As remodeling contractors for over two decades, we can state with great certainty that one of the most popular remodeling wish list items for a master bathroom is a whirlpool tub.

A recent survey of consumers planning a bathroom remodel indicated that better than half included a whirlpool tub on their wish list.

It wasn't too long ago that a whirlpool tub was reserved for the "upper crust" and custom homes. Today a whirlpool tub is frequently standard equipment in many high-end production-built homes and is an available option offered by most builders. In fact, whirlpool sales almost doubled in the last 10 years. And manufacturers are offering new styles, sizes, combinations and affordability with shower systems and high-end bells and whistles to make bathing more relaxing and fun.

Aside from the therapeutic benefits of a whirlpool tub, there is usually considerably more elbow room - often enough for more than one bather at a time. Some high-end whirlpool tub manufacturers include dimmer-controlled underwater lighting and a built-in state-of-the-art entertainment system complete with flat-screen television, surroundsound and waterproof speakers.

If you are among the more that half of those bathroom-remodeling consumers dreaming of a whirlpool tub, the details that follow can help you decide if a whirlpool tub is a realistic option and, if so, considerations that you should make when buying a tub.

The first question that you need to consider is how extensive your bathroom remodeling project will be. Do you plan to remove existing walls to enlarge the tub area or will you work within the existing space? This is an important question, because, in order to enjoy the full therapeutic experience of a whirlpool tub, you should consider a tub larger than the stand size bathtub, which is about 60 by 32 inches.

A 6-foot jetted tub would be ideal; however, if 60 inches is all the space you have, then we recommend a tub that is at least 36 inches wide and ideally 42 inches. This will give you plenty of wiggle room and unobstructed space for the bubbles to do their thing.

Keep in mind that gaining the additional 4 to 10 inches in width for a bigger tub may cut into needed space and, thus, require a different layout. Consult a bathroom design professional for ideas.

Other basics that you should consider when shopping for a whirlpool tub - beyond size and color -- are the size of the pump, the voltage, the number and location of the jets, an inline heater and other available options.

Remember, if youre not replacing an existing whirlpool tub, a dedicated electrical circuit with a ground fault circuit interrupter will need to be added that will power the pump. And if your new tub will be equipped with its own inline heater, a second separate dedicated electrical circuit will be required. This can make a difference in your budget when it comes to pulling power from an existing maxed-out power supply.

Another consideration is the tub skirt. Will the tub be placed on a platform with a skirt finished in tile or other material? If not, be sure to include the optional skirt. And for an installation where tile or wall finishes will abut the outside edge of the tub, be sure to order a tub with an integral tile flange. After market tile flange kits can also be installed.

The number and location of jets is an important factor. If you suffer from lower back pain, one or more jets at that location on the tub would be a good idea. In addition, some tubs can be ordered with larger, quieter pumps or more than one pump.

Dont forget optional waterproof pillows, timers and trim finish that can be coordinated to match your faucet finish. And speaking of faucets, be prepared for a little plumbing reconfiguration if you will change an existing wall-mount faucet to a deck-mount tub spout and handles. Who knows, you might even want to throw in a hand show while you are at it great for late night water fights! Be prepared for minor adjustment to the drain location too.

Finally, a couple of tricks that will make for a solid installation and keep your tub quiet and water warm. Set the tub in a bed of wet plaster of Paris or mortar. The tub should be empty when placing into a wet bed of this material. This will prevent flexing when the tub is filled with water, which could otherwise result in stress cracks. Also, add a layer of fiberglass insulation around the tub. This will keep water in the tub warmer for a longer period and cut down on pump noise.

Just a couple of tricks of the trade!

So when youre ready to create your dream bathroom, join the bubble revolution and install a whirlpool tub.