Get tubs for a luxurious bathroom

May 23, 2013

Bathtubs have been popular for many years. Besides, the many functions they offer, tubs give bathrooms a luxurious feel. Choosing the right tub for your bathroom is not a matter of chance. There are several factors to consider, including the size, shape and its features.

By Umar Nsubuga
 
Bathtubs have been popular for many years. Besides, the many functions they offer, tubs give bathrooms a luxurious feel. Choosing the right tub for your bathroom is not a matter of chance. There are several factors to consider, including the size, shape and its features.
 
Different designs
Mike Katama of Cheap General Hardware in Kasubi says bathtubs come in different designs, sizes and materials. “Some are metallic, plastic, while others are made from fibre. One should also consider the function and aesthetic value, before buying a bathtub,” he advises.  
 
Types of tubs
 
Alcove tubs
These are surrounded by walls on three sides. As such, it is easy to install them because they are firmly held by bars and rails. They are also served by wall-mounted taps and drains. 
 
Drop-in tubs
These are built on raised platforms. Some have steps leading to them to make it easy for the user to get in and out. 
 
Free-standing tubs
These are made of hard plastic and are designed to stand on the floor. 
“Free-standing bathtubs are good for spacious bathrooms since they can be placed anywhere,” says Katama. 
 
Standard tubs
Margaret Sempala of Mirembe General Hardware in Nakasero says standard bathtubs are mostly used in homes because they carry a lot of water. They need walls to be installed. 
 
Pyramid bathtubs
The name pyramid is derived from its shape. This type is normally fixed in the corner of the bathroom because of its shape. A pyramid bathtub is ideal for those with little space. Since it is fixed between walls, it is easy to put an enclosure. 
 
Cowrie oval
These are more like standard bathtubs, but are oval shaped. They are elegant because of their shape and require walls to be installed.
 
Prices
Prices of bathtubs differ, depending on the material, but they range from sh600,000 to sh7,000,000.
 
Materials
A bathtub’s material affects its appearance, shape, durability and most especially, its price. 
 
Features
All bathtubs, no matter the design, should have safety rails for support in case one slides in the bathtub. They should have an outlet for waste water and an in-built soap dish. 
 
Installation
Paul Bogere, a plumber, says care should be taken when installing a bathtub because any mistake can lead to disaster. A bathtub should be placed on a slab that can support the weight of the water and user.
 
Maintenance
Scrub the bathtub with detergents to keep it clean.
 
*****************************
 
Tips on bathroom safety
 
By Shamim Saad
 
A warm bath can calm the spirit as well as painful joints and muscles, but make sure you practice bathtub safety. Many people have drowned in bathtubs, while others have got injuries  while trying to get in or out of tubs.  The following tips will help you ensure bathtub safety in your home.
 
Godfrey Ssembuze, a dealer in bathtubs at MM Plaza in Kampala, says if you need additional help standing, sitting, or getting out of the tub, use a bath rail for support.
 
“These are fitted on the edge of the tub. All one has to do is to select the right height and grip style that suits their needs,” he advises.
 
He says one can also have grab bars installed to help them balance as they stand or sit. 
“Grab bars come in various lengths, textures and styles,” he says.
 
Harriet Ahumuza, a dealer in bathtubs at Nakasero Market, advises home owners to have tension poles installed between the floor and the ceiling to give them additional support as they move around.  
 
Non-slip treads or bath mats are a must-have in the bathroom, according to Ahumuza. “Keep the tub clean to avoid slippery soap scum or mold,” she warns.
 
Ssembuze says people should not rush while in the bathroom as this increases the risk of falling.
“If you feel insecure when taking a bath or shower, ask a friend or family member to keep nearby.  You can also install a call button or intercom in the bathroom for easy communication,” he explains. 
 
Ahumuza advises mothers to set their water heater to 120 degrees F to avoid burns. 
“It takes just three seconds for a child to get third-degree burns from water that is 140 degrees F. Make the bath water comfortably warm ,” she says.
 
Ahumuza warns parents against allowing children to touch the faucet handles. 
“Even if he cannot move them now, he will soon be strong enough to do so, which can lead to serious injury,” she warns. 

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});