One of the various forms of acrylic bathtub
Cast iron and then steel bathtubs were replaced by acrylic bathtubs. No, the first and second varieties are not complaining about their lack of popularity even now. And yet acrylic has firmly entered our lives, and the sale of products made from it is gaining momentum - reviews confirm this. We decided to collect all the information and give detailed answers to all the questions that concern customers about acrylic in plumbing products. What are the pros and cons of the material? How to choose the best hot tubs? Is it difficult to install an acrylic bathtub yourself? What you may encounter during selection, installation and subsequent use. What sizes are there? How to clean an acrylic bathtub? If a defect appears, how can it be eliminated?
Luxurious acrylic bathtub in a loft interior
Elegant acrylic bathtub with stunning views of the green garden
The bathtub is rightly called the “heart” of the bathroom
What is an acrylic bathtub?
An acrylic bathtub is a sanitary object of a new formation. If cast iron and steel can be classified as natural materials (the raw materials are natural, extracted from the depths of the earth), then acrylic is a synthetic product.
Acrylic is plastic, that is, a polymer material. It is ground into powder, and then by adding other substances the solution is turned into a mass for modeling. If we classify acrylic from a chemical point of view, then this substance is a high-quality methyl methacrylate based on PPMA (polymethyl methacrylate). The base is acrylic and methacrylic acids. Polymer compositions are added to derivatives of these acids and the desired material is obtained.
The shape of the bowl, like the shape of the boat, fits most organically into the spa environment
The prototype of acrylic appeared in the 20s of the last century. Then scientists created polymethyl methacrylate, called organic glass for its characteristics. We were looking for a material that would be durable, but at the same time very light. As you can see, they finally found it.
Along the way, we found out that acrylic has some other characteristics. Let's summarize them:
- the above mentioned lightness and strength
- resistance to abrasion and mechanical damage
- damaged areas can be restored
- hygiene: the material rejects any bacteria, is easy to clean, and withstands the effects of acids used in everyday life
- the material can be given any color and this color lasts for a very long time without fading or washing out
- it is plastic, and therefore when making acrylic products you can play with shapes: angular, oval, polygonal
- Bathtub sizes can be any: 170x70, 140x70, 120x100, etc.
- muffles sounds.
Comfortable corner bathtub in the popular size 150×150 cm. Photo: official representative office of Aquatica Plumbing Group in Russia - Viva Lusso LLC
Gorgeous bathroom design
Acrylic is found in cosmetology (“acrylic nails”), and in light industry (acrylic stands, boxes), and in plumbing (baths and showers), and in other areas. And the reviews about its use are the most laudatory.
What is an acrylic product?
The chemical industry is creating more and more new materials; acrylic plastic has become a discovery for manufacturers of plumbing fixtures, furniture and designers. Its transparent versions are called glass. Plastic is used for bathtubs. The acrylic coating makes the surface of the metal bathtub more pleasant to the touch; the most unusual color solutions are available.
Excellent plasticity of acrylic allows you to create products of a wide variety of shapes
Physical characteristics of acrylic:
- It has good light transmittance, this is not important for a bathtub, but in other interior solutions this property is useful, for example, it makes interesting partitions.
- Acrylic is lightweight; thanks to this quality, an acrylic bathtub is much lighter than classic cast iron ones.
- High impact resistance, elasticity and ductility.
- Ease of processing: it is easy to engrave on acrylic and form a shaped product of any shape.
- The material is environmentally friendly and hygienic.
- It is resistant to chemical influences, meaning it can be cleaned with household chemicals without fear of damage.
Secrets of acrylic bathtub production
The production of acrylic bathtubs is similar to a sewing studio, when a product is tried on a mannequin.
Initially, acrylic is transparent, that is, colorless. White, blue or red color is given to it either during the production of baths by adding dye to the liquid substance, or the finished product is painted in several layers.
Scandinavian style in bathroom design
A small plunge pool that will appeal to owners of a compact bathroom who also sympathize with Japanese culture. You can recognize it as an ofuro, a traditional Japanese bathhouse.
First, prepare the compound - bring the acrylic to a fluid state. It is poured into molds in a layer of 5-10-15 mm. In a steam oven at high temperature, the compound is transformed into durable layers. To comply with the technological process in the furnaces, it creates ideal tightness and vacuum.
