What should you know before buying a solid surface bathtub?

How much does a solid surface bathtub weigh?

Less than stone, more than acrylic. Aquatica lists the 59.25 x 30.75 x 27.25 in Lullaby 2 Max at a 515 lb shipping weight, which includes packaging and is not the empty weight. A general retailer guide, Faucet Fam, puts typical solid surface tubs at 100–300 lb and says they are heavier than acrylic but lighter than cast iron. That guide is a low-authority source, so confirm with the maker.

Solid stone runs about 1,100–2,500 lb empty, with a typical 67 x 31 x 22 in marble oval at about 1,150 lb empty and about 1,960 lb filled with a 200 lb bather. See the weight guide. Floor support is a question for a structural engineer.

Does a solid surface bathtub keep water warm?

Somewhat better than marble, per the conductivity figures. Engineering ToolBox lists Corian at about 1.06 W/m·K, against 2.08–2.94 for marble and 0.2 for acrylic. Some sellers claim long heat retention for solid surface, but those are sales claims, and wall thickness matters as much as material.

For how thick natural stone behaves with bath water, see do stone bathtubs keep water warm. For resin tubs sold as stone, see stone resin vs solid stone.

Can you repair a solid surface bathtub?

Yes, within limits. Wikipedia lists Corian as repairable and renewable: cuts and scratches can be abraded and then buffed to restore the finish. For deeper damage, Aquatica supplies a two-part kit. The procedure cuts a V-shaped cavity, cleans it with acetone, fills it, lets it cure for at least 12 hours, then sands with P180 and P320 grit. Aquatica recommends that a professional do the work.

Aquatica also says that in the large majority of cases it has dealt with, damage occurs during moving or installation. One seller's repair guide lists drain over-tightening and thermal shock among common causes. Handle the tub with care, fit the drain to the maker's instructions without over-tightening, and have the tub inspected on arrival.

How do you care for a solid surface bathtub?

Wikipedia lists the material as non-porous and stain resistant, which makes routine cleaning simple. Use the cleaner your tub's maker recommends, rinse well and avoid abrasives that dull the finish. Light scratches can be buffed out, as noted above.

• Wipe and rinse after use; avoid leaving cosmetic products on the surface.
• Check the maker's guidance on water temperature and cleaners.
• Do not over-tighten the drain.
• Report chips or cracks to the maker before attempting a repair.

Stone has different needs. Marble etches in acids and benefits from sealing. See the care guide.

What does a solid surface bathtub cost?

The one published price we could confirm is Aquatica's Lullaby 2 Max, listed at $5,842 and made to order. Prices vary widely by maker, size and finish, and large designer models cost more, so treat one listing as a data point.

How does a solid surface bathtub compare with a solid stone tub?

Solid surface wins on weight, price and repairability. It can be formed into smooth modern shapes with near-invisible joints, and light scratches can be buffed out. Stone wins on authenticity: it is natural material carved from one block, with veining and variation that no composite repeats. It is much heavier, and marble etches in acid.

See stone vs acrylic and stone resin vs solid stone for related comparisons. Pietra Fonte makes made-to-order stone bathtubs, inspected with photos or video before shipping, with exact dimensions and weight in every quote.