Modern shower: what are the alternatives?

In the Soviet and post-Soviet times, the presence of a bathroom gave the apartment the status of more comfortable in comparison with similar analogues without it. At the same time, a shower was not excluded, the mixer, as a rule, was installed so that water would flow into the bath. Today, modern plumbing innovations allow you to install both elements of the bathroom separately from each other in the presence of free space, or to give preference to only one of them.

A small bathroom makes more demands on plumbing. The equipment should be not only beautiful, but also convenient and practical.

A modern shower has several advantages over a bath.

• Saving useful space.
• Saving time. Showers can be taken faster than waiting for the bath to fill. It is very convenient for daily use.
• Target consumption reduces the amount of water used. However, this does not apply to lovers of contrast or hydromassage showers, since in this case more water is consumed.
• The ability to install additional functions.

However, there are also disadvantages:

• it is inconvenient to bathe small children;
• it is difficult to wash pets;
• there is no way to wash bulky items.

There are several types of shower.

• Classic ordinary watering can. The device consists of a nozzle with a hose. In this case, you need fasteners to hang the shower, otherwise you will have to wash with one hand. The most common homemade version of the classic shower in summer cottages.
• Stationary shower has one position, is usually attached to the wall. Modern models are equipped with moving parts to change the direction of the water jet and the degree of atomization.
• Overhead shower. The simplest design is a large-diameter watering can mounted on the ceiling. Models are available with a rigid mount on a metal tube bracket. Such models are not always convenient, since they do not allow you to leave your hair dry.

• Headsets. The system consists of a flexible hose with a shower head, a bar and a holder. Models often have additional shelves. The bar is attached to the wall so that its top is at least 30-40 centimeters higher than the owner. Various holders are attached to it. A watering can holder is usually equipped with an adjustment mechanism to change its height and angle.
• Racks. The shower columns are a synthesis of the overhead shower and headset. The design includes a standing bar, a hose, two types of shower, manual and top, regulating holders, additional elements. Water is supplied by a bar; there is a built-in switch for its distribution between the watering cans. Manufacturers often equip such systems with a mixer with a thermostat. And an electrical control is also included.
• Panels. Shower panels have a lot of functions in comparison with racks. In addition to the above elements, the structure is equipped with hydromassage nozzles with nozzles. The mixer in such models is built-in, in most cases, thermostatic with automatic adjustment.

The classification of shower devices is due to several factors.

According to their external form, they are divided into two types.

• Open structures are not closed at the top, they have only side sashes and a pallet. Showers are compact and low cost.
• The closed structure is called a hydrobox. It is completely insulated, which prevents water from entering the bathroom. The sealed capsule protects the bathroom from vapors, so the furniture does not come into contact with moisture. Shower boxes are inferior to the first option in terms of cost and size, but they allow you to connect various additional functions, for example, popular hydromassage capsules. Modern manufacturers offer models with a high pallet, which is shaped like a half-bath. This modification of the box eliminates some of the inconveniences of a conventional shower cabin.

According to the configuration, they are angular and wall-mounted.

1. Corner models are built into the corner of the room. The most common designs are square and semicircular. The second option is appropriate for small areas, since rounded corners increase the usable space of the bathroom.
2. Wall-mounted options are placed along one of the walls.

The screen can be made of different materials, which determines the total cost of the shower.

• Curtain - the cheapest option. Usually, a rubberized fabric, oilcloth or polyethylene is used as a material. It is more often used for open type showers, protecting the surrounding area from splashes.
• Glass. As a rule, plexiglass is used as a screen or doors, but tempered glass is often used. Glass surfaces look great in the bathroom interior. It must be remembered that the material is prone to the appearance of plaque when water evaporates, therefore the screen requires careful maintenance.
• Polymers very popular lately. They are cheaper than glass counterparts, aesthetically pleasing, and easy to clean. Manufacturers offer a wide range of similar decorative elements. It is important not to use hard brushes to clean them, since polymer surfaces are afraid of scratches.
• Plastic - a budget option for a shower screen. Due to the fact that the material bends easily, a frame system is needed to strengthen it. Plastic panels are used in public showers: swimming pools, hospitals, hostels, hotels.

