Buying a bath is a serious matter and must be approached responsibly. And the first thing you will need is knowledge about how to choose the right bathtub, what it is made of and which manufacturers you should give your preference to.

What parameters should you use to choose a bath?

A bathtub is not just a large white container used for hygiene purposes. This is expensive plumbing equipment, which must be chosen wisely. First, let's define the parameters and characteristics of the bathtub that you should pay attention to when studying models.

All these characteristics are summarized in the list below:

• the material from which the plumbing fixtures are made;
• bathtub shape;
• lenght and width;
• bowl depth;
• bath manufacturer;
• the cost of a specific model;
• reviews about this bath;
• complete set – are the legs and fasteners sold with the bathtub?

Important! It would also be a good idea to pay attention to the presence of additional functions, such as disinfection, chromotherapy, water heating, and a filling sensor. If you have a lot of money set aside for the purchase of plumbing fixtures, it is advisable to purchase one of these bathtubs. Otherwise, if you have a small budget, it is not advisable to overpay for additional functions at the expense of the quality of the material.

Having decided on the list of bathtub characteristics that you should pay attention to, we will create a plan of action to be taken when choosing plumbing fixtures. The most convenient way to present it would be step-by-step instructions.

Step 1. Determine how much money you are willing to spend on buying a bathroom. Write down the lower and upper limits of the cost of a plumbing product that will be acceptable to you.

Step 2. Take measurements of the area of ​​your bathroom and the old plumbing, if it has not yet been dismantled. This action will protect you from purchasing an overly large product that simply won’t fit in your space.

Requirements for the size and free space in the bathroom and combined bathroom

Step 3. Determine who will use the bathroom and what height and build they are. This will directly affect the size of future plumbing fixtures.

Step 4. After comparing your desires with your budget, decide what material you will buy a bathtub from.

Step 5. Based on the data obtained in the second and third stages, select the shape, length, width and depth of the bathtub. Here it would be advisable to determine not exact numbers, but ranges, upper and lower limits.

Step 6. Find the nearest plumbing stores in your city. Study reviews on the Internet and recommendations from friends.

Step 7 Explore the range offered by these plumbing stores. Choose those bathtub manufacturing companies that have proven themselves only from the best side.

Step 8 Based on the selected material, size, optimal price and manufacturer, select the bathtub model that suits you best.

Important! It is advisable to select for yourself not just one model, but several - if a particular product is not available in the store, you can always purchase another one with similar characteristics.

Now let's move on to a detailed and more thorough study of the parameters that are taken into account when choosing a bathroom.

Choosing the material from which the bath is made

And let's start with the material - one of the most important characteristics of such plumbing products. The strength and durability of the product, comfort of use and ease of maintenance depend on it.

Let's present the materials used in the manufacture of bathtubs in the form of a list:

• cast iron;
• acrylic;
• steel;
• quaril;
• ceramics and other exotic materials, including wood.

Cast iron bath

The most popular material from which bathtubs are made is cast iron - an alloy of iron with a large amount of carbon. It is from cast iron that most of the old plumbing fixtures are made, which still serve regularly in some houses and apartments. Since cast iron is a relatively brittle alloy, bathtubs made from it are made with very thick walls. Therefore, only a very strong blow (or even several blows) with a heavy sledgehammer can damage such a product in any way.

It should be understood that all the advantages of acrylic bathtubs indicated above are valid only for high-quality products created by manufacturers who have proven themselves only from the best side. When buying plumbing fixtures of unknown origin, you risk encountering the following problems.

1. Deflection of the walls and bottom of the bowl of an acrylic bathtub under high pressure on it.
2. Damage and undesirable changes in the shape of acrylic sanitary ware at high (more than +70°C) temperatures.
3. In addition, acrylic bathtubs require careful and more careful selection of detergents - not every household chemical is suitable for such products, this is not an “indestructible” cast iron product.

Important! When choosing an acrylic bathtub, pay attention to the thickness of the walls - it is advisable that it be more than 3-4 mm. If this condition is met, then the plumbing fixtures you purchased will not bend under the weight of a person and the water collected in the font.

Not long ago, the material quaril was introduced to the plumbing market, which in the future may become a serious competitor to acrylic. The material was originally created by Villeroy&Boch AG for the restoration of plastic bathtubs. Quaril is a composite created on the basis of quartz crystals, each of which is covered with an acrylic shell. Bonded together, these particles form a material that has the look and feel of PMMA, but is much stronger, more durable, and more resistant to high temperatures.

As a result, bathtubs are obtained from quaril, which combine the advantages of cast iron and acrylic products, but without their inherent disadvantages. The only problem with plumbing fixtures made from this composite is the cost - bathtubs made from quaril will seem unnecessarily expensive for many.

Bathtubs made of ceramics and other materials

Exotic among sanitary products are bathtubs made of stone and various types of ceramics. Due to its low popularity, such plumbing fixtures are, whenever possible, made only to order and have an appropriate cost. But for a lot of money you get an extremely durable product with a perfectly smooth surface in which you can relax for hours. In addition, by purchasing a custom-made ceramic bathtub, you can independently choose the shape and size of the bowl you need.

Video - How to choose a bath

Choosing a bath manufacturer

In addition to the material, the manufacturer is of great importance when choosing a bathtub. It is advisable to trust your money only to those companies that have already proven themselves to be the best, that have experience in the manufacture of sanitary ware and entire lines of successfully selling bathtub models. The following is a list of such companies, their features, advantages and disadvantages.

Roca. This Spanish company is a well-deserved leader in the production of bathtubs, dating back to the beginning of the last century. During this time, Roca has accumulated enormous experience and now many of its factories located around the world (including in Russia, in the Leningrad region) produce hundreds of thousands of sanitary ware units per year. The main advantage of this company is a huge selection, a wide variety of shapes and sizes of bathtubs. In addition, Roca has a network of hundreds of service and dealer centers where you will have the opportunity to purchase high-quality plumbing fixtures with warranty service and without fear of receiving a fake.

Next, it is worth highlighting this brand, under which various plumbing fixtures and accessories are manufactured in Poland and Romania. Acrylic bathtubs from Cersanit are strong, average, with low cost and an acceptable level of quality.

Ravak- a Czech company that produces plumbing fixtures under this brand is known for its quality, the use of thick acrylic sheets and a wide variety of shapes, sizes and product configurations. In addition, their whirlpool bathtubs are considered the best in the middle price class among all those on the plumbing market.

Among other manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs it is worth noting Triton, BAS, Pool-SPA, Aquanet, Alpen and Riho.

Important! When choosing plumbing fixtures for your home, be careful - today there is a risk of purchasing a counterfeit that masquerades as products from well-known companies with a good reputation. As a rule, such products cannot boast of quality - they are produced from the cheapest materials with violations of technological processes.

It is also worth noting companies that produce high-quality bathtubs made of cast iron and steel - we have combined them into one list presented below:

• "Universal";
• Lipetsk Pipe Plant;
• Bette;
• Jacob Delafon;
• Estap.

Prices for Roca baths

Five best bathtubs – rating of models

Now, from individual companies, let’s turn our attention to certain models - the table below shows the five most popular bathtubs, which have earned a considerable number of positive reviews.

Bath model	Material	Dimensions, LxWxH, cm	Volume, l	price, rub.
	Cast iron	170x75x42	185	27 000
	Steel	170x70x41	111	15 500
	Cast iron	170x70x40	182	26 500
	Acrylic	150x90x42	200	9 999
	Steel	170x70x40	195	7 800

Please note that all prices indicated in the rating are current at the beginning of 2017, and over time they may change in one direction or another.

