When it comes to deciding what type of bathtub to get, weight is a primary feature. It determines other factors such as where to install it and even the tub’s weight capacity.
On average, the acrylic tub weight is approximately 100 pounds but can hold up to 1000 pounds depending on its shape and design. There are five types of acrylic tubs namely alcove, freestanding, corner, walk-in, and drop-in tubs with the drop-in acrylic tubs being the heaviest (at least 500lbs.).
Acrylic tubs are light, easy to clean and repair and are thus favored by a lot of people.
What is the weight of an acrylic bathtub?
Although the average weight of an acrylic bathtub is approximately 100 pounds, different bathtubs differ in weight. Below are the available weight ranges:
| Bathtub | Weight (Pounds) |
| Freestanding bathtub | 292 – 917 |
| Alcove bathtub | 333 – 667 |
| Walk-in bathtub | 333 – 751 |
| Corner bathtub | 333 – 1,001 |
| Drop-in bathtub | 500 – 667 |
Types of acrylic tubs and their weights
Although many consider alcove the standard bathtub, it is not the only type of tub available. There are five types of acrylic tubs namely alcove, freestanding, corner, walk-in, and drop-in tubs. On average, they weigh around 100 pounds, and larger tubs go as high as 120 pounds, while smaller tubs go as low as 70 pounds.
Alcove bathtub
This is not really a bathtub but more of an installation method than a bathtub done on three joining walls or modern pocket alcoves done on two walls or a large window.
It requires a shower curtain or sliding door as it leaves open space and doesn’t offer much privacy. However, it provides an excellent choice for shower and bath combinations and has a capacity of 40 to 80 gallons of water.
Freestanding bathtub
As suggested by the name, it is a freestanding tub that does not need to connect to any wall or surface. Although they have a beautiful design and are typically the centerpiece of a bathroom, they have a capacity of 35 to 110 gallons. These tubs tend to be larger and it’s thus more common to see a higher capacity.
Corner bathtub
This type of tub is connected between two walls. It’s generally triangular in shape but finding it configured into different forms is possible. These baths are meant for soaking and relaxing rather than washing. They hold from as little as 40 gallons to as much as 120 gallons.
Walk-in bathtub
This is an excellent choice for people who have a hard time getting in and out of a regular tub. They offer more customization options and features as compared to a standard tub, such as a seat, handrail, and special jets for more comfort. A walk-in bathtub has a capacity of 40 to 80 gallons of water.
Drop-in bathtub
This is very similar to an alcove bathtub, but a drop-in bathtub is installed into an already existing open surface. Its sides are unfinished, and only the outer rim is visible. It can hold 60 to 80 gallons of water.
What is the weight limit of acrylic bathtubs?
The standard capacity of your bathtub is directly related to its size and how much your floor holds. A standard acrylic tub holds between 25 to 45 gallons of water. The floor framing for your bathtub needs special attention as the weight of a tub filled with water weighs between 335 to 500 pounds.
When a floor is built using a 16-inch spacing, the bathroom floor can safely hold up to 40 psf (pounds per square foot). Thus, the general 5 by 10 foot bathroom floor supports up to 2,000 pounds. This provides sufficient support for you and a tub filled with water.
Does my floor support acrylic tubs?
Many of the modern buildings and structures are designed to support the weight of a bathtub without additional reinforcement. Generally, local building codes mandate that all non-sleeping rooms have a minimum weight capacity of at least 40 pounds per square foot. This usually is strong enough to support the weight of most tubs.
To determine how much load your floor can hold safely, multiply your room’s square feet by the 40 or square foot rating of your home. Doing so helps you determine if the acrylic tub is too heavy for your floor, putting into consideration a full and empty tub.
While there are other factors that affect a floor’s ability to hold weight, such as existing joint damage and having an older house, having a professional’s opinion is advised. A professional assessment is primary in case your floor needs any additional support.
Other bathtub materials and their weights
Getting a tub from hundreds of shapes and sizes to choose from can be really overwhelming, especially since they are not easy to replace. The materials you choose determines the price, ease of cleaning, look, weight, heat-retention, and durability.
Here are the other tub materials and their weights:
| Bathtub | Weight (Pounds) |
| Plastic | 60 and above |
| Fiberglass | 70 and above |
| Porcelain-enameled steel | 200 – 300 |
| Cast-iron | 200 and above |
| Cast-polymer | 300 and above |
Porcelain-enameled steel
Porcelain-enameled steel tubs weigh 200 to 300 pounds on average. This is a relatively common and inexpensive option, constructed from a sheet of steel coated with porcelain and enamel. They are heavier than the acrylic or fiberglass but are lighter as compared to the old-fashioned enameled cast iron.
Cast-iron
Cast-iron tubs weigh as little as 200 pounds, but weights from 400 and higher are more common. A steel tub can look as good as any other tub but weighs twice as much as the plastic options. Its most significant setback is that it chips and the fact that it pulls heat from the water, which is not an ideal quality, especially during cold seasons. They are long term, easy to repair and restore.
Cast-Polymer
Cast-polymer tubs weigh at least 300 pounds and can be quite heavy with larger sizes and heavier materials. This type of bathtub, similar to granite or onyx, appears to be stone but can be molded like synthetic materials. They are thicker than fiberglass or acrylic and hold heat well. They are prone to scratches or other damages to their coats since it is not as durable.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass tubs can weigh anything from 70 pounds and above. Fiberglass is one of the affordable bathtub materials; it is made of layers of surface coat, polyester resin, and fiberglass reinforcement. It is easy to maneuver around and install in a home, and any damages are easy to repair. Choosing between acrylic and fiberglass tubs can be quite difficult and will depend on personal preferences.
Ceramic
Ceramic tubs weigh about 370 to 500 pounds. These are tubs created by forming a number of ceramic tiles together – this is clay heated to high temperatures until it hardens. As compared to other materials, it can be configured to suit most sizes, shapes, and the general style as it is easy to have it molded and installed in your home.
Plastic
Plastic tubs are the lightest as they weigh as little as 60 to 70 pounds and don’t chip easily.These are tubs made of either acrylic or fiberglass and offer the most amount of flexibility as they can be molded into many shapes. It insulates well and is warm to the touch. Thus, water does not lose heat fast.
Besides the weight, other factors to consider when selecting a bathtub include the durability and method of installation. Also, make sure the bathtub fits into your bathroom with aspects such as the floor weight capacity and the height of the shower valve being considered.