Pros and Cons of an Acrylic Bathtub: Which Acrylic Bathtub is Best? Selection and operation of acrylic bathtubs

For those who have started a bathroom renovation and want to change their old chipped and yellowed bathtub for a brand new acrylic one, it is useful to know some information about what acrylic is.

And also learn how to choose the right high-quality acrylic bathtub, what is the difference in prices of different manufacturers. It would not hurt to have an idea about the various advantages and disadvantages of this type of baths.

In order not to make a mistake with the choice of a particular model, consider some of their characteristics and properties.

Acrylic material for bathtubs, both in production and on the sales market, has several names:

• acrylic- the simplest and most popular name, which makes it clear that this is a certain kind of plastic;
• acrylan- a powdered polymer substance, which, when certain temperature heated and combined with a special liquid becomes a thick material with high speed solidification;
• methyl methacrylate- the technical name of the substance, which is a very complex formation of methacrylic acid methyl ester;
• polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)– synthesis of the polymer methyl methacrylate, which is a transparent plastic with very plastic properties when heated at certain high temperatures;
• acrylic glass or organic glass- similar names mean the same as PMMA.

All these names are directly related to the production acrylic bathtubs of proper high quality, certain properties or performance characteristics.

Acrylic is divided into two types: industrial and technical.

Industrial is used in production as a casting material for any forms or blocks, in mechanical engineering and instrument making, as well as for various restoration and repair and construction types of work.

For the production of acrylic bathtubs, only technical acrylic is used.

The reason for this is the special components added to acrylic glass that can maximally neutralize and protect the surface of this material from the reproduction of all kinds of fungi, bacteria or dangerous microorganisms.

You should list the most important quality characteristics this material, what are its features and capabilities:

• high strength– all studies and tests of the acrylic substance have led to high strength values, which are significantly close to the estimates of the strength of cast iron;
• good ductility- the presence of this criterion allows you to create a variety of forms of finished products;

Photo: plasticity of acrylic bathtubs

• light weight– lightness in standard 15-35 kg. has a significant impact when installing an acrylic bath and reduces the load on the partitions of apartment or internal house partitions;

Photo: Can be lifted by one person

• minimum porosity- indicates that dirt and any other substances that the surface of bathtubs is usually exposed to practically do not eat into the walls, and therefore do not spoil their appearance and texture;
• hygiene and environmental safety- the surface of the bath does not allow harmful microorganisms to linger and multiply for a long time (if there is an antibacterial coating on the baths);
• low thermal conductivity- acrylic is able to maintain temperature longer than cast iron hot water, while in itself this material is quite warm to the touch;
• excellent sound insulation- does not create a lot of noise from water jets and other influences on the body of the bath;
• resistance to mechanical damage- such a bath, of course, cannot be cleaned with powders, solid loose abrasives, alcohol-containing products and hard rags or brushes, but, nevertheless, acrylic is the least susceptible to temporary defects such as chips, scratches or cracks, and in case of damage, acrylic is easily restored with car pastes and special polishes.

Such bathtubs are made mainly in two ways:

• casting;
• method of layered connection of PMMA with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).

The first method is distinguished by high rates of wear resistance and reliability.

In the technology of its production, an acrylic sheet is heated to a certain degree of softness and baths of the required configuration are formed from it.

Photo: acrylic sheets
Photo: stretching the bath in shape

The whole process of forming the softened plastic acrylic sheet takes place directly in the mold under vacuum pressure and the addition of specialized glass fiber. Here, as many as you like can be used required amount fiberglass layers.

Photo: sputtering glass fiber layers

The more such layers, the stronger and more durable the finished product. That is why such bathtubs are much more expensive in price.

The second way - the production of ABS acrylic bathtubs - has a difference in that technological process their manufacture requires the use of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, which is coated on top with molten polymethyl methacrylate.

This type of baths proved to be a rather short-lived structure, and its operational quality properties are much lower than baths made using high-quality injection molding technology.

Important! Acrylic ABS bathtubs are too thin, and therefore they cannot be subjected to all sorts of mechanical stresses.

Their effective term is a maximum of 3 or 4 years. The price of such bathtubs is much lower, but it should always be remembered that after the specified period of their use, a replacement with a new acrylic bathtub will be required.

In order not to make a mistake in choosing a high-quality acrylic bathtub, you can follow some recommendations from specialists in the field of repair and construction work:

• make sure that there are no translucent places in the body of the bath;
• the side cut must necessarily contain not only acrylic, but also the second layer - resin. If this is not the case, then such a bath is made of cheap plastic;
• specify what kind of reinforcing material was used in the production of a particular bath. For an acrylic bath of excellent quality, fiberglass layers are used;
• high-strength acrylic construction will not contain multiple bends and a large number of bizarre shapes in its configuration;
• pay attention to the price and wall thickness of the acrylic bath. Expensive but durable bathtubs have an average thickness of sides of 4 or 6 mm, and cheaper ones - 2 - 4 mm;

If you are being sold a bathtub with thin walls at a fabulous price, then such a product is not worth taking, because it is not worth the price offered.

• do everything in advance necessary measurements before ordering or buying, because the configurations of such structures are quite diverse, and if you don’t know required dimensions rooms, purchased bath may not be suitable;
• low-quality ABS acrylic baths outwardly contain a porous and slightly rough surface, which means that they will soon give their negative results: microcracks, moisture absorption, chips, stains. The surface of high quality PMMA bathtubs will always be perfectly smooth and shiny;
• ABS bathtubs in their section show three layers: plastic, acrylic and reinforcement. These types of bathtubs contain a minimal amount of acrylic, so their quality will always fail even up to their guaranteed service life of 3 years.

Great acrylic bathtub with more long term service up to 10 years will always have two layers: acrylic and fiberglass reinforcement.

By approaching the choice of an acrylic bathtub thoroughly, you will significantly save your money, time and nerves. Therefore, it is so important to consider all of the above points when buying acrylic bathtubs.