Select the sizes of the bowls. Still warm and plastic, and therefore soft, sheets of acrylic are covered with the blank of the future bathtub. For greater strength, the bottom of the bowl is reinforced with several composite layers consisting of fiberglass and epoxy resin. The layers of the composite are interspersed with a reinforcing mesh made of metal. The more composite and reinforcing layers, the stronger and better the bath.
The not completely cooled acrylic is adjusted to the workpiece - holes are made for drains, handles and other devices, and the edges are melted. When the bath has cooled, it is polished.
Due to the manufacturing process, acrylic bathtubs come in various shapes and sizes.
Corner right-hand bathtub in the popular size 150×70 Photo: official representative office of Aquatica Plumbing Group in Russia - Viva Lusso LLC
Miniature acrylic sitz bathtub with glass insert
Now, if the acrylic was not originally painted, the bathtub is covered with several layers of waterproof and hypoallergenic paint. Each layer of paint is allowed to dry better.
Technologically, the bathtub production process is simple. However, it requires speed, careful and coordinated actions. When making bowls, you can vary the size and shape. Therefore, many manufacturers provide a service for individual bowl design and produce corner, free-form bathtubs. Of course, with a private order, the cost of the finished product increases. Considering how many types and sizes of bathtubs have been released on the plumbing market, I think it’s easy to choose an option for your apartment or house.
Beautiful combination of acrylic bathtub and marble finishing of the room
What is acrylic
It is known that plastic is an organic material based on a polymer. As a material, plastic is convenient, practical, durable and reliable. It would seem that acrylic has nothing to do with it, since this article is dedicated to this material and products made from it? It's simple, acrylic is the same polymer that is produced on the basis of acrylic acid.
Please note that acrylic is divided into industrial and technical. If we talk about industrial, then such acrylic is used as a filling material in various fields of industry (for example, mechanical engineering). As for technical acrylic, it is usually used by manufacturers of all kinds of household goods. These household products include bathtubs. A bathtub made from acrylic is shown in the photo.
Why do manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs use exclusively technical acrylic in their production? The thing is that during the production of the same bathtubs, special substances are added to acrylic that effectively prevent the development of various bacteria and microorganisms. Thanks to this, one of the advantages of acrylic bathtubs is absolute sanitary safety. A video in which the process of producing an acrylic bathtub is examined in detail and clearly:
But, of course, acrylic bathtubs, like any other product, have both advantages and disadvantages. Well, let's look at the pros and cons of bathtubs made from acrylic.
Acrylic and cast iron bathtubs. Similarities and differences
In connection with the appearance on the market of bathtubs made of new materials, it is worth conducting a comparative analysis of these two materials according to various parameters and finding out their pros and cons.
Weight. An acrylic product weighs about 30 kg, and a cast iron product weighs 120 kg or more.
Strict but stylish rectangular acrylic bathtub
Harmonious combination of acrylic bathtub and modern interior
Strength. An acrylic bathtub is inferior in strength to cast iron, because it all depends on the number of reinforcing layers. However, very ancient cast iron bathtubs become fragile. And high-quality acrylic ones are more impact-resistant.
Price. Pricing is influenced by shape, size, and design. But for comparison: a rectangular bowl measuring 170x70 cm made of cast iron will cost about 9 thousand rubles, and made of acrylic - about 10 thousand rubles. Bathtubs with parameters 120x70 are somewhat cheaper. Here their indicators are almost equal.
Cast iron bathtubs look very noble, but they are limited in design
Elegant bathtub in Provence room design
Heat retention. In a cast iron bathtub, the water cools down by 1 degree Celsius every 10 minutes, in an acrylic bathtub - every half hour.
External covering. The cast iron is coated with enamel on top, which is resistant to staining. Even if dye (hair dye, clothing dye) gets in, it can be washed off. If the coating has worn off, it can be restored. An acrylic bathtub does not have such durability and an indelible stain may remain on the bottom. However, there are much more color variations in acrylic models.
