How to choose a bath

One of the mandatory attributes of any residential building is a bathroom. Its main object can be called a shower cubicle or a bathroom. Quite often, owners choose the second option, since this is not only a great way to maintain hygiene, but also a good opportunity to relax after a hard day. A full bath of water with the addition of various oils and products can be used to raise the overall tone of the body, relieve stress, and improve your skin.

In this regard, the question of which bath to choose is the best, especially relevant today. Especially in cases when a house or apartment is just under construction or after renovation, when it was decided to replace the old model with a more modern and attractive one. It is important to note that a bath is not only a practical hygiene product. It should fit well into the interior and complement it, since it has massive dimensions.

The main types of modern baths

Before choosing the right bath for your home, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the main types of modern baths. They are divided according to the materials from which they are made. The most popular and practical are models made of cast iron, steel, acrylic, quartz, marble, ceramics, wood, faience and glass. It is worth taking a closer look at each category.

Acrylic bathtubs

Quite often, buyers are interested in how to choose an acrylic bathtub. Such baths are most often found in houses of wealthy families. Acrylic models offer the advantages of both cast iron and steel baths. In the production process of such products, special plastic is used, which is processed with fiberglass or metal mesh. Acrylic models boast a wide selection of different sizes, shapes and shades. Moreover, the material itself is considered quite light. In this regard, difficulties in the installation of such a bath should not arise.

One of the main advantages of such a bath is its excellent thermal properties. The material can maintain temperature for a long time while the user completes other business. However, it is not recommended to pour too hot water into the acrylic model. The maximum temperature is 160 degrees. If this number is exceeded, then the material may begin to deform, which will lead to the failure of the product.

As mentioned earlier, acrylic bathtubs are presented in a fairly wide range. At the same time, you can find both budgetary and expensive models. The cost of acrylic depends on the method of production, as well as the raw materials used. Acrylic is a rather specific material. Therefore, it is recommended to buy such baths only from trusted manufacturers with a good reputation. Only in this case, you can be guaranteed to hope for excellent quality.

Pros:

• Light weight, which makes it easy to install the bath without additional funds.As a rule, the weight varies between 15-40 kg, depending on the size and shape;
• The service life is more than 10 years according to the manufacturers. In practice, the bath can last even longer;
• Surface, pleasant to the touch, on which nothing slides;
• Excellent heat retention properties;
• A wide range of different shapes, sizes and shades, which will allow each buyer to find the most suitable model for their home;
• Most acrylic bathtubs are modern models equipped with nice additional features;
• You can find both budget and expensive options.

Minuses:

• If the temperature is too high, the water may begin to deform;
• Cannot be cleaned with abrasive products;
• The price tag of some models can reach exorbitant rates;
• There is a risk of purchasing a bathtub made of low-quality acrylic. Its walls will bend, and operation will become uncomfortable.

Quaril baths

Next, we will consider the quarian baths that appeared on the market for such devices not so long ago. The quartz model combines the advantages of cast iron and acrylic models. In the manufacture of such models, manufacturers use a mixture of acrylic and quartz. The second material is used to achieve increased bath strength. Thus, at the exit, baths were obtained that have the same properties and appearance as acrylic, but they have additional features.

To install most kvaril baths, you do not have to use a special metal frame. As a rule, manufacturers suggest using legs that securely fix the product. The main disadvantage of this type of baths is the increased weight, which is due to the use of quartz sand. It is also quite difficult to find a budget quaril model. As a rule, their cost is quite high.

Pros:

• Easy operation, does not require special care;
• Keeps water temperature for a long time;
• Long service period;
• The mass is greater than that of acrylic models, but quaril baths are still much lighter than most other types;
• Sound insulation properties;
• Reliable strength, does not deteriorate from mechanical shock;
• Wide range of sizes and shades;
• There is no need to use a power metal frame for installation, classic legs are enough;
• The walls of the product do not bend under heavy weight.

Minuses:

• It is difficult to find a budget qualifying model, all models have a rather impressive price tag;
• A small selection of shapes in relation to acrylic models;
• Too high temperature can damage the product.