How to choose

Comparison of prices from different manufacturers

The price range for the cost of acrylic bathtubs will always depend on the thickness of the sides, the availability of materials from which the bathtub is made. The shape and availability of built-in equipment for acrylic bathtubs also have an impact on the price.

If you are a minimalist, then your bathtub will not cost much - approximately 5000-9000 rubles But, if you like all kinds of tuning devices in the bath in addition to the main ones, then theoretically the price of such a bath will be somewhere between 20000 rubles and higher.

Models different manufacturers will also differ in their value. Western manufacturers offer the lowest price on average from 10000 rubles

Well, if you're completely determined to fork out and furnish your bathtub with chrome railings, frilly legs or elegant faucets, then your bathtub will take a price position from 50000 rubles and higher. Let's spend small review price categories:

Manufacturer	Country, geography	Bath types	Average price limit, rub.
eago	China	Plain	5000-10000
		Hydromassage.	10000-126000
Gemy	China	With minimal accessories.	50000- 70500
		Hydromassage.	65000-200000
Victoria	China	Normal.	3500-8500
		Aeromassage.	4500-10000
Appolo	China	No hydromassage.	6000-7500
Bach	Russia	With panel and overflow.	9000-11000
		Hydromassage for the number of nozzles up to 6 pcs.	11000-35000
Triton	Russia	Conventional ABS, with semi-automatic drain-overflow.	3000-7500
		Hydromassage.	8500-25000
Serena	Russia	No hydromassage.	4000-8000
IFO		Regular with overflow.	5700-15000
Vidima	Bulgaria	With minimal accessories.	6300-12000
RavakA	Czech Republic	Ordinary with a drain-overflow.	13000-15000
		Without hydromassage, but with the possibility of embedding it and installing other components.	12000- 20000
Jacob Delafon	France	Simple.	17000- 20000
		Hydromassage.	20000-50000
vitra	Turkey	Normal without the possibility of installing hydromassage.	6000-21000
Riho	Czech Republic/Netherlands	Regular bathtub with possible installation of hydromassage.	10000-12000
		With thickened walls, without hydromassage, but with the possibility of its installation.	25000-41000
Villeroy & Boch	Germany	High Quality.	31000-200000
Teuco	Italy	Hydromassage, both simple and with various antibacterial coatings and multifunctional components.	25500-400000

The list of acrylic bathtub manufacturers given in the table, of course, is not limited to these brands only. There are a huge number of them.

The best manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs are: RIHO, TEUKO, ALPEN, RAVAK, GOLF, EAGO, RADOMIR, BACH, RELISAN, BAS, OSM. These models are distinguished by their high strength and long service life.

Important! The cheapest bathtubs can be found from Russian, Turkish and Chinese manufacturers, however, experts believe that their quality can deteriorate over time, because low-quality polymer is used in these countries.

The best solution for your choice of polymer bath will still be a European brand.

From a brief and approximate review of price levels, manufacturers and quality of bathtubs, we can conclude that the best option would be to choose expensive bathtubs from real manufacturers, and not fake ones, because their service life is quite high and does not cause unnecessary trouble to care for such a sanitary ware.

Cheaper acrylic bath options are distinguished by their simplicity in tuning, dimensions, design solutions for the configuration of the forms of the bath itself, but they do not fail in their quality and operational convenience.

Some baths famous brands, such as Ravak, for example, can be bought at an affordable price and excellent quality, which is very important for the consumer of the Russian market.

What are the advantages

• The brightest and most significant properties and characteristics of acrylic baths are their warmth at the moments of touch, as well as during the adoption of water procedures. After all, such baths conduct heat very poorly, keeping it for a considerable time. The water in the bath cools very slowly and becomes 1 degree colder only after half an hour;
• high-quality acrylic bathtubs can withstand the fall of heavy objects, while their surface is not damaged at all. Usually these baths are guarantee period service from 10 to 20 years;
• light weight allows it to be mounted well in the right place. For transportation and lifting to the upper floors, such bathtubs are the ideal solution;
• acrylic material you can bend as you like, giving the desired shape to a particular bath;
• very easy to clean and less prone to dirt absorption into the material;
• it does not need to be additionally scraped and cleaned with powders. It is enough to wash with gel or liquid soap, and then simply rinse with water;

• in the production of such bathtubs, the customer always has the opportunity to order an acrylic bathtub of any color;
• hydromassage opportunities complement their benefits and comfort, which is important for the prevention of the health of any person;
• environmental safety and hygiene lies in the fact that all kinds of bacteria and dangerous microorganisms are washed off their surface very quickly and effectively, without having time to multiply on the bath machines and harm human health;
• when you draw water into such a bath, you will immediately notice that its acrylic material has high sound insulation. This can especially attract those buyers who have small children or sick people at home, for whom the noise from water entering the bath can be very disturbing.
• another advantage is the ease of their restoration in case of any damage. This is usually done with some kind of acrylic liners or liquid acrylic.

Such advantages of an acrylic bathtub are gaining more and more popularity in the Russian sanitary ware market. And all because it allows you to significantly save space in small bathrooms.

Impeccable home comfort is not only comfortable and beautiful living rooms. Bathrooms are no less evidence of ideal housing, and acrylic bathtubs in them are a sign of the desire of the homeowner to be on the wave of technological fashion in the domestic sphere.

These practical and consonant with the needs of the 21st century, products receive the most different reviews and not always complimentary. But the fact that acrylic baths are increasingly conquering the global sanitary market and becoming more reliable and technically advanced is a fact. The consumer today already reacts much softer to them. high price, rightly believing that the comfort and pleasure that such a bath gives is worth paying for.

What is an acrylic bath?

Before understanding the variety of types, types and modifications that distinguish modern acrylic bathtubs, it is worth finding out what acrylic is and why acrylic is good - the material from which comfortable and stylish products are created. It will certainly be useful for those who, doing repairs own apartment, instead of an old yellowed bathtub, I would like to choose a brand new model from semi-exotic raw materials.