When choosing a shower tray, first of all, they are guided by the material from which it is made. This criterion determines service life, sound absorption and cost. An important requirement is the presence of an anti-slip bottom surface, which will avoid injury.

Shower structures are also classified according to the material of the pallet.

• Acrylic models - leaders in popularity. The main advantages are short heating time, anti-slip surface, operational safety, good noise absorption. Acrylic is easy to process, so you can give it any shape, attach additional parts. Caring for such models is simple, the appearance lasts for a long time. Experts pay attention that acrylic pallets must be reinforced with a metal frame, otherwise it will deform.
• Cast iron modifications more durable and more affordable in comparison with all the options presented. The material retains heat well, but this will take some time.Among the shortcomings, one can note a significant weight, uniformity of configurations, and a low level of sound absorption. Experts recommend choosing models with thicker walls, such designs emit less noise. It is necessary to take into account the fact that cast iron plumbing is often covered with enamel, and it tends to break off and scratch with careless use. This will require replacing the enamel layer over time.

• Steel pallets last longer than acrylic. There are models, the bottom of which is covered with enamel. In this case, the durability of the product depends on the quality of the enamel layer. Steel models are lightweight and cheap. The disadvantages include a slippery surface (it is better to purchase a rubber mat) and low noise insulation.
• Ceramic constructions hygienically unrivaled: easy to clean, heat up quickly and retain heat for a long time, perfectly absorb sounds. But the pluses equally balance the minuses: high weight, high price, low impact resistance.
• Stone pallets constructions are not cheap pleasure. Most often marble is used for these purposes. As an alternative, manufacturers offer porcelain stoneware products.
• Wooden bottoms pleasant to the touch and do not let your feet freeze. The tree is optimal for shower rooms in country houses. Experts warn when choosing such models about the difficulties of care and the need to treat wood with special compounds.

The shower head classification is simple. Manufacturers produce watering cans of various geometric shapes: round, square, triangular, dome-shaped, flat, hemispherical.

In addition, the attachments have different functions.

• Rotary shower in the form of a propeller, on the blades of which there are many holes. When water beats out of them, the watering can spins up, tight spiral jets provide a massage effect. When installing a shower, it is better to combine this option with a conventional shower head, since the rotating head is not intended for daily hygiene procedures.
• Cascade Is a device that provides muscle relaxation. The pressure of the jets is adjustable. However, in the "raging waterfall" mode, a huge amount of water is wasted, which will cause additional costs.
• The nozzle is especially popular lately "Tropical rain"... Most often it is installed as an overhead shower and is used for relaxation.

If there is free space in the room, you can install both a bath and a shower cabin at the same time.

This is especially true for country houses, where the presence of two components is laid down at the design stage of the house. In this case, the bathroom is divided into several zones by partitions or by means of other interior elements. In one, as a rule, the largest of all, a bath is installed, in the other - a shower, in the third a toilet and a bidet, or their combined version.

Designers offer several interior solutions when decorating a spacious bathroom.

1. If the bathroom is long and narrow. Along one of the walls, it is better to place a font and a shower stall, and the latter will be just in the corner, a washbasin and a toilet are attached to the opposite wall. If the width of the room allows you to install the bath along the end wall, then more space is freed up for other parts. In this case, you can place not only a shower cabin, but also a washing machine, a laundry basket.
2. In the presence of a square bathroom. A small square leaves few possibilities, mostly the details are placed in the corners. In the case of large areas, the location of the bath and shower stall depends on the design project, here the range of options is unlimited.
3. In the case of a bay window. The architectural feature allows designers to dream up. In most cases, a bath is placed in the bay window as a place for relaxation. Any angle can be used to install the shower stall.

In small apartments, the owners are forced to make a choice between a bathroom and a shower cabin, since the installation of both products is impossible. However, plumbing manufacturers offer such a variety of devices that the problem remains only in the choice of design.

