Which bathtub is better - acrylic or cast iron? Let's compare the main characteristics. Difficult choice: acrylic or steel bathtub - which is better

When a bath loses its aesthetic appearance, they either try to restore it or buy a new one. Modern market offers many options at different prices, shapes and other criteria. Which bathtub - acrylic, steel or cast iron - has more advantages?

Such a product of modern technology as an acrylic bathtub has long had many admirers. In comparison with the same cast-iron bathtub, an acrylic one has many advantages:

• High strength and reliability, despite visual fragility.
• Ease – a bathtub is much lighter than a cast iron one, and any owner can move it without the help of a specialist.
• Availability of metal frame for stability and connecting legs.
• Glossy , non-slip surface, pleasant to the touch.
• Long enough color retention (+ lack of yellowness over time) and wide possibilities in its choice.
• Antiseptic properties (for some models).
• Slow cooling of water , fast heating of the bath, high level of heat capacity.
• Sound absorption. There is no noise when filling the bath.
• For such a bathroom more than just take care – a light wipe with a sponge and soap after use is enough.

Disadvantages of an acrylic bath:

• The use of strong chemicals and abrasives is prohibited for cleaning.
• On acrylic, if not used correctly, may leave scratches . They are removed with polish, and deep chips are removed by pouring liquid acrylic.
• If you drop a heavy object into the bathtub, acrylic may crack . True, this bath will be easy to repair.
• It is also not recommended to bathe your four-legged friends in such a bath.

Price acrylic bathtub — from 9 to 25 thousand, and higher.

Disadvantages and advantages of a cast iron bathtub - why is a cast iron bathtub better than steel bathtubs?

Both here and abroad, cast iron bathtubs are the most common. True, foreign baths have some differences. For example, adjustable legs, smaller thickness, different enamel composition, handles and anti-slip layer. But our modern cast-iron bathtubs can also boast a number of advantages:

• The main advantage of a cast iron bathtub, especially in comparison with a steel one, is high strength . Cast iron is a unique material of its kind, known to ancient metallurgists. In Russia, such baths first appeared under Peter the Great, and since those very days their popularity has not waned.
• Caring for a cast iron bathtub is not particularly difficult. . There are no pores on the enamel surface, so timely rinsing of the bathtub with the same sponge will ensure its constant cleanliness.
• One of the most significant advantages is ability to retain heat . A cast iron bathtub takes longer to cool than any of its competitors.
• A cast iron bathtub cannot be broken or bent (like steel) or damage like acrylic. It will stand for decades until it occurs to you to update it or replace it with another one because you are “tired of it.”
• In this bath you can safely bathe children with a bag of heavy toys and wash your favorite pets.

The disadvantages of a cast iron bath include:

• Impressive weight (about 120 kg). When taking a bath, of course, you don’t think about this, but there are a lot of problems with its transportation and rearrangement.
• Enamel coating over time wears out .
• Cast iron bath takes longer to heat up steel or acrylic.
• The shapes of the cast iron bathtub are not particularly original – that’s right, they are all similar to each other.

Of course, imported cast iron is more advanced. Because the value of this bathtub is not only in the material, but also in the enamel, which is of higher quality from foreign manufacturers. And the weight of an imported bathtub will be less. The price of a cast iron bathtub is from 8 to 20 thousand, and higher.

Steel bathtubs - all the pros and cons; How do steel bathtubs differ from cast iron and acrylic bathtubs?

If you ask a salesperson in a store about the pros/cons of a steel bathtub, you will naturally never hear anything bad. As a result, you may get the impression that she simply has no shortcomings. Although they are:

• A bathtub whose walls are not thick enough, after some time deformed . As a result, cracks and chips appear in the enamel. By the way, the cost of a bathtub with thicker walls will be higher than usual. Strength indicator – wall thickness from 3 mm.
• High thermal conductivity . That is, the bath heats up quickly, but the water also cools down quickly, compared to the two previous options.
• Loud noise when filling a bathtub (as opposed to an acrylic one). This problem can be partially solved with soundproofing pads.
• Categorically the use of abrasives is prohibited for cleaning - otherwise the enamel will quickly become unusable.
• Grounding a steel bath is a must.
• Instability.

Advantages of a steel bath:

• Low cost – the biggest plus.
• Weight - four times less than a cast iron bath.
• Hygienic enamel coating (lack of pores conducive to the development of bacteria).
• Wide selection of shapes and sizes.

Steel bath price – from 4 to 15 thousand rubles.

Which bathtub is better, acrylic or cast iron? Both plumbing products are distinguished by their quality and ease of use, but there are significant differences between them. A review of the advantages and possible disadvantages of both options will help you decide on the final choice.

When replacing an old bathtub with a new one, it is important to choose the highest quality sanitary product that will fit perfectly into the interior and meet all the owners’ requirements. The most popular are bathtubs made of cast iron and acrylic, which differ from each other not only in the material of manufacture, but also in service life, care rules, etc.

Reliable and durable cast iron

Cast iron bathtubs are chosen primarily by connoisseurs of high-quality plumbing fixtures that will last for decades. The material takes a relatively long time to warm up, but the water temperature does not decrease for a long time - it remains warm from 1.5 to 2 hours. During the manufacturing process, the top of the cast iron product is covered with a layer of enamel, which cannot be cleaned with abrasive substances.

Cast iron bathtubs are a classic. They are strong and durable

It is also highly undesirable to drop heavy objects into it so that the enamel does not chip. Before purchasing, it is important to pay attention to the coating of the bathtub - the enamel layer should be smooth, uniform in color, without the slightest roughness or smudges. Only in this case the product will be of high quality, which means it will be able to retain its shine and its original appearance for more than 50 years. proper care.

Cast iron bath - advantages

Cast iron has a number of advantages:

• service life of 50 years or more;
• high safety margin;
• sustainability;
• low thermal conductivity;
• good noise absorption;
• ease of care.

A cast iron bathtub retains the heat of the water poured into it for a long time, which makes it possible to significantly save on heating and take water procedures for a long time with maximum comfort. In addition, a durable cast iron bathtub is difficult to break even with a heavy hammer; it is very heavy and stands firmly in place.

Among modern cast iron bathtubs, it’s easy to choose a product to suit your bathroom interior

The surface can only be damaged by a very strong impact or by dropping a heavy object on it, and chipped or cracked enamel over time can be restored and the product can be used for many years. A bathtub made of cast iron perfectly absorbs sounds and splashes, and it is also easy to maintain. pure form. Over time, the coating will not fade even when exposed to high temperatures, and the color and shine of the enamel is preserved.

Cast iron bath - disadvantages

Disadvantages include:

1. heavy weight;
2. limited choice of form;
3. slippery surface.

The average weight of standard cast iron bathtubs reaches 120 kg, which creates particular difficulties both during transportation and during dismantling and installation. All products of this type are mostly large, have a rectangular or triangular shape, which is not always suitable for small bathrooms and may not fit into the overall design idea.

Cast iron bathtubs are quite massive. This complicates their delivery and installation

The disadvantages also include slippery inner covering- for safe water procedures, it is recommended to lay a special anti-slip rubber mat on the bottom of the bath.

Lightweight newfangled acrylic

In fact, acrylic is a type of plastic - a material that easily takes the desired shape, is reinforced and can be painted in any color. One of the most significant advantages of bathtubs made from acrylic is that they are available in various sizes, colors and shapes.

Acrylic bathtubs offer a large selection of not only shapes, but also colors

This opens up the possibility of installing them even in any bathrooms, including small ones. By installing plumbing fixtures, for example, in a corner, you can thus free up enough space for a washing machine or furniture. Since the material is quite flexible in nature, it must be reinforced with fiberglass or metal mesh at the manufacturing stage to give the required strength. At the same time, naturally, the better the bathtub is strengthened, the more expensive it will cost.

Advice. When purchasing an acrylic bathtub, it is better to give preference to a model reinforced with metal mesh.

Bathtubs made of acrylic can be not only standard white, but also painted in any shade of the rainbow - the color is added by adding dye to the material at the manufacturing stage, due to which the paint does not wash out and does not lose its color over time.

Corner acrylic bathtub

Before purchasing, you should pay attention to the uniformity of color and thickness of the acrylic sheet; in particular, products with a wall thickness of 5 mm or more are considered the strongest. Also, you should not buy plumbing fixtures with dents or a rough surface, which directly indicates its low quality.

Acrylic bathtub - pros

Modern bathtubs made of acrylic have the following advantages:

1. light weight;
2. variety of forms;
3. non-slip surface;
4. ease of care;
5. low thermal conductivity.