Roca Malibu 170×75

Kaldewei Saniform Plus 170×70

Roca Continental 170×70

Cersanit Joanna 150×95

Roca Contesa 170×70

Sizes and shapes of the bathroom - nuances of choice

Choose the dimensions of the bathroom based not only on the size of the bathroom in which it will be located, but also taking into account the size of the people who will use this plumbing. For most, bathtubs 170-180 cm long and 70-80 cm wide will be just right. But if necessary, feel free to make your own adjustments to these figures.

Interesting! A simple way to determine the desired width of the bowl is to measure the width of your heat and add 10-20 cm to the resulting figure.

Having decided on the length and width, you need to choose the bath height and bowl depth that suits you. Yes, don’t be surprised, these are slightly different parameters. Height is the distance from the floor to the top edge of the sides of the bathtub, on average it is 60-70 cm. The depth of the bowl is the distance from the bottom of the font to the siphon hole for draining. For a person of average build and height, 50-60 cm is enough - the water will cover you up to your neck. If you have small children in the house and they will also take a bath, then it makes sense to choose plumbing fixtures with a shallower bowl depth - it will be safer.

After choosing the length, width, height and depth of the bowl, pay attention to the shape of the plumbing fixtures.

In this regard, baths can be of several types.

1. A rectangular wall-mounted bathtub is a classic that fits the standard bathrooms of most apartments in the CIS.
2. A wall-mounted corner bathtub is a product that, despite its relatively small size, provides enough space for comfortable spending time in the bathroom and washing in it.
3. Wall-mounted corner asymmetrical bathtub is a subtype of the previous form. It is an intermediate option between rectangular and angular.
4. Round and oval bathtubs are in most cases quite large products that are the central element in the room. It, in turn, must have a significant area so that such plumbing can be installed without any problems.

Corner asymmetrical bathtub

Also, when purchasing plumbing fixtures, be sure to familiarize yourself with what is included in the kit - you may have to purchase some parts separately. It would also be a good idea to study analogues of the bathtubs you have chosen, but with various additional functions, such as hydromassage, disinfection and chromotherapy.

Roca Malibu 170×75

Kaldewei Saniform Plus 170×70

Roca Continental 170×70

Cersanit Joanna 150×95

Roca Contesa 170×70

Cast iron bathtub 170×85 Newcast

In today’s article I would like to find the answer to the question: “Which bathtub is better to choose?” The bathtub is one of the most important plumbing fixtures in the bathroom. And choosing a bathroom is quite a difficult task.

Today on the construction market there is a wide range of bathtubs to suit every taste. Therefore, when choosing baths, you must determine which bath is best suited for your apartment.

The very first bathrooms began to appear several thousand years ago. And soon bathtubs began to be made of cast iron. But plumbing manufacturers did not stop only with this material, and over time, new ones appeared, such as steel, acrylic and much more. Bathrooms may differ in price, shape, size, quality, color, manufacturers, as well as the material from which they are made.

The shape of bathrooms is round, square, oval or triangular. Bathtubs may also differ in design. There are bathtubs for two, bathtubs with handles, with ladders. You can choose a bathroom of any color, or paint it to order. Bathtubs are standard white.

When buying a bathroom, first of all you need to pay attention to its dimensions, because it should fit well into the room.

Best when purchasing plumbing fixtures choose a bathtub, toilet and sink from the same manufacturer, then they will look very harmonious and will not differ in color. If the drain fittings are not included in the kit, then you need to immediately buy a bathtub and a siphon at the same time, so that there are no installation problems in the future.

Before purchasing a bathtub with an enameled surface, you need to carefully examine the evenness and integrity of the coating. In no case should the enamel be wavy or rough, especially if there are no cracks on it. The enamel color should be shiny. Defects in the enamel are very clearly visible on white plumbing fixtures.

Before installing a bathroom, you need to carefully plan the space. There are generally accepted standards that must be adhered to. You need to leave approximately 90 cm of free surface in front of the bath. After the room is planned, you can decide on the type and model of the bathroom. In any case, you can choose your own bathtub for any room, no matter what its size. Now let's look at what bathtubs exist on the market and which bathtub is better to choose.

Baths usually come in 3 types:

• cast iron;
• acrylic;
• steel.

Hot tubs

Recently, they have become increasingly popular hydromassage baths, they are sometimes called jacuzzi, although the Jacuzzi is only one of the manufacturing companies.

Whirlpool bath is a wonderful invention in which form, modes and functions merge into a single whole.

And the service life of a steel bathtub is quite long, about 15 years. Compared to cast iron, steel bathtubs warm up faster. The cost of a steel bathtub depends on the thickness of the sheet from which it is made.

But such bathtubs have their own drawback: they are very noisy; when filled with water, they rattle very loudly, like a bucket or basin. To reduce this nuisance, these bathtubs are equipped with feet and rubber gaskets. The quality and value of a steel bathtub depends on its working surface, that is, on the enamel coating.

Acrylic bathtubs

In addition there are acrylic bathtubs. But this name is not entirely accurate. When we say “acrylic bathtubs,” we mean products made not from acrylic, but with the addition of polymethyl methacrylate resin, a synthetic polymer that is usually classified as thermoplastics.

When heated, this material softens and takes on the desired shape, and then retains it after cooling. Its other name is sanitary acrylic.

Bathtubs made from acrylic are currently leaders in the European market, thanks to a large number of their advantages.

The acrylic surface is less porous and retains its original appearance for a long time. And most importantly, acrylic is more hygienic, because bacteria do not linger on the gloss at all and are washed off with water.

If you accidentally spill iodine or brilliant green on acrylic and immediately remove it, there will be no traces left. Many people love the acrylic surface for its warmth. Of course, the acrylic surface of a bathtub is not so difficult to scratch, but all you need to do is rub the scratch with liquid acrylic and sand it and it will be as good as new.

After reading the article, if you still have an unresolved question - “Which bathtub is better to choose?” Then please write your thoughts in the comments, we’ll discuss and try together to make the right choice.

Acrylic bathtubs appeared on the plumbing market relatively recently. 10 years ago you could only buy a cast iron or steel bathtub, which, as a rule, was of a standard shape and differed only in size.

With the advent of acrylic bathtubs, the situation has changed, since now the range is so wide that buyers have difficulty choosing a specific model. Acrylic bathtubs have become widespread because they are easy to manufacture, light in weight and have a wide variety of shapes, that is, they do not have the disadvantages of cast iron and steel bathtubs. The advantage of acrylic bathtubs is also their relatively low cost.

Let's look at the main characteristics and also make a rating of the best manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs in 2020.

Let's start our review of acrylic bathtubs sold on the market by comparing these products with their competitors - bathtubs made of cast iron and steel.

Advantages

The advantages of acrylic-based bathtubs include the following:

• light weight, so delivery and installation does not require a large number of people (as is the case with a cast iron bathtub);
• low thermal conductivity – an acrylic bathtub maintains the required water temperature for an hour. Due to the fact that the product retains heat for a long time, taking a bath will allow you to relax and take a break from everyday problems;
• smooth surface without protrusions or depressions - caring for the product is very simple, just wipe it periodically with a wet cloth;
• a wide selection of shapes and colors, unusual product designs;
• ease of restoration - repairing an acrylic bathtub does not require a large amount of money.