If the family has small children, or one of the owners loves to take baths, then it is better to consider the combined option. The shower set is mounted on the ceiling or on the wall using brackets, the bathtub acts as a shower tray. Instead of panels, you can use a more economical design: chandelier watering cans. They have a large diameter and are ceiling mounted. A curtain or a special screen can be used as a screen. Experts recommend using three-section curtains as splash protection, after use they are retracted to the side.

Manufacturers also offer shower cabins with a high tray, which allow you to draw water into them. They are not a full-fledged bathroom, but they are quite suitable for bathing children or animals.

One option for sharing is the sitz bath. It takes up little space, especially for corner models. Therefore, a small shower room will fit quite well next to it.

Due to the physical properties of the material, acrylic baths are available in a variety of configurations. This makes it possible to select a modification for a specific room.

If the presence of a booth is not essential, you only need a shower, then you can restrict yourself to competently carried out repairs in order to ensure the waterproofing of the floor and its slope towards the drain hole. In this case, only the shower rack itself is needed. As a screen, you can use the simplest option in the form of a curtain, or more expensive with the installation of swing doors.

Recently, hydromassage procedures have been very popular. They allow you to relax after a hard day at work, which is sometimes difficult for a modern person. Water jets produce massage effects, stimulate skin cells, improve blood circulation.

Today, many shower cabins are equipped with a hydromassage function. Since in this case the water is supplied under pressure, and the spray is flying in different directions, a dense protective partition is necessary. As a rule, such functional additions are inherent in hydroboxes.

To ensure a hydromassage effect, special nozzles are placed on the shower panel, the number of which varies from 1 to 20. The more there are, the better the massage effect is expressed. The nozzles are located at different levels and provide different intensity of water jets depending on the height. The hardest pressure is usually at the level of the lower back and hips.

There are three types of nozzles.

1. Hydromassage. Water is supplied through such holes under pressure.
2. Air massage. Such nozzles are necessary to supply air, which turns into bubbles under pressure.
3. Combined. They combine the functions of the first two types.

Manufacturers offer various options for massage showers:

• conventional hydromassage using adjustable nozzles of different types;
• overhead shower with tropical rain shower;
• rotary shower.

During installation, you should worry in advance about cleaning filters for nozzles, preferably of high quality. This will ensure a long service life and good water flow.

If the central water supply supplies very "hard" water, then it is better to refuse to install the hydromassage model. The nozzles have very small holes, which will quickly become clogged with salt deposits. In this case, an additional filtering system will be required, which implies financial costs.

The hydromassage shower can be taken daily. Depending on the time of administration, it has a different effect. Morning - invigorates, evening - relieves fatigue.

Doctors recommend following some rules when using to avoid trouble.

• The water pressure should not be uncomfortable. If the shower is uncomfortable, the system should be adjusted.
• The angle of inclination of the jets should be adjusted in such a way that the water does not hit the body, but passes tangentially.
• The temperature should not be less than 35 degrees. Cold water hydromassage is contraindicated even for a healthy person.
• Do not shower after drinking alcoholic beverages or eating a large meal.
• Long-term use of the procedure can worsen the state of health.
• After taking a hydromassage shower, it is better to give the body a rest and calm down for a while.

According to experts, a hydromassage shower relieves muscle tension, relaxing them, and reducing swelling. The procedure stimulates metabolism and blood circulation, and this helps to eliminate varicose veins and improve lymph flow. In addition, it has a beneficial effect on the digestive system, removes toxins, cleanses the body of toxins. Since water jets under high pressure are able to break down subcutaneous fat accumulations, hydromassage is recommended as a prevention of cellulite. Neurologists prescribe this procedure as having a beneficial effect on the entire nervous system, which causes an improvement in well-being and the elimination of chronic insomnia.

Doctors warn against using a massage shower in the following cases:

• when diagnosed with ischemia and hypertension;
• people suffering from urolithiasis;
• in the presence of oncology and malignant tumors;
• during an infectious disease;
• during pregnancy;
• with dermatitis, psoriasis and other skin diseases;
• with various bleeding;
• with thrombophlebitis;
• after a heart attack or stroke;
• there are contraindications for exacerbation of chronic diseases.

