Bathtubs

How to choose a bath?

How to choose a bath?

Today on the market of sanitary ware there is a huge selection of different bathtubs. Their diversity is created by means of shape, color palette, size and used material. So that every buyer will be able to pick up a model according to their preferences. Competent choice will help to create a spectacular and organic design of the room.

Classification by location

Before you stop your choice on a particular product, you need to determine the place where the bath will be installed. One of the latest fashion trends is to install it in the bedroom, where it not only performs its functions, but also becomes a design "chip" of the whole interior.

The bathroom in the bedroom

In a regular bathroom, it can be installed in different ways.

Freestanding

Freestanding bathtub - a very spectacular option, but only suitable for large rooms, because it takes up a lot of space and can make it difficult to move around a small room.

Free-standing bath

Corner

The corner model is an ideal option, especially for small rooms. The small model will fit perfectly in any room and will allow you to create the most comfortable and ergonomic space.

Their two sides form a right angle that fits snugly against the walls, while the third side is beveled and rounded on the corners. Depending on the size of the room and your tastes, you can choose a symmetrical or asymmetrical bathtub.

Also read our article on asymmetric bathtubswhich lets you design your room differently, and angular views.

Corner bath

Rectangular

The usual rectangular bathtub - most often built into a niche and touching the walls with three sides. This is an old-fashioned and convenient installation location for a typical home.

Rectangular bathtub

Recessed

Recessed bathtubs Can afford only owners of private houses and cottages. This option looks chic and allows you to embed models of any size and shape in the floor, the main thing is that the foundation of the building could withstand the load.

Recessed bathtub

Large

Large models are used in spacious rooms, because they are designed for several people at once. Their length can be more than two meters. In terms of shape, large bathtubs can be round, oval, multifaceted, angular or placed in the center of the room. It all depends on the owner's preferences, his taste and chosen style.

Read more in our article about large bathtubs..

Flush-floor bathtub

In any case, the size and shape of the bath should be consistent with the size of the room. It should not take up almost the entire room, and its installation should not create hard to reach places for cleaning.

If you want a bathtub of a certain shape or size and you doubt whether it is possible to install it, use 3D visualization programs of the space or ask the store managers, they will help you to do it, knowing the dimensions of your bathroom.

Large bath for three

Matching the style

The bathtub is the main element, so it should also match the chosen style of the bathroom.

First, you can choose the model and color scheme, and then pick the style of the room.

But you can also do the opposite. Decide on the style of the bathroom, think about the finish of the walls, the ceiling, and the choice of flooring. And then move on to the selection of a bathtub to emphasize the chosen style and make the space unique and luxurious.

Stylish bathroom

For example, you decided to create a style of high-tech. This style is characterized by features such as the use of metal objects, the presence of mirrors, minimalism and simplicity of details. Particular attention should be paid to the choice of plumbing.

The original solution can be the use of a shower cabin, because it resembles a space vehicle, which was constructed from glass, metal and plastic. But if you are a fan of baths, you can use a chrome model of asymmetric shape or pick something in a huge variety of acrylic bathtubs. Asymmetric model will perfectly complement the chosen style and make it more filling.

If you decide to make a bath and toilet in the same color scheme, it is better to buy this set from the same manufacturer, because the color shades may vary depending on the manufacturer of sanitary ware.

Each bathroom style dictates its own rules. A large variety of models, as well as the use of different materials will help to find an appropriate bath for any design.

Creative bath

Deciding on the material

Bathtubs are made of cast iron, acrylic and steel. The service life is at least 15 years, so before buying, you should read our article about Which bath is better: acrylic, cast iron or steel. It will help you to make a balanced and correct decision.

Illuminated Bathtub

Cast iron

Pros:

  • High strength and long life of the product;
  • The large weight contributes to good stability. It will fit tightly against the wall, and ceramic tiles can be glued closely to the cast iron bathtub;
  • the enamel coating is characterized by a special luster;
  • perfectly holds the temperature of the water, complete cooling begins after about half an hour. This advantage allows you to save money on the use of hot water;
  • Cast iron has good noise insulation.
Cast iron bathtub

Cons:

  • A large weight, which reaches up to 120 kg. Shipping a bathtub to high floors will be a very difficult ordeal;
  • enamel requires special cleaning to avoid damaging it;
  • cast iron models are not distinguished by a variety of sizes, although if you want it, you can find even angular models.
Cast iron corner bathtub

Read our article about cast-iron bathtub.

Acrylic

In today's market of sanitary equipment, acrylic models are already in great demand, although their production began not so long ago. Acrylic is a type of plastic that is easy to bend, so it is further strengthened with reinforcement. The more layers of reinforcement used, the better quality the bath will be.

