglass (FRP) | Moderate | Low – Prone to cracking | Light (~70 lbs) | Easy | $300–$800 |
| Acrylic | High | Moderate to High | Medium (~100 lbs) | Easy | $400–$1,500 |
| Porcelain Steel | Low | Good – Chips possible | Heavy (~250 lbs) | Easy | $500–$1,200 |
| Cast Iron | Very High | Excellent (decades) | Very Heavy (~350–500 lbs) | Very Easy | $1,000–$8,000 |
| Stone Resin | High | Excellent | Heavy (~400 lbs) | Low | $1,800–$6,000 |
| Cultured Marble | Moderate | Moderate | Heavy (~300 lbs) | Requires care | $1,200–$4,000 |
| Ceramic | Low | Low – Grout issues | Very Heavy (~320 lbs) | High | $700–$2,500 |
| Copper | Very High | Excellent | Very Heavy (~500 lbs) | Easy | $3,000–$9,000 |
| Wood | Low | Low – Moisture damage | Heavy (~400 lbs) | Very High | $3,000+ |
These materials differ significantly in installation complexity, daily use, longevity, and price, making the selection process more than just a design choice.
Choosing the right bathtub material is crucial not just for comfort and aesthetics, but also for durability, heat retention, and maintenance. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular bathtub materials homeowners are turning to in 2025, including pros, cons, and who each type is best for.
Acrylic bathtubs continue to dominate in 2025 thanks to their versatility, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance. They're a favorite among homeowners and contractors alike for both renovations and new installations.
Acrylic bathtubs are formed by heating sheets of acrylic, then molding and reinforcing them with fiberglass. They are among the most common mid-range tub materials used in both renovations and new builds.
Read Also: Why choose acryli bathtubs
Best For:
Homeowners seeking an affordable, lightweight, and stylish tub with good insulation and minimal upkeep.
If you’re looking for timeless beauty and unmatched longevity, cast iron bathtubs are still a top-tier choice in 2025. Though heavy, their durability and elegance make them a premium option.
Made by pouring molten iron into a mold and coating it with porcelain enamel, cast iron tubs are known for their vintage charm and longevity.
Best For: Ground-floor installations, luxury bathrooms, and homeowners who value timeless design and long-term durability.
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Perfect for quick upgrades or rental properties, fiberglass bathtubs offer a highly affordable entry point into full-sized soaking bathtubs . While they may not last as long as premium materials, they serve their purpose well in low-traffic bathrooms.
Fiberglass tubs are formed from layers of plastic reinforced with woven glass fibers and coated in a resin gelcoat. This is one of the most budget-friendly bath materials available.
Best For: Budget-friendly renovations, secondary bathrooms, and low-use spaces.
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Porcelain-enameled steel tubs combine classic looks with a lighter and more affordable design compared to cast iron. They’re often a middle-ground option for homeowners looking for style without the high price.
A sheet of stamped steel coated in porcelain enamel. These tubs mimic the look of cast iron but are lighter and more affordable.
Best For: Cost-conscious homeowners who want a traditional look without the bulk of cast iron.
A growing favorite for luxury bathrooms, stone resin tubs strike a balance between natural aesthetics and modern performance. These tubs are especially popular among homeowners looking for clean, architectural lines and spa-like comfort.
Engineered from crushed stone and resin, stone resin tubs offer a sleek look with natural warmth and durability. Aquatica’s proprietary AquateX™ is an example of high-performance stone resin.
Best For: Modern bathrooms seeking a minimalist luxury aesthetic with long-lasting performance.
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Cultured marble tubs are ideal for those who love the look of natural stone but want a more affordable, customizable, and lightweight alternative. They're especially useful in bespoke bathroom designs.
A mix of crushed stone (like limestone) and resin, molded and topped with a gelcoat. It mimics the look of marble at a lower price point.
Best For: Luxury-style bathrooms on a moderate budget.
Ceramic bathtubs are a nod to traditional craftsmanship and vintage charm. While not as common in modern homes, they remain a beautiful option for those creating artistic or Mediterranean-style bathrooms.
Made by assembling ceramic tiles or creating a full ceramic shell. Traditional and often seen in custom bathroom designs.
Best For: Classic or decorative bathrooms where visual design matters more than long-term durability.
Reserved for luxury bathroom settings, copper and wood bathtubs are less about mass appeal and more about making a bold, design-focused statement. Each tub is unique, handcrafted, and built for those who value form as much as function.
Copper tubs are hand-crafted from metal sheets and naturally develop a patina over time. Wood tubs are custom-built from hardwoods like teak or hinoki and sealed with waterproof coatings.
