Acrylic vs Steel Enamel Bathtubs: Depth, Warmth & Comfort Comparison

When remodeling a bathroom, there is an important decision to make: which material to choose for your new bathtub? Acrylic and steel enamel bathtubs are two popular options on the market, but what are the differences in depth, warmth, comfort and long-term durability? Choosing the wrong material can affect both your long-term comfort and your pocketbook. 

Don’t worry! The experienced team at Royal Bath Place will analyze the A to Z comparison of these two popular bathtub materials in this blog. We will help you decide, whether you are confused by the acrylic vs steel tub Reddit discussion or are looking for the advantages of enameled steel bathtubs. Our goal: to help you choose a comfortable, warm and long-lasting bathtub.

Why Bathtub Material Matters in Bathroom Remodeling

Many people only look at the design or color when remodeling a bathroom, but the material selection of the bathtub is the real game-changer. Why is bathtub material comparison so important? There are three main reasons: Comfort, Heat Retention, and Longevity.

Comfort

When you sink into the warm water of the bathtub after a long day of tiring work, the initial warmth (or coolness) of the bathtub material that comes into contact with your skin will affect your experience. For example, there is a clear warmth difference between acrylic bathtub a porcelain bathtub.

Heat Retention

The best material for a bathtub can keep the water warm for a long time. This is associated with saving on your water bill. Finally, bathtub durability. The right material will extend the life of your bathtub, which will save you from costly repairs in the future.

Longevity

Bathroom remodelling is a big investment. Choosing the wrong material can lead to problems like scratches, Discolouration, or Chipping. Therefore, choosing the right material is extremely important in a market like bathroom remodellingin the  USA, where customers expect the best quality.

Acrylic Bathtubs – Depth, Warmth & Comfort

The Acrylic Bathtub is made of thermoplastic material, which is shaped through a vacuum forming process. Its popularity is due to its versatility and ease of installation.

Depth & Comfort

Acrylic bathtubs are usually warm and smooth. When you touch an acrylic tub, it won't initially feel cold like steel or cast iron. It has comfort characteristics. Due to its light weight and flexibility, it comes in various shapes and sizes. It can be made, even deep Soaking Tub can be made. Users often find acrylic comfortable, especially in the back and armrests.

Warmth & Heat Retention

Acrylic has a better heat retention capacity than steel. It acts as a natural insulator, preventing the cold air in the bathroom from absorbing the heat of the water as quickly. However, it should be remembered that it cannot retain heat as well as cast iron. It is a better option in terms of bathtub thermal conductivity than steel.

Pros & Cons of Acrylic Bathtubs

Pros:

• Lightweight: Easy to install and ideal for upstairs placement.
• Affordable: Generally less expensive than steel or cast iron.
• Design Flexibility: Various designs, colors and bathtub materials comparison. It is the most customizable of these.
• Warm to the Touch: Provides a warm sensation upon initial contact.

Cons:

• Scratch: Scratches more easily than steel (but can be easily polished).
• Discoloration: Many people ask, "Do acrylic baths go yellow?" Yes, poor-quality acrylic can oxidise and turn yellow over time due to UV exposure or harsh cleaning.
• Cracks: Acrylic tubs can easily crack if not installed properly or if subjected to excessive stress.

Although acrylic is often seen as a mid-range option, high-quality acrylic tubs now come with quite high-end features and durability. They last a long time with proper care.

Steel Enamel Bathtubs – Depth, Warmth & Comfort

A Steel Enamel Bathtub is a thick layer of porcelain-like enamel over a steel core. It is known for its glossy finish and extraordinary durability.

Depth & Comfort

Steel enamel tubs can initially be quite cold to the touch, which some users may find uncomfortable. However, the smooth and pore-free finish of enamel makes it a hygienic and easy-to-clean option. They are generally less deep, as it is difficult to shape through steel shot. Although depth is less likely, its firm and solid construction does not give any movement or flexing sensation during use.

Warmth & Heat Retention

Steel itself is a fast heat-conducting material, due to which it quickly absorbs heat and cools down in the early stages of pouring water. However, questions often arise about its Heat Retention properties, such as: Do steel baths lose heat quickly? The truth is, once heated and if the tub is properly insulated (insulated steel bathtub), its enamel layer can retain heat for a long time.

Pros & Cons of Steel Enamel Bathtubs

Pros:

• Durable: Enameled steel bathtub reviews often mention its exceptional durability. It doesn't scratch or crack easily.
• Hygienic: The pore-free surface of enamel is very easy to clean and doesn't harbor bacteria.
• Recyclable: Steel is an eco-friendly bathtub recyclable material, which is a big advantage for environmentally conscious consumers.
• Longevity: With proper care, they can last for decades.

Cons:

• Heavy: Much heavier than acrylic, which makes installation difficult.
• Chips Easily: If something heavy falls on the enamel surface, it can chip easily, and those chips are difficult to repair.
• Initial Coldness: It gives a cool feeling when you first use it.

