If you are starting a bathroom renovation and are planning to replace an old bathtub with a new acrylic model, then you will undoubtedly be faced with the problem of choosing a high-quality product that suits you. The modern plumbing market offers a huge number of all kinds of products that differ from each other not only in size and shape, but in the properties of the acrylic itself. Looking at modern bathtubs made of cast acrylic, it is very difficult for the untrained average person to distinguish them from models made of extruded acrylic, which cost much more and last much longer. In this article we will tell you what types of acrylic hot tubs dominate the market today and how to choose the right product for you.
Cast iron bath
Cast iron is a traditional material for making sanitary containers for washing. Bathtubs from this material have been made for the last 100-150 years. They have a high mass, which is explained by the properties of the material, low thermal conductivity, and high strength.
Cast iron bath
The white color of the bathtubs is given by the enamel coating, which is quite difficult to care for in order to keep it in its original form . In modern models, instead of enamel coating, a polymer coating is used, which is more unpretentious in maintenance. Cast iron models come in only oval and rectangular shapes. These products have the following advantages:
- Low noise. Compared to steel models, cast iron bathtubs are considered low noise. This means that the process of collecting water into such a container is quieter.
- Low thermal conductivity. The temperature of water collected in a cast iron container drops by only 5-10 degrees per hour, which allows you to comfortably perform hygiene procedures, since the water cools slowly at this time.
- High strength. Cast iron is considered a strong, wear-resistant material, so a container made of it can withstand high loads without deforming.
- Long service life. A high-quality cast iron container will last 50 years, during which time only cosmetic defects will appear on it.
Important! The disadvantage of cast iron models is their heavy weight, which complicates transportation and installation, as well as the difficulty of caring for the enamel coating. To avoid damaging the enamel, you must avoid using abrasive detergents and acidic bleaches that corrode the coating. When deciding which bath to choose, pay attention to the condition of the coating; it should not be chipped or damaged.
With handles
Special handles on bathtubs are designed for the convenience of older people, the safety of children, and also for general comfort.
Features of a steel bathtub with handles:
- The products are lightweight structures weighing up to 30 kg and are easy to install.
- The cost of a steel bathtub is inexpensive and affordable for buyers with a limited budget.
- Product safety during long-term operation.
- The dimensions of the steel bathtub with handles allow it to be installed in a small room.
- Care involves the use of cleaning agents and detergents intended for enamel surfaces.
Disadvantages of production:
- In production, steel sheets with a thickness of 2mm to 5mm are used. If the thickness of the steel sheet does not meet the standard, then this factor will negatively affect the quality in the first year of operation.
- The thin wall of the bathtub has a low level of sound insulation, so the intake of water is accompanied by noise.
Steel bath
Previously, steel models were considered only as a cheaper and short-lived analogue of cast iron washing containers. However, with their operational and technical characteristics they are much closer to acrylic bathtubs. Sanitary containers made of steel are quite light in weight, which is 3-5 times less than that of cast iron.
Steel bath
The service life of models made from this material does not exceed 20-25 years, but they cost 2-3 times less. Steel bathtubs are produced in oval, rectangular, angular, round shapes and coated with enamel or a polymer composition. They have the following disadvantages:
- High thermal conductivity. Sanitary containers made of steel cool faster than other types of bathtubs (cast iron, acrylic, ceramic). Because of this, it is uncomfortable to wash in them for a long time. This drawback can be eliminated when installing the container by treating the bottom with polyurethane foam or other insulating materials.
- High noise level. Steel has a high resonating ability, as a result of which the walls of the wash container amplify the sound of falling water. Therefore, when water is filled, the steel bathtub makes a lot of noise. This defect is partially eliminated by applying polyurethane foam to the bottom, which reduces the resonating ability of steel.
Reviews
It took me a long time to choose a bath. In the end, I bought acrylic and did not regret it. The main thing in choosing is a wall thickness of at least 6–7 mm. <…> Does it hold heat enough? to pamper for about 30 minutes. No deformations were detected when completely filled with water and the weight of the human body. One small drawback is that after bathing and draining the water, soapy water stains remain on the walls, but they can be removed even with a simple rag. The scratch can also be removed - almost with a rag. Satisfied. Don't buy Chinese steel for this money! and cast iron will be 2 times more expensive!
1111https://www.woman.ru/home/Interior/thread/3854246/
Nowadays there are bathtubs made from acrylic sheet 2-4 mm, less often - 6 mm. You don’t need to trust the seller’s word, you need to check these numbers yourself. All the sides are layered, everything can be seen perfectly.
Vladimir Evteev https://idealnijdom.ru/kak-vybrat-kachestvennuyu-akrilovuyu-vannu/
A hot tub is a breeding ground for infections. Therefore, a disinfection system is the main requirement. The noise of such a bath will only relax the deaf. The complete impression is that you are flying on a tractor. The bathtub itself is extremely unreliable by design, which makes its installation extremely controversial. Any plans to have a bathtub built into the trim may cause problems with bathtub renovations in the future. Only an island installation will create a uniquely repairable bathtub. There is, however, the option of installing it above the ladder, which will eliminate the need for a curtain and a seal with the wall.
cineman https://forum.cok.ru/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=21277
Acrylic bathtubs
Acrylic models have appeared on the market en masse only in the last 10-15 years, but at first they did not inspire confidence among buyers. Affordable price, excellent performance and long service life quickly made acrylic bathtubs the most popular among analogues in the same price category made from other materials. The main advantage of acrylic is that various models of bathtubs of the most intricate shapes are made from it.
Acrylic bath
Sanitary containers made of this material are round, oval, angular, or heart-shaped. They are produced in 2 types:
- The reinforcement frame of the bathroom is a fiberglass base on which an acrylic coating is applied. This type includes more expensive, durable and wear-resistant models.