Best For: High-end, design-forward bathrooms prioritizing uniqueness and luxury.
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Use this detailed comparison table to evaluate the bathtub materials pros and cons at a glance. It includes key considerations like heat retention, durability, cost, and ideal use cases—helping you choose the right tub for your needs.
| Material | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiberglass (FRP) | Budget-friendly, lightweight, easy to install and repair | Prone to cracks, fading, and water absorption | Guest baths, budget remodels |
| Acrylic | Non-porous, retains heat, scratch-resistant, wide design variety | Scratches with abrasives, can flex under weight | Everyday use, family bathrooms |
| Porcelain Steel | Glossy finish, chip-resistant, low-maintenance | Low heat retention, chips may lead to rust, limited design flexibility | Traditional looks on a modest budget |
| Cast Iron | Extremely durable, top-tier heat retention, easy to clean | Very heavy, expensive, complex to install | Long-term value, classic or vintage design |
| Stone Resin | High-end look, excellent heat retention, durable, stain-resistant | Higher cost, heavy | Luxury spa bathrooms, minimalist or modern style |
| Cultured Marble | Warm appearance, repairable surface, multiple shapes & sizes | Prone to discoloration, requires frequent cleaning | Luxury aesthetics on a moderate budget |
| Ceramic | Affordable, customizable look | High maintenance, bumpy surface, prone to grout issues | Classic aesthetics, custom designs |
| Copper | Antimicrobial, beautiful patina, great heat retention | Very expensive, may require custom framing | Showpiece bathtubs, rustic or artisan-style designs |
| Wood | Organic, warm, unique natural finish | Very high maintenance, vulnerable to moisture damage | Spa-style baths, custom installations |
This table serves as a quick visual aid for evaluating the best bathtub materials for your bathroom based on use case, style, and long-term performance.
How to Choose the Best Bathtub Material for Your Bathroom
Every bathroom project has different goals—whether it’s creating a daily-use family tub or designing a spa-like master retreat. The right bathtub material depends on more than looks. Below are key considerations to guide your decision.
Material costs vary significantly. For example:
Tip: Factor in not only the tub’s purchase price, but also installation, delivery, and potential floor reinforcement—especially for heavier materials like cast iron or stone.
Consider Installation Weight & Structural Support
Weight is a critical factor—especially in upper-floor bathrooms.
| Material | Average Weight | Structural Reinforcement Needed? |
|---|---|---|
| Fiberglass | ~70 lbs | No |
| Acrylic bathtubs | ~100 lbs | Rarely |
| Cast Iron | 300–500 lbs | Often required |
| Stone Resin | 350–400 lbs | Often required |
| Copper | 500+ lbs | Always required |
Lightweight materials simplify logistics. Heavier tubs may demand construction adjustments and added labor.
Heat Retention and Comfort
Materials like cast iron, stone resin, and copper are top-tier in holding warmth, ideal for long soaks. In contrast, fiberglass and steel lose heat more quickly.
If thermal comfort is a priority, look for:
Durability and Maintenance Needs
If your tub will see frequent use—especially in households with kids or pets—choose a durable, scratch-resistant material like cast iron or stone resin.
Low-maintenance options:
High-maintenance options:
Each material delivers a different aesthetic:
You may also want to coordinate with tub accessories, wall surrounds, or matching vanities.
Looking to enjoy longer, warmer baths without constantly topping up hot water? Heated bathtubs and high heat-retention materials can make a major difference. Whether you're aiming for spa-level relaxation or simply better efficiency, this section explores why heated tubs matter, which materials hold warmth best, and top product recommendations that combine comfort with modern design.
For homeowners who enjoy long, relaxing baths, heat retention is a major factor when selecting a bathtub material. Traditional tubs often lose warmth within 20–30 minutes. In contrast, insulated bathtubs and built-in heated soaking bathtubs help maintain water temperature for extended periods—without constantly adding hot water.
This not only enhances comfort but also saves on water and energy bills.
Aquatica’s Tranquility System offers a built-in hot tub–style water heating system designed to keep water at a constant temperature. It integrates directly into select stone resin and acrylic tubs, providing a continuous, spa-quality soak, without noisy jets or frequent refilling.
Features:
Recommended Models with Heating Options:
These models offer premium soaking experiences with modern design and thermal comfort—perfect for year-round use.
When comparing acrylic soaking bathtubs vs cast iron bathtubs, homeowners typically weigh factors like heat retention, weight, maintenance, and budget. Both materials are popular for different reasons—but they suit different needs.
