Frequently Asked Questions

Matte White and Satin White are two different types of finishes used on bathtubs and other fixtures. The primary difference lies in their appearance and texture.

Matte White: This finish is non-reflective and does not shine. It has a flat, smooth surface and gives a contemporary and minimalist look to the bathtub. Matte white finish can hide minor scratches and marks better than shiny finishes. However, it might require more rigorous cleaning as soap scum and water spots can be more noticeable.

Satin White: This finish sits between a matte and a gloss finish. It has a slight sheen to it but is not as highly reflective as a full gloss finish. This gives the bathtub a soft, subdued glow that is more traditional and warmer. Satin finishes are generally easier to clean than matte finishes and can resist scratches and stains well.

The choice between Matte White and Satin White largely comes down to your personal preference, and the style and decor of your bathroom.

In general, Satin White finishes are slightly easier to clean than Matte White finishes. The slight sheen of the satin finish can resist dirt and stains more effectively and may require less frequent deep cleaning. Regardless of the finish, here are some general cleaning recommendations:

 Regular Cleaning: For daily or weekly cleaning, use a non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge. This can help to prevent the buildup of soap scum, hard water deposits, and other residues.

Deep Cleaning: If stains or mineral deposits occur, a mildly abrasive cleaner or a paste made from baking soda and water can be used. Apply the cleaner or paste, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently scrub with a soft cloth or sponge.

Rinse and Dry: After cleaning, thoroughly rinse the tub with clean water and dry it with a soft towel. This can help to prevent water spots and soap scum buildup.

Use Tub-Specific Cleaners: It's also helpful to use cleaners that are specifically designed for bathtubs as they are formulated to clean without damaging the surface. Always check the product label for any specific instructions or warnings.

Some people prefer Matte because you can clean the tub with 220 grit sandpaper to revitalize the tub.

Others prefer Satin because you can clean it with regular 409 or Windex.

Remember, before using any cleaning product, it's a good idea to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn't harm the finish of your tub.

Most of the tubs come with a polished chrome drain; However, you can switch the drain color to brass, black, gold, white, brushed nickel, etc. It would be ordered from the manufacturer. Let us know if you wish to switch the drain color and we will give you a quote on it, Grandtubs (877) 436-1225.

Stone Resin and Acrylic are two popular materials used in the construction of bathtubs. They each have their unique properties and advantages:

Stone Resin Bathtubs: These are made from a blend of natural stone and synthetic materials, often including crushed stone like marble or granite, and a resin binder. The mixture results in a highly durable, scratch-resistant, and heat-retaining material. Stone resin tubs are heavier and typically more expensive than acrylic, but they have a luxurious, modern look and feel, and they tend to be long-lasting. They also maintain water temperature well, making for a warmer, longer soak.

Acrylic Bathtubs: These are made from a type of plastic (Acrylic), which is heated and formed into a tub shape, then reinforced with fiberglass for added durability. Acrylic tubs are lighter and more affordable than stone resin tubs. They are easy to mold into a variety of shapes and sizes, and they have a high gloss finish that's easy to clean and maintain. However, they may not hold heat as well as stone resin tubs, and they may be more susceptible to scratches and stains.

In terms of maintenance and cleaning, both types can be cleaned with non-abrasive cleaners and soft cloths to maintain their finish. Always avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning tools, which can scratch or dull the surface of the tub.

A solid surface bathtub is a type of bathtub made from a high-quality synthetic material that imitates the appearance of natural stone. This material is typically a blend of resins and mineral fillers.
Key characteristics of solid surface bathtubs include:

Durability: Solid surface materials are resistant to scratching, chipping, and cracking. They can also withstand heavy usage over many years.

Heat Retention: These bathtubs are excellent at retaining heat, making your bath stay warm for longer periods.

Non-Porous: Solid surface tubs are non-porous, which means they resist the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria, contributing to a cleaner and healthier bathroom environment.

