A claw-foot tub is the perfect vintage touch for your bathroom remodeling project. These freestanding tubs were first used in the 19th century and are now trending as luxurious features in interior design. Before you start shopping, however, know what to expect and how you can make the most of your investment.

Your Bathroom Remodeling Guide to Adding a Claw-Foot Tub

What to Expect

Real antique tubs from the 19th century were made of cast iron and lined with porcelain since the iron retains heat well for long baths. This means they were also extremely heavy, weighing hundreds of pounds. Modern-day replicas contain lighter materials such as fiberglass or acrylic, but they are often thousands of dollars.

To maximize your budget and get an authentic antique, you can save a lot of money by purchasing an older tub that needs some work. Factor in transportation, the bathroom remodeling installation—including setting up the plumbing—and refinishing in your cost estimate.

How to Refurbish One

When you find an antique porcelain tub, use a mild cleaner for routine cleaning and dry it immediately after use. If there is stubborn rust on the tub, use an abrasive cleaner. If the rust goes through the porcelain, rub the area using a mixture of half muriatic acid and half water. Don’t inhale or ingest the solution, and use gloves to protect your skin.

If the tub requires more care than cleaning can offer, have professionals refinish it. This process involves masking off the area and then roughing up the porcelain surface. They fill any holes or nicks, apply a bonding agent, then prime and paint it. After, you can clean your refinished tub with a mild cleaner, but never an abrasive one.

The team at Contemporary Refinishing specializes in restoring homes throughout St. Louis, MO, to their original glory. They’ll handle every aspect of your bathroom remodeling project, such as tile refinishing and countertop resurfacing. They are fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind. Learn more about their bathroom refinishing online, and call (314) 520-0857 to get started.