Advantages:

  • Relatively low weight (approx. 15-24 kg) simplifies transport and delivery of the product, as well as installation;
  • the flexibility of acrylic allows you to create products of different shapes. But good quality acrylic is not very flexible, so additional bends will indicate a low quality of the material;
  • a huge selection of color palettes;
  • high heat capacity allows you to lie in the bath for a long time. In half an hour, the water temperature drops only one degree. Therefore, they far surpassed the cast-iron baths, where the water temperature decreases by one degree in 5 minutes;
  • high level of noise insulation will help to avoid unpleasant noise when filling;
  • the strength of acrylic products is achieved through a metal mesh or the use of fiberglass;
  • it is very easy to get rid of small scratchesThe care will not take much time;
  • ... maintenance does not take much time.... Contamination can easily be cleaned with only warm water without the use of chemicals;
  • the hygiene of acrylic is that it can not reproduce bacteria and microorganisms;
  • color saturation is not washed out, and the shine does not disappear.

Cons:

  • The surface is easily damaged;
  • should not pour very hot water, because acrylic under the influence of high temperature begins to deform.

Read our article about acrylic bathtub.

Steel

When choosing a bathtub made of steel, special attention should be paid to the thickness of the walls. The bath should not change its shape under the influence of your weight. If this rule is not adhered to, very soon the enamel coating will fall into disrepair.

Pros:

  • low cost;
  • weight is about 30 kg, which is much less than that of a cast-iron bath;
  • The huge variety of shapes does not affect its strength. The steel product is stronger than the acrylic one;
  • stability is created by a reinforced base.
Steel bath

Cons:

  • water cools down quite quickly, because steel has a large heat output;
  • unpleasant loud knocking is created when filling it with water;
  • the bath can overturn if it is installed on the legs and poorly reinforced.

Other modern materials

In addition to traditional materials, modern bathtubs can be made of stone, glass, wood, artificial stone, porcelain stoneware, marble or kvaril.

Glass

A glass bathtub It widens the space and adds lightness. It gives the impression of fragility, but it is not: it is made of very strong two-layer glass of special hardening, so it will not be easy to break.

There are models of different shapes, but most often preference is given to oval. Also popular are products with inserts of metal, ceramic. They look very stylish and fashionable.

Glass Bathtub

Wooden

Wooden bathtubs also quite popular. Moreover, wood has been used by man to make baths since very ancient times.

Designers make not only different inserts of wood, but the entire bathtub. Only precious species of trees are used for this purpose. Especially since wood is also an environmentally friendly type of material. Such a model creates a sense of luxury, nobility and is suitable for large rooms.

Wooden bathtub

Stone

But the most exclusive by right consider stone baths made of a single piece of rock. They look very cumbersome and are not suitable for all rooms. Yes, and install them must be very strong floors because of the heavy weight. But look such a model just fine, because the natural lines and forms of natural stone are preserved.

Natural Stone Bathtub

Also read our article about marble bath.

Artificial stone

Bathtubs made of artificial stone are lighter and more elegant. They are made from a mixture of natural stones and composite materials. This mixture is poured into a special mold, so the product can be obtained in any form, even the most extravagant. Then everything is grinded, polished and coated with a special compound and decorated with inserts of marble, onyx, malachite and semi-precious stones.

Artificial Stone Bathtub

Models of traditional materials: cast iron and acrylic, with a variety of shapes and colors can be attributed to the exclusive bathtubs. They are decorated with various decorative inserts, beautiful paintings.

Swarovski Stones Bathtub

Choosing the optimal form

Bathtubs are so diverse in shape that you can find any: round, square, oval, triangular and even hexagonal. The rectangular model is considered standard.

Choosing the shape, you should be guided by the size of the room. For example, if the room is small, then a standard bath can not go there at all or take up almost all the space, and in a spacious bathroom this model will look lonely and unoriginal, because a lot of space will remain empty.

The bathtub in a small bathroom

Additional features

The most popular additional feature of the bathtub is a hydro-massage. Usually this function is possessed by acrylic models.

To make a hydro-massage according to all the rules, you should pay special attention to its parameters when choosing it. So, the pump should have a capacity of at least 1 kW for the bath volume of 250 liters. If you still use jets to create a back massage, the pump power should be higher, or there should be another pump, which will be responsible separately for the operation of jets.

Whirlpool control panel

The use of a compressor is responsible for mixing water and air. Some hydromassage models have a remote control for additional adjustment of the water and air flow. The number of jets is responsible for the quality of the massage. In general, the hydromassage is designed for the torso, lumbar and legs. To carry out a back massage, the number of jets should be large. The control panel can also be different types: electronic or pneumatic. It is worth noting that the electronic type of control allows you to make additional massage settings.

Read our articles about whirlpool bath и Jacuzzi ..