Repairable: One of the unique advantages of solid surface materials is that they are repairable. If they get damaged, the surface can be sanded and polished back to its original condition.

Variety: They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors to fit any bathroom decor style.

Feel: They have a smooth, comfortable surface that feels pleasant to the touch, similar to natural stone.

Because of these characteristics, solid surface bathtubs are often considered a luxury item and are commonly found in high-end homes and hotels.

For light cleaning, use a 409 cleaner. If you need deeper cleaning, you can safely use 220 grit sandpaper on solid surfaces. Its solid composition means there's no coating to worry about scratching.

Whirlpool Bathtub: This type of bathtub features water jets that create a swirling motion in the water, providing a massaging effect. The jets are typically adjustable, allowing you to target specific areas of your body for a hydro-massage experience.

Total Massage Bathtub: This is a term that could be used to describe bathtubs that combine multiple massage features. It might include both water jets (similar to a whirlpool bathtub) and additional features like air jets or vibrating elements to offer a comprehensive massage experience.

Soaker Bathtub: A soaker bathtub is a simple and traditional bathtub designed for soaking and relaxation. It does not have any special massage features like jets, focusing on providing a deep and immersive bathing experience.

Air Massage Bathtub: Unlike whirlpool bathtubs that use water jets, air massage bathtubs utilize air jets to create a bubbly and effervescent sensation. The air jets release streams of tiny bubbles into the water, delivering a gentle and soothing massage.

In summary, whirlpool bathtubs use water jets for a targeted hydro-massage, air massage bathtubs use air jets for a gentle bubbly massage, total massage bathtubs may combine multiple massage features, and soaker bathtubs are basic tubs designed for deep soaking and relaxation without any massage capabilities.

Microbubbles in bathtubs refer to extremely small bubbles that are typically less than 50 micrometers in diameter. These tiny bubbles are produced and released into the water by specialized systems in certain bathtubs, creating a unique and luxurious bathing experience.

Microbubble technology is designed to improve the quality of the water and enhance the overall bathing process. When you soak in a bathtub with microbubbles, these small bubbles remain suspended in the water for an extended period, providing several benefits:

Deep Cleansing: Microbubbles have a high surface area to volume ratio, which allows them to penetrate deep into the pores of the skin, removing impurities, dead skin cells, and excess oil.

Skin Hydration: The tiny bubbles help to moisturize and hydrate the skin, leaving it feeling soft and rejuvenated.

Enhanced Relaxation: The sensation of microbubbles on the skin can create a gentle massaging effect, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

Improved Blood Circulation: Microbubbles may help improve blood circulation by gently stimulating the skin's surface.

Overall, the presence of microbubbles in bathtubs can contribute to a more enjoyable and therapeutic bathing experience, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.

An alcove bathtub, often referred to as a recessed bathtub, is a type of bathtub that is installed adjacent to three walls. This design is one of the most common bathtub installations, primarily because it's space-efficient and fits well in standard-sized bathrooms.

 Here are some characteristics of an alcove bathtub:

Three-Sided Enclosure: The tub is bordered by walls on three sides, with the fourth side being the front of the tub, which is typically the only exposed side.

Shower Combo: Many alcove bathtubs are equipped with a showerhead above, making them a combination of a bathtub and a shower. This dual functionality is a space-saving feature that's especially beneficial for smaller bathrooms.

Standard Sizes: Alcove bathtubs usually come in standard sizes, with the most common being 60 inches in length and 32 inches in width.
 
Material Variety: These bathtubs can be made from various materials, including acrylic, fiberglass, cast iron, and porcelain-enameled steel.

Front Skirt or Apron: The exposed side (or the front) of the bathtub often has a decorative panel, known as a skirt or apron, which hides the underlying structure and plumbing.

Alcove bathtubs are popular for their practicality and are often chosen for bathroom remodels and new constructions due to their efficient use of space.

A drop-in bathtub, as the name suggests, is a type of bathtub that is "dropped into" a pre-built frame or enclosure. Unlike the alcove bathtub that is surrounded by walls on three sides, the drop-in bathtub is designed to be installed into a deck or custom surround, which can be made of various materials like tile, marble, or wood.