The weight of bathtubs made from acrylic varies on average within 30 kg, which greatly facilitates delivery (especially to upper floors). In addition, the installation process itself is simplified in many ways, which can be easily handled by one specialist. The bath itself retains heat well, and its surface heats up quite quickly, unlike cast iron.

Acrylic bathtubs do not slip and are therefore safe

Manufacturing technology allows you to blow acrylic into any shape of the desired width and height - you can even order a model according to individual order, which will fit perfectly into the interior. Some models are equipped with hydromassage and other functions for the most pleasant water treatment.

The inner surface of the products is non-slip, which will allow you to take water procedures without anti-slip mats. At the same time, bathtub care is as simple as possible and boils down to wiping the dirty surface with a gel-based cleaner.

Acrylic bathtub - cons

Acrylic bathtubs are not without some disadvantages:

1. service life from 10 to 15 years;
2. relatively low strength;
3. possibility of damage to the surface by sharp objects.

The surface of an acrylic bathtub is more fragile than the enamel of a cast iron bathtub

On average, a bathtub made of acrylic lasts 2-3 times less than a cast iron one. Moreover, the service life and strength directly depend on the quality of the product and the degree of its reinforcement. If you buy a fake or with weak reinforcement, deformation may occur, and if the plumbing fixtures are made of very thin acrylic, then it may spring underfoot. On the contrary, high-strength products reinforced with metal mesh can easily withstand even a greater impact than a cast-iron bathtub.

Attention! When purchasing non-standard plumbing fixtures, experts recommend purchasing bathtubs of the simplest possible shape, since manufacturers often use thin sheets of acrylic to make complex and elaborate products.

It is also important to know that acrylic is afraid of direct impact from sharp metal products, it can melt from an unextinguished cigarette, or be scratched from the claws of a pet.

Which bathtub is better to buy?

When choosing which bathtub is better, acrylic or cast iron, you need to focus primarily on what size and shape the plumbing is needed. If the area of ​​the room allows, you can install a large cast-iron bathtub; if the size of the room is limited or the design idea requires it, it is better to choose acrylic product desired shape and color.

You need to choose a bath that will be easier for you to care for.

As for the parameters of thermal stability, in cast iron the water temperature decreases by 1 degree every 10 minutes, in acrylic - only after 1 hour. Therefore, those who like to bask in hot water for as long as possible should still turn their attention to acrylic products. Moreover, modern manufacturing companies offer models equipped with lighting, hydromassage and a number of other useful functions.

Cost also plays an important role when choosing plumbing fixtures. When compared, the prices are approximately the same, with the exception of acrylic bathtubs of complex configuration with additional reinforcement, which will cost much more.

Care and restoration

In principle, both products will last quite a long time, the main thing is to properly care for them. The surface of cast iron is porous, as a result it absorbs rust and dirt and requires frequent cleaning. If a cast iron bathtub is damaged, it will have to be restored, and this process is quite labor-intensive and dusty. In some cases, restoration using glass acrylic (liquid acrylic) may be required, when the enamel is renewed by filling cracks and voids, completely leveling the surface.

The surface of an acrylic bathtub can be easily restored with liquid acrylic

An acrylic bathtub is more hygienic; to remove dirt, it is enough to rinse its surface with a sponge soaked in water or a special detergent. In general, caring for acrylic is simpler; the only important requirement is the use of products containing abrasives and aggressive solvents to remove contaminants.

In case of serious damage, the product can also be restored using liquid acrylic, and removing scratches is much easier than in the case of cast iron.

Conclusion

Both cast iron and acrylic can be considered one of the best materials for making bathtubs. Each of the materials has its pros and cons. In terms of strength and reliability, cast iron models win, but in terms of hygiene, weight, choice of shape and color, acrylic ones come first. In addition, transportation and installation of the latter is much easier.

You need to select suitable plumbing fixtures first of all, based on the size of the bathroom and general design interior Before purchasing, you should make sure that the bathtub will fit through the doorway, has no defects and is not a fake.

The inner surface of a cast iron bathtub can be restored with special enamel

When purchasing an acrylic product, it is better to give preference to models with thick walls, not very complex shape, with reinforcement with a metal mesh, which will have good stability. A cast iron bathtub must have an evenly applied enamel, without streaks or roughness - in this case, if the operating rules are followed, it will last at least 50 years.

Care comes down to using specially designed products for each type of product; it is highly undesirable to drop heavy objects to avoid serious damage to the surface.

Which bath to choose: video

Cast iron and acrylic bathtubs: photos

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Types of bathtubs - which ones are better, their comparison is more practical

The main criterion for choosing a bathtub, of course, is the material from which it is made, but not the only one. Comparing different types Bathtubs should also pay attention to their shape, size, wall thickness, quality and type of coating, the presence or possibility of connecting additional options, for example, hydromassage. The different types of bathtubs and their features will be discussed in this article.

What types of bathtubs are there based on the material they are made of?

Cast iron baths - the choice of conservatives

For a long time this type of bathtub had only one competitor and often won the battle, but even today, despite the appearance of worthy opponents, it does not lose its position. And this despite the fact that this type does not differ in variety of shapes; only oval and rectangular ones are presented on the market. But they are reliable, durable, have low thermal conductivity, and the water temperature in them drops by 5-10°C per hour, which makes taking a bath in them a fairly comfortable process. But in terms of this indicator, their leadership is second only to ceramic bathtubs. Among the positive characteristics of cast iron bathtubs, consumers highlight their “no noise”, that is, the process of drawing water is quite quiet, unlike steel ones, as well as internal strength

But, the weight of this bathtub is quite large, depending on the size, ranging from 100 to 150 kg, which significantly complicates its transportation and installation. You should select the right cleaning compounds, avoid the use of abrasives, but most importantly, when purchasing, pay attention to the quality of the enamel coating. It must be free of any smudges, roughness, and even more so, chips. If chips or scratches appear during operation, then restoring the integrity of the coating, although difficult, is possible.

It should be noted that in modern cast iron bathtubs, instead of enamel, a more elastic polymer coating is used, their shape has become more ergonomic, and the price is one of the most affordable among other products from a similar group of products.

Steel baths - a reasonable compromise

Having been an alternative to cast iron bathtubs for a long time, steel bathtubs are, out of habit, compared with them, although, in terms of performance characteristics, they are closer to acrylic ones. They have a light weight, in the range of 30-40 kg, a decent service life, reaching 25-30 years and not high price. They have high thermal conductivity and “noisiness”. True, these shortcomings can be corrected by proper installation: you should use the principle of a closed space under the bathtub, which is additionally filled with foam plastic, mineral wool or blown in with foam. In addition, due to its light weight, care should be taken to ensure that the bathtub is securely fastened.

Modern steel bathtubs have not only the traditional rectangular shape; for the bathroom you can choose products with round, corner, or oval shapes. In addition, they can be equipped with additional options that increase the comfort of their use: handrails, armrests and even hydromassage. Modern steel bathtubs can be coated with enamel (less and less often) or polymer coatings.

Acrylic bathtub – the choice of an energetic person

After appearing on the market, acrylic bathtubs quickly began to gain popularity due to their optimal price, high performance characteristics, variety of shapes, sizes, and color variety. All types of acrylic bathtubs are light in weight, only 15-20 kg, their installation is not particularly difficult, but in order for the product to last for 7-15 years under warranty, it must be chosen correctly and subsequently follow some operating rules.

Acrylic bathtubs are manufactured using two technologies:

• the first option - a “shell” made of acrylic polymer is poured onto a fiberglass frame, acting as a reinforcing frame;
• the second option involves the use of two-layer extruded sheet material.

The positive characteristics of these bathtubs significantly outweigh the negative ones, which helps them maintain their top positions in sales. They have low thermal conductivity, are silent, and have a beautiful aesthetic appearance, which does not require much time to maintain. If scratches or other damage appears, they are amenable to restoration work, which you can do yourself. For example, you can give the original gloss using a special polish for acrylic bathtubs.

But you should carefully select care products, since the surface is sensitive to many types of chemical compositions. It is not allowed to place basins, including plastic ones, in the bathtub, however, for modern man, the owner of an automatic washing machine, there is no special need for this. The surface of an acrylic bathtub is very sensitive to high temperatures; you should always remember that acrylic melts at only 160°C, so very hot water temperatures are prohibited, as this will lead to deformation of the product. It should also be noted the high mechanical fragility of the material.