Acrylic bathtub with an unusual finish reminiscent of a brushed copper surface
Shapes and sizes of bowls. Cast iron bowls come in standard shapes. The maximum is different sizes. Production of freeforms is not practiced. Acrylic bowls can surprise you with their variety. Need a corner bath please? If you want a polygonal one, that’s no problem either. Available according to an individual sketch. And, if the bath still does not fit, it will be transformed into another shape, lengthened or, conversely, shortened, additional holes, recesses, and headrests will be made.
Acrylic bathtubs can satisfy even lovers of strict forms
Snow-white acrylic couple in a loft interior
Care. Detergents can corrode the enamel layer, and metal brushes can scratch it, and the cast-iron bathtub will tarnish and become less smooth. But acrylic cannot tolerate products that contain solvents or acids. Then how to wash an acrylic bathtub? The surface can be easily cleaned even with liquid soap or washing gel or dishwashing detergent.
The service life of both types of bathtubs is unlimited, provided they are handled correctly.
Pros and cons of acrylic wall paint
The popularity of acrylic compositions is explained by their advantages, which include:
- environmental friendliness;
- good adhesion;
- absence of unpleasant odor and toxic fumes;
- ability to hide minor defects;
- durability;
- resistance to ultraviolet rays, high humidity, low and high temperatures;
- rich color range;
- affordable price.
Surfaces painted with acrylic suspensions are easy to care for: they can be washed repeatedly with water or non-aggressive detergents.
Among the disadvantages characteristic of acrylate mixtures, users note low resistance to dirt, mold, and fungal spores. In addition, these paints dry quickly, so during repairs you need to frequently rinse brushes, rollers and other tools with water.
It is also worth considering that after drying, the color of the painted wall and the shade of the liquid suspension may differ by several shades.
Popular and custom sizes of acrylic bathtubs
Thanks to the flexibility and plasticity of the polymer, you can buy and install a bath of any size. Of course, this comes with an increase or decrease in cost. Thus, standard sizes will cost less than compact or, on the contrary, very large baths.
Contrasting combination of a white bathtub and an eclectic style interior
Acrylic bathtubs are not only beautiful, but also very comfortable
Standard sizes include bowls with the following parameters:
Length – from 140 to 170 cm in increments of 10 cm: 170x70, 130x70, 120x70, etc.
Width – 70 cm, 80 or 85 cm: 130x70, 170x70, 120x70, etc.
Standard height – 65 cm.
For those who love the Japanese "ofuro" - this is a barrel sauna designed for one person. Traditionally, they take a hot bath in it for up to 10-15 minutes Photo: official representative office of Aquatica Plumbing Group in Russia - Viva Lusso LLC
The acrylic plunge pool looks great against the backdrop of ceramic tiles with an ocean motif.
In this case, the combination of the listed parameters can be any: 140 by 85 cm or 170x70, 120x70, 130x70 cm, etc.
If you need a special model, it can be made. Compact bowls can be 100, 110, 120 cm long and with a standard (120x70 or 130x70) or increased width. They also produce square-shaped bathtubs with a side of 140 or 120 cm. There are also larger models from 180 to 210 cm in length. The main thing is that such a device fits through the door without dismantling the walls.
Even in a place where by default there is only a shower stall, you can successfully integrate a small square acrylic bathtub of non-standard size
Standard baths (130x70, 170x70, 120x70) cost from 6 thousand rubles and more. For overall dimensions you will have to pay about 12–18 thousand rubles. The development of an individual design and its implementation will result in an amount of 25–35 thousand rubles or more.
In addition, the cost is also affected by the number of reinforcing layers. Compare the weight of two models that have the same dimensions. The one that is heavier is better and of higher quality. So pay attention to the weight first and then the price of the product.
Acrylic bathtub in an art deco interior
To ensure that the product does not disappoint you, pay special attention to your choice
Without seeing the hygienic room, it is difficult to guess what size bathtub will fit best there. And, nevertheless, general advice is available.
- The bowl should fit into the doorway.
- For a rectangular room, a bathtub of the same shape is suitable. For square – wide or angular. In this case, there must be access to the walls around the perimeter of the device.
- The optimal position during hygiene procedures is reclining. The length can be determined experimentally, as well as the width.
- The bath should be comfortable: the body is relaxed, the legs are bent, the head is above the water and rests on the side or headrest.
