The Weight Is Over: Eljer’s New Gibraltar™ Bathtub

Equivalent of Cast Iron, It Only Weighs 89 Pounds

DALLAS, TX – March 4, 2004  –  Eljer Plumbingware, Inc., is celebrating its centennial with the introduction of several new, highly innovative products, the first being the light weight Gibraltar™ bathtub.

Available in eight different models, the Gibraltar series is manufactured using a revolutionary new core material – EnduroCAST™ – identical to what the automotive industry uses for crash-protection.  It provides all the advantages of cast iron without any of the drawbacks.

However, the Gibraltar’s real benefit lies in its light weight and easy maneuverability.  The Gibraltar weighs only 89 pounds – meaning it’s easier to install and less costly to ship.  The dual stabilizer bars not only help in maneuvering the lightweight tub, but help keep it stable during and after installation.  The stabilizer bars ensure that the tub sits perfectly level on the floor – there’s no arduous leveling required.  What was once a two-man job has now become the job of one, thereby offering significant labor savings.

“Whether it’s a residential or commercial installation, you need a tub that’s tough enough to stand up to years of wear and tear,” said Frank Vullo, Director of Product Management at Eljer.  “And that’s exactly what the Gibraltar is all about.  EnduroCAST is a ground-breaking product allowing us to make one of the lightest tubs in the market, with many additional features that also make it the best tub in the market.”

The Gibraltar also provides new and improved benefits to the end user.  The porcelain enameled steel with EnduroCAST backing provides 22 percent longer heat retention.  So a hot bath stays hot longer.  The tub has a 39-gallon capacity, with a larger bathing area (the outside dimensions of tub are  60” x 30” x 14-1/4”) that is more roomy and allows for more “stretch-out” space.  Its 40 degree Luxury Lumbar angle, determined through comprehensive testing, is specifically designed for optimum bather comfort and health.

EnduroCAST engineering also allows the Gibraltar to excel in direct and indirect impact testing; it has 50 percent less deflection in the bottom of the tub, giving it a more solid feel and additional durability.  In addition, its superior sound-reduction qualities make it perfect for the hospitality industry or institutional environments. Less silica in the enamel provides better bonding, better depth of color and a higher-gloss finish, which results in a durable showroom-like finish for years to come

            It’s available for commercial and residential applications in white, natural and biscuit finishes, left and right outlet, and below and above-the-floor rough-in models. It also features Eljer’s Limited Lifetime Warranty, one of the most comprehensive in the industry.

            Eljer Plumbingware, Inc., a leading manufacturer of plumbing products for the residential and commercial construction, remodeling and repair markets since 1904.  Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Eljer is celebrating its centennial anniversary this year.  For more information about Eljer products, call 800-423-5537or visit www.eljer.com

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