Rolltop baths: Acrylic ok or is metal still best?

[Londoner]

I'm debating whether to get a rolltop 'free standing' style bath but 99% of the ones I've seen on sale seem to be made of acrylic and I had the idea of a metal one in mind.

Iron ones are more expensive but is this because they are genuilnely better or is it just because they are rarer/more specialist (the posh factor?)?

Are the acrylic ones actually more durable (despite being cheaper?) What are the pros and cons?

Any comments appreciated. TIA

 

[Nige F]

CAST Iron is more durable because it`s coated with Molten glass type "enamel"....the main reason they discoloured in t`old days was because people cleaned them with scouring powder and left the taps to drip...cared for one should literaly last a lifetime....just don`t expect an old plumber like me to get the bastard up stairs

 

[JohnD]

If you've set your heart on a roll-top with dragons feet, then it needs to be cast iron and very expensive. Otherwise, it will be a cheap and detectable copy of an antique (like buying an MDF Chippendale cabinet).

Personally, I wouldn't have an iron bath. They take a lot to heat them up (think of the heat required to bring a hundredweight of irin up to temperature) so they chill the water and feel cold on your back and other parts. You will also not enjoy carrying it upstairs.

I've had cast iron, pressed steel, GRP and acrylic, and acrylic is my favourite.

 

[Londoner]

Thanks. The 'cold to the touch' and weight issues (might need reinforced floor) means I think I'll go for an acrylic.

 

[Paul Barker]

You put your claw hammer through the plug hole and walk upstairs like a tortois, you'll get over the bad back in about two weeks....

Once heated they stay warm so ideal for a long soak. Wouldn't part with mine.

If you later decide to remove it hit it near the plug hole with a lump hammer and take it out in bits. You'll get over the Tinnitus in about two weeks....