Quaril baths – the choice of the knowledgeable

Quaryl or quaril baths - made from modern innovative material, a blend of practical acrylic and durable quartz. This ensures their high performance and aesthetic characteristics. They are impact-resistant, silent, maintain water temperature well, are hygienic, and can have a wide variety of shapes. Due to the presence of quartz sand in the material, they are heavier than acrylic, but much lighter than cast iron. However, the acrylic component does not allow high-temperature water to be poured into it, since even such a fairly massive structure can be deformed.

Quaril baths are made by casting, the shape for which can be very diverse in both type and size, including depth. And given that the average wall thickness is about 1 cm, you don’t have to use a frame during installation. The main color scheme is pastel colors, but there are exceptions, for example, bathtubs in black, burgundy, green and others.

The main distinctive feature of quaril baths, besides their appearance and characteristics is functionality. In many models, in addition to built-in hydromassage, aeromassage, armrests and headrests, a radio or other high-tech options can be built-in.

Caring for such bathtubs is quite simple and boils down to regular rinsing and periodic treatment with disinfectants, but without abrasives in their composition. Owners of acrylic bathtubs should be very careful with dyes, which stain the surface and are practically impossible to remove.

Ceramic, stone baths - the choice of aesthetes

The material from which ceramic baths are made guarantees a good ability to retain heat, noiselessness, such products naturally do not rust, are not subject to mechanical damage, are durable, but they are distinguished by a high price, heavy weight, fragility, transportation and installation should be carried out especially carefully. Therefore, these are, most often, exclusive products that can be made to order for a specific interior.

Both natural stone, such as marble, and artificial stone can be used to make bathtubs. Products made from the latter are a type of ceramic bathtub and have similar performance characteristics.

The artificial stone that is used for the production of bathtubs has a composition of clay and various types of stone chips from quartz and/or granite, as well as dyes that help give almost any color to the product. The texture of the material is very similar to natural, but much lighter in weight.

Products made from artificial stone also belong to the exclusive class, and their cost is very high. Therefore, they are installed in bathroom interiors. country cottages, for the interiors of which designers specially developed original designs.

Bathtub shapes and sizes

Modern bathtubs are made from a variety of materials, many of which allow the product to be shaped into a wide variety of shapes. Therefore, determining which types of bathtubs will be better for a particular room will not be difficult. This factor allows not only to make the bathroom more aesthetically attractive, but also to rationally use the space, which is often very limited.

Rectangular or traditional bathtubs

Bathtubs of this shape are available from all possible materials. In addition to bathtubs of standard sizes 180x80 cm, the market offers models with dimensions ranging from 120x70/75/80 cm, the so-called “sitting” ones, to full-size 120/150/160/170/180x70-75/80.

Corner baths - helpers in optimizing space

Despite the apparent bulkiness and non-standard shape, it is corner baths that help to more rationally use and organize the space of the bathroom, especially of modest sizes.

But, when purchasing, you should definitely pay attention to the fact that they come in:

• "right" and "left";
• symmetrical and asymmetrical.

Corner symmetrical bathtub.

Corner asymmetrical bathtub.

They are mainly made from acrylic or steel, but on request they can also be made from artificial stone. There are also models made of artificial stone among them. They are often equipped with hydromassage and other options. For bathrooms with sufficient space, it is very convenient to combine them with a shower stall.

The size range of corner baths is quite wide and mainly depends on the symmetry of the shape, ranging from:

• 120×120 cm to 180×180 cm – for symmetrical models;
• 120×60 cm to 190×170 cm – for asymmetrical models.

Oval bathtubs - laconic style of shapes

They are made from almost all basic materials for bathtubs, they are distinguished by their laconic and soft forms, which allows you to create an interior that is most conducive to relaxation and relaxation. Especially for this purpose, most models of this form are equipped with hydro or air massage. But they usually lack armrests and headrests, as well as special elements for sitting. The size range is varied, but if we talk about standards, they are in the range of 140 – 210 cm.

Round bath - the pursuit of ideal

This is an exclusive form of bathtub. Depending on the size, it can be double or even multi-seater. The round shape of the bathtub is the most convenient for the installation and operation of hydromassage nozzles, therefore, its main purpose is not hygienic procedures, but a device for relaxation.

But, regardless of the size, which can range from 140 to 210 cm in diameter, its installation requires a room with sufficient area, allowing access from all sides. They are mainly made from acrylic, less often steel, but to create exclusive models, quarryl, artificial or natural stone, etc. are used.

In general, when considering different types of bathtubs, their differences, advantages and disadvantages, the choice should be made based on the needs of family members and their preferences, not forgetting that installing a bathtub is a responsible matter, since it will have to be used for at least several years. Elderly people and children require special attention. For the first, a sitz bath with a depth of 60 to 80 cm may be a comfortable option, while for the second, on the contrary, a shallow but fairly spacious model will be more convenient.

In order for the adoption of water and/or hygienic procedures in the bath to be as comfortable as possible, it must have sufficient dimensions for this, the main of which are length and depth (minimum standard width 70-80 cm – optimal for people with a standard build). In order to make the bath deeper, but not more bulky, manufacturers use, for example, a method of creating flatter sides.

Massage systems used in baths

Modern bathtubs are equipped with systems designed for three types of water massage: hydro-, aero- and turbo-massage. These systems are usually mounted on bathtubs made of acrylic, quarry and steel.

Hydromassage

A hydromassage system is a system of nozzles and hoses through which water moves under high pressure, driven by a pump. As a rule, a system for adjusting the jet pressure is provided, and the number of nozzles is determined by the size of the bath.

Aeromassage

The aeromassage system is similar to a hydromassage system, but has one significant difference - the working tool for massage is not a stream of water, but air bubbles, the intensity of which is regulated.

Turbo massage

The turbomassage system is a combined type of aero- and hydromassage. This system is mainly installed in such types of bathtubs as Jacuzzis. Two hoses are connected to the nozzles at once, through which both water and air are supplied. This feature allows you to use the system both in combination and separately for each type of massage, if desired.

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Which bathtub is better: acrylic, cast iron or steel?

The bath has long and deservedly become a necessity. But many consumers have difficulty choosing it. If the dimensions depend directly on the dimensions of the room, then the material can be any. Which baths are better? It depends on your priorities. Basically, there are three types of hot tubs on sale: cast iron, steel and acrylic. For many, cast iron remains a model of strength, which is why adherents of the classics choose this option. Bathtubs made of steel are the most budget-friendly; they are preferred to be installed as a temporary option or because people do not want to spend a lot of money on a purchase. Acrylic bowls are the most beautiful; they are installed for aesthetic purposes.

However, not everything is so simple. Which bathtub is better, acrylic cast iron or steel, depends not only on the characteristics of the material and its price. Each individual person may have their own option. Therefore, it is worth dealing with them more thoroughly.

Solid cast iron

Cast iron cannot be called a plastic material, so products made from it do not have fancy shapes. Bathtubs made from this material traditionally have a classic rectangular or oval appearance. To make the plumbing fixtures look attractive, the surface is covered with especially durable enamel. The material not only gives cast iron an aesthetic appearance, but also protects it from the effects of water and cleaning agents. To ensure that the coating is as durable and smooth as possible, the bath is kept in an oven with infrared radiation.

Despite the fact that cast iron is difficult to mold, quite beautiful products with soft curves are often found on sale. In addition, thanks to the use of enamel, plumbing fixtures can come in a wide variety of shades. Such products are much more expensive.

Advantages of a cast iron bath

The material is famous for its durability. Bathtubs made from it are durable, sometimes withstanding active use for decades. When figuring out which bathrooms are better, it is worth considering the advantages of a cast iron model that others cannot boast of:

• Strength. The material is not afraid of extreme temperatures and sudden changes.
• Does not deform. The bathtub will not be damaged even if a heavy object hits or falls into it.
• Long service life. The appearance remains impeccable even after many years of use.
• The coating is undergoing restoration. Enamel can be easily restored at home with the help of specialists.

If we consider the question of which bathtub is better, cast iron or steel, then we should start from the heat capacity. Steel does not maintain temperature well, and the water in such a font quickly cools down. In cast iron bowls, water cools much more slowly. However, when considering which bathtub is better, acrylic or cast iron, then in this case acrylic often turns out to be more practical.

Cast iron is a very strong and tough material. Therefore, plumbing fixtures made from it will not bend or change shape during active use. The bathtub is quite heavy, the thickness of the walls reaches 8 mm, so it does not “walk” even when bathing a fairly heavy person. The structure does not require additional reinforcement; it stands stably, without unnecessary movements.