Wooden baths

Few people know, but today you can find wooden bathtubs. Their surface is treated with a special varnish that does not allow the wood to deteriorate under the influence of water. It should be noted that such baths have appeared quite a long time ago. Our ancestors also used wooden devices for hygiene. These could be barrels, troughs and the like. Today you can find such models. However, they may not fit into every interior style.

Pros:

• Environmental friendliness;
• Excellent thermal properties;
• Wood has a positive effect on the human body;
• Due to special treatment it is not afraid of water.

Minuses:

• Impressive value;
• May look harmonious in a limited number of interior styles;
• Cannot be used for washing;
• It is not recommended to keep the wooden bathtub full for too long;
• Requires special care.

Glass baths

Now let's look at glass models. Many people mistakenly believe that such bathtubs are too fragile and risky to buy. However, this is a misconception, since the manufacturers of such models use several layers of glass. Thus, you need to try hard to break such a product. Nevertheless, many are scared by the cost of glass baths.Not every family can afford this luxury. Therefore, the popularity of the models under consideration is much lower than that of other analogues.

Pros:

• Attractive appearance;
• Long service life;
• Good strength indicator;
• Saves the visual space of the room;
• A wide selection of different shapes, shades and dimensions;
• Like acrylic models, it keeps water temperature for quite a long time.

Minuses:

• Not everyone can afford such a bath price;
• Requires special care, since stains remain on the glass after use;
• Should be treated with special cleaning agents.

Marble baths

Moving on to marble bath models. Such material is considered to be elite. Accordingly, the cost of the considered category of baths corresponds to this concept. Marble baths, too, may not fit into any room. At the very least, it should be large enough to match the style of the marble. In the course of manufacturing, manufacturers use marble chips, and also add polyester resin to the mixture. Thus, the product receives the properties of a natural stone, which has a positive effect on the health of the user's skin.

Pros:

• Good level of sound insulation;
• Excellent durability;
• Wide range of different shades;
• Maintains the original water temperature for a long time.

​​​​​​​Minuses:

• Extremely high cost relative to other species;
• Requires the use of specialized detergents for marble;
• Quite a large mass, which greatly complicates the transportation and installation of the bath. It is possible that you will have to use the services of movers.

Cast iron baths

The next step is the baths, which are made of cast iron. Such products are considered classics, since most of both outdated and modern models are made from this material. Cast iron baths have many positive properties. Like other types, they retain heat well, are quite durable, and also have an impressive period of operation. However, it is worth noting their impressive mass, since cast iron is a rather heavy material. As a rule, the mass of the baths in question is not lower than 100 kg, and can also reach 150 kg.

Manufacturers were able to achieve good heat retention rates by applying several layers of enamels on the inner surface of the product. This allows the bath to maintain the water temperature for 1–2 hours. When buying, it is recommended to pay attention to this and check the model for damage and scratches in the inner surface.

It is worth noting the excellent strength of the material. In order to break the cast-iron bath, you will need a strong blow with a metal sledgehammer. The very enamel, which is applied to the surface, can be damaged by mechanical stress. However, if you handle the product with the utmost care, then it can wear out from natural causes within 15-30 years.

Pros:

• Easy operation that does not require special surface maintenance;
• An impressive period of service. If you use the product correctly and accurately, then it will serve you up to 50 years;
• Can be cleaned with chemicals;
• Attractive appearance;
• High strength;
• Excellent heat retention;
• Noise isolation;
• Double layer enamel on the inner surface.

Minuses:

• Large mass. For transportation, loaders and a truck may be required;
• Small selection of shades, shapes and sizes;
• If a heavy object falls into the inner bowl of the bathtub, the enamel can be severely damaged.
• If the enamel is accidentally damaged, it will not be so easy to restore it.

Steel baths

In most cases, stainless steel is used in the manufacture of such baths. In this case, the production itself implies a stamping method. One of the main advantages of such models is their low weight, which is comparable to acrylic products.However, as is the case with them, you will need to use a reliable metal frame in which it will be installed. Like cast iron, steel baths are covered with a double layer of enamel from the inside. However, in this case it does not help to achieve good temperature retention values. Hot water in the steel model cools down much faster than in the ones discussed earlier.

