Twenty years ago, home builders and homeowners were enamored with whirlpool tubs and jet sprays that promised long relaxing soaks.
 
Many years later, whirlpool tubs have largely fallen out of fashion as a must-have for a luxury bathroom. As it turns out, many homeowners found that they rarely used their whirlpool tubs. Some of the downsides of whirlpool tubs include their bulkiness; the time it takes to fill them, which is typically at least 10 minutes; and the height and width of tubs’ sides, which can be a problem for people who have limited mobility. Whirlpool tubs also can be a concern for homeowners who are thinking ahead and want a master bathroom that allows them to “age in place.”
 
As whirlpool tubs have declined in popularity, many homeowners are replacing them with large tiled shower enclosures, freestanding tubs, or both.
 
If you are considering taking out your whirlpool tub and replacing it with a freestanding tub or enclosed shower, stop by Longley Supply Company during your planning process. Longley Supply Company can provide the products, expertise and advice to make your project a success.
 
At Longley Supply’s Wilmington showroom, you can see examples of shower enclosures and freestanding tubs, and the latest and greatest in accessories that you might need to go with them. For showers, this includes:

• Barrier free, level-entry shower systems from VIM Products, Inc. These systems are curbless, which can eliminate unnecessary impediments and reduce the potential for pooling and leaking at the curb.
• An extensive selection of rain shower heads, handheld sprays and body sprays for a fully customized showering experience.
• Frameless and framed glass shower enclosures from Basco.
• Handles, spouts and drain covers from American Standard, Moen, Grohe and Delta in a variety of finishes.
• Complementary bath accessories such as towel bars, sink faucets and bathroom lighting. 

The Longley showroom is also a great place to take a seat in a freestanding tub; several models are displayed on the showroom floor. These tubs are gaining popularity as they take up less space than whirlpool tubs or tub-shower units and have slim sides for easier entry and exit. Longley Supply carries freestanding tubs from top manufacturers such as DXV, American Standard, Barclay and Victoria + Albert, as well as the necessary floor-mounted tub fillers in a variety of finishes.
 
Longley Supply Company’s Wilmington showroom is open to the public and conveniently located at 2018 Oleander Drive. Showroom hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. After-hours and weekend appointments are also available by request. Visit www.longleysupplycompany.com for a list of other showroom locations in the Carolinas.