Features of cast iron baths

When figuring out which baths are best, it’s worth considering the issue of caring for them. Cast iron is coated with enamel, which has no pores. Therefore, with regular and proper care, the material remains shiny and smooth for a long time.

You can even use abrasives to remove particularly strong dirt and plaque. However, manufacturers advise against overusing them.

An important criterion when choosing a bath is the noise level when drawing water. Cast iron is the best option in this regard. However, acrylic samples have the most low level noise.

The range of cast iron bathtubs is quite wide. Manufacturers equip them with handles, anti-slip mats and hydromassage function. Therefore, even the most demanding people will be able to choose the right option.

Disadvantages of cast iron

With a lot of positive aspects, cast iron bathtubs are more often replaced with acrylic ones. One reason is that the weight is too heavy. The most ordinary cast iron bathtub can weigh more than 100 kg. In addition, the choice of fonts is not large enough.

However, if the buyer decides that this particular material suits him in all respects, then it is worth finding out which cast iron bathtub is better. Such plumbing equipment is purchased for a long time and costs a lot of money. Therefore, it is necessary to approach its choice thoroughly.

If you are interested in which cast iron bathtub is better, then you should consider the proposals famous manufacturers. The most popular and well-proven brands on the market are Jacob and Roca. The products do not have elaborate shapes, but are distinguished by smooth curves, durable enamel and a variety of colors.

Methods for restoring cast iron

The enamel in a cast iron bathtub may become deformed over time or chipped due to impacts with heavy objects. But the coating can be restored. There are several ways to do this. The choice depends on the preferences and budget of the owner.

The pour bath method is often used. But this method requires careful preparation and some skill. A simpler option, but also more expensive, is installing an acrylic liner. Moreover, this method is comparable in price to purchasing a new bathtub.

A more affordable and simpler way is to update the enamel. To do this, the old one must be thoroughly cleaned and degreased. After this, a special composition is used that seals microcracks and makes the coating shiny and smooth.

Stainless steel font

More recently, lightweight steel has been an available alternative to durable cast iron. Such bowls may appeal to many consumers due to their features. Therefore, when figuring out which bathtubs are better, acrylic or steel, reviews of the latter will help you draw conclusions. So, among the positive aspects there are:

• The font is quite light.
• The coating has hygienic properties. Pathogenic bacteria do not multiply on it.
• The coating is quite durable, withstands temperature changes and does not chip when heavy objects fall.
• A cast iron bath stays cold for a long time until it warms up. Acrylic bowls are enjoyable even without preheating. The steel version warms up quickly enough, which is an advantage for families with small children.
• Steel is ductile, just like acrylic. Therefore, products made from it can have a wide variety of shapes. On sale you can find special models designed for two swimmers. The steel font looks quite presentable and non-standard. Therefore, it is suitable for many modern interiors.

When deciding which bathtub is best to purchase, you need to take into account the installation features. The cast iron version is too heavy and requires more than one pair of hands to carry into the apartment. But it does not require any additional equipment for installation. Steel hot tubs are much lighter. It is possible that one person can handle it. However, too little weight will not allow you to do without additional fasteners.

Disadvantages of steel plumbing

Consumers are often interested in which bathtub is better, acrylic or steel. We can definitely answer that, despite a lot of positive aspects, steel is still inferior to other materials. The reason is due to quite significant shortcomings:

• Thin walls. Steel hot tubs have very thin walls, so they are susceptible to deformation during active use, improper transportation or impact with heavy objects. Models with thicker walls already have a corresponding price, comparable to acrylic samples.
• Of course, steel heats up very quickly. But it also cools down quickly. The material does not hold temperature at all, unlike cast iron and acrylic. Therefore, in order not to freeze, you will have to constantly add hot water.
• Installation requires a special frame, which is not always convenient. In addition, you should purchase special cleaning products; abrasives can damage the surface.

When deciding which baths are better, you need to pay attention to the noise level when drawing water. In steel versions it is the highest. The leader in silence in this case is acrylic. Sometimes manufacturers offer special gaskets that promise to eliminate noise. However, the problem is not fundamentally solved, and the price of the product increases.

Steel option for the undemanding buyer

A steel bathtub is much cheaper than cast iron and acrylic ones. At the same time, the material is plastic, so there are quite original products on sale.

Thanks to the properties of steel, designers offer a wide variety of bathtubs of the most different forms. The color options are also very wide. Despite the higher price for non-standard forms and bright colors, yet it is inferior to acrylic images.

Which steel bathtub is better depends on its purpose and location. Eat small models, which are universal for small bathrooms. If it is possible to install a larger font, then a rectangular version is suitable, in which you can lie at your full height. There are also models for seniors with handles, with different recesses for bathing small children, and options for people with disabilities.

Acrylic models

Quite often, consumers are interested in which bathtub is best for the bathroom. IN Lately Acrylic bowls are very popular. However, reviews about such baths are mixed. Some people are satisfied with everything; they are pleased with the attractive appearance of the product, ease of care, comfortable sensations during water procedures and low noise level. At the same time, there are users who complain about the fragility of the material.

Why do responses vary? This largely depends on the manufacturer and its production technology. Sometimes the buyer is guided by advertising, but is disappointed. So, which acrylic bathtubs are better? Reviews indicate that if you choose a product from a trusted manufacturer, do not buy the cheapest option and follow the operating rules, the hot tub will bring only positive emotions.

What is acrylic

Acrylic is a soft and very plastic polymer material. It is used to produce cast bowls and extruded models. To give the surface a pleasant appearance, it is coated with epoxy resins. Like the steel version, acrylic bathtubs require installation on a special metal frame. Acrylic, like steel, is lightweight, so a bathtub without additional fasteners is unstable and constantly loosens under the weight of the bather.

Benefits of acrylic bathtubs

Which acrylic bathtub is better? This question interests most potential consumers. There is no definite answer. When purchasing, you should pay attention to the appearance. Acrylic should be a uniform shade, without stains. If there are stains on the bowl, it is better to refuse the purchase. The font should definitely not be taken if any roughness or dents are found.

According to reviews, acrylic bathtubs have a number of impressive advantages:

• Aesthetic appearance. Acrylic samples are the most beautiful. You can find hot tubs on sale in a wide variety of colors, shapes and sizes. Cast iron does not amaze with such variety, and steel is not so ductile to make plumbing fixtures of bizarre shapes.
• Good heat capacity. A cast iron bathtub holds temperature well, but acrylic is the leader in this case. Steel is in last place in this position. Even if the water has cooled down or is just beginning to accumulate, the surface still remains pleasant to the touch. This is important for children and lovers of long water procedures.
• Easy to care for. A special product is sold for acrylic bathtubs. It makes it easy to care for the surface. The material does not absorb dirt, so there is no need to scrub.

Of course, acrylic hot tubs are not perfect. They have their drawbacks. But swimmers appreciated such models.

Disadvantages of acrylic bowls

It is important to understand which acrylic bathtub is better. In this case, you should pay attention to the maximum temperature indicator. Theoretically, acrylic can withstand up to 160 degrees, but this is based on experimentation. In fact, the manufacturer may use low-quality materials, so when filling hot water the bathtub is deformed.

Some people don't like the sagging and unstable feel of acrylic. Especially, this phenomenon does not suit fans of cast iron options. However, the impression is deceptive; acrylic is plastic and will not break under the weight of a person.

Still, the material is fragile. Therefore, if a heavy object falls, it may burst. However, repairs are not difficult. In addition, strength depends on the integrity of the material and the use of high-quality components.

Acrylic is a rather capricious material and requires use special means. If you use abrasive preparations, the coating can be easily damaged. Scratches appear on the surface and the external gloss is lost.

The price of acrylic samples is much more expensive than steel ones. However, when a high-quality hot tub is purchased from a reputable manufacturer, the service life will be at least 10 years. But this is subject to careful operation, maintenance and technically correct installation.

What to choose

Almost every family has a bathtub. Which one is better (reviews will help you decide) depends on personal preferences, conditions of use, room dimensions and financial capabilities of the buyer.

Considering the features and characteristics of each material, you must not forget about the price. If the budget is not large, then a regular cast iron bathtub is often preferable. Acrylic bowls are at the peak of popularity, but steel options are gradually losing ground. This situation has its own arguments, taking into account possible disadvantages. Often a steel bathtub is chosen as a temporary option if it is not possible to pay for a high-quality acrylic one or there is no confidence that the floor will withstand heavy cast iron.