The specified material is a sticky rubbery polymer synthesized from inorganic chemical substances. Simply put, it is a kind of plastic. And, like any plastic, acrylic has a number of technological qualities that are very convenient for mass production of sanitary containers.

Acrylic exposed high temperature becomes plastic, which makes it quite easy to make objects of various shapes and sizes from this material. In particular, large and small rectangular, square, oval, asymmetric bathtubs are popular. One of the most popular models today is an acrylic corner bath - an excellent compact version for small bathrooms and shower rooms.

All this variety is produced in one universal way - by molding acrylic blanks softened as a result of heating under pressure in a vacuum. To give the necessary strength, the cooled plastic form is reinforced with several layers of special fiberglass, various resins. Moreover, the more these layers, the stronger and more reliable the product is obtained. In places of attachment to the base of the metal elements of the retaining frame, the body of the bath is equipped with chipboard inserts.

Of the two main types of specified plastic - industrial and technical - the second type is used for the manufacture of bathtubs.

Such an acrylic bath has in its structure special chemical additives, which serve to protect the material from fungi and dangerous bacteria that multiply in conditions of high humidity.

Due to the physical and chemical properties of acrylic, highly developed technologies, the industry produces very durable and reliable samples. Many of them, with proper ongoing care, can serve long years. For example, the Bach acrylic bathtub, which is popular in Russia, is offered on the market with a 10-year guarantee for defect-free operation.

Acrylic bath: advantages and disadvantages

Modern high-tech plumbing is made from different materials. Each of them has its own characteristics. Acrylic bathtubs also have them, and some of them compare favorably with products from other raw materials, as evidenced by numerous consumer reviews. But this material also has its drawbacks.

The benefits of an acrylic bathtub include the following:

• high level of strength;
• long-term preservation of heat from hot water;
• ease and simplicity during transportation and installation;
• excellent sound insulation;
• comparative lightness regular care behind the bathroom (quick and easy to clean and wash);
• manifold colors(moreover, a high-quality colored acrylic bath retains its color fresh and full for a long time);
• variety of various, sometimes the most unexpected, forms and designs.

At the same time, the list of shortcomings that acrylic bathtubs demonstrate comes down to the following positions:

• poor protection of the bathroom acrylic surface from mechanical damage, especially caused by hard sharp objects;
• tendency to deformation in the absence of a strong metal supporting frame;
• rather high cost (often modern samples of acrylic bathtubs are valued higher than steel or cast-iron bathing containers).

Acrylic bath: how to properly care for the product

Acrylic bathtubs are quite easy to care for.

Any piece of furniture that is constantly in the bathroom, due to the increased level of humidity and significant temperature fluctuations, requires regular personal care. This is especially true for products that are designed to be filled with water.

If you do not constantly take care of the good and safe technical condition of such items, then over time, ceramic washbasins, metal and acrylic bathtubs will deteriorate, becoming covered with fungus and pathogenic bacteria that are very fond of a humid environment.

But the care of acrylic containers is very simple and takes a short time. As a rule, it is enough to rinse plastic product a small amount of warm water, wiping all its surfaces with a soft cloth or sponge.

Thorough cleaning and cleaning of the bath can be done somewhat less frequently. In this case, for greater effect, it is recommended to apply a little special liquid detergent to a soft sponge before cleaning the surfaces. But here you must first make sure that the composition of the cleaning agent does not contain small abrasive particles that can scratch the glossy acrylic surface.

But if this nevertheless happened, or as a result of careless handling of foreign objects, noticeable chips or scratches appeared on the surface of the bathing container, you should not rush to go to the store to choose new model. Is there an easy way to restore appearance and physical properties of the bath.

This technology, which is also often used to restore old worn-out containers, is called bulk bath- liquid acrylic It comes down to applying a new layer of liquid acrylic to the damaged areas of the body. It should be noted that this method can be used without first dismantling the bath itself.

All work takes on average no more than 3-4 hours. Depending on the selected environmentally friendly liquid repair kit, the container can be used for its intended purpose already 1-2 days after restoration. And if the whole operation was performed with high quality, then such a repaired sanitary ware can serve its owner for another 10-15 years.

Acrylic bath: how to choose the right model

Quality acrylic bathtubs have 2 layers: acrylic and fiberglass

Going to a building supermarket for an acrylic novelty, you can and should, if possible, study reviews of a particular bath model. For a more complete understanding of the functionality and consumer properties of the desired product, both positive and negative ratings are important, and, perhaps, negative feedback may be more useful in some cases.

Nevertheless, you should not trust only the opinion of third-party people using such plumbing. Other factors are also important for drawing up an objective picture.

First you should try the texture of the acrylic surface. For a quality product, it should be shiny, almost perfectly smooth and at the same time not very slippery to the touch. If the hand feels some roughness, and the eyes catch a noticeable porosity of the coating, then such an acrylic bath is not of high quality and will probably not last long due to the resulting microcracks, chips and intensive absorption of moisture.

Next, it is recommended to look at the bath in the light. A well-made object usually does not shine through. Be sure to test the case for strength by pressing it with your hand several times at different points: the plastic should not bend and play, especially in the middle part of the container.

Particular attention is paid to the thickness of the plastic tank and the cut of its sides. High quality product cannot be thinner than 4 mm. Since an excellent quality acrylic bathtub always contains a fiberglass reinforcing layer, this layer should be easily visible on the side cut.
Solid baths should have 2 layers - an acrylic layer and a fiberglass layer.

When only one layer is visible, the buyer is likely to see a product made of relatively cheap plastic. The presence of 3 layers on the cut - acrylic, plastic and reinforcement - is also not in favor of such a bath: in this case, the acrylic layer is probably thinner than required for a high-quality product, so there is a risk of a quick failure of the container.

If the buyer is convinced that all the pluses good product present, he can be sure of his acquisition. Such a bath will give him many useful and pleasant moments.

