Gel Coat vs. Acrylic Tubs
- Acrylic tubs are among the most popular tubs on the market today. Often fiberglass reinforced, these tubs are strong and resistant to cracking. Acrylic tubs are assembled from large, plastic pieces in the colors desired by consumers. This warmed plastic is then stretched over a mold and cooled to produce a lightweight, easily cleaned bathtub.
- Gel coat tubs are made entirely out of fiberglass and then coated with gel to add strength. This gel coat is a polyester resin sprayed onto the fiberglass tub's mold. These types of tubs are repaired easily and are affordable on almost any budget.
- While both affordable, some differences exist between these tubs. Gel coat tubs are only expected to last 10 years with scratching and fading causing damage. Acrylic tubs will also scratch and discolor over time, but they are easily kept clean with mild detergents and tend to last longer.