Flaws

Like any other product, an acrylic-based bathtub has some disadvantages:

• low strength - even the best acrylic bathtub is not able to compete with cast iron or steel, which is why it needs additional strengthening with a metal frame;
• operating features - before choosing an acrylic bathtub, it is recommended to find out how to use it correctly. Thus, the product may be damaged by impacts with heavy objects or by exposure to detergents with an abrasive effect;
• fragility - the maximum service life of even a high-quality acrylic bathtub is 10-12 years.

Criteria for choosing acrylic bathtubs

In order to decide which bathtub is best to buy, you need to study the main criteria by which these products differ from each other. Acrylic bathtubs are characterized by the following parameters:

Material of manufacture

The starting material for the manufacture of acrylic baths is a complex polymer composition of methacrylic and polymer esters. Acrylic bathtubs can be made from 2 types of raw materials:

• polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA);
• acrylonetrile butadiene styrene (ABS).

The material used directly affects how much the bath costs. The second type (ABS) is not used in its pure form, as it is used to make a base, which is then covered with a layer of PMMA on top. ABS is essentially an elastic plastic, while PMMA is a material similar in quality to glass.

A bathtub based on ABS is not durable (service life does not exceed 5 years), since this material is porous, which is why over time the product begins to absorb water and deteriorate. Since the ABS layer makes up about 90% of the thickness of the bathtub, the thin layer of PPMA coating wears off and the bathtub quickly becomes unusable. Such bathtubs are usually inexpensive, and an inexperienced buyer may make a mistake when choosing, giving priority to price at the expense of quality.

Plumbing fixtures made from PMMA are more expensive than products made from ABS, but they have a longer service life (10 - 12 years) and are less susceptible to mechanical damage (chips, scratches, etc.).

Reinforcement quality

What to look for when choosing an acrylic-based bathtub? The functionality and reliability of acrylic bathtubs directly depend on the quality of the reinforcement. In production, reinforcing layers (from 1 to 5) are applied to the finished product from the outside.

Most buyers believe that in order to assess the quality of the reinforcing layer, they need to carefully examine the end of the product. A high-quality bathtub is covered with a reinforcing layer evenly around the entire perimeter. Unscrupulous manufacturers, knowing that a potential buyer will inspect the quality of the reinforcement of the bathtub at the end (where it is easiest to evaluate), can reinforce these places with better quality than on other parts of the product.

Experienced buyers advise paying attention to the reinforcement of the entire product as a whole; special attention should be paid to hard-to-reach places.

In accordance with the recommendations of experts, when inspecting a bathtub, you need to press your finger on its covering, and if it does not bend, you have a quality product. When externally examining the product, you can also use a flashlight - the product should not be visible through, otherwise it is recommended to refrain from such a purchase.

Shape and size

With all the variety of acrylic bathtubs offered, when choosing a specific model, you need to be guided by the main characteristic - ease of use.

The optimal height of the product is 60-70 centimeters from the floor level. This height allows both adult family members and children to use the bathroom.

The optimal width for a person of average build is 80 centimeters. At the same time, many modifications are sold, thanks to which even an overweight person can choose a suitable bath for himself.

The length of the bathtub is selected taking into account the dimensions of the room and the height of all family members. If the plumbing fixtures are equipped with a headrest, the required length of the product is calculated based on the person’s height minus 10-15 centimeters. If there is no headrest (as a rule, in budget models), the required length of the bathtub is equal to the person’s height.

The optimal bath depth is determined based on the distance between the bottom point of the product and the drain hole. This distance should not be less than 50 centimeters (so that the water in the bath covers the person’s body).

Based on their location in the room, plumbing fixtures are divided into longitudinal and angular designs. Longitudinal products are installed along the wall, and corner products are adjacent to one of the corners. Bathtubs placed in the corner can be either left- or right-handed, which is recommended to be taken into account when purchasing. Rectangular bathtubs are most often sold. They also produce products of non-standard shapes: oval, semicircular, round, square, multifaceted, “quarter circle”. The popularity of rectangular models is explained by their low price and convenient location in a standard bathroom with a small area.

Reliability and strength of the frame

Each bathtub is installed on a special frame, which not only makes it stable, but also serves as a reinforcing element. The larger the capacity of the product, the stronger the frame should be.

In order to buy a quality product, you need to understand what types of frames there are. The simplest frame consists of a metal frame, which is located under the bottom of the product. In this case, the side walls of the product are not reinforced in any way. The service life of such a bathtub is not long, and if it has a large capacity, it will quickly become unusable due to deformation.

Additional functionality

The advantages of acrylic bathtubs include the ability to be equipped with additional devices for comfort. Thus, products with a Jacuzzi function are popular among buyers. Products with a jacuzzi compare favorably with other models in that they have a positive effect on health through the effect of hydromassage on the human body, which is sometimes supplemented by chromotherapy (exposure to ultraviolet rays on the skin). The massage effect is achieved due to the circulation of air bubbles in the water, which have a gentle effect on the human body. Important parameters include the number of nozzles - the more there are, the better the massage effect.

Exposure to ultraviolet rays improves blood circulation in the skin and also has an anti-inflammatory effect.

There are other options available for acrylic bathtubs. These include the presence of a special shelf for a laptop, the ability to listen to music, LED lighting, etc.

Important! Only the best manufacturers equip their products with high-quality Jacuzzi and chromotherapy, since the cost of these options increases the average price of plumbing fixtures, and not every buyer can afford products of this level. You should not buy budget models of acrylic bathtubs with additional options, since such products are not able to perform their functions efficiently.

Rating of quality acrylic bathtubs from foreign brands

In order to decide which bathtub from which company is better than others, we will make a rating of the best manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs in 2020. According to customer reviews, products from foreign manufacturers are superior in quality to domestic ones, so we’ll start our review with them.

Consumers prefer the following brands:

• Ravak (Czech Republic);
• Roca (Spain);
• Cersanit (Poland);
• Vagnerplast (Czech Republic);
• Kolo (Poland);
• Riho (Holland);
• Pool Spa (Spain).

Since every bathtub buyer has a unique set of desired features, it is impossible to make a rating that will work for everyone. A description of the advantages and disadvantages of acrylic bathtubs from different brands will allow the buyer to settle on the product that he needs.

The Czech manufacturer Ravak ranks first among all acrylic bathtubs sold in Europe. The company has been producing bathtubs since 1990, and during this period it has managed to establish itself on the positive side.

Advantages:

• strong walls (more than 5 mm), and therefore the products of this company have more weight compared to bathtubs from other manufacturers;
• a wide range of models, from ordinary rectangular ones to bathtubs with air massage, lighting, and other functions.

Flaws:

• high price;
• possible problems with finding components.

Acrylic bathtub Ravak

The quality of the products of the Spanish brand Roca does not lag behind the previous manufacturer.

Advantages:

• thick layer of acrylic (about 6 mm);
• low cost (due to the presence of production facilities in Russia);

Flaws:

There is only one drawback - when buying a bathtub from this manufacturer, it is advisable to give preference to products made in Spain, since the Russian plant is known for frequent manufacturing defects.

Acrylic bathtub Roca

The best value for money are baths from the Polish brand Cersanit.

The advantages of the brand are obvious:

• smooth surface of products;
• durable frame;
• double-walled bottom;
• antibacterial coating, so the consumer does not have to bother with disinfecting plumbing fixtures.

