Acrylic bathtubs: types and selection rules

Acrylic bathtubs are the most popular baths among modern consumers. Their demand is due to both technical characteristics and visual appearance. Thanks to the material from which they are made, they have the best characteristics. They attract attention with their low weight, the possibility of heat transfer, ease of maintenance, optimal cost and other characteristics.

An acrylic bathtub is considered the most aesthetic and ergonomic option. It is made from acrylate. This material was discovered back in 1930 under the guidance of German chemists. At the time, scientists wanted to invent a material that was aesthetically pleasing and durable enough. After some research, they got acrylate. It had an attractive appearance, could be of any color, had a certain hardness, density and lightness.

Technical acrylic is used for the production of bathroom bowls. Baths, which are made of pure acrylic, have a long service life, have a high class of wear resistance, and are quite reliable.

Acrylic bathtubs are made from several materials. The surface that will contact the skin must be made of pure acrylic - this is a plastic that is initially transparent in color. You can change the color of the bowl using a special liquid powder, which the manufacturer adds to PMMA (liquid polymethyl methacrylate) just before the polymerization stage.

In order to make plastic a more valuable material, the manufacturer adds various components that affect the plasticity of the bowl, the durability of the paint (the bowl does not fade), hygiene and ease of repair.

The pleasant features include ease of maintenance of acrylic bath structures.

In order for the bath to please for a long time with its appearance, the following recommendations must be observed:

• wash at least 2–4 times a month;

• use for care detergents specially designed for such surfaces that will not contain abrasive substances;
• use a special sponge for washing baths made of acrylic;

• all napkins for washing such baths must be made of soft fabrics;
• it is better to use a polish that is based on wax and silver;
• if you need to bathe animals in an acrylic bathtub, then you should take care of the presence of a special rug so that the pet does not damage the bowl coating.

Acrylic is a plastic also called organic glass. Unfortunately, cast acrylic is a rather fragile and impractical substance, so it is not very suitable for the bath. On the basis of organic glass, reinforced plastic is produced, which has increased impact resistance. Manufacturers also add disinfecting components to the composition in order to protect a person while taking a bath from a variety of microorganisms.

Acrylic bathtubs can have different designs, shapes, colors. Thanks to the material, the manufacturer can embody various design ideas into reality or arrange a bath at the request of the client. In the range of such fonts, you can find hex, oval, round, rectangular, angular options. They can be streamlined, rather compact (for small bathrooms), they can have a variety of transparent inserts, built-in functions for hydro and air massage.

This allows you to preserve the appearance of the product for much longer. It is a known fact that the surface of the font is constantly exposed to fats and dirt, which eat into the micropores of acrylic. This contributes to the appearance of an unpleasant plaque, the beauty of the structure itself and its sanitary condition deteriorate visually. Acrylic is highly hygienic as it does not retain bacteria and yeast. Manufacturers also produce models with an antibacterial coating.

The main benefits include the following:

• ease;
• attractiveness;
• strength;
• wear resistance;
• hardness;

• long service life;
• smooth surface of the structure itself;
• variety of sizes and shapes;
• good thermal insulation - water in such a structure cools down much more slowly;

• good sound insulation properties;
• ease of installation;
• unpretentious care.

If we talk about the disadvantages of acrylic bathtubs, then it is worth noting that acrylic is quite susceptible to high temperatures. It will start melting at a temperature of +160 degrees Celsius. However, thermal deformation of the structure itself can also manifest itself at a temperature of + 90–95 degrees Celsius. It is recommended to first draw some cold water before adding hotter water.

Despite the declared impact resistance of modern reinforced plastic, it has some nuances. If an inexpensive model is made of PMMA, then it is worth taking into account that if heavy objects fall on the bath, the body of the structure can be punched through. Small chips and scratches can be repaired and removed, but more severe damage can completely destroy the structure. Acrylic is a rather capricious material that requires special means to keep it clean. You should choose products that will not contain abrasives, alcohol bases, toxic chemicals.