- The sanitary container is made of 2 layers of extruded acrylic. Such models have lower strength, they are cheaper, but last less.
Important! The service life of acrylic models, guaranteed by the manufacturer, is only 7-15 years. They are easy to care for; however, you should follow the manufacturer's recommendations when choosing cleaning products. Small scratches on the surface of the bathtub can be restored using liquid acrylic, and the former gloss can be restored by polishing.
Professional craftsmen claim that installing acrylic models is more difficult than other types of bathtubs. Since they weigh only 10-15 kg and also do not have mechanical strength, improper installation leads to the bottom of the container splitting when the load increases. Also, during operation, you need to take into account that acrylic melts at 150 degrees, so too hot water leads to deformation of the bathtub.
Differences in bowl shapes and sizes
The correct choice of shape and dimensions of a plumbing fixture helps to rationally use the space of the room.
Rectangular
Products of standard shape are universal. They are made from any material. The device is mounted near a wall or in the middle part of the room. The traditional size is 170x80 cm. Some manufacturers offer compact or enlarged bowls. The distances between the long sides may also vary.
Square
Due to their size, square bathtubs are installed only in spacious rooms. Most often, such models are made of acrylic or artificial stone. Standard size 150x150 cm.
Corner
The corner design looks bulky, but this shape saves room space. The product fits into the interior of the bathroom of a typical apartment. Acrylic, steel, and artificial stone are used to produce corner bowls. Products made from natural stone are less common. They are often equipped with massage nozzles. The bowl can be used as a shower tray. Dimensions range from 120x120 to 180x180 cm.
Asymmetrical
Non-standard devices harmonize with modern interiors. They are installed in a corner, near a wall or in the center of the room. A standard-sized plumbing fixture does not take up much space, so it is suitable for standard bathrooms.
Round
The round shape is convenient for installation and operation of the hydromassage system. The diameter of the bowl is 140-200 cm. Installation is only possible in a spacious room that provides access to all sides of the bowl. Models are made of acrylic, quarry, steel, artificial or natural stone.
Oval
Devices of this shape are installed in the central part of the room or at a short distance from the wall. The product becomes a decoration for a classic interior. The dimensions are the same as those of rectangular models.
Semicircular
The semicircular shape is chosen when it is necessary to save space and increase the volume of the bath. This bowl is installed near the wall. Can be used as a shower tray.
Triangular
This is the name for products whose shape resembles an isosceles triangle. The devices are considered a type of corner model. Most often they are made from acrylic, which is explained by the plasticity of the material. Less commonly, bowls are made of steel or quarry. The depth of the device is 45-60 cm, the length of the side is 150-180 cm.
Freestanding
Such models are equipped with graceful legs; most often they are made in a classic style and have an oval shape. Installed in the central part of a spacious room.
sedentary
Compact seating units are suitable for typical separate bathrooms. The length does not exceed 120 cm, which allows you to install the device in any part of the room. The disadvantages are the inconvenience of carrying out water procedures and the inability to install auxiliary equipment.
For two
Double models most often have a square or round shape. Their large dimensions do not allow them to be placed in standard apartments.
Quaryl baths
Quaril is a modern, technologically advanced material produced by combining functional acrylic and durable quartz. Quaril is used to produce exclusive, expensive bathtubs with excellent performance characteristics. Models made from this unique material are heavier and stronger than acrylic ones; they have low thermal conductivity, like cast iron. Quaril baths come in various shapes, colors and sizes and are produced to individual orders.
Quaril bath
The addition of quartz improves the following qualities of acrylic:
- Thermal conductivity. Models made from quaril are not inferior in thermal conductivity to cast iron bathtubs, which perfectly retain heat during use.
- Low noise. Adding quartz reduces the noise level when collecting water into a container made of this material.
- High temperature resistance. Models made from this material can be used at any water temperature without restrictions.
- Strength. Models made from quaril are highly durable; they do not crack or deform under intense load.
- Easy to maintain. The structure of this material repels dirt, so caring for it comes down to periodic disinfection and rinsing.
- Ease of installation. Higher mechanical strength allows you to install quaril baths without frame equipment.
Important! When deciding which bathtub to choose in the premium class, pay attention to models made of quaril. They have excellent technical and operational qualities, as well as unsurpassed functionality. For ease of use, they are equipped with built-in armrests, handrails, and headrests. Expensive models include hydromassage functions, built-in radio and other useful options.
Additional options
Acrylic bathtubs are also good because they are often equipped with various devices that make water procedures more pleasant and useful, and also ensure optimal use of the device.
Hydromassage
Through special nozzles built into the walls, streams of water continuously flow into the bath. They create a flow effect. The procedure gives elasticity to the skin, promotes muscle relaxation, and has a beneficial effect on the functioning of internal organs.
Acrylic bathtub with hydromassage
Aeromassage
The technology is the same as in the previous case, only instead of liquid, air enters the water and forms bubbles. The effect is similar to hydromassage. Often these functions are combined in one device.
Disinfection
After draining the water, the system automatically applies the cleaning agent to the surface of the bowl and then rinses it off with water. This function allows you to keep your plumbing fixtures clean and not have to disinfect it yourself before each use.
Water level sensor
Automatically stops water supply after filling. It also regulates the liquid level for the normal functioning of aero- and hydromassage. Thanks to the sensor, the injectors do not work in vain.
You can also additionally install lighting and a device for automatic water heating. Some models have a built-in panel for connecting a TV, a point for accessing the Internet, and even the ability to synchronize with the Smart Home system. Of course, with each additional feature the price of the product increases.