- Adult family members should get out of the bowl without any problems.
Square bathtub with outdoor hydromassage
And then – choose the shape, color, accessories.
Bathtub of non-standard flowing shapes from the “organic” collection. Photo: official representative office of Aquatica Plumbing Group in Russia - Viva Lusso LLC
Main types of acrylic for plumbing
So, we answer the question of what an acrylic bathtub is made of, which arises in almost everyone who wants to purchase this plumbing fixture. The modern composition of acrylic bathtubs, in the vast majority of cases, contains plumbing acrylic. But the price of the product depends not so much on the type of acrylic, but on the manufacturing technology of the product itself. Today's production technologies divide sanitary acrylic into three main types according to the method of manufacturing the products:
- block;
- extruded;
- cast.
The list is formed in sequence according to the level of popularity of products that were created using the listed technology. This conclusion was made based on numerous reviews from owners of acrylic bathtubs.
Block products
A plastic bathtub made from block acrylic is a fairly strong and wear-resistant product. This acrylic is made by polymerization at high temperatures. Before making the desired product, a special glass mold is first created, which consists of two parts. Then the mold is tightly connected and a powdery compound is poured into the gap between the glasses, which fills all the voids. After this, the mold is placed in a special oven, where, under the influence of temperature, the powdery substance is fused into a single product. After holding in the oven until complete fusion, the mold is cooled and the result is a ready-made plastic bathtub, which, after some modification, is sent for completion and sale.
Extruded product
Extruded are those acrylic bathtubs that have a multi-layer coating. In this case, the base is created from high-strength ABC plastic, then its top layer is melted and a liquid acrylic mass is applied to it. As a result, both materials are fused together to form a single product. It is worth noting that the base of the acrylic bathtub is made of ABC plastic making it resistant to mechanical damage and deformation. Such bathtubs have a high cost and are considered elite models due to their strength and durability with the correct care and operation.
Cast products
A simple cast acrylic bathtub is the most common option because it has a relatively low cost compared to the analogues listed above. It is worth noting that these models are also inferior to their analogues in strength and durability. The production process is as simple and fast as possible. Liquid acrylic is poured onto a polished metal sheet, forming a solid sheet of the desired thickness. Then this sheet is placed under a press, which has a pre-made metal mold of the future product, and a copy of the metal sample is squeezed out of the sheet.
For your information. Cast acrylic bathtubs occupy a large part of the modern market and many careless sellers can sell them at an inflated price, passing them off as extruded plastic. The peculiarities of cast acrylic bathtubs are that they require a reinforced metal frame that will support the body in the desired position and prevent its deformation.
Bath design and shape
The properties of the material also explain the wide range of bathtubs in shape, color and design. The color, as you already know, can be anything from transparent to carmine red and black. But the shape, design and other beauties...
Production technology allows us to produce acrylic bathtubs of any color
Acrylic plumbing fixtures come in several varieties:
- round ones are usually built into the podium;
Round bathtub in black and white interior
- rectangular - classic;
- oval - streamlined, with smooth lines, but require a decent area;
Beautiful bathroom in eco-style
Contemporary design: clean lines and thoughtful comfort
- corner. Symmetrical models are suitable for spacious rooms, asymmetrical (left-handed or right-handed) corner models are more versatile;
- polygonal - for those who value uniqueness;
- asymmetrical ones will fit better into modern interiors and bathrooms with complex configurations.
Spacious bathtub located next to the shower
Stylish freestanding bathtub with decorative faceted exterior
Even at the production stage, it is thought through what the acrylic containers will subsequently be equipped with. There are a great variety of different plumbing gadgets.
- Steps and multi-level ledges
- Headrests and armrests
- Anti-slip handles and grooved bottom
- Lighting and cornices
- Jacuzzi and water heater
- Hydromassage and heat exchanger. The hydromassage system can be built-in or installed after purchasing the bathtub
Bathtub with built-in hydromassage system on the terrace of a country house
Secret: a separate hydromassage system is cheaper than an already built-in one
Bathtubs differ in material. Yes, they have the same base, but other components can be added.
- 100% acrylic (PMMA) does not deteriorate, does not deform, and is not subject to technical erosion. These baths are the best.
