The bathtub decision comes down to two questions: how much space do you have, and how do you actually plan to use it? A freestanding soaker tub is a statement piece — but only worth it if someone in the household will use it regularly. An alcove tub in a family bathroom is practical, durable, and the right answer for most homes with young kids.
Tub Styles
Alcove Tubs
Three walls, one open side with a deck — the standard configuration in most Canadian bathrooms. Alcove tubs work with a shower overhead, are easy to clean, and fit the widest range of bathroom layouts. Most are 60" long, though 54" and 66" options exist. Material choices run from basic acrylic to heavier cast iron.
Typical investment: $700–$2,800 (material); installation additional
Best for: Family bathrooms, any bathroom where shower functionality matters.
Freestanding Tubs
A tub that stands on its own — no alcove, no deck, floor-mounted filler faucet. The design impact is significant: a freestanding tub anchors an ensuite the way a fireplace anchors a living room. The practical trade-offs are real: they require more floor space (plan for clearance on all sides), don't pair easily with a shower overhead, and the floor-mounted faucet needs its own rough-in.
If the ensuite is large enough and a separate shower is also in the plan, a freestanding tub makes an enormous difference to how the room feels.
Typical investment: $1,800–$6,000+ (material); installation additional
Best for: Primary ensuites with a separate shower and adequate floor space.
Drop-In Tubs
Set into a custom deck or surround — the tub rim sits below or flush with a tiled platform. The surrounding deck can be tiled to match the floor or walls, creating a fully integrated look. Requires a custom-built surround, which adds to the project scope.
Typical investment: $1,200–$4,000 (tub material); surround construction additional
Best for: Spa-inspired bathrooms where an integrated look is the goal.
Whirlpool & Air Jets
Jetted tubs add hydrotherapy — either water jets (more powerful massage effect) or air jets (gentler, all-over). They require dedicated electrical and the jet systems need regular cleaning to prevent mold in the lines. Worth it for households where therapeutic use is a genuine priority; less so for a tub that ends up used rarely.
Typical investment: $2,400–$8,000+ installed
Best for: Homeowners who will actively use the hydrotherapy feature.
Materials
Acrylic — Lightweight, warm to the touch, retains heat reasonably well. The most common material. Scratches can sometimes be buffed out. Entry to mid-range.
Cast iron — Heavy, extremely durable, retains heat exceptionally well. Requires floor structure to support the weight — worth confirming before specifying. Premium and long-lasting.
Composite / solid surface — Matte finish, non-porous, repairable. Contemporary aesthetic. Mid to upper range.
Brands We Carry
We work with Neptune, Maax, Mirolin, and American Standard across freestanding, alcove, and drop-in configurations. Come into the showroom to see full-size display models — tub proportions are genuinely hard to judge from a spec sheet.
See Tubs in Person
Proportions and finish matter. Our showroom has display tubs across styles and price points — come in and see what fits your space and your budget.
Book a Showroom Visit See Our Bathroom Work