Usually when planning a bathroom renovation, most people try to change old bath. I want a modern, unusual shape, with additional options that are easy to install. Acrylic bathtub is an excellent option, this material not only has excellent technical characteristics, but it also makes excellent custom-shaped bathtubs. But there is such a snag, the richer the choice, the more difficult it is to decide on it. How to choose an acrylic bath so that it is of high quality?

Coming to the plumbing store, sometimes the head is spinning from the breadth of the choice of acrylic bathtubs, and because of this, many people wonder which acrylic bathtub is better, because the price is not the main indicator of the quality of the product. Let's take a close look at all the details of how to choose a quality acrylic bath, and also find out what exactly the sales consultants are hiding.

How are acrylic bathtubs made?

To understand how to choose an acrylic bathtub, you first need to know what acrylic is and how acrylic bathtubs are made. Let's delve into the topic of how to make acrylic plumbing so that it is durable and beautiful.

The name itself says that the component for the manufacture of acrylic bathtubs is acrylic. Acrylic is a component mixture of methacryls and complex polymer compounds ethers. If we translate into the language we are used to, then acrylic is one of the varieties of plastic distinctive characteristics which are smooth surface, strength and elasticity.

So, acrylic is of two types: technical and industrial. In the production of acrylic bathtubs, only technical acrylic is used. The reason for this was the fact that the acrylic glass includes special components that maximally protect and neutralize the surface from different kind bacteria, fungi and other dangerous microorganisms.

Here is a list of the positive aspects of this material, which characterize its capabilities and features:

• high strength;
• light weight;
• excellent plasticity;
• low porosity;
• environmental safety and hygiene;
• high noise reduction;
• low thermal conductivity;
• resistance to mechanical damage.

There are two types of acrylic bathtubs:

• the method of layered connection of PMMA with acrylonetrile butadiene styrene (ABS);
• casting.

Cast material is highly durable and wear resistant. For the production of bathtubs, from the material made in this way, the sheet is heated to such a level of softness that it can be formed from the bathtub of the desired configuration.

The entire procedure for making a bathtub from a softened acrylic sheet is carried out under vacuum pressure and the addition of specialized glass fiber. In this technology, it is recommended to use as many layers of fiberglass as possible, since the durability and strength of the product directly depends on the number of these layers. Bathtubs made in this way are much more expensive because they are of higher quality.

The manufacture of ABS acrylic baths is different in that the manufacturing procedure requires the use of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene topped with molten polymethyl methacrylate. Such baths have proven to be short-lived structures, and in terms of performance, baths made using this technology are significantly inferior to products made by the injection method.

Need to remember! Bathtubs made of ABS acrylic are quite thin, and therefore all kinds of mechanical influences should be avoided. Their maximum service life is about 3-4 years, as their quality is lower than that of cast acrylic products. These baths are much cheaper, but it is worth remembering that at the end specified use, you will definitely need to replace it with a new acrylic bathtub.

What is the best material for an acrylic bathtub?

Speaking about which acrylic bath is better to choose, you need to understand what such plumbing is made of. At the time of purchase, they can offer plumbing made from the following materials:

• polymethyl methacrylate;
• ABS/PMMA.

ABS/PMMA is a two-component material that consists of a resilient plastic and a homogeneous organic glass. In fact, the basis in this type of material is about 90% ABS, and only 5-10% of the acrylic layer itself is made of PMMA.

The biggest disadvantage of an ABS/PMMA bathtub is its short lifespan, 3 to 5 years, and rapid wear. The thing is that although ABS is a plastic, its structure, due to its porosity, absorbs moisture to some extent, and this accelerates its destruction. Also, due to frequent use, a thin acrylic layer of PMMA is quickly erased.

Polymethyl acrylate is a material that is plexiglass. Bathtubs that are made from pure PMMA do not contain ABS, and sanitary ware made from this material is famous for its high performance durability and wear resistance. The average service life of such a bathtub is about 10-12 years from the time of its installation.

During a trip to a plumbing store, a sales assistant can impose on you one or another model, colorfully describing its advantages, but in order to independently verify the quality of the products offered, visually evaluate the number of layers. You can do this by looking closely at the edge of the side of the bath.

• 3 layers - are a sign of manufacturing according to the method: ABS + PMMA + base.
• 2 layers - a sign that the bath is made of pure PMMA + reinforcing base.

Having figured out what kind of plumbing is in front of you, then you need to decide what purpose and how the acrylic bath will be used. In the event that the bath is purchased for a summer residence, and the period of its use is limited to a couple of months a year, then there is no point in overpaying and you can safely buy products made using the ABS / PMMA method. This is good plumbing for infrequent use.

In the case when the question is raised about the acquisition for the subsequent installation of a bath in a city apartment or in a private house, where the place of your permanent residence, then you should not save and boldly choose a good bathtub made of pure plex, that is, using the PMMA method + reinforced base. this model can also be restored using the "" method.

Methods and thickness of reinforcement are of great importance

As mentioned earlier, if you look at the edge of the rim, you can see a number of layers in the sheet structure itself. Visually, the layers in the structure of the sheet from which the bath is made look like growth rings, which are usually observed on tree cuts. Due to the priority of durability, special attention must be paid to the front thickness of the acrylic layer.

In the plumbing store, there are models of acrylic bathtubs, where the thickness of the outer layer varies from 2 to 6.5 mm. When thinking about which acrylic bath to choose, you should pay attention to the thickness of the outer layer, which directly affects the service life of a particular model. Roughly it can be represented as follows:

• layer from 2 to 3 mm - the service life of the bath is 3-4 years.
• a layer layer of about 4 mm - the service life of the bath is about 7 years.
• layer from 5 to 6.5 mm - the service life of the bath is 10-12 years.

