When remodeling a bathroom, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is choosing between a freestanding bathtub and a built-in bathtub. While both options have their advantages, the key question is: Which one offers the best return on investment (ROI)?
A bathroom remodel is one of the most impactful upgrades for increasing a home's resale value. The right bathtub choice can enhance aesthetic appeal, functionality, and long-term home value. In this guide, we’ll compare acrylic freestanding bathtubs and built-in bathtubs to help you determine which one provides the best ROI for your home.
1. Aesthetic Appeal & Buyer Perception
Freestanding Bathtubs:
✔ Luxury and Elegance – Freestanding tubs create a high-end, spa-like atmosphere, which is highly attractive to potential buyers.
✔ Modern & Timeless Design – Contemporary homebuyers are drawn to sleek, standalone tubs as a centerpiece in a bathroom.
✔ Versatile Placement – Can be positioned anywhere, offering more flexibility in design.
Built-in Bathtubs:
✔ Traditional & Practical – Built-ins are a classic choice that works well in small bathrooms or shower-tub combos.
✔ Seamless Look – Designed to fit against walls, they blend into the bathroom layout without taking up additional space.
✔ Less of a Selling Point – While functional, they lack the “wow factor” that freestanding tubs bring to a home listing.
Winner for Aesthetic Appeal & Buyer Demand: Acrylic Freestanding Bathtubs
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Homebuyers associate freestanding tubs with luxury and spa-like experiences, making them a stronger selling point in real estate listings.
2. Cost of Installation & Maintenance
Freestanding Bathtubs:
✔ Higher Initial Installation Costs – Freestanding tubs often require floor reinforcement, plumbing adjustments, and freestanding faucets, which can increase installation costs.
✔ Easier to Replace or Upgrade – Since they are not built into the structure, they are easier to remove or swap out in the future.
✔ Low Maintenance – Acrylic freestanding bathtubs are lightweight and easy to clean, with stain-resistant, non-porous surfaces.
Built-in Bathtubs:
✔ Lower Installation Costs – Since built-ins are installed against a wall, they typically have less expensive plumbing and flooring modifications.
✔ More Complex to Replace – Removing a built-in tub often requires wall and tile repairs, leading to higher renovation costs.
✔ Potential for Mold & Water Damage – Built-ins have grout lines and enclosed spaces where moisture can accumulate, increasing maintenance needs over time.
Winner for Cost & Maintenance: Built-in Bathtubs (Short-Term), Freestanding Tubs (Long-Term)
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If you’re looking for a lower upfront cost, built-ins might be preferable.
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However, for long-term maintenance and ease of replacement, freestanding tubs are the better investment.
3. Space Efficiency & Functionality
Freestanding Bathtubs:
✔ Ideal for Larger Bathrooms – Freestanding tubs require more open space to maintain a balanced design.
✔ Flexible Layout – They can be placed anywhere in the room, including center stage near a window or in an alcove.
✔ Better for Relaxation – Often deeper and more ergonomic for a true soaking experience.
Built-in Bathtubs:
✔ Best for Small Bathrooms – Built-ins are space-efficient, fitting neatly against a wall or corner.
✔ More Practical for Families – Easier for bathing children and doubling as a shower-tub combo.
✔ Storage-Friendly – Surrounding ledges can hold toiletries, making them more functional for daily use.
Winner for Space Efficiency & Functionality: Depends on Bathroom Size & Usage
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For small bathrooms and families, built-in tubs are more practical.
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For luxury appeal and deep soaking, freestanding tubs are superior.
4. Resale Value & ROI
A bathroom remodel can yield a 60-70% return on investment, but does the type of bathtub impact resale value?
Freestanding Bathtubs:
✔ Boosts Perceived Value – Real estate listings with freestanding bathtubs often attract more interest.
✔ Higher ROI in Luxury Homes – If you're remodeling a master bathroom, a freestanding tub is a top-tier selling feature.
✔ Creates a Design Statement – Can be the focal point of a high-end bathroom remodel, making the home more desirable.
Built-in Bathtubs:
✔ Better for Standard Homes – Built-ins appeal to practical buyers looking for functionality over style.
✔ Lower ROI in High-End Homes – While still valuable, built-ins don’t provide the same luxury appeal as freestanding tubs.
✔ More Common, Less Unique – Most homes already have built-in tubs, so they don’t create the same standout feature.
Winner for ROI: Acrylic Freestanding Bathtubs
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Freestanding bathtubs elevate home value, attract buyers, and create a luxurious feel that justifies a higher selling price.
Best Choice for ROI: Acrylic Freestanding Bathtubs
If you're remodeling your bathroom with resale value in mind, a freestanding bathtub is the best investment for attracting buyers and maximizing ROI. However, if space and budget are primary concerns, a built-in tub is a practical alternative that still adds value.
Whether you're upgrading for personal enjoyment or future home sales, choosing the right bathtub can transform your bathroom and increase your home's value.