Clawfoot tubs have provided our homes with a stylish and luxurious outlook for centuries. Just as the name suggests, Clawfoot tubs are a type of freestanding bathtubs with 4 legs called “feet”. They were invented in the 1800s and still are considered in style.
These comparatively cheaper alternatives come in a wide variation, You’ll have multiple options to choose from when it comes to bathtub types, mounting options, faucet options, the material used, and even different feet options.
We will reflect primarily on the different types of clawfoot tub feet.
Different Clawfoot Tub Feet Types
1. Ball and Claw
Originated from Holland, this particular design was inspired by a Chinese motif of a dragon clutching a pearl. Over time, the design became more simplified and turned into just the claw holding the pearl.
You’ll have the option to change the paw as per your preference. Some of the most popular choices are eagle, lion, tiger, wolf, bear, and countless other options.
2. Cannonball
The name is pretty self-explanatory. The plain spherical feet are considered to visualize a cannonball in shape and size. The feet were usually made from cast iron or brass back in the day.
However, modern-day cannonball-type feet utilize a wider array of materials like acrylic, oil-rubbed bronze, polished brass, and other materials.
3. Paw
This design is somewhat similar to the ball and claw design, except for the sharp nails and the ball, I mean the pearl. Just like the ball and claw design, there is a wide range of designs available to choose from. The sky’s the limit here, literally.
You’ll also have the option to custom-made the feet however you like. From a dog paw to an alien’s weird tentacle, you are free to choose whatever grabs your attention.
4. Armada
The specialty of this minimalist design is weight distribution. With flatter and square-shaped feet, these armada feet provide an elegant outlook regardless of where you place the tub.
As for the material, just like the cannonball, you have a range of options to choose from. Usually, these types of clawfoot tub feet tend to be a bit heavier.
5. Modern options
Alongside the more traditional approach, modern clawfoot tubs are open to new ideas and as a result, provide far more choices depending on the interior design of your house. Today’s designs are a bit more evolved and elegant.
Depending on what compliments your interior design and how you wanna be treated, there are modern feet, contemporary feet, round feet, square feet, traditional feet, curved feet, and many other options. Your choice with modern clawfoot tub feet is practically endless.
Clawfoot Tub Types
1. Classic/ Flat Rim
This is the standard style of clawfoot tubs. They usually feature a drain and faucet on one side and a rounded end on the opposite. Classic clawfoot tubs have a flat rim and a rounded edge.
The flatter rim helps this tub to be installed against walls nicely. They are usually round at one end and squared off at the other.
2. Double Ended
These bathtubs look similar to the classic-style tubs, except for the rounded ends. Double-ended clawfoot tubs offer two rounded ends.
Most models feature the drain and faucet in the middle. However, you can also have the drain and faucet in the middle, if that suits you.
They are designed to provide comfort while you (cough* bath *cough) with your loved one. Double-ended tubs are better set in the middle of the wall rather than up against.
3. Single Slipper
A single slipper tub features a flared-up side to provide more comfort while soaking. Their shape resembles a boat or a slipper. The comfortable backrest and the drain and faucet at the foot provide a relaxing soaking experience.
Usually, one end of the single-slipper-style tubs is higher than the other, providing you with a slightly deep basin on one end of your tub.
4. Double Slipper
Double slippers are twice the fun since they feature the fancy little flare tops on both sides. These types of tubs offer a shallow water level in the middle of the tub and deeper basins at the ends.
The drain and the faucets are mounted in the middle of double-slipper-style tubs. They provide the ultimate luxury and soaking experience with your favorite partner.
5. The Pedestal
These types of clawfoot bathtubs don’t have any feet. The pedestal style bathtubs come with double-ended/double slipper style on the edges and instead of relying on the feet, feature a solid, flattened base; like a cake stand.
They are considered a universal type of bathtubs that can complement the interior of most households. You can turn the other types of clawfoot tubs into pedestals by removing their feet and still enjoy the luxurious soaking experience.
Pros of a clawfoot tub
- They are larger and deeper than other tub styles
- Easy to clean and maintain
- The empty space beneath gives you the illusion of space
- Provides a minimalistic outlook
- Compliments a wide variation of indoor designs
- A lot of styles and finish options are available
- Vintage tubs can be refurbished
Cons of a clawfoot tub
- They can be costly
- Limited storage and deck space
- Placement is crucial
- It may be difficult for some people to climb in and out
- Can be very heavy and hard to move
How to Install a Clawfoot Tub
Here’s a DIY step-by-step guide to make your life easier and help you save on plumbing costs:
FAQs
Q. What kind of feet can I get on a footed tub?
The choice is practically endless. You are free to choose from a more traditional look (claw and ball, cannonball, paw), or you can go for geometry-based designs (spherical, square). You also have the option to choose from the modern outlook (curved, contemporary) options.
Q. Can a clawfoot tub have jets?
Yes, of course. Despite providing a vintage outlook, a clawfoot bathtub can be equipped with all kinds of modern pool features. If you want to install water/air jets to your stream, talk with the mechanic and tell them how exactly you want your tub.
Q. How much does a clawfoot tub cost?
The prices range between $500-2,000. However, high-end options can cost you up to $7,500 or even more. Clawfoot bathtubs are associated with luxury and trends.
As a result, most clawfoot tubs are more or less, at the expensive side of the price spectrum. Matters like brand, shape, size, material, and features influence the price.
Q. How much does a clawfoot tub weigh?
When it’s empty, a clawfoot bathtub can weigh somewhere between 120-400lbs. In the case of a full tub, you need to follow this equation to find the weight applied on the floor:
Total weight on floor = Empty the tub’s weight + (water holding capacity * 8.34) + the weight of the heaviest tub user.
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