Fiberglass is generally more suitable for luxury applications and is commonly used for ensuites. Metal tubs are more utilitarian and suitable for basement bathrooms as well as properties being built or renovated for rental purposes. Although there are some heavy cast iron enamel tubs that are high end.

The color, size and style choices are mostly a matter of personal want and need. But to select tubs and showers that provide the best value, there are some things to consider, such as wall thickness. Look at light translucence through the tub and edge thickness. Since there is a balance between price and quality, look for the heaviest, most solidly reinforced fixture for the money. Although almost all tubs have enough tolerance in their fabrication to provide good serviceability. So design and fit are also important considerations.

Manufacturers build tubs for different types of applications. Builder's series tubs may use thinner acrylic and less fiberglass reinforcement. They provide adequate service on average, at a cost conscious price. Just that their ability to withstand abuse may be somewhat less than tubs with a heavier construction. Also be aware that unlike porcelain there are many manufacturers of fiberglass tubs and showers.

It is prudent for consumers to take their prospective purchases out of the boxes at the store and look them over carefully before accepting delivery. If damage is found after the tub is installed during it's first cleaning, assessing fault can be more difficult.

Fiberglass units tend to break more easily when bumped from behind than when impacted with the same force on the inside surface. Under normal wear and tear, not much goes wrong, but during the shipping and installation process there is a number of situations that can expose tubs and showers to risks of damage. Trades should take care when working around them, and keep them protected as well as possible. See the Tub Saver page.

Another recommendation is to push firmly on the inside bottom areas of tubs with the palm of the hand to check for any flex. It is normal for the sides to flex some but the bottom surface should to be firm. There is wood or other reinforcement laminated underneath. Rarely does it happen, but separations can occur between the laminates. Delaminations are generally not repairable. So if the floor flexes, get it checked out or exchanged before installing. It is also recommended that concrete or similar be used between the bottom of the tub and the subfloor of the house for added support during the install process. Plastic sheeting can be used under and over the concrete should the tub ever need to be removed. Concrete should not be mixed too wet, and no stepping in the tub should be allowed until the concrete has set. It is also prudent to check for pooling problems before installing. Set the tub level (preferably outdoors) and pour a bucket of water over it. If the water on the deck areas flow into the tub, and the water on the bottom all flow out the drain without leaving puddles, there should be no pooling problems once the tub is properly installed.

When buying a metal tub or a marble tub, there is not much to consider when determining quality. Metal tubs are only made by a few large manufacturers and are generally consistent in quality. With marble there is little way of determining serviceability beyond knowing the reputation of the manufacturer. Although they are not immune to chips and scratches during the intall process, cracking problems with marble usually only surface after years of use. As with all types of tubs, consider the warranty.

Black is the most difficult color to maintain. The fixtures may look dramatic in a showroom, but tend to be difficult to keep clean looking under normal use. And they are problematic to repair as well.

When shopping for a jetted bath tub, consider getting a model with jets located to massage the lower lumbar area. After a hard days work, this area of the body often needs the most soothing. Most tubs come with foot jets which are also a nice feature.