When buying a bathtub, make sure the steel gauge is at least 14 (or closer to 1.5 mm). This helps in durability and noise reduction.

Key Differences Between Acrylic and Steel Enamel Tubs

It is important to clearly understand the main differences between acrylic and steel enamel tubs in real life. Here is a comparative discussion and a table of their key features.

Warmth Retention Test – Which Holds Heat Better?

This is a common debate. In terms of bathtub heat retention, Acrylic is warm to the touch and heats up quickly. However, it is an insulator, so the water does not cool down as quickly. On the other hand, a Steel Enamel tub is initially cold, but if there is an insulating layer (such as foam) underneath, the enamel layer can retain heat longer than acrylic once it is hot. In short: Acrylic is Warm-to-Touch, and Steel is Warm-for-Longer (if insulated).

Comfort & Depth Comparison

In terms of Comfort, acrylic's slight flexibility and ability to create deep shapes make it a good option for personal comfort. Steel enamel offers a more solid feel due to its hard nature. In terms of Depth, acrylic offers the most depth options when compared to Acrylic Bathtub vs fibreglass vs Porcelain.

Durability & Maintenance

Enameled steel is the clear winner in durability; it is scratch-resistant and very hard. However, its weakness is chipping, which is difficult to repair once it occurs. Acrylic scratches easily, but these scratches can be easily repaired by polishing. Acrylic, however, can show discoloration over time.

Characteristics	Acrylic Bathtub	Steel Enamel Bathtub
initial warmth	Warm to touch	Cold to touch
heat retention	Insulator, water does not cool quickly	Conductor, but keeps warm longer if insulated
Durability	Scratchable, easily repairable	Hard, more chance of chipping
weight	Lightweight	Heavy
Design	Extremely flexible, different Depth and size	Limited designs and sizes
cost	Generally affordable	Medium to high

FAQs on Acrylic vs Steel Enamel Bathtubs

What type of bathtub holds heat best?

Usually, cast-iron bathtubs hold the most heat. However, Acrylic Bathtub and Insulated Steel Enamel Bathtub are both capable of good heat retention. Steel enamel tubs retain warmth for a long time once heated, whereas acrylic, being a natural insulator, does not allow the water to cool quickly.

What tubs do plumbers recommend?

Plumbers often recommend Acrylic Bathtubs for their work convenience, as they are lightweight and easy to install. However, they also appreciate the long-term reliability of Porcelain Enameled Steel Tubs in terms of durability. The final choice depends on the structure of your bathroom and personal use.

Can I use bleach on acrylic tubs?

No, you should not use bleach or harsh abrasive cleaners on your acrylic tubs. Bleach can cause the acrylic surface to oxidize over time, causing it to yellow or discolor, and can ruin its shiny finish. Always use a gentle, liquid bathtub cleaner.

Which Bathtub is Right for You? - Expert Recommendation

Acrylic vs Steel, Which is better? There is no single answer to this question. The right bathtub material for you depends on your personal needs, budget and lifestyle. Choosing Bathtub Material is a balancing act.

If you need... Choose Acrylic:

• If you are looking for a lightweight, budget-friendly option.
• If you need a tub with design flexibility and deep comfort depth.
• If you want a tub that is warm-to-touch and easy to polish.

If you need... Choose Steel Enamel:

• If you are looking for extreme durability and a traditional, glossy finish.
• If you are looking for an Eco-friendly and Recyclable material, which is good for the environment.
• If you are looking for a Pore-free, Hygienic surface that is extremely easy to clean.

Still confused? Royal Bath Place can help you select and install the perfect bathtub for your home. Talk to our experts.

Why Choose Royal Bath Place for Your Bathtub Remodeling?

Bathroom remodeling is a skill-based job. It’s not just about choosing the right bathtub material, it’s also about installing it properly. This is where Royal Bath Place comes in.

Our team is Bathtub Installation Experts and Bathroom Remodeling Services USA, with decades of experience, expertise, and trustworthiness. We don’t just sell tubs, we provide a complete solution that fits your home’s design, budget, and expectations. We have a strong local presence in and around Florida. We offer both high-quality Steel Enamel Bathtub Installation and Acrylic Tub Installation services, guaranteed. We make your bathroom remodeling project easy, fast, and error-free.

Our customer reviews are proof of our quality. Check out Royal Bath Place reviews and find out why we’re the best choice for your neighbors.

Conclusion

We have analyzed all aspects of Acrylic vs Steel Enamel Bathtubs final choice. In this journey of Bathtub Materials Comparison, we have found that acrylic offers comfort, warmth and design flexibility, while steel enamel ensures durability, sturdiness and hygiene. Your personal “best” choice will depend on your priorities. 

Bathroom remodelling is an exciting process, and we at Royal Bath Place want to make it easy for you. We offer not just a product, but complete Bathroom Remodel Solutions for your bathroom. Book a consultation with Royal Bath Place today to compare and install the right bathtub for your needs: acrylic, fibreglass, or porcelain.