Different Types of Built-In Bathtubs

Alcove

• The alcove type of built-in tub is the sort typically found in American homes. The tub is enclosed on three sides by walls. Often the alcove type of tub arrangement does double duty as a shower stall. To use an alcove tub this way, the open side that faces into the bathroom is fitted either with a shower curtain or a door. Fixtures such as the faucet, a soap dish and safety bars are mounted on the alcove walls. Bars can make getting in and out of an alcove tub easier than for other types of built-in tubs.

Platform

• The platform tub is not built into an alcove but into a deck that rises up from the bathroom floor. Though the deck might be situated on a wall, no wall enclosure is required. The tub is dropped into the deck, where the faucet is usually mounted. Often the tub is deeper than an alcove tub and features a whirlpool. Meanwhile, the deck provides room for pampering products like soap and candles. To get at the plumbing, the deck should have removable panels.

Sunken

• Sunken tubs are also dropped into place but have no deck. Instead, the tubs are installed in the floor. A disadvantage of this situation for some people is getting in and out of the tub, given the need to step down and climb out, both without the aid of a wall or a bar. On the up side, it's much easier to soak your feet in a sunken tub.

Corner

• Corner tubs are so named because they are built into a corner of a bathroom. They can be thought of as a hybrid of alcove and deck, as the tubs are dropped into a platform and two walls enclose the corner tub. Corner tubs can fit into small bathrooms but are often used in difficult spaces, as well -- those with odd angles and curves. Corner tubs are often custom-made.