There are several main disadvantages of such bowls.

• Flexibility. Acrylic models can be quite flexible, so while taking a bath, you can feel how the bottom of the bowl sags under the weight of your body.

• Fragility. If a serious load is put on the bowl, then a dent, chips or cracks may appear.
• Deformation. Unfortunately, if you use too hot water, the bowl can change and deform over time.
• Higher cost compared to cast iron and steel models.

A bathtub is a container for collecting water, where a person can wash and relax. It is equipped with drain holes, sometimes installation fasteners, additional sides and sills, and can have various recesses, where it is pleasant to put a variety of hygiene products and accessories. Sizes may vary depending on material.

Next to such a structure, you can additionally place a sink with a countertop. The bathtub can be equipped immediately with a shower stall. This model is considered the most complex and expensive. The advantages include its functionality.

Bathtubs with built-in hydromassage functions help to relax perfectly after a hard day or week. The manufacturer mounts special nozzles directly into the body itself, which circulate water jets under strong (or not very) pressure.

Manufacturers of plumbing products have provided so-called safe baths, which are equipped with an anti-slip coating on the bottom of the bowl. Even at the production stage, special rubber inclusions or a little quartz chips are added to the basis of the material for the manufacture of the bowl structure, which create the necessary roughness and anti-slip coating.

When choosing a bathtub, it is imperative to take into account the strength of the material from which it is made.

There are two known materials from which acrylic baths are made.

• ABS / PMMA Is a two-component material (resilient plastic and homogeneous organic glass). The disadvantages of such a material include rapid wear and tear, as well as a short service life (on average, from 10 to 12 years).
• Polymethyl acrylate Is a pure cast acrylic that costs much more than ABS / PMMA. Bathtubs, which are made of cast 100% acrylic, have a homogeneous structure, a smoother surface of the bowl itself.

High-quality acrylic calmly withstands the fall of a variety of jars, which are in the bathroom, from a height of one and a half meters. Although acrylic is quite resistant to a variety of chips and cracks, it is possible that they may appear. Do not get upset prematurely, since small defects can be easily and quickly removed even at home using available tools, namely special polishes that can be purchased at any plumbing store. It is quite possible that it will not even be necessary to dismantle the entire body of the font.

Pure acrylic is produced by pouring the compound into an airtight mold, which is located in the middle of two glasses, and further polymerizing in a special oven. As a result, a sheet material of increased hardness and wear resistance is obtained. Co-extruded acrylic or two-layer plastic is obtained by extruding and further combining PMMA and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene or ABS. After the plastic structure has hardened, it will have a glossy base on one side and an impact-resistant base on the other.

All plumbing fixtures that are made from pure acrylic are of the highest quality. In order for the plastic sheet to eventually turn into a bathtub, it is necessary to go through four stages of production.

• Formation. To do this, it is necessary to heat and stretch an acrylic sheet with a vacuum (its thickness should be no more than 8 millimeters) to the size of the workpiece.

• Strengthening the structure. To do this, you need to apply a special composite layer to the back of the thinnest acrylic bowl. The composite layer is based on fiberglass mixed with polyester resin.
• Pruning. All excess plastic should be removed and the necessary drain holes drilled.
• Assembling the finished structure. The workpiece must be installed on a special power frame and polished.

Unfortunately, such an acrylic bath will have lower hardness and reliability values. Manufacturers use double-layer plastic in fairly cheap products. Acrylic bathtubs can weigh up to 35 kilograms. Due to their low weight, such fonts are quite easy to transport and install even on their own, without a lot of helpers. The light weight does not load the bathroom floor.

The size of the bathtub is an important factor to consider when choosing a hot tub. The optimum height is considered to be 65–70 centimeters from the floor level, since absolutely all family members can use a bathroom with this height - from small children to adults.

