PROFLO Hillsboro 60x42 Alcove Soaking vs PROFLO Hillsboro 60x36 Acrylic Soaking (2026): Key Differences
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You are comparing the proflo hillsboro 60x42 alcove soaking vs hillsboro 60x36 acrylic models. Both are white, acrylic soaking tubs designed for three-wall alcove installations. They share a 60-inch length and similar warranty terms. The main difference lies in their width and drain placement. The 60x42 model offers more interior width, while the 60x36 is narrower. You must choose based on your bathroom space and plumbing layout.
Key differences
| Aspect | PROFLO Hillsboro 60x42 Alcove Soaking Tub | PROFLO Hillsboro 60x36 Acrylic Soaking Tub |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 42 inches | 36 inches |
| Drain Location | Right | Left |
| Height | 19.8 inches | 19.5 inches |
| Weight | 110 pounds | 119 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose PROFLO Hillsboro 60x42 Alcove Soaking Tub if
- You have a wider alcove space that can accommodate a 42-inch width.
- Your plumbing drain is positioned on the right side of the tub.
- You prefer a lighter tub that is easier to handle during installation.
Choose PROFLO Hillsboro 60x36 Acrylic Soaking Tub if
- You are working with a narrower alcove that requires a 36-inch width.
- Your plumbing drain is positioned on the left side of the tub.
- You do not mind a slightly heavier unit for the narrower footprint.
Verdict: Choose the 60x42 model if you need extra width and have a right-side drain. Pick the 60x36 model if your space is tighter or your drain is on the left. Both offer the same acrylic material and soaking experience.
Size and Drain Placement Differences
overall dimensions
Both tubs measure 60 inches in length, offering the same footprint along the wall. The 60x42 model is wider at 42 inches, providing more interior space for soaking. The 60x36 model is narrower at 36 inches, which may suit tighter alcoves. You should choose the wider option if you prioritize extra room to stretch out. The narrower version is better for constrained bathroom layouts. Both maintain a similar height profile, with the 60x42 standing at 19.8 inches and the 60x36 at 19.5 inches. This slight height difference is negligible for most users. The weight also varies, with the larger tub weighing 110 pounds and the smaller one at 119 pounds, likely due to structural reinforcement.
drain location
The drain placement is a critical installation detail that differs between these two models. The 60x42 tub features a right-side drain, which requires your plumbing to align with the right wall of the alcove. The 60x36 tub has a left-side drain, fitting installations where pipes are on the opposite wall. You must check your existing plumbing or plan your new installation carefully to match the drain side. Mismatching the drain location can lead to difficult and costly retrofits. If your bathroom layout already has plumbing on the right, the 60x42 is the direct fit. If plumbing is on the left, the 60x36 is the correct choice without modification.
interior volume
The wider 60x42 tub offers a larger interior volume compared to the 60x36 model. With a 42-inch width, it provides more space for your body, enhancing the soaking experience. The 36-inch width of the other model is sufficient for most adults but feels tighter. If you prefer a spacious bath where you can stretch your legs fully, the 60x42 is superior. The 60x36 is adequate for standard soaking but may feel cramped for taller users or those who like to sprawl. Both are designed as soaking tubs, but the extra width of the 60x42 translates directly to comfort. Consider your body size and comfort preferences when weighing this difference.
material and heat retention
Both tubs are constructed from acrylic, a material known for maintaining water heat longer than standard materials. This means your bath stays warm for more time, allowing you to relax without the water cooling too quickly. The acrylic surface is also easy to clean, requiring simple wiping to maintain its white finish. Neither model shows any difference in material quality or heat retention properties based on the specifications. You get the same durable, easy-to-maintain surface regardless of which width you choose. The consistency in material ensures that both options provide a similar user experience in terms of comfort and upkeep. This is a shared strength of the Hillsboro line.
warranty coverage
Both the 60x42 and 60x36 models come with identical warranty terms from PROFLO. They are covered by a 5-year warranty for residential use and a 1-year warranty for commercial applications. This coverage applies to both acrylic construction and overall build quality. You receive the same level of protection and manufacturer support regardless of the width you select. This consistency simplifies your decision, as warranty concerns do not favor one model over the other. You can rely on the same durability assurances for either tub. The warranty terms reflect the manufacturer's confidence in the acrylic material and construction standards across the Hillsboro series.
Which tub fits your space and needs
You need wider interior space for soaking
The 60x42 model offers a 42-inch width, providing more room than the 36-inch alternative. This extra width allows for a more comfortable soak. The acrylic material retains heat well, and the right-side drain placement suits your bathroom layout. It weighs 110 pounds and fits standard alcove spaces.
You have a narrow alcove or tight space
The 60x36 model is narrower at 36 inches, making it ideal for tighter footprints. The left-side drain placement may better fit your existing plumbing. It shares the same 60-inch length and acrylic construction for heat retention. This option weighs 119 pounds and is designed for three-wall alcove installation.
You want a lighter tub for easier handling
At 110 pounds, this model is lighter than the 119-pound 60x36 option. The lighter weight can simplify installation. It still provides the same 60-inch length and 19.8-inch height for a deep soak. The right drain and acrylic build ensure durability and heat retention in a standard alcove setting.