Flaws:

• the walls of the bathtub are thin, bend easily and are not suitable for overweight people;
• Since products of this brand can also be manufactured at Ukrainian and Russian factories, you should carefully monitor possible defects.

Acrylic bathtub Cersanit

Another Czech brand Vagnerplast was the first manufacturer of acrylic bathtubs in Europe. The products of this company are made from 100% PMMA.

Advantages:

• strength;
• ability to maintain a given shape;
• durability;
• acrylic thickness – at least 5mm;
• many different modifications that meet the needs of any buyer. Thus, products are offered with back massage (with adjustment of massage intensity), ozonation, and other options.

Flaws:

• The only drawback is the high price, but the Vagnerplast brand bathtub is worth the money.

Acrylic bathtub Vagnerplast

The Polish manufacturer Kolo is also well known on the market and is in good demand among buyers.

Advantages:

• The model range is very wide, products are offered in various modifications and colors;
• low price;
• acceptable quality.

Flaws:

• products from this manufacturer are made from a thin layer of acrylic - 3-5 mm, which is why they are not suitable for overweight people;
• are not equipped with hydromassage systems.

Acrylic bathtub Kolo

Riho bathtubs are made of high-quality acrylic, due to which the wall thickness is at least 6 mm. As a rule, for products with a capacity of over 300 liters, the wall thickness is more than 8 mm.

Advantages:

• Almost all models have an additionally reinforced bottom;
• the products have an antibacterial coating, which prevents the appearance of mold;
• a wide range that will satisfy the needs of any buyer.

Flaws:

• Among the advantages inherent in the bathtubs of this manufacturer, only one drawback stands out - the high cost, especially for models of non-standard shape.

Acrylic bathtub Riho

The Spanish company Pool Spa specializes in the production of designer baths with a range of various additional options. The company's products are of high quality, but at the same time the price is appropriate.

Advantages:

• high-quality raw material - for the production of these bathtubs, high-strength acrylic is used, which contributes to a long service life;
• ease of use - the products are very comfortable, suitable for people of any height;
• additional accessories and options.

Flaws:

• high price;
• Counterfeits are common, so it is better to purchase plumbing fixtures from this brand from a trusted supplier.

Acrylic bathtub Pool Spa

Rating of acrylic bathtubs made in Russia

Russian-made bathtubs lead in terms of sales in Russia due to the fact that the cost of these products is low. Such products are purchased in large quantities by developers for the construction of new residential buildings. However, ordinary buyers who do not have a lot of money also often buy plumbing fixtures from domestic manufacturers.

Products from the following Russian manufacturers have won the greatest popularity among buyers:

• Triton;
• 1Marka;
• Radomir;
• Aquanet.

Triton acrylic bathtubs are manufactured using proven equipment from an American manufacturer. Some models are made by hand. They are, as a rule, stronger and higher quality than those manufactured by conveyor production, but at the same time they cost an order of magnitude more.

Advantages:

• bathtubs of this brand are of good quality;
• as well as a wide range (more than 60 items are presented on the market).

Flaws:

• Thin wall thickness;
• frequent marriage.

Acrylic bathtub Triton

The Russian company BAS is also famous for its high-quality and modern products.

Advantages:

• all plumbing fixtures of this brand are coated with a special antibacterial composition, making them not susceptible to mold;
• The manufacturer gives a good guarantee of 10 years.

Flaws:

• manufacturing defect;
• unpleasant odor found in some models.

Acrylic bathtub BAS

1Marka brand products are made of acrylic with a wall thickness of 4-6 mm, which makes the bathtubs durable. The range of products offered is very wide, from simple rectangular ones to designer models with a Jacuzzi, chromotherapy and other functions.

Advantages:

• made of high quality acrylic;
• large selection of different modifications;
• good value for money.

Flaws:

• possible manufacturing defect on some models.

Products of the Russian company Radomir are manufactured exclusively by injection molding, with an acrylic layer thickness of at least 5 mm.

Advantages:

• the ability to modify the basic bathtub model with the help of additional accessories into an elite one with many options;
• Bathtubs with hydromassage installations from this manufacturer produce minimal noise.

Flaws:

• no significant ones.

Acrylic bathtub Radomir

Products from the manufacturer Aquanet are designed for different categories of buyers.

Advantages:

• most of the brand’s models are characterized by many anatomical curves for maximum comfort when taking a bath;
• almost every product can be equipped with hydromassage;
• wall thickness is at least 5 mm;
• low price.

Most experts consider the products of this manufacturer to be the best on the Russian market.

Flaws:

• Among the shortcomings, we can only highlight the possible defects of some products.

Acrylic bathtub Aquanet

The most popular acrylic bathtubs

Among the rectangular bathtubs, the Roca Hall bathtub 170x75 stands out. It has a standard shape without unnecessary bends, with straight and even sides.

Acrylic bathtub Roca Hall 170×75

Advantages:

• The bathtub has comfortable hand ledges, thanks to which you can sit in the bathtub with greater comfort;
• the surface of the product is smooth, but not slippery;
• The length allows an adult to sit comfortably.

The most popular among quarter-circle bathtubs is the Russian manufacturer 1Marka PICCOLO 150×75 without hydromassage.

Advantages:

• it attracts buyers with a low price (about 15,000 rubles);
• and small in size (which is important for small apartments with combined bathrooms).

At the same time, compactness for many buyers is both an advantage and a significant disadvantage - it is difficult to fit comfortably into a bathtub, so it can only be used for bathing children and showering for adult family members.

The most popular bathtub in the high price range is Triton ISABEL 170x100. The cost of such a bath starts from 55,000 rubles. For this price, the buyer will receive a product with a capacity of 270 liters, with a comfortable headrest and a hydromassage function.

Acrylic bathtub Triton ISABEL 170x100

Advantages:

• corrugated bottom that prevents the possibility of falling;
• unusual shape of the bathtub that attracts attention;
• easy to clean thanks to the antibacterial coating.

Considering the variety of acrylic bathtubs on offer, it is difficult to decide on a model that will combine the best price-quality ratio. We hope that our rating will help you in this difficult matter. When purchasing an acrylic bathtub, we advise you to take into account not only the appearance and quality characteristics of the product, but also check with the seller what set of options and completeness are included in the price of the product, since connecting additional functions and setting up nozzles, as a rule, is not included in the price of the product.

acrylic bathtubs, cast iron bathtubs, quarryl bathtubs

oasis of your pleasure

The Hollywood bathtub from Devon&Devon is rectangular with rounded edges. Depending on your project, you can install the bath either in the center of the room or against the wall.

The atmosphere of California from the fifties of last year enters your bathroom with the Hollywood Devon&Devon bathtub

Color Tec material is a high-strength and environmentally friendly composite, the composition of which is: minerals, resins, polyester.

Devon-Devon bath size 175x88.5 cm, height 64 cm.

⑥ Ravak bathtub from the 10° concept

Amazing concept - 10 degrees. It is at this angle that the manufacturer turned or tilted its products, creating a more comfortable environment for taking water procedures. Everything ingenious is simple and a rotation of just 10° radically transforms the bathroom. Like a number of other products for Ravak, the author of the concept was the Design Nosal studio. The 10 degrees concept received four prestigious design awards.

Asymmetrical bathtub with storage surface and seat, the bathtub is available in two sizes: 95x160 and 100x170 cm.

