Should I Spend the Extra $$$ for Cast Iron Kohler Tub?

13 years ago

My plumbing store suggested that the American Standard Cambridge tub (Americast) can compete equally with the cast iron, Kohler Mendota in all areas of performance. I will be replacing an old cast iron tub so weight is not an issue; however, there seems to be a significant price difference which makes me wonder? If you have had any experience with this dilemma I would greatly appreciate your opinion. Thanks so much.

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Comments (5)

chisue
13 years ago
I am so sorry I bought an Americast kitchen sink. I chose it because, yes, it was cheaper, but also it was the shape I wanted. Now the enamel is wearing off -- dulling -- and I have had to repair two chips. (Ten years; two-person household.) My Kohler prep sink looks brand new.

I have an airjet tub in the master bath. It has a heater to keep the water warm, but if you like long soaks I'd go for the Kohler. Is the Mendota the right size for you? I like the fast fill for my smaller airjet tub and I don't slide down to 'drown' in it. It's an Ultra Bain.
kellied
13 years ago
When we had cast iron tubs, I would insulate the exterior of the tub at installation because I LOVE a long soak!

Spend the extra for the quality product.
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breezygirl
13 years ago
I have a giantic, 400 lb cast iron Kohler in my new master bath waiting to be installed. I LOVE IT! Granted, I haven't actually bathed in it yet, but the thing is really beautiful. It feels solid, looks solid, and high quality. It was expensive, but worth it for me. Maybe I'm old fashioned, but other materials don't seem right in a tub. I've never even heard of Americast though so I can't comment on that.

I also plan to stuff insulation underneath/around it to help with heat insulation.
cat_mom
13 years ago
We saw Americast tub @ HD, but weren't very impressed with it. We got Toto 1525 cast iron tubs for two bathrooms and love them. We also insulated under/around ours, and they retain heat very nicely.
momotom
Original Author
13 years ago
Thanks all, appreciate your comments.

Should I Spend the Extra $$$ for Cast Iron Kohler Tub?

Comments (5)

chisue

kellied

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Should I Spend the Extra $$$ for Cast Iron Kohler Tub?

Comments (5)

chisue

kellied

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breezygirl

cat_mom

momotomOriginal Author

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