Therefore, if there are any deviations, it is better to initially consult a doctor.

Over the years, modern plumbing has undergone many changes, it has become more comfortable and functional. Many tasks that were previously not even considered during installation are now standard.

Recently, bidets have been installed in bathrooms for hygienic purposes. However, residents of small apartments do not have this opportunity. In this case, manufacturers offer a special hygienic shower installed in the toilet. The nozzle attaches directly to the toilet, which saves space and provides intimate hygiene.

The standard model includes the following accessories:

• hose;
• a shower with a valve;
• handle with water supply regulators;
• fasteners depending on the model.

The cost of a hygienic shower depends on the status of the company and the degree of reliability of the parts. According to consumer reviews, manufacturers such as Grohe and Hansgrohe have proven themselves well.Oras products are more affordable at a price, while the quality remains at an altitude.

Before installing a hygienic shower, you need to weigh the pros and cons, decide how much it is necessary, since its installation will require certain financial costs.

Personal hygiene should be done daily. Among the advantages of hygiene devices, several of the most important should be highlighted.

• Convenience. The design allows the elderly and disabled people to use the shower.
• Suitable fasteners. Installation can be carried out where required.
• The presence of a thermostat makes it possible to regulate the water temperature depending on the wishes of the owner.
• Security.
• Efficiency. You can carry out the procedures at any time.
• Ergonomic. No additional space is required during installation.
• Affordability.

Among the disadvantages are the following.

• After switching off, the water supply stops, but for some time the residues flow from the hose and the watering can. Therefore, smudges may form on the floor.
• Not all models are designed for hot water connection.

The modern plumbing market allows you to choose the modification of the shower for personal hygiene that is suitable for a particular interior.

There are several ways to install the structure:

• on the sink located near the toilet;
• on the toilet lid;
• on the wall.

Experts recommend wall models as the most practical and convenient. The models are built into the wall, so some of the communications are hidden, which does not violate the design. In this case, the structure includes a small flexible hose through which the mixer and the nozzle are connected. More expensive options are equipped with a thermostat to ensure more comfortable use. It is appropriate to install a built-in wall-mounted hygienic shower either at the initial stage of installation of plumbing communications in a house or apartment, or during a major overhaul of a bathroom. This is due to the need to make a recess in the wall. If the owner is not ready for drastic actions, then it is better to use other installation options.

Manufacturers offer a universal intimate hygiene device that is installed on the toilet. The nozzle is compact, its installation is simple and does not depend on the shape of the plumbing. The kit includes a mounting plate, a mixer, an ergonomic dedicated watering can and a hose. Installation is carried out from any convenient side.

Before installing any model, choose the correct location and height and calculate the required shower length. Experts advise turning off the water after hygiene procedures. The fact is that if this is not done, then the shut-off valve is always under pressure, which will lead to quick breakdown. Such a problem is absent in the model with a shower-to-sink attachment, because when it is turned off, the water goes away.

If you need an adjustable shower for frequent use, it is better to opt for a headset.

A shower column will allow you to experience all the benefits of vertical water supply. To increase the level of comfort, give preference to models with additional shelves and various holders.

The shower panel combines in one system not only the function of a shower, but also such additions as hydromassage, aromatherapy, light therapy, sauna effect and others.

If there is a small bathroom in a small apartment, and there is no need for a bathroom, then it is worth installing a modern shower or hydrobox instead.

After they have decided on the necessary functional component of the shower, they start choosing a model.Experts advise first of all to pay attention to the pallet. Everything affects its durability: material, resistance to stress, compactness, the presence of an anti-slip coating.

As for the material, then the choice is determined only by the wishes of the owner, but at the same time, not only advantages, but also disadvantages should be taken into account:

• earthenware pallets are durable and hygienic, but they crack easily under impact;
• artificial or natural stone - absolute record holders for durability and look great, but they are expensive;
• steel models covered with enamel are beautiful and aesthetic, but have a low operational life and make a lot of noise;
• acrylic pallets are practical, durable, easy to care for, but they require the installation of an additional frame.

