Length of a Claw Foot Tub

Claw Foot Tub

• A claw foot tub is a free-standing bathtub. It sits above the floor on feet rather than being built in to the wall like most modern tub installations. The feet of a claw foot tub may be shaped like a claw, a ball or a rectangular leg called an armada. This style of bathtub dates back to the late 1800s and was made from cast iron. Today's claw foot tubs are usually made from either cast iron or acrylic.

Claw Foot Tub Lengths

• Claw foot tubs are typically 5 feet long. They can, though, range from about 4 1/2 feet to 6 feet in length. Typically, you want a tub that can comfortably fit the tallest person in your home, if room permits. Claw foot tubs are about 30 inches in width.

Measuring the Space

• When measuring your space, you need a tub that is 3 or 4 inches smaller than space permits to leave room for easy access to the plumbing. A claw foot tub also looks nicer when it is not touching the walls. You also need adequate room to accommodate the width of the tub so it does not jut too far into the bathroom.

Other Tips

• If you have an old cast iron claw foot tub that needs restoring, note that the project may be too difficult for the average do-it-yourselfer. Consider taking it to a professional refinisher or buying a newer tub. Also, when purchasing a new claw foot tub, you'll find you have many choices as to finishes, rim styles, shape and plumbing features. Prioritize what is most important to you. Otherwise, you may spend more than you originally budgeted.