In addition to the thickness of the acrylic layer, special attention should be paid to the condition inner surface. It happens that some unscrupulous sales consultants give out low-grade or defective goods as some kind of innovation in the world of acrylic bathtubs. If they are trying to sell you a bath with not quite smooth surface under the guise of some novelty, know that they are trying to deceive you.

It is worth considering: if the products are of high quality, there should not be any roughness or bumps on its surface. To check the smoothness of the surface of the bath, you need to firmly attach your palm to it, while the palm should stick slightly due to the evenness of the surface. The effect of running the palm over the surface of the bathtub should be comparable to the effect of running the palm over a window pane.

Due to the ductility and flexibility of acrylic, an acrylic bath tub in its purest form is not very durable. Therefore, to give it rigidity, a reinforcing layer is applied to the outer surface. This layer is applied during production, under specially observed conditions, to the finished bath over PMMA or ABS/PMMA from the outside.

Technically, the reinforcing layer is fiberglass treated with epoxy resin. Depending on the quality of the products, the number of layers can vary from 1 to 5. Simply put, when purchasing an acrylic bath, to assess the number of layers and the total thickness of the reinforced base, just carefully inspect the end of the bath wall.

Please note: a high quality acrylic bath has a uniform reinforcing layer over the entire outer surface. Some unscrupulous manufacturers resort to the following trick. Considering the fact that many "experts" necessarily look at the end of the rim to assess the thickness and reinforcing layers, during the application of the reinforcing coating, these manufacturers specially reinforce the ends better than the bowl itself.

In order not to become a victim of such a deception, in addition to an external examination of the end, it is recommended to lightly press on the bottom and stacks of the bathtub yourself. If the reinforcement is done with high quality, then they will not sag like a plastic lining, but will retain a certain elasticity.

Another way to test the quality of an acrylic bathtub is to place a flashlight firmly on the bottom of the bathtub while placing your palms together. After that, inspect the surface from the opposite side, if the product is of good quality, the clearance from the flashlight should not be visible more than on its walls. If the light of a flashlight easily breaks through reverse side, know that this product is of poor quality and it is better not to take it.

In order to make sure of good quality, you will need to do 3 stages of verification:

• visual inspection of the end;
• pressure on the walls and bottom of the bowl;
• testing the walls and bottom of the bowl against light with a flashlight or laser pointer.

All this is recommended when choosing products from an unknown manufacturer, or in a store with a not very good reputation. If you went to a specialized store, then most likely you will be offered products from well-known companies that will not risk their reputation by releasing low-quality plumbing. But still, as they say, choosing “trust, but verify”, it will be more reliable.

Is it worth it to pay extra for additional options?

One of the most common and no less healthy is the Jacuzzi function built into the acrylic bath. Jacuzzi different from regular bath the fact that during the adoption of water procedures it has a beneficial effect of hydromassage on the body, and in some cases such an option as chromotherapy is included, which is the effect of ultraviolet radiation on the human body.

The effect of hydromassage in a jacuzzi is that it is injected into the water through special nozzles made of chrome or bronze built into side walls baths, air bubbles continuously enter the water.

Chromotherapy works with a backlight consisting of blue LEDs with prismatic reflectors. If you say plain language then, while taking a bath, the effect of a blue lamp acts on the skin, which has an anti-inflammatory effect, and also gives positive result to stimulate blood circulation.

Hydromassage is quite simple in terms of being able to deal with it, having studied the control method, modes and number of nozzles, then chromotherapy is a rather complex function in that the effect directly depends on such details as lamp power, as well as correctly focused reflectors.

A recommendation to those who are wondering how not to make a mistake when choosing an acrylic bathtub with built-in jacuzzi elements: sanitary ware with options such as chromotherapy and hydromassage should be made by a well-established manufacturer.

In addition to the previously described functions of chromotherapy and hydromassage, current manufacturers integrate a variety of options into their products. For example, some models have a specially integrated plasma panel, other models have a special laptop shelf.

There are also such types of jacuzzi, where there is a direct connection either via wi-fi to the system " smart House". What only know-how did not come up with! There is no limit to the flight of engineering fantasy. But for each additional option you will have to pay a tidy sum. Think about it, do you really need it?

When choosing a model, in addition to the price, one must also take into account its aesthetics, technical equipment and the reputation of the manufacturer. Our market offers products of quite a few little-known manufacturers that are not made in the best way. That is, there is a risk that after some time of operation of this model, it may become unusable.

In order not to rush from one extreme to another, in particular, to overpay a huge amount of money just for the name well-known company, the choice of a bath must be approached wisely. Only in this way can a worthy model be determined. In addition, additional product options are usually included in the total price.

To avoid a variety of embarrassments, you should choose models that will meet the following requirements:

1. It is quite difficult to determine the quality of a bath “by eye”, and therefore if you cannot make a choice in a specialized store, simply ask the seller for quality certificates or other documentation confirming the quality of the product.
2. Choosing an acrylic bathtub is quite easy, but you need to remember that products made from extruded material are the worst option, as this material cracks over time.
3. If possible, it is recommended to inspect the cut of the product. If a three-layer coating is found, it can be understood that this is ABS plastic treated with extruded acrylic. Such products are not famous for their long service life and therefore it is better to refuse to buy such a model.
4. The thickness of the bath made by pressing should be 6-8 mm. When pressed, the layer becomes thinner to 3-4 mm, after which the entire surface of the product is covered with polyester resins with the addition of polyurethane. This method makes it possible to improve performance acrylic. In the event that the walls of the bath are 6-8 mm, then most likely these are low-quality products.
5. Poor quality can also be identified by smell. In the event that an unpleasant pungent chemical smell emanates from the bath, be aware that this product is of poor quality.
6. Acrylic itself is an opaque material when viewed through the light. The glow should not show through. If it is otherwise, then you have a fake.
7. The design of the bath is made for each bowl individually. In the event that the frame is installed under the sides, this means that you have a low-grade product in front of you.
8. Often the most complex bathtub design is made from a single thin sheet of acrylic. A high quality product does not bend when you press the bottom of the tub.
9. A durable and high-quality product will not have a large number of bends. Make sure that there are no places in the structure where water can stagnate.
10. Very often, to attract customers, manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs provide them with additional options. But it is worth taking a closer look at such things, as a rule, a large set of additional options is designed to hide flaws.