When choosing fences and doors, it is better to be guided by the size of the room. If the area allows, then swing models are suitable, in other cases it is better to give preference to curtains and sliding screens. The only mandatory requirement is that fences must provide protection against splashes. The choice of the material from which the doors are made depends on the wishes of the owner, the design project and the financial capabilities of the client.

When buying shower cabins and hydroboxes, you should also focus on the status of the manufacturer. The quality of the product often depends on this. Verified firms provide a wide range of additional services, such as warranty service.

The procedure for installing a shower stall depends on its design and can be done by hand.

The simplest is the shower area without a tray. In this case, the main thing is to correctly mount the floor covering. What will require first of all to waterproof the selected area. To avoid the formation of puddles, the floor should slope towards the drain. Its height may not be too high, the main thing is that from all sides.

Manufacturers offer two types of drainage elements: a drain and a channel. The first one disposes of water into the grate, and the channel carries out a drainage through the gutter. When choosing any of the options, the height of the entire installation system plays an important role. Manufacturers have taken into account all possible options, even with a low screed. Professionals recommend calculating in advance the flow of water in the shower in order to choose the right drain or channel. After installing the drainage system, the floor is poured with a screed.

The installation of a shower area includes several main stages.

• Assessment of all factors affecting the possibility of construction.
• The choice of the drain device. In apartments, a horizontal system connected to a common sewage system is more appropriate. In a private house, you can mount a vertical ladder with drainage into the sewer.
• The lack of a pallet forces you to choose between a podium in the shower area and raising the entire floor in the bathroom by at least 10 cm.
• Installation of communications.
• Podium installation or floor lifting.
• Installation of fencing.

When installing a shower stall, the main thing is to choose the right place. It should be located next to the hood. All joints during the installation of the pipeline must be insulated with a sealant. If there are functions that depend on electricity, the box is grounded. The drain is connected to the sewer through a special adapter, usually it is included in the package. All other parts are mounted in accordance with the installation instructions.

Due to the fact that screens are often attached directly to the walls, they will have to be pre-aligned.

In this case, the floor also requires additional preparation.

We will have to carry out the procedure for waterproofing all surfaces, therefore, to reduce costs, it is better to use corners to install such zones.

As a rule, closed capsules require professional installation and configuration, as they are expensive and have electronic filling.

Underfloor heating in the bathroom increases the comfort of this room. Its installation in a shower room without a pallet becomes especially relevant.

During installation, specialists are guided by the following criteria:

• required floor temperature;
• the size of the room;
• the exit of the walls to the outside.

Taking into account the above factors, the method of laying the system is chosen:

• snail;
• snake;
• double snake.

The "warm floor" system solves several problems in the shower and bathroom:

• removes moisture, which prevents the appearance of mold;
• increases comfort while taking procedures, since a warm floor is tactilely more pleasant than a cold one.

The design requires the installation of a thermostat that provides temperature control.

Before installation, it is necessary to provide for all the nuances. For example, water floors may not be installed everywhere. Older buildings usually do not allow the use of a central heating system in a home, as pressure drops can interfere with its operation. It is better to coordinate such work with the housing department in advance.

In a private house, such a problem is not present, however, a competent communication plan is necessary.

There are several types of underfloor heating, some of which are the most effective.

They appeared earlier than others, therefore they are considered classic. We can say that they are, to some extent, related to heating. The design is a flexible hose through which hot water runs, the pipes are laid under the screed. The advantages are undoubtedly a long service life and savings in utility bills. In addition, the system allows for uneven heating of different parts of the same room.

The disadvantages are also worth noting.

• Complex installation. Before installation, the floor should be leveled, a layer of thermal insulation should be laid. Pipes must be of high quality, reliable welding, otherwise problems will arise during operation.
• High price. Installation of the system includes all additional work on the preparation of the floor itself, as well as the cost of pipes.
• Existing restrictions and approvals. Most often, the system is connected to central heating or to a heated towel rail. Since this is considered a redevelopment, you need to obtain permission for it from the relevant authorities.