- Combined polymer (PMMA + ABS) is cheaper due to the use of plastic (ABS). If the acrylic layer cracks, it cannot be restored by sanding.
- Extruded acrylic. Also affordable, but may begin to crack over time. Such bathtubs can be installed in dachas and used from time to time, rather than constantly.
Neon lighting effectively tints the thickness of white acrylic
Asian style bathroom with built-in plunge pool
Advice: it’s better to save on gadgets or buy a container of a standard shape, but made of 100% acrylic. It will last longer
Advantages of acrylic bathtubs
Let's look at the advantages of acrylic baths.
- Light weight, which greatly simplifies transportation, lifting to the floor, and installation. Weight ranges from 15–35 kg.
- Variability of shapes (round, corner, rectangular) of bathtubs, a wide range of colors and a large range of sizes (120x80, 170x70, 200x100, 150x90 and many others).
- The water flows into the bath almost silently.
- Acrylic does not conduct electricity.
Black acrylic bathtub with fine tile trim
- High-quality material can withstand weight up to 600 kg and over 10 years of service.
- Simple care of the bowl (read below about how to clean an acrylic bathtub).
- Small scratches without a trace can be removed with zero-grit sandpaper. Then you just need to polish or coat it with car varnish.
- One person can handle its installation. Even the owner himself, and on his own. The step-by-step installation of an acrylic bathtub with your own hands will be described below.
Thanks to its light weight, the acrylic bathtub is easy to install
- Maintains water temperature for a long time.
- The bottom of the bath is not slippery and does not lose color or shine.
- Acrylic bathtubs are durable, reliable, wear-resistant.
- Bacteria and rust do not stick to them.
- If necessary, the coating can be easily restored. Liquid acrylic is sold, which is simply poured onto the dry surface of the bathtub.
Acrylic bathtubs are durable and wear-resistant
There are many more advantages. And only those who have already installed an acrylic bathtub in their home can fully appreciate them.
Disadvantages of acrylic bathtubs
An object, thing, product, or product cannot be perfect in all respects. And acrylic models have their disadvantages.
- The acrylic bottom is resistant to sharp objects. Therefore, you should not drop knives or throw darts.
- For your pet, purchase a rubber mat to prevent your pet from signing on the acrylic with its claws.
- It’s just as easy to ruin the bottom with fire, a lit cigarette, a candle, or a match. True, provided that there is no water in the bath.
- Acrylic melts at a temperature of 160-200 degrees.
Despite their relative strength, acrylic bathtubs are susceptible to impacts from sharp objects
- Acrylic is a plastic material. Therefore, under the influence of physical impact, the edges can “float”. In 5 years it will need repairs to restore its shape.
- The bowl must be placed not only on the legs, but also on the frame or bricks. We will also tell you how to install an acrylic bathtub.
- A heavy object falling into a bathtub from a sufficiently high height can punch a hole in the material. At best, it will make a dent.
You can come to terms with the listed shortcomings. It is enough to choose the right one, install it well and take care of the bath according to the rules. In the end, even a crack or chip can be repaired without dismantling the bathtub and transporting it to the manufacturer.
English style in the interior of the bathroom
Rules for choosing acrylic plumbing fixtures
In order for plumbing fixtures to please their owners even longer than the time allotted to them, they must be of high quality. This means you need to know how to choose an acrylic bathtub.
- We have already talked about sizes. Before purchasing, first measure the width and height of the doorway, and the length of the wall against which you will place the purchase. Otherwise, you may make a mistake with one of the parameters.
- Read the instructions, it describes what materials the product is made of - only acrylic or there are additional additives; Is there a reinforcing coating and how many layers does it consist of?
Lightweight bathtub installed on a decorative podium slab made of artificial stone
A bathtub with leather trim looks very stylish
Tip: check the thickness of the material by cutting the edge. This can be done with a regular pocket flashlight. The light from it will shine through even slightly if the walls are less than 5 mm thick.
- The reinforcing layer will also be noticeable on the cut, like annual rings on tree stumps.
- The sound of a light blow with a fist should be dull. There should be no roughness, cracks, chips, or scratches on the bottom and walls; the color is uniform, without smudges or streaks. These characteristics also determine the service life.