But it is also worth choosing what is more important. For someone decisive factor one will prefer the beauty and aesthetics of acrylic, another will prefer the strength and durability of cast iron. It is important to take into account the functions that family members would like to see in the selected bowl. Therefore, you should not look for the ideal option, but choose the most preferable one, the shortcomings of which a particular family can easily come to terms with.

conclusions

When it comes to choosing a bathtub, the covering material is the most important issue. Each has its own advantages, but there are also disadvantages. It is important to choose priorities and select a font based on this. For adherents of solidity, strength and standard solutions, cast iron is the undoubted choice. However, many argue that the bathtub often suffers from falling heavy objects, and its shape is not very attractive. The steel ones look decent, are not expensive and the coating is quite durable. If installed correctly, the bottom does not bend under weight. At the same time, it is not forbidden to place buckets or basins. Acrylic ones look very beautiful, but you won’t be able to pour boiling water into such a bowl. In addition, improper care leads to deformation of the material. However, if the main thing in the font is its appearance and you do not plan to use it for anything other than swimming, then the option turns out to be attractive.

fb.ru

What are the types, sizes and prices?

When renovating a bathroom, many decide to replace the old plumbing and are faced with the problem: which bath is better to choose? Now there are rectangular, round, corner, free-standing and other models. Today we will not talk about the shape of the bathtub, but about the material from which it is made.
First, let’s figure out what types of bathtubs are made based on the material they are made of:

• cast iron;
• steel;
• acrylic;
• wooden.

We will talk only about the first three types, the most popular now, and each has both pros and cons.

Cast iron baths

The most popular material, familiar to us since Soviet times. Cast iron bathtubs are very strong, stable, durable and reliable. You can safely wash in it without fear that it will become loose and a gap will appear on the wall. Cast iron retains heat the longest, but also takes longer to heat up. The enamel is very resistant to damage and is easy to clean. One drawback that may scare some buyers is the heavy weight of a cast iron bathtub. Old Soviet models can weigh 150-200 kg, but the new ones are noticeably lighter - 70-100 kg. Another disadvantage is the small selection of shapes and sizes. Typically, cast iron bathtubs are rectangular in shape, 70-80 cm wide and 140-170 cm long.

If shape is not important, without a doubt, cast iron is the best material for a bathtub.

Steel baths

Unlike cast iron, steel baths can be made in almost any shape and have significantly less weight (about 30 kg). The main factor is the low price, but the number of shortcomings reduces all the advantages to zero.

Steel bath

The main disadvantage of steel is its high sound conductivity, which means that when you turn on the water, the sound will be heard throughout the apartment, like a drum. Of course, you can reduce the sound a little by installing sound insulation and applying a layer of polyurethane foam to the bottom, but it will not completely solve the problem.
The next disadvantage is low stability and strength, that is, making a completely sealed joint will be problematic. To do this, you will need stable legs, silicone sealant and a special plastic nozzle in the shape of a plinth. Also, steel does not hold heat well; water will cool much faster.

Thus, this option may only be suitable for a summer residence or temporary use, as it has many disadvantages.

Acrylic bathtubs

To understand how to choose an acrylic bathtub, you need to know the following: cheap models are usually made from extruded acrylic, which affects the rigidity of the material. Such bathtubs hold their shape less well, and installation requires a frame made of metal or plywood. Cast acrylic is a more expensive material, but it holds its shape well, so standard legs are suitable for mounting. In addition, cast acrylic is less vulnerable to damage.

Acrylic bathtubs have the following advantages.

• They hold heat even better than cast iron.
• They are light in weight (15-30 kg).
• Allows you to give it any shape. Asymmetrical acrylic bathtubs will help save space (see bathroom renovation in Khrushchev). However, the higher quality the acrylic, the more difficult it is to give it an original shape.
• You can choose the color of the case to match the interior.
• They have a smooth but not slippery material.
• Absorbs water noise, almost like cast iron.

But this material also has its disadvantages. Acrylic is afraid of heating, so when it comes into contact with hot water, microcracks appear over time. It can be easily scratched or damaged by cleaning agents, so you should avoid using powders. If the contamination is serious, it can be cleaned with alcohol. The next important drawback: often the walls of the bathtubs are thin, so they sag, which causes the risk of cracks appearing at the bottom. It is better to refrain from purchasing Russian and Chinese manufacturers, and it is worth remembering: good options will not be cheap, but they can be restored.
In the video, the expert gives advice on choosing an acrylic bathtub:

Advice! When purchasing an acrylic bathtub, it is important to pay attention to the following points. High-quality acrylic always has a single color, without yellow spots and a pungent odor. The wall thickness must be at least 4 mm, and the bottom must be even and smooth. The drain hole is below the bottom level so that the water does not stagnate.

Restoration of an old bathtub

There is an alternative way - restoration of an old bathtub. There are three types of restoration.

• Enamelling.
• Filling bath.
• Acrylic liner.

Enameling a bathtub is the oldest method; the coating lasts up to two years and is quite thin. A self-leveling bathtub is the most optimal option in terms of price-quality characteristics. Its service life is up to 15 years. Acrylic liners are quite expensive, require careful use, and the reviews about them are not very flattering. It is better to choose a free-flowing bathtub, especially since there are a lot of color options.

Bathtub Installation Basics

When installing a new bathtub, the most important thing is to prepare a level base for it. When installing a bathtub, it is important to give it a horizontal position and level. The water will drain, since the manufacturer has provided a bevel towards the drain. Don’t forget to secure the bathtub on all three walls and fill all the cracks with foam. All materials used during installation must not rot and must be waterproof.

To summarize, I would like to advise - under no circumstances buy a steel bathtub, choose between cast iron or acrylic. With a cast-iron bathtub, you will have to struggle with installation once, but it will last a lifetime, and if the enamel is chipped, you can repair the coating. Considering the advantages of acrylic, this is also a good option, the main thing is to choose a high-quality model.

remboo.ru

Which bath is better to choose: advantages and disadvantages of 7 types

In the 20th century, baths, basins, troughs and natural ponds were replaced by showers and baths. Moreover, their functions are not limited to hygiene. Long hot bath with scented soap is the most affordable and popular way to relieve fatigue after a long day.

And since depending on living conditions It can be used for bathing pets, and for soaking textiles in bleach, and for scalding mushrooms before pickling, and even for an impromptu date; choosing a bath is not the easiest thing.

To understand which bathtub is best to choose, you should answer three questions: how it will be used, how much space can be allocated for it, and what budget you need to meet. The answers will allow you to choose two or three options. The key parameter by which they differ is their material, so it is worth learning more about the materials.

Choosing a cast iron bath

For many decades, cast iron was the only material from which home baths were made (unless, of course, you count the pre-revolutionary wooden and copper portable “bathing troughs”).

Although this metal cannot be called economical and convenient from a construction point of view, they are still very popular.

They are characterized by strength and durability, as well as the pleasant property of cooling slowly - in such a bath the water remains hot for a couple of hours. True, in a modern metropolis this advantage has lost its former meaning - adding hot water to an apartment with a central water supply is not a problem.

Their disadvantages include their heavy weight. Firstly, it is difficult to carry and mount. Secondly, it is difficult to deliver from abroad, and domestic producers They offer only a standard “rectangular” shape and strictly defined sizes. Thirdly, you need to carefully check the fastenings.

cast iron bathtub how to choose

If this is not done - or if the house's partitions are too thin and the floor can sag under the heavy weight - the bathtub may become slightly warped over time.

In this case, the edge will move away from the tile, or vice versa, “cut into” it.

Accordingly, either water will flow down the wall under the bathtub, which will most likely lead to the appearance of mold in hard to reach place, or the tile will begin to crack - and it will be very difficult to replace it.

The enamel of cast iron bathtubs also requires special attention. It cannot be cleaned with caustic abrasives - this will expose the lower, reddish-gray layer of the coating. When a heavy object falls, chips can form on the enamel, which are almost impossible to restore. An article about restoring a bathtub yourself.

How to choose steel bathtubs?

Another metal that is used in the manufacture of bathtubs is steel.

It is much lighter and more ductile than cast iron, so steel bathtubs come in all sizes and shapes.

Taking into account their durability, low cost and the ability to choose any enamel color, they are well suited for the budget implementation of an original design project.

However, there are a number of serious drawbacks. Firstly, the water cools quickly. If there is a central water supply, this problem is not particularly significant; it is much worse that when water is drawn, the steel “rings” quite loudly. If the walls are not thick enough, it may gradually begin to deform under the weight of water.

