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Discussion Forum

Acrylic vs. Fibreglass whirlpool tubs

| Posted in General Discussion on October 16, 1999 03:31am

*
I am looking for information on the pros and cons of acrylic vs fibreglass for a client’s tub. We are installing a Japanese style soaking tub and I have sourced two models: the Beverley 60/40 from Americh and the Double Moonsoaker from Venco. The Venco model is fibreglass and MUCH less expensive than the acrylic Americh model. I’ve been told that the fibreglass scratches easier and that it can yellow over time. These clients keep an immaculate house, no kids, and they have a cleaner in once a week…..is abuse a worry? The tub will be under a west facing window, third floor with decidiuos trees outside. Are we better off to just buy the acrylic tub….money is not an issue. Their current whirlpool tub doesn’t drain properly and a small pool of water sits at the drain and the tub has discoloured over time….this has caused them to be extra concerned about making a wise choice this time.
Any experience / advice would be appreciated.
Thanks
Donna

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  1. Guest_ | Oct 13, 1999 10:21pm | #1

    *
    Hi Donna,

    I installed an acrylic whirpool tub in my home about 2 years ago.I don't know about other manufacturers but the one I have is actually made of fiberglass for strength and rigidity with an acrylic interoir for scratch resistance and a smoother/harder finish.Check with the tub manufacturer to find out how its built.If money isn't an issue,opt for the acrylic model.

    Best of luck

    Gaby

  2. Ryan_ | Oct 15, 1999 04:46am | #2

    *
    I've installed both fiberglass and fiberglass with an acrylic layer. I don't know anything about yellowing but the acrylic is definately harder. It feels more like a cast iron tub. I'm not sure if that's because the acrylic coating makes it more rigid or because the acrylic is actually a harder surface.

    I recommend the acrylic.

  3. Guest_ | Oct 16, 1999 04:18am | #3

    *
    Anybody know how to repair an abrasion on a fiberglass/acrylic tub? I built a plywood & 2by tub cover to protect the tub from the drywallers & trim guys. The vanity cabinet side butts right up to the tub. The tub cover damaged the tub as it dragged off the tub by the vanity cabinet install guy.

    I would describe the abrasion as a set 5 (?) 1/32" deep scratches about 2" long.

    1. Guest_ | Oct 16, 1999 03:31pm | #5

      *matt, the tub supplier can get a repair person over there and they will make it dissapear.best of luck to ya.

  4. Donna_Smeaton | Oct 16, 1999 03:31pm | #4

    *
    I am looking for information on the pros and cons of acrylic vs fibreglass for a client's tub. We are installing a Japanese style soaking tub and I have sourced two models: the Beverley 60/40 from Americh and the Double Moonsoaker from Venco. The Venco model is fibreglass and MUCH less expensive than the acrylic Americh model. I've been told that the fibreglass scratches easier and that it can yellow over time. These clients keep an immaculate house, no kids, and they have a cleaner in once a week.....is abuse a worry? The tub will be under a west facing window, third floor with decidiuos trees outside. Are we better off to just buy the acrylic tub....money is not an issue. Their current whirlpool tub doesn't drain properly and a small pool of water sits at the drain and the tub has discoloured over time....this has caused them to be extra concerned about making a wise choice this time.
    Any experience / advice would be appreciated.
    Thanks
    Donna

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