- There should be no foreign, irritating odor.
- If a product has a certificate of conformity, the manufacturing company is reliable and trusted. The purchase can be completed.
Acrylic bathtub in the interior of a rectangular room
Advice: immediately buy the mounting frame together with the bathtub, since it is only suitable for this series of products. And it’s not a fact that the bathtub will fit into the frame from another line.
Pay attention to manufacturers. If the company name doesn't mean anything to you, refrain from purchasing. First, search the Internet to see if there is such a thing at all, and what are the reviews of its products.
Indicators affecting service life
In order for an acrylic structure to last for many years, you need to pay attention to two main indicators - how, what it is made of and how its strength is ensured.
Material and thickness
Of course, acrylic always contains acrylic - but it can be combined with other materials, and how long it can be used depends on the proportion in which it is used.
- Three layers . If you are accustomed to the fact that the more layers, the stronger the result, then this habit will fail here - three layers of an acrylic bathtub indicate that it is not of high quality. Its internal material is ABS - a porous cheap plastic, which is used as a base due to its low cost. Then it is covered with a thin layer of acrylic (no more than ten percent), and then the final structure is reinforced. As a result, after about five years, the reinforcement is wiped away, as is the acrylic layer, and only ABS remains, which quickly becomes saturated with moisture and becomes completely unusable. This is only worth buying if you plan to use it infrequently - or will replace it in the near future anyway.
- Two layers . This one consists entirely of acrylic, and a reinforcing substance covers it on top - sometimes in one layer, sometimes in several. The result is more expensive, but will also last much longer. It practically does not wear out, it is very difficult to get a crack to appear on it.
Simply rinse with warm water
Tip To check how many layers a structure you like consists of, just look at its very edge - the one that often bends down. The layers on it are visible to the naked eye.
In addition to the material, it is also important how thick the walls it forms:
- two or three centimeters is very thin - it cracks easily and does not last long;
- four centimeters is average - it cracks less often, lasts longer, up to ten years;
- six centimeters is thick - it’s hard to make a crack on such a structure; it can last for decades if you don’t clean it with a metal sponge.
Tip To check how thick the walls of a bathtub are, you don’t need to have a ruler with you; just shine a flashlight through them. If light is visible on the other side, then the wall is too thin. Additionally, you can tap it with your knuckles - the sound should be dull.
Reinforcement and frame
Reinforcement of acrylic is a mandatory procedure, since plastic itself is not very durable. Typically epoxy resins, fiberglass or polyurethane are used. They protect the bathtub from mechanical damage, abrasion, small cracks and chips.
You can check how well the reinforcement is done by using the following tricks:
- inspect the edges - the reinforcing layer should be visible on them, and the thicker it is, the better and stronger the structure itself will be;
- press on the walls, the bottom - they should not sag, and if they sag, this means that the manufacturer cheated and applied a thicker layer to the edge than to the rest of the structure;
- use a flashlight again - the light should be equally visible (or not visible if the design is expensive) from all sides;
- sniff - low-quality reinforcement materials have a distinct chemical smell, which will intensify when you pour hot water into the bath.
Has sensitivity to temperature
Additionally, it is worth checking how slippery the reinforcement material is. To do this, put your hand on it and try to move it to the side. If the skin is slippery, it means you can definitely slip when getting out of the bath, which means it’s better to look for a different design. At the same time, the surface should not be rough either, this indicates low quality.
Having realized how high-quality the reinforcement material is, all that remains is to inspect the frame - the metal frame that supports the entire structure.
Stylish option for a large bathroom
Advice If the frame of the most ordinary rectangular bathtub is for some reason reinforced, too complicated, this indicates low quality. Without a complex frame, it simply cannot stand.
The final stage is checking for defects . The surface must be flat, smooth, without thickening, cracks, or chips. Otherwise, it will look bad, plus it will be inconvenient to wash.
Which acrylic bathtub manufacturers do you know?
Despite the relative youth of acrylic bathtubs, many companies in Europe and Asia produce them, and there are also domestic manufacturers. Among them, Dutch, German and English brands differ in quality. For the most part, they produce plumbing products from pure acrylic. We judge how positive the reviews they received.