Ravak 10 degree concept video

⑦ Kolpa San Marilyn FS

Freestanding acrylic bathtub manufacturer from Slovenia -. New for 2017. Bath bears a woman's name - Marilyn. The flowing lines of the bathtub are feminine and add charm and charm to the bathroom. Do you want to express your individuality? Then choose your color Marilyn Kolpa San. The inside of the bathroom is traditionally white, and outside, choose your interior: with a yellow panel, blue, black or red.

Learn more about the new products of 2017 in our video at the stand of the Kolpa San brand at the exhibition in Yalta

Bathtubs have been produced in Russia for 17 years. Over the years, extensive experience has been accumulated, and the company actively responds to market demand. What is important for inexpensive baths? Quality. Triton provides a 10-year warranty on its bathtubs and a five-year warranty on additional equipment. The shapes of Triton bathtubs are varied: rectangular, angular, asymmetrical. Any buyer will find his bathtub. For greater comfort, you can complement the Triton bath with a hydromassage system. And Triton baths also have chromotherapy and aeromassage. Triton baths are the choice of the mass buyer.

In Triton production there are models of the Standard line, they are lower level. And there are baths with their own names: Lisa, Cindy, Erica, Nicole, Sabina and many others.

Bathtubs Milena and Victoria with glass insert. The Atlant bathtub is for the largest ones; it measures 205x120 cm and is 71 cm high.

If desired, you can complement Triton baths with bath curtains. This way you can comfortably take a shower in the bathroom without spilling water. Triton has its own faucets, including trendy white ones. With the Triton bath you will be comfortable and safe in your bathroom

② Russian baths. Second place. BAS

Today, the BAS model range includes more than one hundred different bathtubs. Fifteen years of bathtub manufacturing experience. The equipment for the production of bathtubs is the most modern. Despite the wide range of models, BAS is constantly expanding its range. Bath Granada – new for 2017. This is a corner bath that is great for two. There is also a comfortable seat in the corner of the bath. And in the center of the Granada bathtub there is an insert of glass made using triplex technology.

Are you still unsure about choosing a Bas bathtub? Watch a video from BAS engineers who thought out the curves of the bathtub in accordance with the physiology of Homo sapiens to the maximum

③ Russian baths. Third place. Fama style

– a manufacturer with fifteen years of experience in the domestic market. Fama Style, unlike other manufacturers, offers a wide range of materials from which it makes bathtubs. The usual and flexible acrylic, or difficult-to-work cast marble, there are also cast iron bathtubs and a new product for 2017 - multi-colored bathtubs made of Lightstone. Any consumer will choose a Fama Style bathtub to suit his taste, be it a classic interior or a modern one. Or a spa area for a large family. In 2017, Fama Style introduced a new bathtub, Abelia Style. The bathtub is large in size, mini-pools are also produced in the same size, the bathtub is made of cast marble, it is 180 cm in diameter, 70 cm in height. It can be either built into a podium or placed free-standing in the bathroom.

Haven't chosen the best bathroom yet? Then contact our managers in Simferopol on the street. Yuzhnaya, 5. We will tell you about all the new products, advantages and disadvantages of bathtubs, both European and domestic.

Not so long ago, when it was necessary to replace a bathtub, the question most often arose about where to get at least some new one. But these days, with a large assortment of these products on sale, buyers usually face the problem of which bathtub is best to choose.

In stores you can find products made from a variety of materials, which is why it can be difficult to decide which one is more reliable and durable. But you still need to figure it out - no one wants to install a new bathtub every 2-3 years, throwing money away.

Main types of baths

You can immediately list all the main types of bathtubs according to the material they are made of, since not everyone knows that in addition to the well-known cast iron, steel and acrylic accessories, they also produce earthenware, glass, quarry and even wood, copper and marble.

The publication will discuss almost all options, however, the most popular are still cast iron, steel, and, more recently, acrylic bathtubs. Therefore, first of all, you need to compare their characteristics.

The presented table provides general comparative information about the main characteristics of bathtubs that are most often chosen by consumers today:

Estimated parameters	Bathtub material
	Cast iron	Steel	Acrylic
Variety of shapes	Most often they are produced in one shape in different sizes.	Produced in different shapes and sizes.	Wide variety of shapes and sizes.
Weight	Very heavy, weight reaches 120-130 kg	Easy. Depending on the size, weight is 20-40 kg.	Very light. Depending on the shape and size, weight is 15-30 kg.
Quiet when filling	Average noise level.	Very high noise level.	Very low level.
Ability to retain heat	Average heat retention - heat loss is 5˚ per hour.	Low heat retention.	High heat retention.
Possibility of restoration	Complex restoration process		Restored easily and in different ways.
Price	Medium to high.	Low	From low to high, depends on various factors.

Find out the basic rules and examples of successful projects for, from our new article.

Well, now let’s get acquainted with each of the varieties in more detail.

Cast iron baths

A cast iron bathtub is a time-tested product that has always been famous for its reliability and practicality compared to other materials. It is much heavier than steel or acrylic, but it has its advantages.

The advantages of cast iron bathtubs include the following:

• Fairly good heat retention of the water collected in the bath - much higher than that of steel ones, but, however, lower than that of acrylic ones.
• The durability of this material allows bathtubs to be used for decades.
• When filling a cast iron bathtub with water, a small noise level is created.
• Cast iron is resistant to the corrosive effects of water, therefore, even if a small chip is accidentally formed on the enamel surface during transportation or during operation, rust will not form on it, which means that its spread to the rest of the surface is excluded.
• A cast iron bathtub does not have the lowest price, but its simplest option is quite affordable for a family with an average income.

Cast iron bathtubs can be called the best option for those who like to purchase practical and durable things.

It is necessary to note the disadvantages of cast iron products:

• The most well-known disadvantage of these baths is their very heavy weight, which makes transportation and lifting to high floors much more difficult. You won’t be able to carry out these operations on your own; you definitely need several assistants. In addition, installing such a heavy bathtub requires a particularly reliable base and stands.
• The internal enamel coating of cast iron bathtubs is not very reliable and can easily be damaged by accidental impacts.
• The shape of the vast majority of cast iron products is not varied. They are usually produced in a fairly limited size range.

Parameters of cast iron baths and additional elements

A cast iron bathtub usually has a size of 1500x700 or 1700x750 mm. Each model has its own weight - it may vary depending on the manufacturer of the product.

• A bathtub with a length of 1500 mm is considered rather a seated model, therefore it will not allow you to stretch out to your full height - you can only take water procedures in it while sitting.
• A bathtub with a length of 1700 mm is more comfortable, especially for tall people. You can lie down in it with your legs stretched out and fully enjoy the water treatments.

You should pay attention to the weight of the structure. Thus, old Soviet sitz baths weighed about 100 kg. Modern technologies have made it possible to reduce it somewhat, and today bowls of the same size made in Russia weigh 87÷90 kg, and those made abroad weigh 70÷75 kg.

Full-fledged spacious bathtubs, measuring 1700×700, 1700×750 and 1700×800 mm, with a wall thickness of 5 mm, weigh from 120 to 130 kg. Due to its impressive massiveness, a cast iron bathtub will require reliable, durable legs.

It should also be said about the additional elements that modern products have acquired:

• If earlier handles and holders were not provided in the designs of cast iron bathtubs, today they are included in the kit of almost all models. This element adds comfort when diving into the water and when rising from it. They are especially necessary for older people or those who are overweight.
• Some bathtub models, in addition to handles, are equipped with anti-slip coating, headrests and armrests. There are models of cast iron bathtubs that can be equipped with hydromassage functions.