However, the problems are quite easily solved. It is only necessary to provide for its installation “in a monolith” - a supporting and heat-insulating podium. Such podiums are made of foam plastic with noise-damping rubber linings and a rigid frame, and ensure long and reliable service of the steel bathtub.

Video - which bathroom to choose (it’s better to watch it so you don’t make a mistake later and choose required type and form):

Acrylic - how to choose?

Acrylic is a polymer that can be formed into any shape, size and color. Coloring occurs when it melts, that is, acrylic baths do not have a coating that could wear off.

Any scratches and stains (which appear quite often) can be easily removed; you just need to paint them over with special paint and “polish” them with fine sandpaper.

It is not afraid of caustic abrasives and is easy to clean, durable, lightweight and retains heat for a long time. Thanks to these advantages, they are gaining more and more popularity.

However, acrylic itself is a plastic that melts and deforms when exposed to high temperatures. To avoid deformation, they are reinforced, ideally with a metal mesh, or in cheaper options with several layers of fiberglass.

How to choose an acrylic bathtub that will not “crawl” in a couple of years? Firstly, if it is strong, it should “sound” dull and quiet when tapped. Secondly, when reinforced with fiberglass, layers are visible on the edge of the side - the more there are, the better.

It is more expensive than cast iron and steel, so you should be suspicious of an inexpensive acrylic bathtub that catches your eye in a construction supermarket. Most likely, this is a fake made of plastic with an acrylic coating. Such types do not differ in high quality either in terms of thermal insulation or strength characteristics.

Video lesson - what you need to know when buying an acrylic bathtub:

Quarilic

Although acrylic can be molded into any shape, the thicker the original sheet of acrylic, the less flexible it is.

Therefore, bathtubs of complex shapes have thin walls. Meanwhile, it is the thickness of the wall that determines its reliability and durability.

If you need a complex shape, but don’t want to risk quality, you should pay attention to quaril. This is the same acrylic, only mixed with quartz chips.

In fact, quartz replaces reinforcement, and quite successfully. Quaril baths are varied, durable and scratch-resistant; their thermal insulation is no worse than that of acrylic ones, and they are only slightly heavier. The only disadvantage of the quaril is the high price.

Other materials

When designing an original design and a free budget, three more bathtub materials come into play - stone, glass and copper. All of them are rarely used due to their high cost and whimsicality.

Stone and glass bathtubs, despite special treatment, due to which there is almost no risk of cracking, are susceptible to impacts and are easily chipped.

Copper is a plastic material that is easily deformed under the influence of hot water and the weight of the human body. In general, stone ones are more often used as built-in ones, usually mounted in the floor, while glass and copper ones are installed on frames that also perform artistic functions.

Hydromassage

A bathtub with a hydromassage system is the choice of those who are often exposed to stress, sit for a long time in an uncomfortable chair and suffer from muscle pain, as well as those who simply love real comfort.

Hydromassage units include a small compressor, a motor and a system of pipes ending in wall-mounted nozzles. When turned on, compressed air or water is released from the nozzles under pressure, and 10-20 minutes of such a massage is enough for complete relaxation.

Hydromassage baths are most often made of acrylic; foreign manufacturers also offer them in steel and cast iron. The simplest ones have a pneumatic control system - the operating mode and intensity of the jets are set using mechanical levers. With electronic control, they also allow you to regulate the level and temperature of the water, set massage programs, and combine hydro and air massage.

The number and location of nozzles may vary. A number of manufacturers of hydromassage bathtubs offer models with a medically justified arrangement of nozzles - opposite the neck, lower back and legs of a lying person.

Most often, the direction of the jets can change during a massage - this is provided by models with rotating nozzles.

They consume little energy and do not require special care - it is enough to pour a special disinfectant liquid into the system tubes once a month to avoid problems with sediments and microorganisms. Some have a drying system to prevent mold - this is useful if you plan not to use it, for example, during a vacation trip.

Bathtub dimensions - it’s better to know in person

It is purchased mainly so that you can lie down in it and relax.

Therefore, the ideal size is determined experimentally. In addition, of course, it is worth considering in which room you plan to install the purchase.

Standard bath sizes are 150-180 cm in length, 70-85 cm in width and 50-65 cm in depth. Most bathrooms in houses built in Europe were designed according to these parameters. Soviet time, so you can install it almost always.

If you need to save on space, for example, when you also plan to install a washing machine, a laundry basket and a towel cabinet, what size bathtub is best to choose is one of the most difficult questions. In this case, you should pay attention to corner structures. They fit well into a small room, and are often more convenient than a short rectangular shape.

However, when choosing between rectangular acrylic and rectangular cast iron, you need to pay attention to the fact that with the same external dimensions they most often have different volumes.

This is due to the fact that acrylic ones are usually equipped with internal armrests and a headrest. What is more necessary – these additions or an extra few liters of volume – is a matter of taste.

Today's plumbing market offers many non-standard, but useful and relevant options. In addition to plumbing fixtures of unusual shapes, there are rectangular ones, which differ from the usual ones only in double the width and two headrests - for two people. Hydromassage systems sometimes come with water lighting, which makes evening relaxation even more relaxing. Models with anti-slip coating and handles are useful for renovations in the apartments of elderly people.

Which bathtub is best to choose is up to the owners to decide together with the builders. Regardless of the budget and conditions, the disadvantages of any material and dimensions can be turned into advantages - it is better to take care of this in advance.

svoirem.ru

Which bath is better?

The bathroom is one of the most necessary and important places in the house, as there a person can regularly maintain their own hygiene and simply relax after a hard day. Today, manufacturers make bathtubs from a wide variety of materials (cast iron, steel, acrylic). Therefore, which bathtub is better to choose - acrylic, steel or cast iron - this is the personal choice of each buyer. When choosing plumbing, you should take into account the disadvantages and advantages of the materials from which it is made. From this point of view, we will consider which bath is better.

Acrylic bathtubs: pros and cons

Acrylic plumbing began to be produced not so long ago, but in a short period of time it has become very in demand and popular. Acrylic is an elastic material from which you can build plumbing fixtures of any shape. Due to this, a unique bathroom design is created. Let's consider the advantages and disadvantages of such material.

Advantages:

• A light weight. On average, an acrylic bathtub weighs no more than 30 kilograms. Therefore, one person can carry it and install it.
• Good thermal conductivity. Due to this, the water in the bathroom can remain hot for a very long time.
• Variety of forms. The material is heated to desired temperature and blow out the mold future bath. Shapes can be: triangular, square, round, etc. Usually, unique designer products are also made from acrylic.
• Reliability. By using metal fastenings and the frame, the installation is very firmly fixed. It is also covered special resins which protect against damage.
• Corrosion resistance. Unlike steel plumbing, acrylic does not corrode. Rust cannot appear in a bathroom made of polymer material.
• Noise. The process of collecting water occurs silently.
• Restoration. In case of visible damage to the installation, the defects can be corrected using liquid acrylic.

Flaws:

• Fragility. If you drop a heavy object into the bathtub or hit it hard, cracks and holes may appear.
• Deformation. At high temperatures, the material can change shape, the melting point is 160 degrees. This hot water does not flow from the bathroom faucet. However, if you add too hot water, the plumbing equipment will immediately react to this. Therefore, manufacturers recommend turning on the cold water tap first.
• Cleaners. Abrasive detergents severely damage the structure of the material. Therefore, it is recommended to buy special cleaning products that are safer to use. From what is available, they use soft gel compositions and pastes, without aggressive acids or alkalis.

Important! High-quality acrylic plumbing fixtures are very expensive and can last about 20 years. However, when purchasing, it is very difficult to determine a reliable model. Therefore, it is recommended to choose with the help of a consultant or a good specialist in this field. Along with this, there are also very affordable models on the market, so if you need budget bath for a couple of years, you can easily afford this option.

Steel plumbing: pros and cons

Steel bathtubs are found in almost every home. Often they are given a standard classic shape - a rectangle. They are much heavier, unlike acrylic installations. They also have very low noise insulation. Let's consider the pros and cons of such models.

Pros:

• Durability and long service life. Due to its resistance to adverse factors, the service life of such plumbing fixtures increases.
• Resistant to abrasive cleaning agents. Since steel is very durable, it can be cleaned with substances that contain alkaline and acidic elements.
• Not subject to mechanical damage and cracks.
• Very easy to install.
• Does not accumulate static electricity.

Important! If you compare models to determine which bath to choose - acrylic, steel or cast iron, then a steel product will cost less than any other option.