Ravak
Company from the Czech Republic. Extensive experience, high quality materials used, modern production equipment. The company produces 100% acrylic bathtubs with a wall thickness of 5–6 mm. The product is reinforced with fiberglass.
Acrylic bath
The company has a large selection of not only sizes, but also bowl shapes. There are standard and asymmetrical models, angular and polygonal. The downside is that not all models have accessories.
Cersanit (Tsersanite)
Polish manufacturer. The combination of quality and price is impressive. Product warranty is 7 years. Comfortable, spacious baths. Large selection of models. There are quality certificates. The only drawback that can be noted is the thickness of the acrylic. 4 mm is clearly not enough to install a hydromassage system.
Cersanit is valued for its unusual design ideas
Kolo
The company is located in Poland. The company cooperates with the European concern Sanitek. Many forms: laconic, asymmetrical, original. Despite the affordable price, the quality is commendable. The products are reliable and meet the high quality parameters of Europe (DIN, Germany; KIWA, Holland; ISO 9002). The baths are durable, but not rigid enough, so it will not be possible to install a hydromassage.
Pool Spa
Production is located in Spain. The plumbing is comfortable. The wall thickness and rigidity make it easy to install a hydromassage system and other gadgets. High quality Lucit acrylic is used. Along with bowls, the company also produces accessories that harmoniously combine with any model: handles, shower curtains, headrests, etc. However, for all the advantages of the sets you will have to pay a slightly higher price.
Beautiful bath
Alpen
Austrian manufacturer. Relatively young. Produces high-quality but inexpensive bathtubs from 100% acrylic. They are reliable, durable and meet all stated criteria.
Corner bathtub "Alpen"
VagnerPlast (WagnerPlast)
Company from the Czech Republic. As soon as acrylic began to be used for plumbing fixtures, the company immediately launched a production line. And it hasn’t lowered the quality bar to this day. The range of models is very wide; hydromassage can be installed in the tank. Only pure acrylic from England is used. The warranty period is 10 years.
Riho (Riho)
The company is located in Holland and has opened production in the Czech Republic and Poland. European quality. The company's products are distinguished by their non-trivial design, which will be appreciated by owners of modern cottages and city apartments.
Acrylic bathtub “Riho”
There are also Russian manufacturers whose products are trustworthy.
1Marka (1Marka)
The warranty on the bathtubs is 10 years. The quality is not inferior to European products. For production, cast acrylic of the Plexiglas brand is purchased in Germany.
Aquanet
High-quality baths at a Russian, therefore affordable price. Sizes, shapes, colors, configurations - each buyer can choose the required font.
Other manufacturers include H2O (Russia), BAS (Russia), TEIKO (China), Triton (Russia) and some others. There is no doubt about their quality.
Acrylic bathtub with a high headboard in high-tech design
We install the bath ourselves
Installation of an acrylic bathtub is possible in three ways - on a frame frame, on bricks or on a combined base. Let's look at each of them.
Frame installation
Usually the instructions talk about installation, but if not, read:
- Make a mark along the bottom for attaching the legs and then mark the hole.
Important! Use a stopper to avoid drilling through the bowl. Alternatively, do not make holes, but take wooden blocks or metal plates of the same thickness. And if you have a choice, buy not just legs, but with a frame frame.
- Screw the guides and the legs to them.
Installing guides and feet
- Connect the siphon to the upper and lower holes. Connect it to the sewer.
Siphon installation
- Install a protective screen.
Screen installation
Advice. The bathtub can be made more stable. To do this, you need to level it and mark a line along the wall. Screw the mounting hooks on which the bowl will rest according to the markings. Don't forget to take into account the width of the side.
For greater reliability, you can install guides along the wall on which the bowl will rest
Installation on brick
If you couldn’t buy a frame, you can build it from brick. All you need to do is build brickwork of the required height. And for greater reliability, install brackets into the wall.
Installing a bathtub on brick supports
Tip: leave 1-2 cm of void between the masonry and the bottom and fill it with polyurethane foam. Once cured, the foam will be hard enough to support the weight of the plumbing fixtures.
Filling the gap between the bathtub and the floor with foam
It may be difficult to connect the wiring.
Combined installation method
It combines installation on legs and construction of brick supports.