Americast Bathtub

Have been shopping at Home Depot and Lowes for a new standard bath alcove white. Lowes sells American Standard porcelain tub AmeriCast. Home Depot seems to have more of Kohler, who are either acrylic or cast iron. I wonder if the iron is very heavy and so it is more difficult to install. Someone knows something about bathtubs??

They are practically equal. I have installed both and they are often the choice of custom home builders or owners. Neither is easily scratched and the two last for many years. I've never seen a case of a porcelain tub deformation or cracking tile.

If I had to choose, I would go with Kohler. I installed several of them and never heard any complaints. (Never heard anything bad about the American Standard Tho either.)

A standard size bathtub Kohler cast iron weighs 330 lbs. w / case. We made up 2 floors last week. China is heavier.

As you've narrowed your selection to two of the best manufacturers, I think you can leave desired characteristics make the choice. If both provide the functionality you want, let price make the decision for you.

There are not many practical reasons for installing cast iron bathtubs addition, new materials are very durable, however, I can not attest to the quality AmeriCast, and Kohler has always been expensive . For someone who has never installed a cast iron bath, it could be a nightmare. I would look for another solution.

Cast iron is heavy, but there are good things that come with it. They keep the water hot longer and does not move as acrylic bathtubs do. If you are acrylic, be sure to use a mortarbed below. The flex acrylic caulk and it rips the wall. It can also cause cracks. I like American Standard products, but have heard many bad things about the tanks AmeriCast. One major concern is the finish goes wrong in less time than it takes. Ask her if she is "actually" cast iron as I heard it is not. Good luck.

Kohler has a good record in environmental matters.

We have tried to install a new bathtub or spa, and I found the information listed below:

Drop-in bathtubs are made of acrylic plastic or lightweight fiberglass reinforced - they are susceptible to scratches and dull - or enameled cast iron, which may require structural reinforcement. "

Good luck.

Neither do I go with a piece of fiberglass unit that includes walls or cast iron bathtub. Forget this shit AmeriCast. It is a steel tub with plastic disconcerting.