The optimal depth is 60 centimeters.You can calculate the depth from the bottom of the bowl to the place where the manufacturer has located the overflow hole. If the bath has a shallower depth, then the water level will not be able to completely cover the person who will lie in it. A deeper bowl will make the person tense and lie in an uncomfortable upright position.

The width of the bathroom most often does not exceed 80 centimeters. This size should take into account both the height and the complexion of all family members. For larger people, manufacturers produce designs with bowls more than 120 centimeters wide. The optimal length is 180 centimeters. Do not forget about additional accessories, for example, the presence or absence of a headrest.

Today, you will no longer surprise the consumer with the various and bizarre designs of the font structures. Thanks to different shapes and types, each consumer will be able to find an option to his liking. The bath can be longitudinal or angular. Longitudinal options are installed mainly against the bathroom wall either with a headboard or one of the side walls close to the wall of the room. Corner can only be installed in the corner of the bathroom.

They are ideal for small spaces and small bathrooms. They can be produced in two versions - right and left, so they fit well into the corner of the room. The disadvantages include additional spending on the purchase of the panel. If the consumer wants to save money and does not purchase a panel, it will subsequently be quite difficult to tile the very structure of the bathtub.

OThe shaft form has smooth lines and streamlined shapes. Oval bathtubs are considered the most versatile options due to their combination with any bathroom decor. They can be built into the floor, placed on a podium or mounted on a wall as standard. Although the oval shape has long been considered a classic, it can quickly get bored.

The disadvantages include the massiveness and cumbersomeness of these structures. The angular shape is suitable for small bathrooms. Such a bath is residually functional and comfortable. It helps to save space in the room. The disadvantages include a large width, inconvenience in care, since this option is very difficult to wash, sometimes you even have to crawl inside the bowl to thoroughly wash it.

An acrylic bathtub can be not only snow-white. At the request of the client, the manufacturer can use the required color at the stage of production of the structure. Today, the buyer can choose a bathtub to their liking. It can be bright yellow, blue, red, silver or any other pleasant color. For romantics, manufacturers produce baths in red, pink. They can be designed for two people at once.

For the classic design of the bathroom, you must opt ​​for the classic version and size of the structure. For Japanese style, it is worth paying attention to round acrylic bathtubs, which will surely attract the attention of friends and guests. The color scheme should be in natural and neutral colors. The Art Nouveau bathtub is a simple geometric shape without any frills. The bowl can be placed in a fairly small area in the bathroom. The Art Nouveau version is ideal for small bathrooms.

Additional accessories include hydromassage options, which are designed to be mounted in bowls. The Jacuzzi is considered to be the most successfully integrated option. Hydromassage takes place thanks to the presence of special chrome-plated nozzles that are built into the side walls of the bowl.

Manufacturers allow the installation of aero, hydro and turbomassage. The hydromassage system consists of a set of specific hoses and nozzles. Through them, the movement of water occurs due to the high pressure that is created by the pump. Regulation of the jet pressure is allowed. Before installation, a tab, a stand and all kinds of corners must be prepared.

The air massage system differs from the hydromassage system in that air bubbles work here instead of a jet of water. The intensity of the bubbles can also be adjusted. Turbomassage is a combination of hydro and air massage. It is used for jacuzzi installation.

Acrylic bathtubs, which are quite popular today, first appeared on the plumbing market 50 years ago. Unfortunately, a large number of proposed designs can mislead the buyer: immediately questions arise, which design is better to choose, how much it should cost, what nuances may be when choosing.

It is worth paying attention to the material from which the bathtub is made. Acrylic is a complex chemical mixture of certain polymeric esters and methacrylates. In fact, this is a subtype of plastic that has special strength, is quite elastic and has a smooth surface. It is recommended to visually inspect the edge of the side of the sanitary ware. If it was possible to count three layers, then the structure was made from an ABS layer, PMMA and a base. If there are only two layers on the edge of the rim, this means that the bathtub is made of PMMA with the addition of a reinforcing base.

