How to Enclose a Clawfoot Tub: The Best Out of the Box Ideas

how to enclose a clawfoot tub-walk in shower enclosure

When it comes to clawfoot tubs, finding the right enclosure can greatly enhance your bathing experience. Both old and new clawfoot tub owners look for privacy, moisture protection and aesthetics, when considering various options. In this article, we will explore different ways to enclose a clawfoot tub. Ranging from simple and affordable solutions to more luxurious and unique designs.

The simplest and most budget-friendly option is a manufactured rod enclosure made specifically for a clawfoot tub shower curtain. These rods are readily available online and provide both privacy and moisture protection. They are easy to install and can be paired with a shower curtain of your choice. This option offers a practical and cost-effective solution to simply enclose a clawfoot tub .

How to enclose a clawfoot tub-curtain

For those seeking a more elegant and modern look, a custom glass option to enclose a clawfoot tub can be a striking choice. However, it is important to note that this option can be quite expensive. Prices often range upwards of two to three thousand dollars. Custom-made by glass specialty companies, these enclosures offer a sleek and seamless design that adds sophistication to your bathroom. However, they may not be suitable for everyone due to the high cost and limited availability.

Another unique approach to enclosing a clawfoot tub is to focus on waterproofing the floor and walls surrounding the tub. By ensuring that the area is properly waterproofed, you can create a spa-like atmosphere without the need for a physical enclosure. This option allows you to enjoy the beauty of a freestanding tub while still maintaining privacy. Adding a drape or curtain that can be pulled to the side for further privacy is also an option.

For a true luxury bathing experience, imagine a roomy walk-in shower with a freestanding tub as the centerpiece. This design combines the functionality of a walk-in shower with the elegance of a clawfoot tub. With the shower area able to enclose the clawfoot tub by glass walls or partitions, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. This option provides ample space and a visually stunning bathroom centerpiece.

how to enclose a clawfoot tub-walk in shower enclosure

Enclosing a clawfoot tub offers both practical and visual appeal. From a simple shower curtain rod to the luxury of a custom glass enclosure. Or a walk-in shower with a freestanding tub, there are various options to suit different preferences and budgets. Consider your needs, style, and budget when choosing the enclosure that best enhances your clawfoot tub experience. But, be sure to still allow those gorgeous clawfoot tub feet to be seen!

Once upon a time, there was a lovely couple named Emily and James. They had recently moved into a charming old house with a beautiful clawfoot tub in the bathroom. As they settled into their new home, they began discussing the various options to enclose their clawfoot tub. Particularly for showering purposes.

Emily, being the detailed planner, was determined to find the perfect solution for their needs. She had her heart set on a curtain for privacy and to protect their non-waterproof floor and walls. However, she wasn’t quite satisfied with the standard clawfoot tub rods and curtains available in the market.

Determined to find alternatives to enclose her clawfoot tub, Emily diligently researched and explored different options. She even considered a custom glass enclosure, imagining a sleek and modern look for their bathroom. However, after consulting with a local specialty glass company, they realized that the cost would be way beyond their budget. Ranging from two to three thousand dollars.

Disappointed but undeterred, Emily and James brainstormed other possibilities. They dreamt of an alcove with the tub set in, allowing them to waterproof the floor and surrounding walls. In this ideal scenario, they could have a luxury rainfall shower head attached to the ceiling. Eliminating the worry about any water damage.

Unfortunately, they came to the reality that to achieve this dream would require major remodeling. This was not possible for them at the moment. However, they remained optimistic. They considered the possibility of creating such a design to enclose a clawfoot tub in their future home.

With their options limited, Emily and James decided to embark on a do-it-yourself project. They visited the local hardware store and explored different materials. Initially, they considered PVC, but they felt it might be too flimsy for their needs. Galvanized pipe, on the other hand, proved to be too heavy and cumbersome to enclose above the clawfoot tub.

After careful consideration, they settled on light weight aluminum pipes with the necessary fittings. Taking their creativity and resourcefulness to the test, they formed an oval shape above their tub. Then attached it securely to the ceiling. With this structure in place, they were able to hang a shower curtain around it. This provided the privacy and protection they desired.

While their make shift solution served its purpose for the time being, Emily and James knew that their future plans would involve something more elaborate and luxurious. They envisioned a small room, measuring 10 ft by 10 ft, with the clawfoot tub placed on exquisite tiles. The walls would be adorned with beautiful tiles as well, creating a serene and elegant atmosphere. And of course, the center piece would be a magnificent rain fall shower head cascading into their beloved bathtub. This was their perfect vision of how to enclose a clawfoot tub.

They understood that the true essence of a free standing clawfoot tub lies in its open and unenclosed design, showcasing its inherent beauty. However, they couldn’t help but dream of future possibilities, where they could have the best of both worlds. The look of a free standing tub and the comfort of a luxury enclosure.

As they continued to enjoy their clawfoot tub and the simple DIY enclosure, Emily and James knew that one day, their vision of a more opulent and sophisticated bathing space would come to life. Until then, they cherished the unique charm of their freestanding tub and the memories they were creating in their cozy bathroom.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my storytelling and out of the box solutions of ways to enclose a clawfoot tub. Happy bathing!

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