Need to take into account! Additional features can be installed separately, in the event that the manufacturer deals with them directly, in other words, this is his main specialization.

Thus, you need to choose an acrylic bath based on characteristics such as quality, comfort, additional options and your personal taste.

A bathtub is one of the most expensive plumbing fixtures. People are willing to pay decent money, because it serves not only for swimming, but also for relaxation after a hard day. The whole question is what exactly you have to pay for: for a quality durable product or for a product that will create problems and quickly require replacement.

Typically, a bath is chosen according to the following criteria: material, size, design, brand. As for the materials, among the most popular are cast iron, steel, acrylic. However, there are glass, faience, marble and even wooden models. The trend of recent years is acrylic bathtubs. Opinions about them are very different. What are the pros and cons of an acrylic bath compared to other types?

Acrylic baths are made from polymethyl methacrylate. This is a special polymer composition, which in everyday life is called sanitary acrylic, since the material is widely used in the manufacture of modern shower cabins and bathtubs. Products made of polymethyl methacrylate are durable and lightweight, which greatly facilitates their installation.

Acrylic keeps the temperature well, does not contribute to the growth of microorganisms. The plasticity of the material is successfully used by designers: you can find acrylic bathtubs of all shapes and sizes.

For the manufacture of acrylic sanitary products, two technologies are used - extrusion and casting. The first method is simpler and cheaper, so finished products sold at a more affordable price.

But the products do not differ in particular strength or high technical and operational characteristics, tk. a layer of 1 mm acrylic covers the bath only from the outside. They are made from acrylonitrile butadiene tyrol, which is a type of plastic.

Sometimes extruded models are called fake acrylic bathtubs. This name is not entirely correct, but it fully reflects the estimated attitude of consumers to the quality of the goods.

The too low cost of an acrylic bathtub is a reason to be wary. It is possible that the product is made of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Tirol and is not of high quality.

Cast bathtubs are made of acrylic, reinforced with fiberglass and polyester resins, and the bottom is reinforced with special embedded chipboard sheets. Products are installed on metal frames with anti-corrosion coating. Certificates of conformity are attached to the products, and the seller is obliged to provide them to the buyer.

A high-quality acrylic bathtub made by casting can last about 20 years. Cast products are installed for permanent use, and extruded products can be purchased for summer cottages, where they are used occasionally.

One of the features of an acrylic bath is "capriciousness" in relation to care. To keep it in good condition for many years, you should strictly adhere to the rules for caring for the bathroom. The product should be cleaned only with special non-abrasive household chemicals.

Cleaning products can be purchased at any store. The label must be marked that the composition can be used to care for acrylic plumbing fixtures. If cracks, chips or other defects appear, the surface is repaired with liquid acrylic. It is better to entrust this procedure to specialists.

Advantages and disadvantages of acrylic plumbing

Like any other product, acrylic bathtubs have their own pros and cons. Among the benefits, the most valuable are:

• Light weight. Acrylic bath standard sizes weighs an average of 30 kg. It can be transported, lifted, carried, installed even alone.
• Easy installation. Bathtubs made of other materials are usually placed on legs. A special adjustable frame is provided for mounting the acrylic product. It comes with a kit, no parts needed.
• Wide range of models. Among all the materials that are used to make bathtubs, acrylic is the most plastic. It can be given any, even the most intricate, shape. This property is successfully used by designers who create stylish models. For connoisseurs of the unique and aesthetic interior this is a real find.
• Easy maintenance and repair. To wash the bath, you can use detergents for dishes, liquid soap but it's better to buy special formulations. If there is a slight scratch, it is cleaned sandpaper. Large cracks require restoration of the coating with liquid acrylic, and this work is performed by specialized companies.
• The ability to keep the temperature. For lovers of relaxing treatments, this quality is priceless. The water cools slowly, and the surface itself is not as cold as in metal bathtubs.
• Anti-slip coating. The surface of acrylic bathtubs is smooth, but non-slip, so the risk of injury is significantly reduced.
• Hygiene. Acrylic does not rot, is not attacked by a fungus, does not promote the growth of bacteria.
• Additional accessories. If desired, the owner of an acrylic bath can purchase nozzles and massage devices that will make water procedures even nicer.

The main disadvantages of acrylic bathtubs include low static strength, insufficient scratch resistance of the coating and high cost. As for the price of products, it is quite justified, because high-quality acrylic bathtubs are made using complex technologies.

However, when choosing, you should weigh and compare: perhaps a cheaper cast-iron analogue will do.

Due to the plasticity of the material, it is possible to create unique design models of bathtubs of complex shapes, of any size.

Static strength is provided by a metal frame; without it, a bath filled to the brim changes shape. Special bath mats will help protect the product from scratches. They are used for washing pets and the like.

When bathing, you have to be careful: the material is easy to spoil with a sharp, hard or heavy object.

Oval-shaped plumbing fixtures are not always easy to install if the size of the bathroom is small, but in a spacious room they look incomparable

What are acrylic models?

If a metal baths have predominantly simple shapes, then acrylic allows you to create unusual models of bathtubs of any size, incl. and non-standard. This expands the possibilities for decorating bathrooms.

Each owner can find the most convenient form that will fit into the style of the interior and will fully meet the needs of the family living in the house. Another plus is the ability to combine acrylic with various materials. This is an additional "bonus" when creating original products. Let's see what acrylic bathtubs come in shape.

Option #1 - Rectangular

This is universal models, which can be installed in rooms of any size, except for very cramped ones. They look nice, are comfortable, but most often they do not differ in originality and sometimes seem too bulky.

Rectangular bathtubs in a small room may seem too voluminous, but they look great in spacious rooms.