Manufacturers of cast iron bathtubs

We can list the most famous foreign manufacturers who present their products on the Russian market and enjoy deserved popularity:

• "Devon&Devon" (Italy).
• "Porcher and Jacob Delafon" (France).
• "Roca" (Spain).
• “Goldman” (China) - this company represents products that have the most affordable price.

As an example, we can consider some of the options produced by the above-mentioned manufacturers.

Bath “Devon&Devon” – “CHERIE Copper Effect”

As a rule, foreign manufacturers produce exclusive versions of bathtubs, so they have a fairly high price. For example, this model belongs to the “luxury” category and is chosen for a spacious bathroom, since it is not designed to fit tightly against the wall.

The manufacturer produces font-shaped bathtubs with raised side edges. Basically, they all have a white interior coating, and the outer surface is finished in a different color.

More expensive models are also produced, decorated both outside and inside with hand painting, usually made to order, with a specific subject design.

Some bathtub models from this manufacturer have metal shaped legs made in the form of claws. This element gives the bath a more luxurious, rich look, but such models installed in the bathrooms of standard apartments will look somewhat ridiculous.

Bathtub from Roca - Haiti

This company produces bathtubs of different shapes and sizes - in the form of a font, standard rectangular, concave on one or both sides and other configurations. Dimensions may differ from standard ones, for example, the photo shows an option that has dimensions of 1400x750 mm. The bottom of some bathtubs is equipped with an anti-slip pattern. All models of this company are equipped with metal handles, and some options have headrests and armrests.

Roca bathtubs are comfortable and reliable in use. They are manufactured in accordance with modern design trends and using advanced technology, resulting in high-quality products that are in high demand.

Bathtub from Porcher and JacobDelafon - CLEO

This French company also produces various models of bathtubs - from exclusive to quite budget options. They can have oval or rectangular shapes and are equipped with an anti-slip coating and metal handles. For installation, shaped legs or a metal structure with covering screens may be provided.

Drawings are applied to exclusive models - in this case, a snow-white bathtub decorated with an orchid flower is shown.

The products are famous for their high quality, have ergonomic and original shapes, designed for both standard apartments and spacious bathrooms in private homes.

Goldman Bathtub - Glossy

The Chinese company Goldman has been operating on the Russian market for more than eight years, and European consumers have been using its products for even longer. Cast iron bathtubs from this manufacturer are distinguished by the fact that they have thinner walls, which reduces their weight. But despite this, they have good wear resistance and strength.

- of various sizes and can have different, both traditional and very original shapes. The manufacturer provides a guarantee for its products for a period of 25 years, and at the same time its price is significantly lower than that of other foreign companies. This is exactly the case when the expression “Chinese” does not mean “low quality”.

Criteria for choosing a cast iron bath

When choosing a cast iron bathtub, you need to pay attention to some nuances:

• The first thing to do is run your hand over the bathtub cover. It should be perfectly smooth, without roughness.
• You should carefully examine the coating visually - there should not be even small cracks or chips on it. It is recommended to pay special attention to the drain area, since it is the most problematic - it is there that such defects first form.
• Next, it is recommended to examine the outside of the bathtub walls - there should also be no pronounced irregularities on it. Its quality speaks of the integrity of the manufacturer and the quality of the product.
• It is very important to check the evenness of the shape of the bathtub - its sides should not have differences not provided for by the design, and the corners, if it is a rectangular model, should be exactly straight.
• Then the complete set of the bathtub must be checked, that is, what elements are included in the kit. You should choose an option equipped with standard legs so that you do not have to buy them separately and select them for a specific model.
• If the bathroom set does not include a frame or legs, but you really like its shape, then it is better to select all the components for it at once.

It should be remembered that, alas, not all cast iron baths are of high quality, even with impeccable appearance. Some unscrupulous manufacturers make the enamel coating of the walls and bottom of the bowl much thinner than stated in the product certificate, which significantly reduces its service life. For example, many Turkish-made bathtubs are criticized for the fact that their coating, which looks good, quickly cracks, and the product itself becomes inoperative.

However, not only the thickness of the walls matters for the longevity of the bath, the quality of the cast iron itself is also important. It is impossible to check this in a store, so you should still give preference to trusted foreign or Russian manufacturers.

Prices for the range of cast iron bathtubs

Cast iron baths

Steel baths

Steel bathtubs are the most affordable option, and with careful use, such a product can last quite a long time.

The most attractive advantage of steel bathtubs is their low cost.

The positive qualities of products made from this material include the following:

• Such bathtubs have a low weight, which, depending on the size and configuration of the model, ranges from 30 to 50 kg.
• Steel bathtubs are produced in various shapes and sizes. Thanks to the wide range, you can always choose the right option for a bathroom of a certain layout.
• The enamel coating is applied using high temperatures so it does not peel off.
• Bathtubs coated with enamel are resistant to alkalis and acids; they will not be harmed by any detergents, with the exception of abrasive ones.
• Experts often advise that when choosing between an acrylic and a steel bathtub, it is better to choose the latter. An inexpensive, good quality steel product can last for many years, but an acrylic product made by someone unknown will most likely quickly disappoint.

The disadvantages of steel bathtubs include the following qualities, which often manifest themselves during operation:

• High noise level when filling the bowl with water.
• Steel has high thermal conductivity, so the water in such a bath cools quickly.
• Accidental impacts or other mechanical impacts on the enamels may cause cracks and chips. And on these chips or with poor-quality enamel coating, pockets of rust can form.
• Under heavy loads, walls made of thin steel can become deformed.
• Restoring a steel bowl is quite difficult - this process will cost about the same amount as a new bathtub.

Soundproofing a steel bath

There are several ways to solve the problem of the high level of noise created when water is drawn into a steel bathtub, which can be easily done at home.

• One option is to purchase ready-made pads that are glued in several places on the outside of the bathtub or only in the area of ​​the drain hole, as shown in the illustration below:

• The second option to reduce the noise level is to stick foil-foamed polyethylene with a self-adhesive surface on the outer surface of the bowl. This, by the way, simultaneously increases the thermal insulation of the bath, which will contribute to a longer cooling of the hot water drawn into it.

• Another material that is often used to thermally insulate a bathtub and reduce noise levels is polyurethane foam. It is distributed over the outer surface of the bowl in an even layer. Thanks to excellent adhesion and volumetric expansion, the foam forms an airtight “coat” that will keep the water hot for a long time and muffle the sound of the jet hitting the metal walls.

From the above it follows that the high noise level of a steel bathtub can be completely prevented, therefore such a drawback cannot be considered significant.

Manufacturers of steel bathtubs

When choosing a steel bathtub, special attention is paid to one of the most important parameters - the thickness of the steel from which it is made. To determine the approximate thickness of the material, you just need to try to move the product. If this was not easy to do, then it means that its walls have the required thickness of 3.5 mm, and its mass is about 50 kg. Well, if, with a size of 1700x700 mm, the weight of the bathtub is about 20 kg, and it moves easily, then the quality probably leaves much to be desired, and the walls are not thick enough.

There is a wide selection of steel bathtubs of various configurations on sale, from standard to corner, coated with white or colored enamel. There are bathtubs made of stainless steel.