If the design is bought for a summer cottage (for seasonal use), then you should not choose a luxury design. For permanent operation, it is better to purchase a little more expensive and choose a structure made of PMMA and a reinforced base.

When choosing an acrylic bathtub, you should pay attention to the following nuances:

• it is necessary to determine in advance not only the shape, but also the size of the bath;

• be sure to check how many layers are in the bowl structure. Whether it is cast or not, made of plastic or acrylic;
• pay attention to the thickness of the acrylic layer and measure it;
• pay attention to the number of layers and the thickness of the reinforcing layer of the structure;
• inspect the surface, paying attention to the elasticity of the material;

• how the frame is made, how many supports the structure itself has;
• the presence of additional functions in the structure, as well as how they work;
• choose one manufacturer.

When completing your choice, you should remember the original purchase goals. Despite the choice of the shape, type and color of the bathroom, it is worth remembering that with the right choice, careful attitude and care, it will last a long time.

Among the best manufacturers of acrylic structures from Europe are considered Roca (joint production of Spain with Russia), Ravak (country of origin - Czech Republic), Cersanit (joint production of several countries - Russia, Poland, Romania). This is the main quality rating. Italian baths have also proven themselves well. Among the manufacturers that mostly have positive customer reviews, one can also highlight the brands Riho, Bas, Aquatek, Radomir and Santek.

Roca is a huge concern manufacturer of acrylic bathtubs. He has been making his products since 1929. The company offers modern customers several trade brands. Bathtubs can be of different shapes with various additions, for example, options with rollers that serve as headrests are common. They can be equipped with additional handles or built-in drawers for storing a variety of small items. Roca sanitary ware factories are located in the European Union, the United States of America and the Russian Federation.To date, more than thirty workshops equipped with the latest technology have already been registered in Russia. The plant annually produces more than 500,000 units of sanitary ware.

The benefits of Roca products include:

• interesting design;
• the catalog contains more than two hundred models of acrylic, both cast and extruded;
• increased wear resistance is achieved due to acrylic thickness of more than 6 m

• The optimum ratio of price and quality;
• long service life, the warranty is provided for material for 8-10 years, and for components - 2 years;
• well-developed network of service centers.

Unfortunately, this factory also has some drawbacks. Defects or defects in finished products are not uncommon. There are a lot of fakes, so you should be careful when choosing a bathroom made of acrylic from this manufacturer.

The acrylic structure manufacturer Ravak is renowned for its products. Ravak baths are anatomically comfortable and comfortable. The company introduced conventional models and hydromassage bathtubs made of acrylic material into the product range back in 1998. Almost immediately after launching on the market, the products were recognized as the best and most user-friendly design. At all sanitary exhibitions, Ravak receives awards for innovative solutions.

The advantages of Ravak products include the following:

• the manufacturer is ready to provide its consumers with more than 25 collections. The products can satisfy any customer's taste. The manufacturer also offers models for overweight people. He produces a special line with large and ultra-comfortable anatomical shapes;
• Ravak manufactures designs in various sizes;

• functionality and ease of use. Ravak acrylic products are distinguished by their snow-white color. All structures have a long service life, do not deform and are resistant to cracking. The manufacturer produces its own series of household chemicals for proper gentle care of the surface of sanitary structures;
• you can choose any set you like for a bathroom design;
• Ravak whirlpool baths are considered one of the best;

• the manufacturer gives a guarantee for the bath for up to ten years. Hydromassage systems have a warranty period of up to two years, and for additional equipment - up to five years;
• affordable various product lines - from economy option to premium class.
• developed network of service centers for plumbing maintenance.

The disadvantages of Ravak products include the following:

• some products are quite expensive;
• increases the final cost of the product by the need to purchase separately components, including the supporting structure;
• fakes are quite common.

Cersanit is another leader in the plumbing market. This brand produces not only acrylic bathtubs, but also sanitary ware, as well as ceramic products. Baths of this manufacturer can be both classic and anatomical, equilateral or asymmetrical. They fit into any compact space in the bathroom. There are non-standard models that are ideal for rooms with complex shapes.

