Q: I'm looking to remodel my bathroom the way I want it, not how everyone is telling me I should do it. I want an old-style claw-foot bathtub. Everyone is telling me that my best bet is to get a reconditioned one, but I don't want an old tub. I want a brand-new cast-iron claw-foot tub. Is that too much to ask for, and are they still being made? -- Sally, California
A: Cast-iron tubs have made a big comeback in recent years. Believe it or not, the "green"-building movement has helped homeowners rediscover the benefits of cast iron. Cast-iron plumbing fixtures are usually made with a good amount of reclaimed materials. So, an old cast-iron heating radiator could be part of a brand-new tub, and that fits right in with the "green" thinking.
The good news is that claw-foot cast-iron tubs are still being made, and the freestanding design can create a striking focal point for any bathroom. Also, with a freestanding tub, installation location options can be very flexible.
Remember, though, that this is a high-end item, and the labor costs to install a claw-foot cast-iron tub can be much higher than with a conventional bathtub.
Bottom line: Plan your budget carefully. You want to take a bath in your beautiful new tub –– not in all the bills you have pay!
Master plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of "Ed Del Grande's House Call," the host of TV and Internet shows, and a LEED green associate. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eadelg@cs.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.
Q: I'm looking to remodel my bathroom the way I want it, not how everyone is telling me I should do it. I want an old-style claw-foot bathtub. Everyone is telling me that my best bet is to get a reconditioned one, but I don't want an old tub. I want a brand-new cast-iron claw-foot tub. Is that too much to ask for, and are they still being made? -- Sally, California
A: Cast-iron tubs have made a big comeback in recent years. Believe it or not, the "green"-building movement has helped homeowners rediscover the benefits of cast iron. Cast-iron plumbing fixtures are usually made with a good amount of reclaimed materials. So, an old cast-iron heating radiator could be part of a brand-new tub, and that fits right in with the "green" thinking.
The good news is that claw-foot cast-iron tubs are still being made, and the freestanding design can create a striking focal point for any bathroom. Also, with a freestanding tub, installation location options can be very flexible.
Remember, though, that this is a high-end item, and the labor costs to install a claw-foot cast-iron tub can be much higher than with a conventional bathtub.
Bottom line: Plan your budget carefully. You want to take a bath in your beautiful new tub –– not in all the bills you have pay!
Master plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of "Ed Del Grande's House Call," the host of TV and Internet shows, and a LEED green associate. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eadelg@cs.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.
