Cast iron clawfoot tubs have been around since the 19th century. People who had them back then were very high class and rich. Some claw foot tubs are considered antique today and can sell for a lot of money.
Yes you can buy a replica of what is known as a clawfoot tub. Or you can by an actual reconditioned tub,check the out at www.VintageTub.com .
Fiberglass or cast iron. Most bathtubs that have the clawed foot design are made out of cast iron. These tubs are typically found in expensive houses and mansions. You can also purchase some online or in home improvement stores.
Cast iron clawfoot tubs already weigh over 200lbs, but any other type should definitely be anchored, and check that the floor will hold the weight also , tub + water+ person .
These tubs can be found online at many different websites. Some websites you can find them at are vintagetub.com, countryliving.com and oldfashionfaucets.com.
Cast Iron tubs the finish is stronger in most cases then fiberglass BUT there are new acrylic tubs like Americast that are just as strong (and cost the same) as Cast Cast Iron will not shift like the plastic tubs do BUT you do have a lot more heat loss as the mass of the cast iron is hard to keep warm. Acrylic tubs you have to be extra careful what cleaning agents to use as the finish can scratch more easily
The best place to find a real antique clawfoot tub would be to check on Craigslist. You could also check with eBay as people do sell used ones they take out of houses.
There are a number of manufacturers who make new bathtubs in the Victorian style. You will find that some new "vintage" tubs are cast iron, while others are acrylic and other composite materials. Check out these sites for ideas: www.bathsofdistinction.com AND www.vintagetub.com/asp/clawfoot_tubs.asp AND www.classicclawfoottubs.com/cast-iron-clawfoot-tubs.html
Clawfoot tubs are available from many places. Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe's have them. Also, Walmart carries them online. Vintage Tub is an excellent place to shop.
Yes there are many companies that makes these clawfoot bathroom tubs. You can contact American Bath Factory at 888-859-2080. They offer changeable feet and you can expect to pay about $2000-$3000
cast iron, steal, and fiberglass tubs.
Clawfoot tubs are generally more appealing to the eye because of their unique rustic look, rather than a regular tub. They are often not as sensible though if you would like to shower in them as the shower head is just an attachment from the faucet, not piped through the wall like a normal shower. Clawfoot tubs can also have very high sides making them much larger and more difficult to get in and out of.
Americast is a registered trademark of American Standard, and is a material provided as a lighter alternative to cast-iron. Americast is lighter and costs less, and is claimed to be more durable, though many claim it's less durable than its cast-iron counterpart in its finish.