Several facts can be safely attributed to the main advantages of Cersanit products.

• The presence of a large number of collections (and there are more than thirty), among which you can find a bathtub of suitable size and shape.
• Dimensions of the structure. The acrylic is only 3 mm thick. This does not make it possible to integrate the hydromassage system into the bathtub, but significantly reduces the cost of the design itself. In length, the size is up to two meters, in depth from 60 to 90 cm. The volume of the bath can be from 160 to 230 liters.

• The manufacturer gives a guarantee for its products for up to five years.
• Price. Cersanit provides product lines with different prices - from economy to luxury options.
• The products are quite easy to use. Despite the thickness of the acrylic material, the bathtubs are distinguished by their quality, snow-white colors. The surface is quite dense, does not accumulate excess dirt and grease. All contaminants can be easily removed using special detergents that do not contain abrasive substances.

The disadvantages of Cersanit products include an insufficiently strong frame in cheaper products, counterfeits and defects in structures, as well as the absence of an anti-slip coating on the bottom of the bath.

You should follow a few expert tips when choosing an acrylic bath.

• It is worth paying attention to the composition of the bath material. Unfortunately, not all manufacturers comply with the norms and technologies for the production of acrylic bathtubs. Unscrupulous manufacturers can use polymethyl methacrylate (an analogue of acrylic acid), which is cheaper and, unfortunately, harmful to humans.
• It is necessary to decide what should be the dimensions of the place where the location of the bath is supposed to be.

• When choosing, do not hesitate to use a flashlight - this will allow you to see the thinnest places, which are usually located on the sides of the bath.
• It is necessary to check the reliability of the structure, which can be done by pressing on the surface of the bowl.
• It is imperative to pay attention to the cut of the bowl; there must be at least two layers (acrylic and resin).
• The bathtub must be smooth. Any roughness will indicate that the sample is of poor quality.

• Durable bathtubs do not have complex configurations, so it is worth paying attention to the shape of the structure.
• In order not to be mistaken when choosing acrylic bathtubs, you should decide on the price, manufacturer, shape before going to the store. You can use the help of sales consultants. It should be remembered that initially cheap models may have too poor basic configurations. Higher prices mean no extra costs for additional features. The base price includes: drain-overflow system, frame and side panel. This is the standard set for such designs.

• It is worth asking a sales consultant about the technical characteristics of the model you like. If you suddenly have doubts about the proposed model by the sales assistant, it is worth correcting the comments. This will avoid purchasing a low-quality product.
• The service life of the product can be extended by taking proper care of it. It is advisable not to dye your hair over the acrylic bathtub, since after that it will be quite difficult to give it a mirror shine. The product must be disinfected periodically.
• You can use vinegar and baking soda to whiten a glass curtain bath. If the bathtub is swollen, it is better to entrust its restoration to a master.

An acrylic bathtub can complement and decorate the interior in any style. These products appeared on the domestic market relatively recently, but have already become very popular.

The freestanding corner bathtub fits well into a large room. Additional niches are provided so that you can place hygiene items. The disadvantages of this form of the bath include the inaccessibility for washing. To wash it well, you have to crawl inside the bowl.

Additional handrails provide convenience and comfort when using the structure. This model will become the highlight of the exquisite interior design. The oval model is perfect for spacious bathrooms.

The rectangular acrylic bathtub is suitable for both small and spacious bathrooms. It can have a variety of projections on which various accessories can be conveniently positioned. This option will fit perfectly into almost any interior design. It is an excellent solution for the Art Nouveau style.

The perfect combination of a white acrylic bathtub and a dark background looks very stylish and sophisticated, and looks great in the bathroom. This combination will perfectly fit into both classic and rustic interior styles. The oval shape allows you to install the bathtub in any corner of a spacious room.

You will learn how to choose the right acrylic bath in the following video.