In addition, such a bathtub has a poor noise insulation performance. Therefore, when pouring water into the bowl, the room will be too loud. However, you can solve this problem by using conventional polyurethane foam. It is poured between the walls of the frame and the walls of the bath. Thus, the sound insulation is significantly increased.

In short, steel baths are an excellent alternative to cast iron. Moreover, they are much cheaper. However, today it is quite difficult to find a reliable and high-quality steel bath on the Russian market. In this regard, many sellers are trying to increase the price. It is important to note that it is recommended to evaluate the complexion of all members of your family before purchasing a steel bath. If someone is overweight, then it is recommended to refuse such a purchase, since the material is rather fragile, and the walls can sag under strong influence.

Pros:

• Small weight, which allows you to do without the services of loaders;
• Good choice of sizes and shapes;
• Warms up quickly;
• Long service life, reaching 30-50 years with proper care;
• Acceptable cost;
• Double-layer enamel inner surface.

Minuses:

• Does not retain heat. Although the bathtub heats up quickly, it also cools down quickly;
• There is no insulation. This problem can be solved with polyurethane foam;
• May sag under excess weight;
• You will have to use a sturdy frame for installation, as light baths are unstable.

Faience baths

And finally, the last material that is often used in the manufacture of modern bathtubs is faience. This material is used to make ceramics. It cannot be said that today a huge number of buyers prefer such baths. However, they still take place and do not stop being produced, since they are still in demand.

The main peak of popularity of such baths falls on the 18th century. At that time it became fashionable to produce and use such baths. However, immediately after the appearance of cast iron products, they lost their relevance and faded into the background. Modern technologies have made it possible to save earthenware from many shortcomings, which again returned the popularity of such products, albeit small. Most often, the products in question are used in beautiful interiors, where appearance is more important than a practical component.

It is important to note that the earthenware technique is considered the most expensive of all the above materials. This is due to the fact that the production uses fanirton, which belongs to the noble grades of white clay. An acrylic layer is applied to the inner surface of such baths, which gives the desired temperature properties.

Pros:

• Long period of operation, if you treat the bathroom with care;
• A good selection of different shapes and sizes;
• Smooth surface on which nothing slides;
• You can choose from a wide list of available shades;
• Good level of sound insulation when collecting water into the bowl;
• Keeps water temperature for 1-2 hours;
• Attractive appearance.

Minuses:

• Extremely high cost that few can afford;
• Low level of strength, which requires maximum care during operation;
• An impressive mass.

The approximate cost of popular models

Before buying a bath or any other equipment, most buyers first of all determine the budget. This allows you to immediately weed out those options that will definitely not be bought because of their cost.Therefore, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the approximate cost of modern popular models, which will allow you to navigate and determine the approximate purchase budget.

1. To begin with, consider the most common models - cast iron. Their cost primarily depends on the manufacturer. If we are talking about a domestic brand that manufactures its products in our country, then the price tag can go from 1,500 to 10,000 thousand rubles. If we consider models from European manufacturers, then the cost can reach 25-30 thousand rubles.
2. As mentioned earlier, the popularity of acrylic models is constantly growing and it is quite possible that they will soon become much more popular than cast iron ones. The cost of such products starts from 10 thousand rubles and can reach 40-50 thousand rubles. It depends both on the manufacturer and on other factors. For example, from the presence of additional functionality.
3. Steel baths are considered one of the cheapest. Their price tags range from 3 to 15 thousand rubles. This is due to the fact that such material has many disadvantages, is easy to produce, and is not suitable for every family.

Other types of baths are less popular, and their cost is highly dependent on many factors. Therefore, it is rather difficult to identify an approximate price range for such models. It is best to study the offers of stores and make a conclusion yourself.

Additional functionality

With the development of modern technologies, even the simplest home appliances began to be equipped with various additional options that significantly improve the process of its operation. This also applies to modern baths. Thus, today many people want to purchase a bathtub with various functions. However, it should be borne in mind that this significantly increases the cost of the product.

