# Do Clawfoot Tubs Increase Home Value? - Canonical: https://33rdsquare.com/do-clawfoot-tubs-increase-home-value/ - Published: 2023-10-09 - Author: Lillie Gabler - Categories: [Tips](https://33rdsquare.com/category/home/tips/) --- Hey there! I‘m Lillie Gabler, a home renovation expert here to provide you with an in-depth look at how clawfoot tubs can impact your home‘s value. As someone who has designed and remodeled hundreds of bathrooms, I‘ve seen firsthand how the right vintage clawfoot tub can significantly increase property value and create an elegant, spa-like oasis. In this detailed guide, I‘ll walk you through everything you need to know about maximizing your return on investment with a clawfoot tub. You‘ll learn: - Exactly how much value clawfoot tubs add - Why antique tubs are so prized in the real estate market - How to incorporate a clawfoot into modern décor - Key care and maintenance tips to protect your investment - Answers to common questions on clawfoot tub worth So settle in, and let‘s dive into how these gorgeous antique fixtures can help you up your home‘s resale value! ## How Much Money Does Adding a Clawfoot Tub Increase Value By? One of the first questions my clients ask is, “How much is this vintage clawfoot tub really going to boost my home value by?” That number can vary based on: ### Tub Size - Standard 54” tub – Adds approximately $2,500 - Spacious 60” tub – Adds approximately $3,500 - Oversized 70”+ tubs – Can add $5,000 or more ### Construction Material - Enameled steel tub – Adds approximately $2,500 - Acrylic tub – Adds $2,500 to $3,000 - Cast iron tub – Adds $3,500 to $5,000+ ### Tub Condition - Worn/damaged – Negligible value - Refinished – Adds approximately $2,000 - Excellent original condition – Adds $3,000 to $5,000+ ### Age of Tub - New reproduction tub – Adds $2,000 to $3,000 - Vintage early 1900s tub – Adds $4,000 to $10,000+ As you can see, a larger 60+ inch, vintage cast iron clawfoot tub in pristine original condition can add a whopping $5,000 to $10,000 to your home’s value! Even more modern repro styles or smaller cast iron tubs can add $3,000 or more. Bottom line – when shopping for a clawfoot, seek out high-quality, vintage tubs to maximize your home’s future sales price. ## Why Are Original Clawfoot Tubs So Valuable? There are a few key reasons why genuine antique clawfoot tubs can command such a high resale value: ### Scarcity Drives Up Demand Authentic clawfoot tubs from the early 1900s are increasingly rare. Finding one in good shape is like discovering a precious gem! The limited supply coupled with high demand significantly ups their market value. ### Craftsmanship Stands the Test of Time The expert craftsmanship of these vintage tubs enables them to remain functional and beautiful for 100+ years. Their classic style never goes out of fashion. These tubs were built to last generations, and their longevity makes them a smart and stable investment. ### Vintage Charm Has Mass Appeal The nostalgic charm and ornate detailing of antique clawfoot tubs is widely appealing. That timeless vintage ambiance takes buyers back to an elegant era, lending antique allure that new tubs just can’t replicate. ### Bathrooms Lack Character Many modern bathrooms lack personality. An antique clawfoot tub provides that missing charm and character that buyers crave. Use of these sought-after vintage fixtures is an easy way to make a bathroom stand out. ### Limited Supply + High Demand = Increased Worth With their dwindling availability, clawfoot tubs have become a precious commodity. Collectors vie for the rare chance to own these vintage bathroom jewels. And since supply is low but demand is high, values climb even higher. ## Can a Clawfoot Tub Work in Modern Homes? Traditional clawfoot tubs may seem antiquated, yet they can complement both contemporary and traditional design styles beautifully. Here‘s how to make it work in modern homes: ### Traditional Bathroom - Ornate hardware like scrolled metal fixtures - Vintage accents like framed botanical prints - Wainscoting, crown molding and other architectural details - Elegant furniture like a vintage vanity ### Transitional Bathroom - Neutral stone or concrete tiles - Textured shower curtain in natural linen or cotton - Modern amenities like rain showerhead - Sleek tub faucet in matte black or brass ### Contemporary Bathroom - Clean lines through tiles, vanity, mirrors - Hidden storage to minimize clutter - Recessed lighting above tub - Solid color shower curtain - Sconce lighting The key is choosing décor with a streamlined look – then the vintage tub serves as a chic focal point rather than looking outdated. ## Caring for Your Clawfoot Tub To get the most value from your antique clawfoot tub, proper care and maintenance are essential: - **Clean regularly** with non-abrasive cleaner to prevent grime buildup. - **Refinish worn areas** to protect the finish from further damage. - **Seal chips/cracks** right away before they expand. - **Replace gaskets & valves** approximately every 5 years to prevent leaks. - **Drain after each use** and allow to fully dry to prevent bacteria/mold growth. - **Hire professionals for repairs** to avoid causing harm to the antique fixtures. - **Keep surfaces polished** with car wax or porcelain polish 1-2 times per year. With some periodic upkeep, your vintage clawfoot investment will stay gorgeous and functional for decades to come! ## Answering the Most Common Clawfoot Tub Questions I‘m sure you still have plenty of questions swirling around about clawfoot tub value and maintenance. Here I‘ll address the topics I get asked about most frequently: ### Are Clawfoot Tubs Worth Anything? Antique cast iron clawfoot tubs can sell for $4,000 to $10,000 in excellent restored condition. Even newer acrylic models may fetch $500 to $2,000. Their vintage charm and limited supply makes them valuable. If you inherit a clawfoot tub, have it appraised – it could be worth good money! ### How Much Should I Price My Clawfoot Tub? Pricing depends on size, brand, age, condition and features. On average plan on: - Cast iron tub: $800 – $4,000 - Acrylic tub: $500 – $2,000 - Check sold listings online for comparison. - Have antique dealers or restoration pros appraise rare vintage tubs. - Set your asking price above what you originally paid. ### Can 2 People Fit Comfortably in a Clawfoot Tub? Two average-sized adults will fit comfortably in a 60-inch clawfoot tub. The standard sizes of 54 or 55-inches can feel a bit snug for two. Make sure to account for space taken up by any tub fixtures too. Stretch out and relax with a larger model! ### What’s the Most Popular Bathtub Style Nowadays? The alcove tub reigns supreme in popularity today. Its convenient recessed design tucks neatly into small bathroom spaces, and most include a handy shower. For those seeking a trendy yet classic fixture, the clawfoot tub still retains substantial appeal. ### How Can I Modernize My Vintage Clawfoot Tub? To give a clawfoot tub a fresh modern look: - Refinish its exterior in a glossy white, bold color or matte black - Install new supply lines and contemporary tub filler/faucet - Add a frameless glass shower enclosure - Surround with sleek rectangular wall tiles - Accent with modern sconce lighting around tub ### Is a Clawfoot Tub Difficult To Clean? Clawfoot tubs don‘t pose any special cleaning challenges. Simply use a soft sponge or cloth with warm water and non-abrasive bathroom cleaner. Easy maintenance is one perk of cast iron, enameled steel, or acrylic clawfoot materials. Stay on top of monthly cleanings, and your vintage tub will continue shining for decades! I hope this overview gives you a clear sense of how investing in a clawfoot tub can pay off when it comes to your home’s resale value. If you have any other clawfoot tub questions, feel free to reach out! I‘m always happy to help clients maximize their home investments. --- Source: [Do Clawfoot Tubs Increase Home Value?](https://33rdsquare.com/do-clawfoot-tubs-increase-home-value/)