Option #2 - oval

The smooth curves of the oval bath are suitable for any interior and blend well with other shapes. However, many are simply tired of rectangles and ovals, which were very popular in Soviet times.

In a spacious room decorated in classical style, the oval bath complements the smooth shapes of the rest of the objects

Option #3 - Asymmetrical

The interior of the bathroom with an asymmetric model is completely transformed. The room looks ultra-modern and stylish. Asymmetric products are made right and left. Depending on the shape, they can be installed in a corner.

The only caveat: when buying, you need to purchase a special panel for finishing, since tiling can be difficult.

Asymmetry is always advantageous in the interior. An unusual bath combined materials attracts increased attention, therefore requires especially careful care

Option #4 - corner

In popularity, they compete with asymmetric ones. Corner models set to individualize interiors, visually ennoble and at the same time arrange plumbing as compactly as possible.

These bathtubs are very easy to use, but when washing, there is a slight difficulty: due to the large width of the product, you have to climb inside it to reach all surfaces.

Corner models are not only beautiful, original, but also very convenient due to the fact that they fill the space in the corners.

Option #5 - round

These baths are usually large diameter and are only suitable for large rooms. In a modest room, they will occupy the entire area. Wash round models just as inconvenient as the corner ones.

Acrylic round hot tubs are a real luxury. If you install such a model in the middle of the room, this will solve the problem of the inconvenience of caring for a sensitive surface.

Compare materials and draw conclusions

To understand which acrylic bathtub will be better for specific operating conditions, it is necessary to compare their advantages and disadvantages. The most common materials are steel and cast iron, which were often used to make bathtubs in the recent Soviet past.

Many are simply tired of them, and this is one of the reasons for the growing popularity of acrylic models. Owners of apartments and houses are looking for diversity. But how justified is the replacement of cast iron or steel with acrylic?

Cast iron is durable, with proper care for decades does not lose its appearance, is extremely durable. The disadvantages of cast iron are a large mass (up to 120 kg), the lack of a variety of models. It is impossible to make an exquisite product from this material. complex shape. Acrylic is significantly inferior to cast iron in strength, durability, resistance to mechanical stress.

But it is many times lighter, easier to install, and varied design strikes the imagination. Water in an acrylic bath cools twice as slowly. If we compare the cost, then the purchase cast iron bath cost about 20% less.

Steel is inferior to cast iron and acrylic in almost all respects. The material does not hold temperature well, the water in such a bath cools quickly, and the noise that occurs when a jet of water hits can be heard throughout the apartment.

The ductility of steel is higher than that of cast iron, but lower than that of acrylic. It can be used to create models different designs, and yet there is no such diverse assortment offered by manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs.

When buying a steel model, you need to remember about its instability. It is better to mount the product on the frame, because. it can wobble on its feet. The advantage of acrylic bathtubs in this case is completeness. Models are immediately delivered with frames. The advantage of steel is that it is cheap.

It is worth mentioning the existence of quartz baths. They are made from a material that is a mixture of acrylic and quartz. These bathtubs, like acrylic ones, can be of any shape and size, they look very attractive. The advantage of quartz over acrylic is less susceptibility to cracking. Otherwise, the materials are very similar.

However, the prices for quartz products stop many buyers.

Acrylic-steel models are made using sophisticated technology. Bathtubs consist of several layers - sheets of steel and acrylic, between which a special fastening layer 1 cm thick is placed.

These products are light, keep their shape perfectly, have clear contours, and are easier to tile. But they cost significantly more than conventional acrylic models and not every buyer can afford.

For the manufacture of baths, more exotic materials are also used - faience, wood, marble, glass. Exquisite designer faience and glass baths extremely expensive and impractical, but incredibly beautiful and look status. wooden models perform more an aesthetic function than a practical one, and only a very wealthy person can afford marble.

Models made from these materials may look more presentable than those made from acrylic, but the price is too high.

A beautiful branded bathtub with additional nozzles can be of any size. Some manufacturers offer bathtubs designed for two

Compare the pros and cons of different bathtubs, decide which product is right for you. If you opt for an acrylic model, it makes sense to find out which brands are in demand among our compatriots. best brand considered Ravak (Czech Republic). The advantage of Czech baths is the wall thickness of 5-6 mm. These models can withstand heavy loads without problems.

Usually, stepping on the bottom of the bath, a person feels some "fragility". Products from Ravak are pleasantly different from analogues of other companies. The walls of the baths are stronger, but this does not affect the plasticity of the material and the variety of shapes.

Also check out the products trademarksСersanit (Poland), Kolo (Poland), Pool Spa (Spain). When choosing a particular model, try to collect as much information about it as possible, read consumer reviews.

The material reveals the question of what is an acrylic bath. Pros and cons, customer reviews and design solutions presented on the pages of the article. In addition, here you will find the following information:

• acrylic as a bath material;
• advantages and disadvantages;
• comparison with cast iron and steel products;
• reviews of popular models.

Acrylic - what is this material?

Acrylic bath is a composite product of a layered structure, made from acrylic resins. The part that comes into contact with water and skin is transparent plastic. The color is given to it by a special powder included in the liquid polymethyl methacrylate even before the polymerization stage.

Acrylic for bathrooms is called "sanitary", and its composition includes substances that prevent the growth of bacteria.

Basic properties:

• plasticity - under the influence of heat, the material is modified;
• durability - protection against fading;
• low porosity - dirt and bacteria do not linger on the walls of the bath;
• simplified restoration - defects are masked by homemade methods.

Physical characteristics of acrylic

In the manufacture of bathtubs, sheets of two materials are used, differing in thickness and method of manufacture:

1. “Pure acrylic”(cast). The compound (polymer resin) is poured into a sealed mold between the panes and polymerized in a steam oven. This substance is hard and wear-resistant.
2. Double layer plastic. It is made by combining the melts of cast acrylic and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).