They are easy to operate and easier to install.

The advantages of this type include the following factors:

• a minimum of preparatory work;
• easy installation;
• the entire floor surface heats up equally;
• there is no need for approval and obtaining permits for installation;
• the cost of materials and components is lower than that of water ones.

Despite the large number of positive factors, such systems have disadvantages:

• utility bills for electricity will increase significantly;
• a separate electrical branch will have to be diverted for the floor, since the system is designed for a certain voltage.

They are one of the types of electrical. In this case, not a cable, but a film serves as a heating element. It contains graphite panels. The name of the system comes from the spectrum in which the structure operates. It provides natural warmth and is adjustable.

The infrared model has many advantages.

• Installation is simplified so much that it can be performed by a non-professional. It can be placed on top of the old coating without leveling the floor.
• The system is available for all categories of buyers.
• The design is reliable. The graphite elements are not connected to each other, so the failure of one of them will not lead to a breakdown of the entire system.
• Since the installation is not considered a redevelopment, you do not need to collect permits.

The main disadvantage of the system is its short service life.

• Design. The stage includes the calculation of the consumption of materials and parts required for installation work, a scheme for laying cables or pipes, the cost of work.
• Preliminary preparation of the floor surface. At this stage, the floor is cleaned of the old coating and leveled.
• Installation of thermal insulation.
• Styling. Before laying, it is better to mark the circuit. After that, the collector for the water floor and the distributor for the electrical one are installed. Laying is carried out in one of two main ways in increments of 10 to 30 centimeters using special fasteners. Experts note that the "snail" scheme wins over the "snake" when installing a water floor, since the heating quality of the former is better. When laying the flexible pipe, it is important to ensure that there are no kinks.
• Filling with a screed. Before pouring, a reinforcing mesh is laid and a test run of the system is carried out. If the "warm floor" is working properly, then proceed to the next stage. The screed solution in the shower room consists of concrete, plasticizer and modified fiber. This composition allows it to withstand mechanical and thermal influences. Experts advise to dilute the mixture to such a consistency that it gently wraps around pipes or cables along the entire diameter, without forming air voids. The layer thickness should not exceed 3-5 cm.
• The topcoat is laid only after the screed has completely dried. In the bathroom, tiles, ceramic tiles or porcelain stoneware are most often used. More expensive interior options offer natural stone.

In post-Soviet times, the presence of a separate bathroom was the ultimate dream of housewives and determined the prestige of an apartment. Today, some owners of small apartments, trying to expand the space of the bathroom, on the contrary, demolish partitions. The combined bathroom is gaining popularity.

In fact, in a small apartment, it is rational to use such solutions. This will allow you to correctly use the ergonomics of the bathroom, create a harmonious and functional design. Combining rooms will allow you to get additional space for installing not only a bathroom, washbasin and toilet, but also a shower.

The perception is influenced by two main factors: the color scheme and the arrangement of interior details. A minimum of accessories in a small bathroom, the presence of glass and mirror surfaces will push the walls apart, make the bathroom more spacious.

Wall-mounted toilets and washbasins add airiness and weightlessness.

The streamlined shape frees up extra space and improves perception.

There are many styles for decorating a bathroom, but most often they use minimalism or high-tech. Both styles suggest simplicity in detail and austere lines.

Hi-tech uses plumbing with a lot of chrome and metal elements. It is characterized by interiors with built-in overhead lighting and various illumination.

Minimalism is most appropriate for small bathrooms. It is characterized by the presence of glass, the absence of unnecessary details and a pastel palette.

If the bathroom is not limited to the area, then, as a rule, the toilet is shared with the bathroom. This option is convenient for large families, as well as for private houses where many residents live.In addition, additional functional equipment can be placed in a separate bathroom.

For a large sanitary room, experiments with style, color, materials are possible. However, this is what can cause difficulties in its design. The large dimensions of the bathroom require the use of all the usable space. For this, designers recommend dividing it into several functional areas: for relaxation, storage, SPA.

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