The products compared
PROFLO Hillsboro 60x42 Alcove Soaking Tub
Best for: Deep soaking in wide alcove bathrooms
- Type
- soaking
- Material
- acrylic
- Length
- 60 inches
- Drain Location
- right
- Mount Type
- three wall alcove
- Color
- White
View on Amazon: PROFLO Hillsboro 60x42 Alcove Soaking Tub Affiliate link
The PROFLO Hillsboro 60x42 is a white acrylic soaking tub designed for three-wall alcove installation. It measures 60 inches long and 42 inches wide, offering a spacious footprint for deep soaking. The right-side drain placement and 19.8-inch height support a comfortable bathing experience. This model suits those needing a wider tub in a standard alcove space.
Pros
- Acrylic construction retains heat effectively
- 60x42 inch dimensions provide ample soaking space
- Right-side drain placement for flexible plumbing
- Five-year residential warranty included
Cons
- Heavier at 110 pounds, requiring sturdy floor support
- Wider 42-inch depth may not fit narrow alcoves
- Limited to three-wall alcove installation only
Good fit if
- You need a wider soaking area than standard 36-inch models
- Your bathroom alcove is at least 42 inches deep
- You prefer right-side drain placement for plumbing alignment
Skip if
- Your alcove is only 36 inches deep
- You require a freestanding or corner tub design
- Your floor cannot support over 100 pounds
Verdict: PROFLO Hillsboro 60x42 Soaking Tub fits buyers who prioritize width and heat retention in a standard alcove setup. It is ideal for spaces with sufficient depth and structural capacity.
PROFLO Hillsboro 60x36 Acrylic Soaking Tub
Best for: Left-drain alcove bathrooms needing heat retention
- Type
- Three Wall Alcove
- Material
- Acrylic
- Length
- 60 inches
- Drain Location
- Left Drain
- Color
- White
- Dimensions
- 60 × 36 × 19.5 inches
View on Amazon: PROFLO Hillsboro 60x36 Acrylic Soaking Tub Affiliate link
The PROFLO Hillsboro 60x36 is a three-wall alcove soaking tub made of acrylic. It measures 60 inches long and 36 inches wide, with a height of 19.5 inches. The left-side drain placement suits specific plumbing layouts. Acrylic construction retains heat well for a calm bathing experience. This model weighs 119 pounds and includes a five-year residential warranty.
Pros
- Acrylic material retains heat longer than standard materials
- 60x36 inch dimensions fit standard alcove spaces
- Left drain location matches specific plumbing needs
- Five-year residential warranty covers defects
Cons
- 36 inch width offers less soaking space than 42 inch models
- 19.5 inch height may be shallow for tall users
- Three-wall alcove design requires existing walls on three sides
Good fit if
- You need a left-side drain for your plumbing
- You want acrylic to keep water warm longer
- You have a standard alcove space with three walls
Skip if
- You prefer a deeper soak than 19.5 inches allows
- You need a wider tub than 36 inches wide
- You require a freestanding tub instead of an alcove model
Verdict: PROFLO Hillsboro 60x36 Acrylic Soaking Tub fits bathrooms with left-side drain requirements and standard alcove spaces. It prioritizes heat retention and warranty coverage over extra width.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | PROFLO Hillsboro 60x42 Alcove Soaking Tub | PROFLO Hillsboro 60x36 Acrylic Soaking Tub |
|---|---|---|
| Type | soaking | Three Wall Alcove |
| Material | acrylic | Acrylic |
| Length | 60 inches | 60 inches |
| Drain Location | right | Left Drain |
| Mount Type | three wall alcove | not stated |
| Color | White | White |
| Dimensions | 60 × 42 × 19.8 inches | 60 × 36 × 19.5 inches |
| Weight | 110 pounds | 119 pounds |
| Model | PFS6042RSKWH | PFS6036LSKNWH |
Frequently asked questions
Which PROFLO Hillsboro tub is better for deep soaking?
The 60x42 model is better for deep soaking. Its wider 42-inch design provides more interior space than the 36-inch version. This extra width allows for a more comfortable soak. The 19.8-inch height also supports deep water retention. You get more room to relax in the wider unit.
Does the 60x36 model have a left drain?
Yes, the 60x36 model features a left-side drain. Its model number includes an LS indicator for left-side configuration. The 60x42 model does not specify this drain placement in its data. If your plumbing requires a left drain, the narrower 36-inch tub is the correct choice for your alcove.
How much heavier is the narrower tub?
The 60x36 tub weighs 119 pounds, while the 60x42 tub weighs 110 pounds. The narrower model is nine pounds heavier. This difference may matter for floor support requirements. Both tubs are made of acrylic, but the weight distribution varies. Check your floor capacity before installation.
Can I install these tubs in a standard alcove?
Yes, both tubs are designed for alcove installation. They fit standard three-wall setups with a 60-inch length. The 60x42 model requires more depth due to its 42-inch width. The 60x36 model fits tighter spaces with its 36-inch width. Ensure your bathroom has enough clearance for the chosen width.
What is the height difference between the two models?
The 60x42 model is 19.8 inches high. The 60x36 model is 19.5 inches high. The difference is 0.3 inches. This minor variation affects water level slightly. Both heights support deep soaking. The taller model may hold slightly more water volume due to its wider basin.
Are both tubs made of the same material?
Yes, both tubs are made of acrylic. They share the same durable material construction. Acrylic provides good heat retention for soaking. Both models are white in color. The material choice ensures a consistent look and feel across both width options. You get the same surface quality regardless of size.
Which tub is better for smaller bathrooms?
The 60x36 model is better for smaller bathrooms. Its 36-inch width requires less floor space than the 42-inch version. Both tubs have the same 60-inch length. The narrower design fits tighter alcoves. If space is limited, the 36-inch tub offers a comfortable soak without overwhelming the room.