The structure of the acrylic bath has two surfaces. On the one hand it is shock-resistant, on the other - glossy and smooth.

Plumbing fixtures are made from "pure" acrylic, having gone through four mandatory operations:

1. Forming - heating the sheet and stretching it to the size of the workpiece;
2. Reinforcement - coating the back of the acrylic with a composite layer;
3. Trimming - removal of excess plastic;
4. Assembly - installation of the workpiece on the power frame and its polishing.

Allocate a separate type of two-component sheet. Plus: cheap. Flaw: worse quality- there is no necessary hardness of the coating, the design may be unreliable.

When choosing an acrylic bath, make sure that the thickness of the polymer used is less than 5-6 mm. The higher this figure, the more durable and strong the model.

Impact on the human body

Among the manufacturing methods, there is a method in which styrene is added to the raw material (necessary for reinforcement). The material is inexpensive, but contains toxic substances that evaporate over time and accumulate in the human body. Warm water enhances vapor saturation.

Styrene negatively affects the body, causes poisoning. We strongly recommend that you check with sales consultants about its presence / absence in the structure.

Most acrylic bath covers are eco-friendly and hygienic.. The smoothness of the walls ensures effective flushing of bacteria and microorganisms - they do not have time to multiply.

Care and maintenance

The advantages and disadvantages of acrylic bathtubs allow them to be successfully used everywhere. During operation, an acute question arises about the permissible and contraindicated methods surface cleaning.

• Abrasive substances are contraindicated - they damage the surface, like brushes with coarse bristles. Sponges are welcome from delicate materials.
• Use liquid care products acrylic surface. To restore the shine of the surface, use a soft cloth pre-moistened with a special cleaner for acrylic bathtubs.

If scratches begin to appear on the surface, despite the precautions, clean them with fine sandpaper. After polish detergent- there will be no trace of defects.

Due to the low quality of the water on the walls of the bath formed water stone. Problem solved citric acid(or 7% acetic solution). For cleansing from limescale leaves one pack of acid, or one and a half liters of vinegar.

Popular cleaning products

• Acrylan;
• cif;
• bass;
• Acrylic Polish;
• Mr Chister.

Wear rubber gloves when using surface cleaners. Ventilate the bathroom after such procedures.

Acrylic bath: pros and cons

The section presents the features of acrylic bathtubs. The pros and cons are conveniently structured, indicate the features and characteristics of this kind of product.

Advantages

What is good about acrylic bathtubs? Based on reviews and well-known facts, we have compiled the following list:

• lightness of the material - the bathtub, unlike cast-iron prototypes, is practically weightless;
• a variety of shapes and sizes - a wide range of products is presented in retail outlets;
• bright colors - acrylic does not fade;
• heat-insulating properties - bathtubs keep heat for a long time;
• surface antibacterial properties;
• ease of care.

When buying, be sure to inspect the surface of the bath: it should have a slight glossy sheen, and the surface should be smooth, without pores and roughness.

disadvantages

Note the disadvantages of an acrylic bath. Reviews real people contain critical phrases on the following points:

• the material is subject to damage, care must be taken in use;
• inability to use chlorine-containing substances when cleaning.

Cast iron, steel and acrylic bathtubs - comparison table of characteristics

Characteristic	Cast iron	Steel	Acrylic
Ease	Heavy	Heavy	Lungs
Noisiness	Noisy	Extremely noisy	Virtually silent
Designer Variety	Variety of domestic models	Unassuming appearance	Wide range of
Price	Medium	Low	Medium
enamel strength	Malaya	high	Medium
thermal insulation	Medium	Malaya	high

Video: how to choose the right one, customer reviews

From this video you will learn what advantages an acrylic bathtub has. All the pros and cons, real customer reviews and extremely useful information.

Brand Overview

TRITON: Russian company working with Austrian acrylic sheet “SENOSAN” (thickness 4 mm). Antibacterial coating "ANTIBAK" is used.

• Advantages - ease of cleaning, long-term preservation of heat and noiseless filling with water. Models have non-standard sizes, which allows them to be placed in a designer bathroom.
• Disadvantages - wears out quickly, scratches. Inadvertently dropping pumice on the surface, there is a risk of leaving traces.

Triston

ROCA: Spanish company specializing in the production of inexpensive and elegant models.

• Advantages - withstands up to two years of operation in its original form. Very mobile small size make it easy to transport when you move.
• Disadvantages - since the bath is covered with an anti-slip coating, the surface looks dirty.

Roca

RADOMIR: Russian manufacturer using Austrian premium acrylic from Senoplast and European fittings.

• Advantages - the bath is stable, its assembly is accurate. No glue or silicone stains on the seams. The hydromassage engine is mounted on rubber shock absorbers, therefore it practically does not vibrate. Present protective device from network fluctuations.
• Disadvantages - high price.

Radomir

KOLO: Polish company practicing unusual design goods. Any baths are on sale: corner, sector-shaped, barrier-free.

• Advantages - a seven-year warranty on all products. The models are designed to meet the needs of different population groups.
• Disadvantages - not noticed.

Kolo

JACOB DELAFON: French manufacturers of elegant bathtubs are successfully experimenting with Flight material.

• Advantages - ease of baths and mobility. Coated with antibacterial properties.
• Disadvantages - delicate coating, the bath is quickly covered with scratches.

Jacob Delafon

5 facts about the advantages and disadvantages of acrylic bathtubs that you did not know about!

1. The history of the acrylic bath has not so many years. The appearance of acrylic models falls on the end of the 20th century.
2. Cast acrylic designs are considered stronger and more durable than their extruded counterparts.
3. Be careful - instead of a quality product, there are fakes made of ABS plastic, masked by a reinforcing compound and a thin layer of extruded acrylic.
4. The lack of enamel on the walls should not be considered a disadvantage. It is allowed to install a hydromassage nozzle, which would otherwise damage the enamel layer.
5. Acrylic surface is resistant to lime and rust, resists oxidation.

Photo in the interior