Freestanding Tubs: What To Know Before You Buy What Is a Freestanding Tub? Like its name implies, a freestanding tub stands alone, unattached to walls. All sides of the tub are finished, unlike the more common alcove tub, which is only finished on one side. A freestanding tub can be placed close to walls or in an open area of the bathroom. The location might take advantage of a pleasant feature, like a nice view out a window or a fireplace. “Location is dependent on access to plumbing,” says James Bruno, chief construction officer of Curbio, a home improvement company in Potomac, Maryland. “Usually the plumbing for a freestanding tub comes up through the floor.” That’s different than alcove tubs, where the plumbing comes through the wall. Another distinction about today’s freestanding tubs? “They’re usually just for baths,” Bruno says.
Types of Freestanding Tubs