Winner: Cast iron (for longer soaks)
Winner: Cast iron (for long-term durability)
Installation & Weight
Winner: Acrylic (for convenience and remodeling ease)
Winner: Tie — both are low-maintenance with proper care.
| Feature | Acrylic Tub | Cast Iron Tub |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Price | $400–$1,500 | $1,000–$8,000+ |
| Installation Cost | Lower | Higher (due to weight) |
| Total Investment | Lower | Higher |
Winner: Acrylic (for budget-conscious buyers)
| Scenario | Recommended Material |
|---|---|
| Budget remodeling | Acrylic |
| Master bath luxury soaker | Stone Resin |
| Multi-story installation | Acrylic |
| Long-term investment with timeless style | Cast Iron |
| Modern shape and design flexibility | Acrylic |
Identifying your existing bathtub material can help determine its maintenance needs, lifespan, and whether it’s worth repairing or replacing. Below are reliable, DIY-friendly methods to figure out what your bathtub is made of.
What it tells you:
Tip: Use a strong refrigerator or neodymium magnet for best results.
Gently press on the tub’s side:
Surface Feel & Temperature
Lightly knock on the side of the tub:
| Wear Pattern | Likely Material |
|---|---|
| Rust spots | Steel or cast iron |
| Scratches and dull finish | Fiberglass or acrylic |
| Cracks or fading | Fiberglass |
| Chips with dark underlayer | Porcelain enamel |
| Yellowing or surface flex | Low-quality acrylic |
If you can access the bottom of the tub via a panel or basement crawlspace:
When selecting a bathtub, understanding how style and installation type align with different tub materials can help you make the right long-term choice. Whether you're planning a full bathroom renovation or upgrading a specific tub, here's what you should know.
These tubs stand independently, not attached to walls, and are often placed as centerpieces in spacious bathrooms.
Compatible Materials:
Best For: Luxury primary bathrooms, open floor plans, and deep soaking enthusiasts.
Designed to fit into a three-wall enclosure, these are the most common bathtub types in standard homes.
Compatible Materials:
Best For: Small to mid-sized bathrooms, especially in family homes or guest baths.
Mounted within a built platform or deck, these tubs are customizable and blend well with tile or stone surfaces.
Compatible Materials:
Best For: Custom bathroom builds, large master baths with elevated aesthetics.
Triangular or wedge-shaped tubs designed to fit snugly into a corner, saving space while offering style.
Compatible Materials:
Best For: Compact bathrooms or dual-user baths in contemporary spaces.
Tub and Shower Combos
These combine bathing and showering functions in one unit—ideal for small homes and apartments.
Compatible Materials:
Best For: Multi-purpose bathrooms where space is limited.
Designed for safety and accessibility, these tubs have a door, grab bars, and seating.
Compatible Materials:
Best For: Elderly users, accessible design upgrades, and therapeutic bathing.
Choosing the best bathtub material ultimately comes down to how you plan to use your tub, what your space allows, and the overall look you want to achieve. Here's a summary based on common homeowner priorities:
Whether you're replacing an old unit or designing your dream spa bath, understanding what bathtubs are made of gives you the insight needed to choose confidently—balancing performance, aesthetics, and cost. From practical acrylic to indulgent stone resin, your perfect bathtub begins with the right material.
Most modern bathtubs are made of acrylic or fiberglass due to their affordability, ease of installation, and design flexibility. For premium installations, stone resin, cast iron, and cultured marble are increasingly popular.
Yes. High-quality acrylic bathtubs are non-porous, resist mildew, and are scratch-resistant when properly maintained. While they’re not as hard as cast iron, acrylic tubs can last 10–15 years or more with gentle cleaning and care.
Cast iron, stone resin, and copper are the best materials for heat retention. These materials stay warm longer, making them ideal for soaking bathtubs and spa-like bathrooms.
You can’t replace the material itself, but many tubs—especially cast iron, steel, and fiberglass—can be refinished or relined. Acrylic liners are a cost-effective option to update the look and extend the life of your existing tub.
| Material | Expected Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Fiberglass | 10 years |
| Acrylic | 10–15 years |
| Porcelain Steel | 15–20 years |
| Cast Iron | 50–70+ years |
| Stone Resin | 25–30+ years |
| Cultured Marble | 15–25 years |
| Copper | 50+ years |
| Wood | Varies – 5–15 years (with high maintenance) |
Proper care and installation can significantly extend a tub’s useful life, especially for materials like cast iron or stone resin.
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