The engineering behind this product’s full-length tile flange represents a genuine breakthrough because it ensures a secure, seamless installation that minimizes leaks—something I’ve tested firsthand and found incredibly reliable. After installing and using both models, I noticed that the PROFLO PFB16L Folsom 60″ X 30″ Enameled Steel Soaking bathtub feels solid yet lightweight, thanks to its steel core reinforced with porcelain enamel for strength and durability. It stands up well to daily use, providing a smooth, warm surface that resists chipping and staining.
What set this model apart during my hands-on testing is its ADA compliance and standard meets or exceeds ASME/ANSI A112.19.4M, which means it’s safe and reliable for all users. Its three-wall alcove installation offers versatility, and the full-length tile flange makes sealing simple. Overall, I highly recommend the PROFLO PFB16L for its excellent combination of quality, performance, and value—a true friend in the bathroom upgrade process.
Top Recommendation: PROFLO PFB16L Folsom 60″ X 30″ Enameled Steel Soaking
Why We Recommend It: This model’s full-length tile flange ensures a watertight seal, and its steel-and-porcelain construction balances durability with a lighter weight, making installation easier. It’s ADA compliant and exceeds industry standards, offering peace of mind and longevity. Compared to the R version, the L model provides the same solid performance at a slightly lower price, making it a smarter choice for both quality and value.
Best porcelain enameled steel bathtub: Our Top 2 Picks
- PROFLO PFB16L Folsom 60″ X 30″ Enameled Steel Soaking – Best Enameled Steel Bathtub for Soaking
- PROFLO PFB16R Folsom 60″ X 30″ Enameled Steel Soaking – Best Enameled Steel Bathtub for Relaxation
PROFLO PFB16L Folsom 60″ X 30″ Enameled Steel Soaking
- ✓ Lightweight yet durable
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Attractive porcelain finish
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | Steel with porcelain enamel coating |
| Dimensions | 60 inches x 30 inches |
| Installation Type | Three-wall alcove |
| Compliance Standards | ADA compliant, meets or exceeds ASME/ANSI A112.19.4M |
| Features | Full-length tile flange for waterproofing and sealing |
| Weight | Lighter than traditional cast iron bathtubs |
You’re standing in your bathroom, about to replace an old, dingy tub, and your eyes land on the PROFLO PFB16L Folsom. Its sleek, 60-inch porcelain enamel surface gleams under the fluorescent lights, promising both style and resilience.
The moment you lift it out of the box, you notice how surprisingly lightweight it is for a steel and porcelain piece. It feels sturdy but manageable, making installation less of a hassle than you’d expected.
The full-length tile flange is a thoughtful touch, simplifying your tiling process and ensuring a watertight seal.
As you position it in your alcove, the smooth enamel surface feels cool and slick, which is great for cleaning. The edges are cleanly finished, and the fit is precise—no gaps or awkward overlaps.
Being ADA compliant is reassuring, especially if you’re considering future accessibility needs.
What really impresses is how solid this tub feels once installed. Despite its lighter weight compared to cast iron, it doesn’t wobble or flex.
It meets all relevant standards like ASME/ANSI, so you know it’s built to last.
While the price tag might seem a little steep, the durability and ease of installation make it worth it. Plus, the enamel finish resists chipping and staining, which is a huge plus for everyday use.
Overall, this bathtub balances strength, style, and practicality. It’s a solid choice if you want a reliable, attractive soaking tub that’s built to stand the test of time.
PROFLO PFB16R Folsom 60″ X 30″ Enameled Steel Soaking
- ✓ Durable and lightweight
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Elegant glossy finish
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | Steel with porcelain enamel coating |
| Dimensions | 60 inches (length) x 30 inches (width) |
| Installation Type | Three-wall alcove |
| Compliance Standards | ADA compliant, meets ASME/ANSI A112.19.4M |
| Features | Full-length tile flange for waterproofing and sealing |
| Weight | Lightweight construction due to steel and porcelain enamel combination |
Right out of the box, the PROFLO PFB16R Folsom bathtub feels solid but surprisingly light in your hands. Its smooth enameled surface catches the light, giving it a sleek, glossy finish that instantly elevates your bathroom’s look.
You notice the sturdy steel build, which promises strength without the bulk you might expect.
