Bathtub replacement best options

[Eric C.]

We are doing a full bath remodel and I need to replace the bathtub. I originally bought Kohler Sterling kit from Menards. After doing some more research I have found these tubs tend to chip or crack. I have also looked into Bootz tubs but read some reviews about having issues with them from big box stores. 

[George W.]

As a plumber I personally try to push kohler. Usually I use a kohler bellwether or villager in cast iron. I've found that cast iron tubs hold up the best and don't seem to chip as easy. Only problem is that they are very heavy 300+ ibs. Sure they cost a little more but they last a life time. 

If I have to use an acrylic or a fiberglass tub, it's usually customer supplied. best advice with those is to bed them with structolite underneath or they will crack eventually.

In my experience chips usually aren't a manufacturer's defect but are the fault of negligent installers or people who drop tools on them.