First of all, it is worth noting that for some types of baths, such functions are rarely done. This applies to models made of cast iron and steel. However, even in such products, you can find various options. Acrylic and quartz baths are equipped with such features most often. Additional functions can be hydromassage, water temperature sensor, its level, filtration system, and also air massage.

Almost any expensive model is equipped with a bathroom disinfection function. It is activated manually or automatically after the user has completed his affairs and flushed the water. The system automatically applies disinfectant to the entire interior of the bath and leaves it on for a while. After that, an automatic flush occurs.

The temperature sensor allows you to find out the current level of the temperature of the water drawn into the thicket. And the level sensor has several practical purposes at once. Firstly, it does not allow activating the functions of hydromassage, air massage and other options where a pump is used. This prevents the device from breaking, since if these processes are turned on with an empty bath, this can lead to pump failure. And the second purpose of the water level sensor is to automatically stop the water flow when the bowl is full.

It is worth considering in more detail chromotherapy, aeromassage and hydromassage.

Chromotherapy

The first step is to consider chromoteration. This is a special technology that aims to increase the tone of the user taking a bath. With regular use of this function, the state of the human circulatory system improves, and the body has an antibacterial effect. Chromotherapy involves the use of violet lamps, the light of which is reflected using a special technology and affects the user while taking a bath. Thus, the human body is illuminated with a blue-violet color.

Hydromassage

Many people know firsthand about massage, which is quite often installed in advanced baths and jacuzzis. For this option, manufacturers build a special electric pump into the product that pumps water into the vessel.Thus, the imitation of the flow effect appears in the bath, which allows the user to relax and get a positive effect on the skin and body.

Aeromassage

And, finally, there is air massage, which works approximately on the same principle as hydromassage. A special electric pump is also used here, but it is needed for other purposes. With the help of this device, not a flow is organized, but a large number of small bubbles with air are supplied. This has approximately the same effects on the body as hydromassage.

As a rule, if one of the functions is provided in the bath (air massage or hydromassage), then there must be a second one, since they are installed in combination and use a common pump.

Choosing a bathtub for the bathroom: form and type of installation

Now we propose to consider the recommendations that will allow us to finally decide on the appropriate shape of the future bath, as well as the type of installation in the appropriate room. Today, modern bathtubs are divided into 2 categories according to the type of installation. These are wall and corner models. As the names suggest, the former are installed along the wall or in the middle of the room, while the latter must be placed strictly in the corner of the room. However, it should be borne in mind that you can also find specific forms that are not very popular, but also take place. For example, a bathtub can be in the shape of a round bowl and installed in the middle of a room.

Wall-mounted baths have the largest variety of shapes. They can be in the form of an oval, ellipse, rectangle, circle, figure eight, and so on. It all depends on the rich imagination of manufacturers who are constantly coming up with new solutions. As for the corner baths, most of them are in the shape of a quarter circle. However, they are symmetrical. However, you can also find other corner baths. For example, bathtubs of irregular shape.

The shape of the bathtub and its dimensions should be based on the room where it will be installed. This is especially true for apartments, where there is often little free space in rooms with a bathroom. In this case, it is necessary to take into account not only the area that the bathtub will occupy, but also the area that will remain for other equipment. For example, for a washbasin, washing machine or toilet, if located in the same room.

How to correctly size a suitable bath

If you find it difficult to calculate the size that will be most optimal for your room, then you can use a simple formula that greatly facilitates this process. To use it, you need to know the parameters of the room, namely the distance between the walls.

Thus, the most suitable bath length is equal to the distance between the walls. However, it is worth taking away 1-2 centimeters for a more convenient installation. The width should be no more than a quarter of the total width of the room. Otherwise, it will be difficult to install other appliances in the room.

If you have a fairly spacious room where there is no need to save free space, then it is not at all necessary to select a model according to this formula. It is enough to take the height of the tallest potential user of the bath and select its length for him. The ideal is the length at which a person can recline in a bowl and not bend his knees.

As for the depth, it all depends on the individual desires of the buyers. However, the average is considered to be 50-60 centimeters.