A rather rare option is a stainless steel bathtub

Domestic and foreign manufacturers present their products, so you can always find a suitable option that will satisfy all your existing requests. Each company produces baths using its own technology, so the products have different performance parameters. For example, the most popular foreign manufacturers on the domestic market present bathtubs with different wall thicknesses:

• “Emalia” (Poland) ÷ 1.6 mm.
• “Estap” (Spain) ÷ 2.3 mm.
• “Gala” (Spain) ÷ 2 mm.
• “BLB” (Portugal) ÷ ​​3-3.5 mm.
• "Kaldewei" (Germany) - 2.3÷3.5 mm.

The enamel coating on these models is no more than 0.6 mm.

In Russia, several factories produce steel bathtubs. Thus, products from the pipe plant in Lipetsk (OJSC Santa-Holding) and the Verkh-Isetsky metallurgical plant in Yekaterinburg (VIZ) are popular among consumers. The wall thickness of domestic bathtubs is generally 3.5 mm.

Models of bathtubs from foreign manufacturers

A few words about the models of steel bathtubs that can be found in Russian stores.

• Kaldewei company

The German company Kaldewei is considered the leader in product quality and breadth of assortment. So, in 2014, the model range of this company consisted of 211 products.

The bathtubs of this company are highly durable and have established themselves as luxury products. The company’s specialists have developed their own “recipe” for an enamel coating, which, when processed at high temperatures, is combined with a steel sheet into a single whole, which is why it is often called “steel-enamel.” The manufacturer guarantees the durability of the coating, which is resistant to temperature changes and the use of any household chemicals. The enamel does not turn yellow or become stained over time, and the product itself is not subject to deformation. The manufacturer estimated the guaranteed service life of the bathtubs at 30 years.

As an example, you can consider one of the many models of this manufacturer - “Classic Duo Oval 112”. It is made in different sizes and can have different depths: 1600x700; 1700×750; 1800×800 mm.

The bathtub is made of 3.5 mm thick steel and is designed for installation on a podium. The kit does not include legs and drain/overflow elements, so they will need to be purchased separately. The inner surface has an anti-slip and water-dirt-repellent coating.

Perhaps the only drawback of this bathtub is that you will have to purchase the components yourself. However, if you look at this fact from the other side, then the buyer is given the opportunity to choose them according to his taste and at an affordable price.

This model cannot be called inexpensive, but the company also produces simple bathtubs of a standard shape, which cost not much more than domestic ones and are of very high quality.

• BLB company

This Portuguese company produces bathtubs with wall thicknesses mainly of 3 mm, while luxury products have 3.5 mm. Surfaces are coated with enamel using the baking method, so it is resistant to various possible influences, including mechanical ones. The manufacturer determined the service life of its product to be 20-25 years. The range of bathtub models from this company is varied - from standard to large bathtubs designed for two.

As an example, you can consider the sit-down version of the Europa MINI bathtub, which has a size of only 1050 x 700 mm. This bathtub is perfect for small standard bathrooms, when they are planned to be combined with a toilet or simply made more spacious.

This model is well suited if there are small children in the family, and it will also be convenient for older people, since it provides a high seat.

• "Emalia"

The Polish company Emalia has been producing steel bathtubs since 1964. The assortment is not particularly diverse in shape. The products have a rectangular shape, length from 1000 to 1800 mm, width from 700 to 800 mm, depth from 360 to 400 mm.

One of the leaders in the plumbing products market is the Polish company Emalia.

The bathtubs are designed to be installed on special height-adjustable legs, so they are easy to install even on uneven floors. In addition to bathtubs, the manufacturer offers metal and acrylic screens, which must be purchased separately if necessary.

The bathtubs are quite reliable and can withstand heavy loads without damage or deformation. Enamel is sprayed onto the surface in several layers, and then the product goes through a firing process, which gives strength to the created coating. The weight of such steel bathtubs, depending on the size, varies from 30 to 40 kg.

The price of products from a Polish manufacturer, with excellent quality, is very “democratic”, so they are highly popular both in their homeland and on the Russian market.

Models from Russian manufacturers

Steel bathtubs produced in Yekaterinburg are distinguished by their high resistance to various influences, mechanical loads and abrasion of the enamel surface. The most popular models of this manufacturer are “Antika” and “Donna Vanna”.

These models have standard rectangular shapes, but differ in the color variety of the enamel coating. The manufacturer provides a 10-year warranty on its products, and the expected total service life is estimated at no less than 15 years. An important advantage of domestic products is a more affordable price compared to imported products, with no less high quality and reliability.

Bathtubs produced by OJSC Santa-Holding in Lipetsk are distinguished by their reliability and durability, although they are also not famous for their variety of shapes. This company produces bathtubs in two standard sizes: 1500×700 and 1700×750 mm. However, despite the lack of variety of design solutions, they are popular because they have an affordable price combined with high quality.

All domestic products are made from steel sheets with a thickness of at least 3-3.5 mm, so the service life of such bathtubs is quite long and significantly exceeds that guaranteed by the manufacturer. In addition, domestically produced bathtubs are ideal for standard-sized bathrooms in high-rise apartments.

Criteria for choosing steel baths

In order not to make a mistake when choosing a steel bathtub, since it is quite difficult to determine its quality visually, you can rely on some techniques that allow you to figure out how reliable the product is.

• First, you need to determine the approximate weight of the bathtub (try to move it from its place).
• Next, there is an inspection of the enamel coating - there should be no smudges and sagging, as well as defects such as cracks and chips. The surface of the bath should be smooth, and the enamel should be distributed evenly over the entire area.

When choosing, pay special attention to the quality and uniformity of the enamel coating

• Then, you need to immediately find out whether the bathtub comes with additional elements: drain and overflow, legs, soundproofing kit, and a side screen. All or part of these components may have to be purchased separately, which will entail additional costs that also need to be taken into account.

To sum up the results of steel products, we can say that they have the most affordable price, are lighter in weight than cast iron bathtubs, and somewhat heavier than acrylic ones. Such bathtubs are quite durable and can easily last 20 years or more. The noise and high thermal conductivity of steel bathtubs, which all add up to their shortcomings, can be corrected in ways accessible to every owner. Therefore, if you want to save money, then a steel bathtub will be the ideal choice.

Prices for the range of steel bathtubs

Steel baths

Acrylic bathtubs

Acrylic is a fairly new material from which bathtubs are being made, but such products have already won the recognition of many consumers. A high-quality acrylic bathtub with a wall thickness of at least 5 mm and installed in accordance with all the rules should last a long time.

A product made by a conscientious manufacturer in compliance with all technologies has many positive qualities. This may include:

• A variety of models in shapes and colors.
• Equipping the bowl with various additional functions, such as hydromassage, headrests and armrests and handles. Often an installation site is provided for installing faucets and showers.
• Maintains hot water temperature for a long time.
• Pleasant to the touch surface.
• Impact resistance (within certain limits).
• Ease of work.

There are acrylic bathtubs and their disadvantages:

• Acrylic can easily be scratched by a sharp object if not handled carefully.
• The material may react with some solvents.
• In order to preserve the surface, it is not recommended to soak laundry in an acrylic bath for a long time.
• The bowl of not very high-quality products can become deformed under the influence of high temperatures or excessive weight load.

Acrylic bathtubs have their own characteristics

If you decide to choose this type of bathtub for installation, then it is worth getting more detailed information about these products. A separate article on our portal is devoted to the characteristics, advantages and disadvantages, and selection rules.

