Garden tubs and Roman tubs are two luxurious bathtub options.
Garden tubs, dating back to 18th-century France, are deep for full-body soaks and focus on comfort with a simple design.
Roman tubs, inspired by ancient baths, have a more architectural look, often with steps and decorative faucets, and are large enough for multiple people.
When choosing between them, consider the space available, the durability of materials, and the installation process.
This comparison will examine the history, style, and practical features of garden tubs versus Roman tubs.
Historical Background
The history of bathing culture includes the development of garden and Roman tubs, which come from different traditions of luxury and communal leisure.
Garden tubs first appeared in the 18th century among French nobility, who incorporated bathing into luxurious settings, often placing these tubs in or overlooking gardens. The water from the tubs would also water the plants, showing a connection with the environment.
Roman tubs date back to ancient Rome, where they were part of daily life and served as places for socializing and business, as well as cleanliness. Public baths were common and open to all social classes. Wealthy Romans might have bathtubs made of cast iron or stone in their homes, which kept water warm and demonstrated their status and the sophistication of Roman engineering.
Both types of tubs show how historically, bathing was not only for hygiene but also for relaxation and well-being, integrating into both social and private life.
Design Characteristics
Garden tubs are oval or round and have a deep basin, while Roman tubs are usually rectangular with built-in seats and a focus on straight lines. Garden tubs are larger than standard bathtubs and come in various styles and materials, including wood, stone, acrylic, stone resin, and plastic, allowing for a full-body soak.
Roman tubs draw inspiration from ancient Roman baths and are designed with a sense of traditional elegance. They often have flat surfaces for faucet installation and feature built-in seats for comfort.
Unlike garden tubs, Roman tubs usually incorporate seating, and garden tubs compensate with greater depth for full immersion. Standard bathtubs are shallower than garden tubs and are meant for brief baths.
Installing a garden tub may require more space and remodeling, especially for freestanding models. Roman tubs often fit more easily into bathroom designs with their angular shapes. Both types of tubs offer a luxury element and serve as a decorative centerpiece in a bathroom.
Standard Dimensions
Garden tubs are notably larger, with dimensions typically between 60 to 70 inches in length, 42 to 70 inches in width, and a water depth of 24 to 30 inches. They offer ample space for a comfortable and luxurious soak.
Roman tubs, while luxurious, are generally smaller than garden tubs, with sizes ranging from 45 to 72 inches in length, 30 to 32 inches in width, and a depth of 14 to 22 inches. They are designed for a deep soak and can fit into various bathroom sizes.
When choosing a bathtub, homeowners should consider their bathroom size, personal comfort, and design preferences to ensure the tub contributes to a relaxing experience. Proper tub dimensions are key to creating a comfortable home spa.
Material Options
Material selection is crucial for garden and Roman tubs, affecting their look, upkeep, and longevity.
Enameled cast iron is durable and retains heat well, but it's heavy and may require floor reinforcement, and it could limit water capacity.
Acrylic is popular for its design flexibility and light weight, but it doesn't keep water warm as long and can scratch or wear out more easily.
Stone resin combines the toughness and heat retention of enameled cast iron with acrylic's design options, making it durable and low-maintenance.
Consumers should carefully evaluate these aspects to choose a tub that satisfies their needs in both appearance and utility.
Faucet Features
When choosing a bathroom faucet for a garden or Roman tub, it's important to consider the faucet features. These features affect both the functionality and the look of the tub.
Garden tub faucets typically have a spout reach of 6 to 7 inches and a total spout length of 7.3 to 8.9 inches. This size allows the tub to fill without splashing water outside. Garden tubs are known for their deep soaking experience but usually do not have jets.
Roman tub faucets are larger, with a spout reach of 7 to 9 inches and a total spout length of 8.8 to 10.9 inches, suitable for bigger tubs. Both garden and Roman tub faucets are deck-mounted and come with two handles for regulating water flow, which offers a traditional look and ease of use.
Choosing the right faucet depends on personal preferences for soaking depth, water control, and bathroom design. Both faucet styles contribute to the tub's function and style. A well-selected faucet can enhance the overall bathing experience.
Pricing Considerations
Garden tubs are generally more affordable than Roman tubs. They range in price, with basic models starting at $600 and luxury models up to $13,000. Roman tubs can cost up to $20,000 for premium models.
When considering garden tubs versus Roman tubs, buyers should consider not only the purchase price but also the long-term value, including the enjoyment of the tub. Garden tubs are less expensive and can fit a variety of budgets.
Additional costs for installation must be considered. Installation for garden tubs can cost between $1,000 and $2,000, and it may be more for Roman tubs due to potentially complex installations. If bathroom remodeling or floor strengthening is needed for the tub installation, this will increase the total cost.
Buyers should evaluate their budget, including the price of the tub and additional expenses. Garden tubs are often chosen for their balance of luxury and affordability, providing a spacious soaking experience at a lower cost than Roman tubs.
Installation Requirements
Garden tubs usually require professional installation due to their large size and heavy weight. They need ample space and a strong floor structure, which might need reinforcement to support the weight, especially when filled with water. This can add to the complexity and cost of installation.
Roman tubs also need a lot of space but may fit more easily into existing plumbing systems with fewer structural changes. They are often part of a more elaborate design, including decks or steps, and still require professional installation to ensure they are fitted correctly.
Both garden and Roman tubs require careful planning and professional expertise for installation. The key considerations for garden tubs are space and floor strength, while Roman tubs need precise installation despite potentially less structural alteration. Hiring skilled professionals is crucial for proper installation to ensure the durability, appearance, and functionality of either tub type.
Similarities and Differences
Garden tubs and Roman tubs are both luxury bathtubs but have different designs and origins.
Garden tubs, which originated with French aristocracy in the 1700s, are usually freestanding and oval or round. Roman tubs, inspired by ancient Roman baths, have a more classical and integrated appearance.
Garden tubs are larger, generally 60 to 70 inches long, 42 to 70 inches wide, and 24 to 30 inches deep, allowing for a full-body soak. Roman tubs are somewhat smaller, with lengths of 45 to 72 inches, widths of 30 to 32 inches, and depths of 14 to 22 inches.
Materials differ as well. Garden tubs come in woods, stones, acrylic, stone resin, and plastics, providing various looks. Roman tubs often use enameled cast iron for longevity and heat retention but may also use acrylic and stone resin.
Both types usually have deck-mounted faucets with two handles, but styles may vary. Prices range widely, with garden tubs costing between $600 and $13,000, and Roman tubs priced from $100 to $20,000, depending on design, material, and brand.