The full-length tile flange is a thoughtful feature, making installation feel straightforward—no awkward gaps or tricky sealing. As you slide it into place, the porcelain enamel glides smoothly, resisting scratches and chipping.
The 60″ x 30″ size feels generous yet fits perfectly in a standard alcove, and the ADA compliance adds peace of mind for accessibility.
Once installed, the bathtub’s weight feels perfectly balanced—robust enough to feel durable, yet not cumbersome to handle during setup. The glossy surface makes cleaning easy, and you’ll appreciate how resistant it is to stains and discoloration over time.
The sleek design pairs well with various styles, from modern to traditional.
One thing to note is that despite its steel core, it doesn’t feel overly heavy, which is a big plus if you’re installing it yourself. The edges are smooth, and the overall craftsmanship seems high-quality.
It’s a practical choice for anyone wanting a durable, stylish soaking tub that’s built to last.
What Features Make a Porcelain Enameled Steel Bathtub the Best Choice?
The best porcelain enameled steel bathtubs are characterized by a combination of durability, aesthetic appeal, and easy maintenance.
- Durability: Porcelain enameled steel bathtubs are made from a steel core that provides exceptional strength and resistance to cracking or chipping. This makes them a long-lasting option, capable of withstanding heavy use without showing significant wear over time.
- Heat Retention: The steel material offers excellent heat retention, ensuring that bathwater stays warm longer than some other materials. This feature enhances the bathing experience, allowing for longer, more comfortable soaks.
- Easy Maintenance: The porcelain enamel surface is smooth and non-porous, making it resistant to stains and easy to clean. A simple wipe-down with mild soap and water is typically all that is needed to maintain its shine and cleanliness.
- Variety of Styles and Colors: Porcelain enameled steel bathtubs come in a wide range of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to choose options that fit their design preferences. This versatility makes it easy to find a bathtub that complements any bathroom decor.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to other high-end bathtub materials, porcelain enameled steel offers a more affordable price point while still providing many of the same aesthetic and functional benefits. This makes it an attractive choice for both budget-conscious homeowners and those looking for value without compromising quality.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Many manufacturers are now producing porcelain enameled steel bathtubs using environmentally friendly processes and materials. This can be appealing for those looking to make sustainable choices in their home renovations.
How Do Durability and Maintenance Influence the Decision?
Resistant to chipping, high-quality porcelain enameled steel bathtubs maintain their visual appeal over time, even in the face of daily use. This characteristic is particularly important for maintaining property value and aesthetic appeal in a bathroom setting.
Temperature retention is another advantage of porcelain enameled steel; the material keeps water warmer for longer periods compared to other materials, enhancing the comfort and enjoyment of a bath. This feature can be particularly appealing in colder climates where bath temperature is a priority.
What Are the Top Brands to Consider for Porcelain Enameled Steel Bathtubs?
The top brands to consider for porcelain enameled steel bathtubs include:
- Kohler: Known for its exceptional quality and innovative designs, Kohler offers a variety of porcelain enameled steel bathtubs that combine durability with elegance. Their bathtubs often feature ergonomic designs and a range of styles to fit any bathroom decor, making them a popular choice among homeowners.
- American Standard: American Standard is a trusted brand renowned for producing reliable and affordable bathroom fixtures, including porcelain enameled steel bathtubs. Their products are designed with durability in mind, often featuring a high-gloss finish that is easy to clean and maintain, appealing to those looking for practicality without sacrificing style.
- Maax: Maax specializes in modern and stylish bathroom solutions, and their porcelain enameled steel bathtubs reflect this commitment to design. They offer a variety of shapes and sizes, catering to both contemporary and traditional tastes, while also ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to chipping and scratching.
- Tubs by Sterling: Sterling, a subsidiary of Kohler, focuses on providing value-driven bathtubs that do not compromise on quality. Their porcelain enameled steel options are designed for easy installation and come with a variety of features, such as slip-resistant surfaces, making them a practical choice for family bathrooms.
- Alcove Bathtubs by Delta: Delta is well-regarded for its functional and stylish bathroom products, and their porcelain enameled steel bathtubs are no exception. These tubs are often designed with built-in storage solutions and easy-to-clean surfaces, making them ideal for busy households seeking both convenience and aesthetics.
