Reinforced 8mm Baths

All the baths we offer have to be of exceptional quality due to the amount of jets we like to fit into them. Anything flimsy we don't want to touch. Solid bathtubs are so much easier to deal with when it comes to adding whirlpool systems. We fit the best systems and so want to supply the best whirlpool baths out there.

Yes. The tubs you’ll see on our site will usually have an 8mm reinforced sheet for added protection. This helps do two important things:

• provide great heat retention

• provide added rigidity to the tub

Most baths in the UK will be 5mm thick. Some lightweight models can be as thin as 3.2mm, especially if it’s a one-sheet metal bath. If you are looking for a bath that has good heat retention, a reinforced 8mm bath is a good choice.

These are three terms that all describe the same product. One of the most popular brands we sell is Carron whirlpool baths. The company created its own reinforced material (Carronite) a few years ago, and it was seen as a pioneering finish for bathtubs. Since then, other manufacturers have followed suit producing their own similar finish that adheres to the 8mm standard. Aquaestil uses the term Aquamaxx. They describe it as a durable, hi-tech super reinforcement coating that provides cast iron strength and extra thermal insulation. Armatec is the name we use for the same process being applied to our range of Luna whirlpool baths.

The process itself is the action of taking the existing acrylic bath, and adding an extra triple layer of reinforcement. This reinforced layer is made up of layers of fibreglass, resin and a special hardening composite. The result is a much more rigid and stronger bathtub, resulting in a more solid and comfortable experience when bathing. It is worth noting that Carron also do panels with the special Carronite reinforced finish. These can be found in the accessories section.

There are several reasons you might want to have a reinforced layer. They include:

• An amazingly strong, rigid bathtub that will never flex or bend.

• Greater thermal retention properties than a standard acrylic or steel bath.

• Extra layers of insulation.

• The bathwater will stay warmer for longer; up to 30 minutes in some tests.

• British made quality recommended by professionals.

• 30-year warranty.

• Unique installation system ensuring the weight is spread evenly.

Some people refer to these special finishes as the best alternative to a steel bath; but don't take our word for it. Read this handy thread we found online to help you decide if it's worth putting those extra pounds into a reinforced finish.

For the majority of whirlpool baths we sell, you also have the chance to have an inline heater installed. This is a heater around the tub that turns on when you fill the bath. It helps keep the water at the same temperature throughout your soak, so you never have to worry about 'topping up' the bath every once in a while.

Pretty much any shape and style of bath can be reinforced, including:

• D-Shaped

• Corner

• Freestanding

• J-Shaped

• Extra-Deep

• Inset

The protective layer, depending on which make you buy, should do the job of reinforcing a freestanding bath properly. If you’re someone who likes to have the temperature at a certain level, having an inline heater installed may be the solution.

We offer extra-reinforced baths in our Carron range and our Luna range. To find the Carronite options and to read more about the history of Carron please click here. We go into detail about how the company was founded and how they are always reinvesting to stay ahead of the game from their factory in the UK. We also feature on this page all the Carron Carronite baths we are currently selling, and which is updated regularly.

Want to see our range of Armatec baths? We’ve dedicated a whole section to baths that we offer in this special finish. This will be updated regularly as we look to broaden our range of this truly wonderful product.

The Aquamaxx finish can be found on the Arena bath we offer from Aquaestil. Click the link to see the whirlpool options available.