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The two basic types of claw foot bath tubs are the European and American styles.
European: These have no drilling for faucets (as they are an external feature on this design of tub, and are either wall or floor mounted). Thus the water level is deeper. There are however holes for the drain and overflow.
American: These feature holes drilled for the faucets, overflow and the drain.
Amongst these two types, there are a range of different styles. They include the classic design, slipper style, doubled ended, and pedestal types.
MATERIALS:
Typically there are two choices when it comes to claw foot bath tubs. Cast iron, which is the traditional material to use - and acrylic, which is fast gaining popularity.
The main benefits of cast iron is that they are as exact to as original as you will get. The look is the same, as is the weight. They also feel like an authentic vintage claw foot tub should: pleasingly smooth with a subtle textured finish and some minor surface irregularities.
The benefits of acrylic claw foot bath tubs is that they maintain the look and integrity of a traditional cast iron tub but is about 40% lighter, is warm and smooth to the touch, and will not rust or crack over time. Additionally, they are not cold to the touch, as porcelain on cast iron tubs is. Typically an acrylic tub is crafted from a mixture of high-grade sanitary acrylics, ceramic powders, polyester resins, and fiberglass. Acrylic claw foot bath tubs are easier to clean than cast iron tubs, and also their lighter weight makes moving them around an easier effort. Finally, they are available in a range of different lengths.
INSTALLATION:
It is highly recommended that you get a reputable plumber to install your new claw foot bath tub. Before you arrange this though, ensure that you have all the following items on-hand: a tub, a drain, a faucet or shower enclosure, and a set of water supply lines. Each of these items is discussed in further detail below.
Faucets: These are available in an extensive range, from classic wall-mounted faucets through to more elegant English Telephone Handshower faucets. There are all freestanding sets that are supported by their own supply lines.
Shower Enclosures: These allow you to use your claw foot bath tub as a shower. It features a shower ring enclosure, shower head, faucet, along with other necessary installation hardware.
Drains: The drain and overflow enable you to drain your tub of water and prevent it overflowing if the water level gets too high.
Supply Lines: The supply line provides the method of getting water into your bath. These are generally available in four different styles: straight, single offset, double offset, and freestanding. Straight supply lines are used with deck-mounted faucets. Single-offset and double-offset lines are used with most tub fillers, handshower faucets as well as most shower enclosures.
THE HISTORY OF CLAW FOOT BATH TUBS:
They went invented back in the Victorian era (1835 - 1903). During this period bathrooms were usually white as this signified cleanliness, and this style was popular then. In the United States, claw foot bath tubs were produced up until the 1930's, and at this point built in bathtubs became more popular. The original claw foot tubs were manufactured from cast iron with a porcelain coating. The molten porcelain was poured into the tub, resulting in a slippery, hard surface.
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