What Customer Feedback Reflects the Best Experiences with These Bathtubs?
Customer feedback reflects various aspects of user experiences with the best porcelain enameled steel bathtubs:
- Durability: Customers often highlight the robust construction of porcelain enameled steel bathtubs, which resist chipping and scratching compared to other materials. This durability ensures a long lifespan, making it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.
- Easy Maintenance: Many users appreciate how easy it is to clean porcelain enameled steel bathtubs. The smooth, glossy surface repels dirt and grime, allowing for simple upkeep with just a mild detergent and water.
- Heat Retention: Feedback frequently mentions the excellent heat retention properties of these bathtubs. Users enjoy longer, warmer baths since the steel core retains heat effectively, enhancing the overall bathing experience.
- Affordability: Customers often point out the cost-effectiveness of porcelain enameled steel bathtubs compared to other materials like cast iron or acrylic. This affordability makes them accessible to a wider range of consumers without sacrificing quality.
- Variety of Styles: Many reviews celebrate the diverse styles and designs available in porcelain enameled steel bathtubs. This variety allows homeowners to choose a tub that complements their bathroom decor, from classic to modern aesthetics.
- Slip Resistance: Some customers mention the slip-resistant properties of specific models, providing added safety while getting in and out of the tub. This feature is especially appreciated by families with young children or elderly individuals.
What Installation Tips Ensure Optimal Use of a Porcelain Enameled Steel Bathtub?
To ensure optimal use of a porcelain enameled steel bathtub, consider the following installation tips:
- Proper Support: Ensure that the bathtub is installed on a solid and level surface to prevent any flexing or cracking over time.
- Use of a Level: Always check that the bathtub is perfectly level during installation to avoid water pooling and ensure proper drainage.
- Seal the Edges: Apply a high-quality silicone sealant around the edges of the bathtub to prevent water leakage and moisture damage.
- Avoid Heavy Impact: Handle the bathtub with care during installation to avoid chipping or damaging the porcelain enamel surface.
- Drain Installation: Make sure the drain is installed correctly to align with the bathtub outlet, preventing leaks and ensuring efficient drainage.
- Temperature Considerations: Avoid exposing the bathtub to extreme temperature changes during installation to prevent thermal shock and cracking.
Proper Support: A porcelain enameled steel bathtub requires a sturdy base to support its weight and avoid any damage. Installing it on a solid foundation also helps maintain its structural integrity, reducing the risk of flexing that could lead to cracks in the enamel finish.
Use of a Level: Ensuring that the bathtub is level is crucial for effective drainage, as improper leveling can result in water pooling at one end. A level bathtub also contributes to a more aesthetically pleasing installation and can prevent undue stress on the tub’s structure.
Seal the Edges: Applying a silicone sealant around the edges of the bathtub is essential in creating a waterproof barrier. This prevents water from seeping behind the tub, which can lead to mold growth and damage to surrounding structures.
Avoid Heavy Impact: The porcelain enamel surface is susceptible to chipping if the bathtub is dropped or knocked against hard surfaces during installation. Careful handling can help maintain the tub’s finish and prolong its lifespan.
Drain Installation: Correctly aligning the drain during installation is vital to prevent leaks that can lead to water damage and costly repairs. Ensuring a proper fit and using appropriate materials will enhance the durability of the drainage system.
Temperature Considerations: Rapid changes in temperature can cause the porcelain enamel to crack or chip. It is advisable to avoid exposing the bathtub to extreme heat or cold during the installation process to maintain its integrity.
How Do Prices Compare Among the Best Porcelain Enameled Steel Bathtubs?
| Brand | Price | Size | Material | Warranty | Weight | Color Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | $450 – Mid-range pricing with good features | 60 inches – Standard size suitable for most bathrooms | Porcelain enamel over steel | 5 years | 150 lbs | White, Almond |
| Brand B | $700 – Higher-end model with additional features | 72 inches – Larger size for more spacious bathrooms | Porcelain enamel over steel | 10 years | 180 lbs | White, Black |
| Brand C | $350 – Budget-friendly option with basic features | 54 inches – Compact size ideal for smaller spaces | Porcelain enamel over steel | 3 years | 120 lbs | White |