In addition to the most popular materials mentioned above for making bathtubs, others are used that are less known, but also deserve attention. Perhaps someone would like to get such an unusual specimen for their new bathroom.

Prices for the model line of acrylic bathtubs

Acrylic bathtubs

Quaryl baths

Quarryl bathtubs are made from two components - quartz and acrylic, so they do not require additional reinforcement. Such products are slightly heavier than acrylic ones, however, they are much lighter than cast iron ones. The production technology of such bathtubs allows them to be given a variety of shapes. They are highly resistant to all types of theoretically possible impacts during use.

Quaril baths are very practical, but still expensive

Quaril products are often produced in one piece, that is, they do not even have holes for drainage and overflow. This means that they can be fitted to any existing plumbing and sewer layout. Of course, it is better to entrust this operation to a master who will drill even holes and hermetically install the necessary elements in them.

Quaril has low thermal conductivity, so hot water in such a bath will cool for quite a long time.

Quaril, like acrylic, is pleasant to the touch and has a perfectly smooth surface. Bathtubs made of this material can be installed in a frame, like acrylic bowls, but are often installed without it. Frameless installation became available due to the fact that quaril has higher strength.

Quaril baths, in fact, are good for everyone, but they are deterred by their rather high cost.

Prices for the range of quaril bathtubs

Quaryl baths

Glass baths

Glass bathtubs are rarely seen in the interior of standard apartments. If they are purchased, it is only for exclusive rich interiors of spacious bathrooms of private mansions. Glass products can have different sizes and shapes; they fit harmoniously into any design style due to their transparency.

These bathtubs are made from thick, impact-resistant tempered glass with well-processed edges to ensure perfect smoothness.

Despite their apparent fragility, glass bathtubs are very durable structures

Typically, glass ones are chosen for rooms designed in an eco-style, which today many people are turning to and decorating their homes with completely natural materials, combining them with each other. However, it should immediately be noted that such home decoration requires very impressive costs. For example, the price of the simplest glass bathtubs starts from 100,000 rubles.

Fragile at first glance, the glass bowl has technical characteristics that are not inferior to models made from more conventional materials:

• The high impact resistance of tempered glass allows the products to withstand temperature changes and mechanical stress.
• The smoothness of the glass surface allows water to easily roll off, so limescale does not form on the walls for a long time. If you follow the rules of proper care for glass walls, they will always look perfect.
• Thick glass has low thermal conductivity, so hot water does not reduce the temperature for a long time.
• This material is unaffected by any detergents, acids or any other chemicals.

A glass bathtub has virtually no disadvantages, except for the very high price. This product will last a very long time without causing any problems to its owner.

Earthenware baths

The first earthenware bathtub was made back in the 18th century, but due to its impracticality and the fragility of this material, and as cast iron products appeared, this practice was abandoned a century later. But nowadays there is a renewed demand for such products - modern technologies have made it possible to minimize a number of disadvantages.

Earthenware baths - a return to old traditions

The fragility that has not been completely “defeated” and the very high price of earthenware bathtubs are their main drawbacks, but, you see, they are very significant. Otherwise, faience is ideal for making bathtubs:

• The material has low thermal conductivity, so it retains heat for a long time.
• The smooth inner surface is pleasant to the touch, making it extremely pleasant to take water procedures in such a bath.
• If you handle this product carefully, without dropping heavy objects into it or filling it with too hot water, your bathtub can last for many years.

Earthenware bathtubs are one-piece products, they are made to order or in very small batches. Usually their outer surface is painted in different pastel colors, so the product has an aesthetic and respectable appearance.

You may notice that it is unlikely that a faience bathtub will look properly in a small standard room in a high-rise building. Rather, it is intended for a spacious bathroom, in which it will become not only a functional element, but also a decorative decoration.

Find out 4 options, how, from a new article on our portal.

Wooden baths

A wooden bathtub can be called exotic in modern houses and apartments. Many people do not even suspect that such accessories can be made from this natural material.

Such bathtubs are produced in the singular or in extremely limited series, since their production is a very labor-intensive process that requires a lot of time and special technological methods of wood processing. In order to make a wooden bathtub, moisture-resistant species such as larch, teak, mahogany or wenge are used. Almost all of this wood is used in shipbuilding, and bathtubs are made according to the same principle. Wooden bowls can be made from a single piece of wood, or they are assembled and glued together from specially prepared parts, which are pressed tightly together, and after the glue has dried, the surface is carefully sanded. Next, the wood is impregnated with various water-repellent and environmentally friendly products - this can be a water-based varnish or hot wax, which is well absorbed into the structure of the wood and forms a protective layer on its surface. For wood processing, compounds are used that help preserve the textured pattern of the material and its color.

Wooden bathtubs are made in different shapes - they can be like a boat with smooth shapes, be square with right angles, round or have other interesting configurations. Very often, wooden bathtubs are made individually to order - in this case, the customer himself determines what shape it will have.

Wooden baths have many advantages:

• Water treatments taken in wooden baths evoke only positive emotions and have a beneficial effect on both the psychological and physical state of a person. The tree has the amazing property of “sharing” its strength with a person, giving him an “impulse of health.”
• Modern wooden baths, if desired, can be equipped with hydromassage, aeromassage and aromatherapy.
• From a technical point of view, a wooden font is very durable, it is not afraid of mechanical influences, it will not break if an object is dropped into it, and cracks will not appear on its surface over time.
• If processed correctly, the wood will not swell from moisture and will not crack when drying, maintaining its original appearance for many years.

However, there are also restrictions on the use of wooden products in order to maintain their long-term preservation:

• It is not recommended to bathe animals in wooden baths.
• When cleaning bathtubs, you must follow the instructions from the manufacturer and treat this process with extreme caution so as not to damage the water-repellent coating. Do not use cleaning products that contain abrasive ingredients.

Marble bath

Such bathtubs are made from natural or artificial marble. Naturally, such products have a very high price, especially those that are carved from a single piece of rock. Artificial marble is made by making a special composition, which includes marble chips, acrylic and special dyes. Thus, a material is created that imitates the pattern of any natural stone, be it marble, onyx, malachite and others.

A marble bath is an attribute of rich interior decoration

It should be noted that products made from artificial marble are much stronger than from natural marble, since real stone is quite fragile, especially after it is processed to give it a certain shape.

A marble bath can be safely called an excess that wealthy people who have everything they need for a comfortable life can afford, and who only need this accessory for complete happiness.

This functional element will really look in its place if you make the appropriate design in the room, in which the marble bathtub becomes the center of attraction.

Copper baths

Copper baths have been manufactured for a long time, but with the advent of new, more affordable and practical materials, they have practically ceased to be used. Today, such products are returning as completely “vintage” elements in an interior decorated in a certain style. They have a very sophisticated, original look, so it is necessary to design the entire bathroom space around them.

Once upon a time, copper was a common material for plumbing products. Today a copper bath is a luxury item

Copper baths are usually oval in shape and have a fairly large depth. The material itself has a high heat capacity and retains heat well, so you don’t have to constantly add hot water. In addition, copper has pronounced antibacterial qualities, which have a beneficial effect on water, and, therefore, on the condition of the person taking water procedures.

Copper baths are durable, as they withstand mechanical loads and the influence of external influences. The material is easy to care for using a soft cloth and detergent that does not contain abrasive components.

So, the modern range of bathtubs is very wide and varied. Any consumer has the opportunity to choose the desired option that is suitable for him in all respects, both in terms of quality and ease of use, and in terms of affordability.

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