A new-look bathroom can add thousands of dollars in value to your home and it is the best way to gain a return on investment when the time comes to sell. We know that a good, functional bathroom is very high on the must-haves for most buyers – and it doesn’t matter if they are in the market for a house, townhouse or apartment.

Of course, there are arguments as to whether a bath is necessary in a bathroom anymore – with many people putting the bath in the main bathroom but choosing to save room and have a large, luxurious shower in the en-suite. There is no argument that baths are still a sought-after feature – particularly for those people with young families and those who want the luxury of a spa.

If you have decided to have a bath, it can be challenging to select the kind you want. The wide choice of designs and materials can be bewildering. So here is a small list of tips to help.

1. Fibreglass and acrylic

Baths made of these materials are the most competitively priced and offer the greatest variety of design options. Their insulation properties also mean it will keep the water warmer than enamel or cast-iron baths. But don’t use an abrasive cleaner on them, as this will scratch away the top service and dull the colour.

2. Composites

Resin is a relatively new material that offers steel-like strength but only 50% of the weight. They’re worth pricing if you want a five-star renovation.

3. Enamelled steel

These are the most inexpensive options. The coating of porcelain enamel tends to chip, and its thermal properties make it a poor insulator. They’re also significantly heavier than fibreglass and acrylic models so be careful if you’re putting it on a second floor.

4. Polymer

This material is used to create the effects of classic finishes, such as marble and onyx. They’re similar to acrylic baths but not as hardy. Over a few short years, you can expect to see the gel top-coat dull. Eventually, it’ll break down and suffer chips or cracks, and it might even wear through to the base material. However, it offers an amazing first impression when installed.

5. Cast iron

This is your heavyweight option. Second-floor bathrooms will have to take 250kg-plus in weight. If you take this path, you may need to consult a structural engineer.