Acrylic Tub vs. Resin Tub

July 29, 2024 Giving Tree

As a daily essential, the reliability and comfort of a bathtub are the primary concerns for users, closely linked to the materials used in its construction. With advancements in technology and changing demands, more materials are being utilized in bathtub manufacturing, among which acrylic and resin are widely recognized. So, what are the differences between these two materials? How should one decide when purchasing a bathtub? In this article, Giving Tree Home will delve into these questions to help you make an informed choice. Let’s uncover the answers and embark on this journey of exploration together!

Understanding Acrylic and Resin Tub

Acrylic Tub

Giving Tree Home has covered acrylic tubs in numerous articles. Acrylic is a material polymerized from methyl methacrylate monomer (MMA), also known as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), or more commonly as plexiglass. Dubbed the "queen of plastics," this material has been used for centuries in various products such as lightboxes, signs, and bathtubs. In bathtub manufacturing, acrylic comes in two main forms:

The most common is acrylic sheets, where manufacturers use vacuum forming technology to join two acrylic sheets together to form the overall shape of the bathtub. This results in a hollow interior, which is typical of most acrylic tubs available on the market.

A less common method involves heating the acrylic material to a molten state and then casting it to form a solid bathtub body. Bathtubs made using this technique are solid in structure. However, these are rare in the market because acrylic is generally perceived as a cheaper material, and bathtubs made this way are costly, with prices starting at $2,000. Hence, they are often marketed as solid surface tubs.

For more information on the differences between acrylic and solid surface tubs, we recommend reading "Acrylic vs Solid Surface Tub".

Resin Tub

The term "resin" refers to a class of semi-solid natural and synthetic compounds that can harden into highly durable plastic materials. In bathtub manufacturing, resin is typically a synthetic compound and appears in two main forms:

One is the solid surface tub mentioned above, made by mixing crushed stone minerals with resin, also known as stone resin tubs. Some brands directly refer to these as resin tubs, which is reasonable.

In this article, we are focusing on another type of resin used to manufacture transparent tubs, commonly referred to as Cristalmood or other transparent resins. These resin tubs break away from the ordinary and mundane, adding modern and stylish elements to your bathroom.

Acrylic Tub vs. Resin Tub

Appearance

Both acrylic and resin tubs come in a variety of shapes and designs to meet different aesthetic preferences, including slipper, clawfoot, and oval styles, and they also offer a wide range of colors. The key difference lies in their transparency: acrylic tubs can be either transparent or opaque, whereas resin tubs are typically transparent.
Touch

If you close your eyes and touch both an acrylic and a resin tub, you can easily distinguish between the two. Acrylic tubs generally feel warm and slightly bouncy, while bathtubs made from any other material tend to feel cold and hard. This unique warmth and slight give is part of the charm of acrylic tubs.
Functionality

Acrylic tubs with their hollow layer, offer better insulation, losing only about 20°F of temperature over 50 minutes. Resin tubs, on the other hand, do not insulate as well but often do not include an overflow feature, allowing for greater soaking depth. Thus, in terms of functionality, both acrylic and resin tubs have their strengths, depending on your specific needs.
Price

Acrylic tubs typically range from $500 to $1,000, with some high-end models exceeding $1,000, making them a more affordable option. In contrast, resin tubs are much more expensive, usually starting at $2,000 and reaching up to $4,000 for unconventional designs.
Installation

Acrylic tubs offer flexible installation options, suitable for both built-in and freestanding styles. Most resin tubs, being transparent, are limited in this regard and are usually freestanding. Some hotels or resorts might use suspended resin tubs, where both ends are fixed on columns and the bottom is suspended.
Maintenance

Regardless of the material, bathtubs should not be cleaned with strong acids, strong bases, or abrasive tools. Instead, use neutral cleaners and a sponge. The difference lies in stain resistance: acrylic is more resistant to dirt, while scratches and stains on a transparent resin tub are very noticeable, necessitating regular cleaning.

How to Choose Between Acrylic and Resin Tub

Alright, anyone looking to understand the differences between these two materials is really trying to figure out which bathtub is best for them. In fact, most people already have an answer from the comparisons mentioned earlier, but some still seek professional advice. That’s great—read on!

For homeowners aiming for a modern bathroom renovation, both acrylic and resin tubs are suitable. The modern look primarily depends on the shape and color of the bathtub. For acrylic tubs, black or white colors are recommended, with oval or egg shapes. For resin tubs, semi-transparent black or red is highly recommended, with oval shapes being the preferred choice. This combination, with its minimalist lines, provides a more modern visual experience, complementing your bathroom decor and ensuring that the design remains timeless!

If you’re considering using the bathtub with family members, that’s a fantastic idea. For couples or partners, a resin tub is an excellent choice. The semi-transparent style makes body curves faintly visible, creating a balance between mystery and visibility, which can enhance emotional intimacy whether you’re a young couple or long-time partners. For a family water park experience, especially with kids, an acrylic tub is the better option. It’s more stain-resistant and the overflow design reduces the hassle of excessive cleaning due to water spillage.

In fact, most people who consider resin tubs do so more for their decorative appeal rather than practicality, as they can make your bathroom stand out. Acrylic tubs, on the other hand, are more suited for those who want to enjoy a peaceful soaking space. When it comes to soaking depth, there’s no need to be overly concerned since most bathtubs are designed with actual use in mind, usually providing at least 13 inches of soaking depth. Some acrylic tubs are even designed with built-in seats, offering a greater soaking depth, potentially reaching up to 20 inches.

Ending

In summary, choosing between an acrylic tub or a resin tub primarily depends on your needs and preferences. If you seek modernity and practicality, acrylic is a good choice; if you desire a unique decorative effect and a romantic atmosphere, a resin will suit you better. We hope these suggestions help you make the best choice and make your bathroom renovation even more perfect.