Minuses:

• Subject to corrosion. Since steel belongs to the group of metals, there is a high probability of rust due to high level humidity.
• Poor thermal conductivity. In a steel structure, water cools very quickly.
• Low level of noise absorption. While the water is filling, there is a roar throughout the entire bathroom. This brings discomfort.

Cast iron plumbing: pros and cons

Cast iron plumbing is chosen by people who do not want to bother too much with installation and maintenance. It is quite easy to use and is not subject to mechanical damage.

Pros:

• Service life more than 50 years.
• Made from very durable material.
• Resistant to impacts and cracks.
• Good sound insulation when drawing water.
• Keeps water warm for two hours.
• Very simple and easy to care for.

Minuses:

• It has a large and almost unbearable weight.
• Not a large selection of forms. Typically comes in a standard rectangular shape.
• Slippery inner coating.

Important! Due to the fact that cast iron plumbing is covered with many layers of enamel, there is a risk of damage. Therefore, it is not recommended to drop heavy things into the bathtub, as they can damage the enamel layer.

How to choose a bath?

Many buyers are wondering how to choose an acrylic bathtub, because this option remains invariably more in demand today? To make it easier to make a choice, there are several rules, following which you can make the right choice with your purchase:

1. Thickness. The thicker the bath, the stronger and more resistant to mechanical shock it is. The thickness of a high-quality durable structure is at least 6 mm.
2. Price. The lower the cost, the greater the guarantee that the product is made of low-quality material.
3. When purchasing, pay attention to the presence of gloss on the inside of the structure. If it is, then you will buy a reliable acrylic model.
4. Elasticity. If, when you press on the surface of the structure, it deforms, it means it is made of cheap plastic.
5. The surface of the structure must be free of roughness. Ideally, it should be even and smooth. If there is noticeable damage, this indicates bad technique manufacturing and poor quality.
6. The color of plumbing equipment must be uniform, without translucency. If the color is uneven, this indicates that the product is made of thin acrylic sheet.
7. It is better to choose a standard form of construction, as this gives more guarantees that it is made from durable, high-quality raw materials.

Important! When choosing plumbing, you must decide for yourself what is more important to you - price or quality. Buying a quality unit is closely related to its cost. The more expensive the bathroom, the greater the guarantee of reliability and quality.

serviceyard.net

Renovations are ongoing at our house. At the moment, work has begun in the bathroom. And naturally, the question arose: “Which bath to choose?” After scouring the Internet and reading reviews, I decided on an acrylic bathtub. Here I have compiled a small comparison chart to clearly display the advantages and disadvantages of various baths.

Until this time we had a cast iron bathtub. She was quite a few years old, probably older than me. She served her purpose a long time ago. The enamel had peeled off and the surface felt like sandpaper. Swimming in it turned into a real extreme sport. 😉 And it got dirty very quickly, because... rust from the water clogged into the formed pores. Cast iron is not a plastic material, so bathtubs made from it cannot boast of a variety of shapes. Only one standard rectangular shape is possible, variations only slightly affect the length and width of the bath.

Steel bathtubs have much more shapes. They can be square, rectangular, or semicircular.

But acrylic bathtubs will completely satisfy your wild imagination. If you really want, you can order a custom-made bathtub. The main thing is that there is enough money :)

By the way, when they took out our cast-iron bathtub, it took 4 men, since the weight of the bathtub was 130 kg 😉 (it’s good that we live on the first floor). All cast iron bathtubs are heavy. Following them in weight are steel bathtubs. Their weight ranges from 20 to 40 kg.

Well, the lightest are acrylic bathtubs. Her weight is only 15-25 kg. Even I was able to lift it myself without any help. I think that those who live on the 5th floor of a five-story building (without an elevator) should not buy a cast-iron bathtub.

Acrylic bathtubs have good noise absorption, i.e. the sound of rising water will not be heard by curious neighbors. The “loudest” and “ringing” is steel bath.

The steel bathtub has one more big drawback– the water in it will cool down very quickly. You won't be able to enjoy the hot, foamy high (D). You will have to constantly add hot water, which leads to excessive consumption of both water and electricity (if you have a water heater). In the cast iron bathtub I could soak in the hot water for a long time. Hot water cooled down by 1ºC in 5 minutes. And in an acrylic bathtub, the water cools by 1ºC in 30 minutes. So that's a big plus.

Of course you can during installation metal bath reduce heat loss and reduce its “ringing”. For this craftsmen put the bathtub in sand or foam it completely with polyurethane foam. By the way, it’s worth noting that the surface of a steel bathtub is very slippery. And this is unsafe! Read the article “7 Hidden Dangers in the Bathroom.”

What can you say about the strength of various bathtubs? Steel and cast iron are, of course, more durable materials than acrylic. Acrylic is afraid of mechanical damage. But... Even if you scratch or even make a hole in an acrylic bathtub, it can be restored. There are special repair kits for sale for such a case (Y).
If you are faced with a choice, which bath to choose, then weigh the pros and cons. Because in each individual case different requirements come to the fore. For example, if you are very limited in funds or you need a bathtub for your dacha, then a steel bathtub is a good choice. Choose a bath based on your tastes and preferences.

And this is the state of my bathroom now: -O.

Be sure to watch this video. It is very interesting how acrylic bathtubs are made.

When purchasing a bathtub, the owner expects that the product will last for many years, will be comfortable and beautiful throughout its entire service life. This is an expensive plumbing product, so it is chosen carefully, comparing the advantages and disadvantages of different materials, shapes, and brands. A bathtub is purchased not only for hygienic purposes. It largely determines how comfortable your rest will be at the end of the working day.

Warm water with foam is a way to relieve stress, tidy up the body and calm the mind. Manufacturers offer many models. The most popular ones are made of acrylic and cast iron. Let's compare which bathtub is better - acrylic or cast iron.

The bathtub market is very diverse. In addition to steel, cast iron, acrylic bathtubs, you can find unique designer products made of glass, marble, earthenware and even wood. They are very beautiful, but most often impractical and/or expensive.

For many years, the choice came down to two materials - steel and cast iron. In recent decades, acrylic products have gained immense popularity.

Owners of small bathrooms are forced to look for ways to install multiple plumbing fixtures in a limited space. Corner baths solve this problem: they take up minimal space and at the same time maintain maximum functionality.

Our compatriots are increasingly choosing acrylic or cast iron bathtubs. Both types are excellent for installation in city apartments and private houses, and the materials have their own advantages and disadvantages.

When choosing any plumbing fixture, the following indicators are of fundamental importance: durability, design, installation features, practicality, price.

The cost of bathtubs is influenced by the quality, reputation of the manufacturer, and the presence of additional functions. In recent years, baths with hydro and air massage have become especially popular. Such models allow you not only to relax and enjoy warm water, but also have a positive effect on your health.

Strength and durability: cast iron is unrivaled

Cast iron is one of the most reliable metals. It is resistant to mechanical damage, does not corrode, holds its shape perfectly, and does not bend. The thickness of the walls of bathtubs made of this material is 6-8 mm. The products are very heavy, so manufacturers immediately equip their products with strong, stable legs.

During installation, the owner does not have to worry about additional strengthening of the bathtub. After installation, it does not move or sag. The surface of the bathtub is covered with durable enamels, thanks to which the finished product retains its original appearance for many years. Restoring enamel is not difficult and costs reasonable money.

The durability of acrylic products is questionable. In many ways, the service life depends on the thickness, quality of the material itself and the features of the installation. Acrylic is light and flexible. On the one hand, this is an absolute advantage, because allows you to create products of complex shapes and facilitates installation.

On the other hand, there is an obvious drawback, since the bathtub has to be additionally strengthened during installation, and its bottom bends under the weight of a person, which creates a feeling of instability of the structure.

Cast iron models can be very attractive, but the design has a lot to do with the price. If the buyer is ready for additional expenses, you can purchase a beautiful cast iron bathtub. The models are simple in form, and decorative functions are performed by accessories and color schemes

A high-quality acrylic bathtub can last 10-15 years if the owner chooses it correctly and does not save when purchasing. If the product loses its presentable appearance, it can be restored.

Design: variety of acrylic models

The plasticity of acrylic allows you to create bathtubs of a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The material can be of any color and shade, and the coating is very durable and does not wear out over time. The product remains bright and pleasant to look at for many years.

As for the shape, when choosing, you should avoid overly intricate configurations with many bends. Practice shows that the probability of deformation of a product of complex shape is much higher, since a durable polymer is less plastic than a low-quality material. A too pretentious shape is a reason to be wary.