Whirlpool with chromotherapy

In addition to the whirlpool, modern bathtubs also have features such as:

  • aeromassage - not only gives a wonderful massage, but also charges a positive mood. Aeromassage and whirlpool are very similar to each other, but still there are some differences in the massage technique itself. Air massage uses air jets or bubbles. It is so mild and pleasant that it can also be used for newborns;
  • chromotherapy - allows you to relax with light. The peculiarity of this function is the use of a huge palette of colors. You will plunge into the world of bright colors, which will charge you with energy for the whole day. To fully immerse yourself in the fabulous atmosphere, it is better to take water procedures in the dark, because the light will be enough.
Whirlpool jets

Technological advances: TV, radio, telephone

Modern technology surrounds us everywhere, it is already difficult to imagine a rest room without a TV or other modern devices. The bathroom is no exception. Now no one is particularly surprised by the presence of a TV, radio or telephone in this room. Radio for the bathroom is very popular, because the pleasant music will help to relax after a hard day's work.

TV bathtub

The latest innovation in modern technology is a mirror with a built-in TV. This product is perfect for the bathroom, where the presence of a mirror is a must. Such an invention will fit perfectly in any style and even bring its notes to create a comfortable and cozy atmosphere.

TV mirror in bathtub

Exclusive models and the latest fashion trends

Today it is very rare to use traditional items in the interior. Preference is given to multifunctional products that have stylish forms. Buyers pay attention to alternative proposals - showers and shower boxes, or prefer to buy a bathtub with hydromassage and other functions.

Also, colored lighting, electronic control system with touch buttons attracts special attention. The modern bathtub has become not only a matter of hygiene, but also used for relaxation and stress relief.

Designer bathtub

Many designers around the world are working on improving existing bathtub models to present them in new forms and with technical innovations. They are not afraid to experiment with different colors, materials and shapes, which helps to create real works of art.

Designers work on creating new collections, but also do not forget about the exclusive models. They can create a unique product in a single copy to order. For example, you can order a model made of natural stone, or wood. It all depends on your preferences and money.

The innovative bathtub

The famous company Atesia has made sure that you can not only take a bath, but also entertain yourself with the new feature - Bora Bora TV. The new model has a hydromassage function, as well as additional jets to massage the back, legs and hips. The highlight of this model is the 15" LCD TV, so you can enjoy watching your favorite TV channels. This model also has an FM radio and an external CD drive. The tub is made of off-white acrylic, so it can be used for any bathroom design. Backlighting can be used to create a comfortable ambiance, which is very easy to adjust using the touchpad.

The Atesia bathtub

Do-it-yourself installation

The installation can be done by yourself, but First, you should buy all the necessary tools, as well as make the purchase of materials for installation. Namely:

  • strapping for the bathtub;
  • different screwdrivers;
  • grinder;
  • chisel;
  • cement mortar;
  • polyurethane foam for installation;
  • hammer;
  • silicone sealant;
  • insulation tape;
  • drainage pipe with a diameter of 4 cm;
  • fittings for the drain;
  • paint.
Bathtub arrangement

About, How to properly install a whirlpool and Jacuzzi bathtubRead in our other article.

The installation should begin with the installation of the drain pipe. To do this, carefully tilt the bathtub on its side, so as not to damage the passing communications. Next, you need to attach the legs and set the tub on them.

When all four legs are attached, you should definitely check the stability. Modern models are equipped with adjustable feet, so it is not difficult to set their height correctly.

Next, the tub should be moved to the wall as close as possible to create a minimal gap between the wall. Then this gap should be filled with assembly foam or caulked with cement mortar or putty. In the future, you can glue plastic for decoration or lay ceramic tiles.

For a secure installation, masonry bricks are made. It can be done for complete protection around the perimeter of the bath or create two rows on opposite sides. Bricks can be used to adjust the height.

Setting the bath level on blocks

You should think about grounding to eliminate the possibility of statistical electricity, because it is created by the impact of water against the bottom of the tub. An equalizer is used for grounding, its one side is attached to the special tide, and the other - to the water pipe.

Before installation, the holes that are responsible for the drain and overflow should be cleaned. At the bottom of the tub to the hole attach trim, which is pre-lubricated sealant in those places where the strapping will be in contact with the fittings or the surface of the bathtub. Tie covers are mounted with bolts on the inside of the tub. Do not use too much force when tightening the bolts, as there is a possibility of damaging the plastic mount of the nut. Use a cone-shaped gasket to connect the corrugation and strapping. The sharpened part of the gasket should be directed towards the strapping. Finish by tightening the nut.

After installation, all connections should be checked for leaks. To do this, first close the drain hole and draw in a small amount of water to check that the connections from below are tight. If water will leak when the plug is closed, then the problem has occurred through improper installation of the gasket between the tub and the piping.

Checking the quality of the bath

After draining the water, check all the trim connections. If the installation is correct, and water is leaking a little, you should tighten the strapping nuts tighter.

Then you should wipe all connections and check again. To do this, fill half of the tub, and put toilet paper under the connection. Open the drain and wait until all the water is gone. Now look at the paper. If it is dry, then the installation is carried out correctly, and all fasteners are made securely.

Installing an acrylic bathtub is described in detail in our other article.

1 comment
Katya
0

Freestanding bathtubs are certainly very beautiful. Only where do you get a bathroom that big?)

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