Clawfoot bathtubs. Clawfoot tub restoration
Clawfoot tubs can be an interesting feature of any bathroom. The old cast iron clawfoot tub is a collector's item and is hard to find in a good and usable condition. They can be refurbished to their former glory. However, it may be more economical to purchase a replica made of acrylic or fiberglass. Some clawfoot tubs are equipped with a shower curtain and shower head. Clawfoot tubs may require more water than a standard sized bathtub.

MATERIAL
Clawfoot tubs can be made of cast-iron, acrylic or copper.
Cast-iron tubs are very heavy and last "forever". The hard baked on enamel finish is scratch and stain resistant. However, over time, chips, scratches and stains will become evident especially if the tub has been sitting outside for a long time. It is time consuming and expensive to refurbish an old clawfoot cast-iron bathtub.
Acrylic clawfoot tubs are cheaper, much lighter and scratch easier than tubs made of cast-iron. Almost without exception acrylic is the choice of material for clawfoot bathtubs in new home construction and major bathroom renovations. Scratches can be relatively easy to fix.
Copper clawfoot tubs made of hammered copper or bronze will add simplicity and elegance to any bathroom. It is also possible to purchase a copper clawfoot tub with a nickel plated inside and nickel accents. To compliment your copper clawfoot bathtub add bronze accessories such as towel bars, hooks, toilet paper holders, and even faucets.
Other, not so common materials used for clawfoot tubs are stainless steel, stone, nickel plated in and outside, and acrylic tubs finished with a cypress wood exterior for that old homestead era look.