Here are some characteristics of a drop-in bathtub:

Rimmed Edge: Drop-in bathtubs have a rim that rests on the edge of the frame or enclosure, which supports the tub and holds it in place.

Versatile Placement: These tubs can be installed almost anywhere in the bathroom, including corners, against a wall, or even as a bathroom centerpiece.

Customization: The surrounding deck or platform can be customized to match bathroom decor, offering a wide range of design possibilities.

No Finished Front: Unlike alcove bathtubs, drop-in tubs don't have a finished front or apron. Instead, all sides are meant to be hidden by the surrounding deck.

Variety of Shapes and Sizes: Drop-in bathtubs come in a range of shapes, including rectangular, oval, round, and even heart-shaped, allowing for more design flexibility.

Installation: The installation process for drop-in bathtubs can be more complex than for alcove tubs, as it requires a custom-built frame or platform. The plumbing is typically hidden beneath the deck.

Drop-in bathtubs are popular for their aesthetic appeal and design flexibility. They can be a focal point in luxury bathrooms and offer a more customized and upscale look compared to standard alcove tubs.

An ofuro bathtub is a traditional Japanese soaking tub. Unlike Western bathtubs, which are often used for both washing and soaking, ofuro tubs are specifically designed for deep relaxation and soaking.

Here are some distinctive features and aspects of the ofuro bathtub:

Deep Design: Ofuro tubs are deeper than typical Western bathtubs, allowing users to sit upright and submerge their bodies up to their shoulders.

Material: Traditionally, these tubs are made from wood, especially hinoki (Japanese cypress), which is aromatic and adds to the sensory experience of the bath. Modern ofuro tubs can also be made from acrylic, stainless steel, or other materials.

Cleansing Before Soaking: In Japanese bathing culture, individuals thoroughly cleanse their bodies outside the tub before entering the ofuro for a soak. This ensures that the soaking water remains clean and can be reused by other family members.

Seated Position: Given the tub's depth, bathers usually sit in an upright position, often using a small wooden stool.

High Temperature: The water in an ofuro is typically hotter than what's used in Western baths, promoting deep relaxation and improved circulation.

Compact Size: While they are deep, ofuro tubs are often compact in terms of length and width, making them suitable for smaller spaces.

Therapeutic Benefits: The deep soaking in an ofuro is believed to have numerous health benefits, including improved circulation, relief from muscle aches, and stress reduction.

The ofuro soaking ritual is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and is seen as a time for relaxation, reflection, and rejuvenation. In recent years, the concept of the ofuro has gained popularity worldwide, especially among those seeking a spa-like experience at home.

Yes, air massage bathtubs and whirlpool bathtubs are indeed different, with each offering a unique bathing experience.
Here's a brief overview of the distinctions:
Air Massage Bathtubs: Air massage bathtubs have numerous small jets that release air into the water, creating thousands of tiny bubbles for a gentle massaging effect. The sensation is of a full-body caress with countless effervescent bubbles. They are generally quieter than whirlpool tubs. Air tubs tend not to provide targeted, deep-muscle penetration but rather a soft, widespread massage. They often have a feature that dries the air channels after use to prevent mildew and bacteria buildup.

Whirlpool Bathtubs: Whirlpool bathtubs pump water through jets, creating a powerful stream that can provide a deep, targeted massage to specific areas of the body. They tend to be more vigorous and intense in their massaging action. Whirlpool tubs may produce more noise due to the water being forcefully ejected from the jets. These tubs can be used for hydrotherapy purposes because of their ability to focus on muscle groups with high-pressure water streams. Maintenance can include cleaning the water jets to ensure no bacteria or mold builds up within the water lines.

While both bathtubs can offer therapeutic benefits and a relaxing soak, the choice between an air massage tub and a whirlpool tub often comes down to personal preference regarding the type of massage experience desired.