Cast iron bathtubs are not as varied and beautiful as acrylic ones. Their only advantage is their durable coating. But it does not fade and resists mechanical stress well.

If you take proper care of your bathroom and avoid scratches and chips, the enamel will remain shiny and snow-white for a long time. To increase the strength of enamels, modern manufacturers add silver, titanium and other metals.

Color therapy is one of the great ways to relieve stress and get a boost of energy. A bright bathtub will decorate the interior, zone the room and at the same time bring positive emotions. This is why colored acrylic models are in demand, despite the higher price compared to traditional white ones.

The shapes of cast iron bathtubs leave much to be desired. Usually these are the simplest, most unpretentious configurations. The material is heavy, not flexible, and the walls of the products are thick, which greatly limits the flight of designer imagination.

Installation: “monumental” cast iron and “flimsy” acrylic

Which bathtub is better to install – acrylic or cast iron? Even the most modest and thin cast-iron bathtub weighs about a hundredweight. Adding to it the weight of water and a bathing person, we get a pressure of 200-250 kg at a relatively small area. This is a serious load that only concrete floors can withstand.

In buildings where the floors are made of wood, it is advisable to install lighter acrylic models or to further strengthen the building structures, because this material can easily withstand a weight of about 150 kg, and 200-250 kg is a real test of strength.

The heavy weight of cast iron models ensures their stability. Acrylic bathtubs, on the other hand, sag and appear unstable. However, this impression is deceptive and is only created due to the relatively low weight.

Installing an acrylic bathtub is in many ways similar to installing a steel bathtub, but has some features. The support knives of the acrylic model are attached directly to the body. You have to drill acrylic. This material is very malleable, so you need to be careful not to damage it. In addition to the legs, to give stability to the structure, a rigid frame is assembled and the bottom is reinforced

For ease of installation, manufacturers complete their products with special legs that are screwed to the bathtub. Some owners install bathtubs on top alone, but many prefer an additional frame made of wood, metal or brick to increase stability.

This also affects the weight, so it is difficult to decide exactly which bathtub is easier to install - acrylic or cast iron. In the first case, there may be a need for strengthening, in the second there are some difficulties due to the initially large mass.

Practicality: which bathroom is easier to care for?

Both types of bathtubs are very practical and easy to use. Cast iron does not make much noise when pouring water from the tap into the bathtub, and acrylic makes even less noise. Both materials retain heat well, but acrylic is more convenient in this regard.

Cast iron takes a long time to warm up, but also maintains the water temperature for a long time (the water cools by 1 degree in 10 minutes). Acrylic is not initially a cold material; its surface is more pleasant to the touch. At the same time, it retains heat even better (the temperature drops by 1 degree in 30 minutes).

Acrylic bathtubs require more careful care than cast iron ones. While an enamel coating can withstand almost any influence except abrasives, an acrylic coating is more sensitive to chemicals. To care for acrylic, it is advisable to buy special products. When using them, there is no need for intensive rubbing of the surface. Simply apply the product and rinse, the dirt will flow down on its own.

You can safely pour water into an acrylic bathtub, the temperature of which is about 60 degrees. Hotter water may cause surface deformation. But cast iron can withstand almost any temperature without consequences. To care for both types of bathtubs, non-abrasive household chemicals are used.

The enamel of cast iron products is much more resistant to aggressive substances, but it is still advisable to use gentle compounds. The acrylic surface can be damaged if too aggressive chemicals or boiling water are used for cleaning. How to properly care for both types of bathtubs is described in detail in the video:

Price: how much does the buyer pay and for what?

The cost of bathtubs made from both materials differs slightly. Prices are determined depending on design, quality, brand. Simple forms and traditional White color will cost the buyer less than pretentiousness - this is obvious, but a too primitive model will not bring joy.

It is important when choosing not to skimp on quality, because by purchasing something that is obviously “cheap”, the consumer creates many problems for himself. The product may not meet the stated characteristics and will quickly require repair or replacement. You should make a purchasing decision if the price-quality-design ratio seems acceptable.

Which bathtub is better - acrylic or cast iron, the final choice always remains with the buyer. Only he himself knows what he expects from plumbing and how he plans to use it. The main thing is that the purchased product meets the owner’s needs and a reasonable price.

Three signs of a quality bath

Plumbing stores have a wide range of products. Often, buyers are simply lost in choice.

There are many pleasant-looking models, and sometimes the choice is spontaneous, because it is difficult to find out the advantages and disadvantages of each product. There are three main signs by which you can determine whether the model you like is worth spending time on:

• Wall thickness. If for a cast iron bathtub this characteristic is not so important, since the product retains strength even with relatively thin walls, then for an acrylic model the indicator is fundamental. The thicker the walls, the stronger the product itself. Usually the bottom is made thicker so that the structure can better withstand loads, but pay attention to the sides of the model. If the material is thin, then no matter how beautiful the bathtub is, it is better to choose another model, even at the expense of design.
• Coating thickness. It is obvious that the enamel or acrylic coating must be applied evenly and accurately. But its thickness also matters: a dense coating is more resistant to abrasion, scratches, and chips. The quality can be determined at the location where the drain is installed. If you like several models of approximately the same price, then by comparing the thickness of the coating, you can make the final choice.
• Equipment and additional functions. It is worth paying attention to the thickness of the bathtub legs. This is true for both acrylic and cast iron models. Supporting structures must be stable and reliable. When choosing an acrylic bathtub, it is better to choose a model equipped with a high-quality metal frame. If you need additional functions, for example, hydromassage, you will have to pay extra for them, but the result is worth it. There is no need to deny yourself pleasure in favor of saving, because a bathtub is bought for many years.

Feel free to ask sellers about each model you like, but also pay attention to the adequacy of their answers. For example, if a seller claims that the entire wall of an acrylic model with a thickness of 6-8 mm consists exclusively of acrylic, then he is probably either incompetent or deliberately misleading the buyer.

In the place of the drain and overflow holes of a new bathtub, you can always see the thickness of the coating. On more expensive models it is usually thicker. If the difference in price is insignificant, it makes sense to overpay for an extra millimeter of coating in order to save on its restoration in the future

The material for making acrylic bathtubs consists of several layers, and acrylic is the top one. This is a “front” coating, and the performance properties of the product depend on its quality. Check the thickness at the drainage point, press on the surface of the bathtub to make sure it is strong.

If, when you press the wall of an acrylic bathtub, the wall “plays,” you should choose another model, preferably even from a different company. This is an indicator of low quality material. No frame can fully compensate for the deficiency. Also, the wall should not be “transparent” or smell of chemicals.

We offer a video with useful tips on choosing cast iron and acrylic bathtubs:

When choosing a cast iron model, check how evenly the coating is applied. Roughness, unevenness and other defects are unacceptable. This is a clear sign of poor quality casting and/or enamel. The ideal option is a smooth surface coated with powder paint.

A cast iron bathtub cannot be bent or broken. The thickness of the walls affects the rigidity of the structure, but even thin walls successfully cope with the loads. In such a bath you can bathe, do laundry, and wash animals. If you do not scratch the coating, all these manipulations will not affect the bathtub in any way

And again about the price. The difference in cost between acrylic and cast iron bathtubs is small, so you can afford to choose a material that you trust more. If you have the opportunity to purchase a model from a well-known brand, you should take advantage of this chance. “Reputable” manufacturers care about their reputation; their products are usually really better than those from little-known companies. By paying more “for the name”, you pay for higher quality.

Nowadays, on the one hand, it is easy to change a bathtub that has already served its purpose, since their large assortment allows you to choose any bathtub you need in terms of design, color and set of functions. On the other hand, it’s easy to get lost among all this diversity and make up your mind. How to make the right choice?

Bathtubs come in a wide variety of colors, and sometimes you can even custom paint your bathtub your own. It should be borne in mind that if you purchase a bathtub of a certain color, then it is desirable that all the plumbing fixtures in the bathroom be made in the same color.

Bathtub shapes are also available in a wide variety: oval, round, rectangular, triangular. Sometimes in stores you can find completely unusual baths: for two, with different handles, ladders and armrests for greater comfort.

You can choose a bathtub model that has an anti-slip coating on the bottom. The size of the bathtub is also very important: the main thing is that it fits perfectly into the bathroom.

The material from which the bathtub is made can also be varied: copper, steel, cast iron, acrylic and so on. And it’s difficult to say unequivocally that cast iron or acrylic bathtubs are better without having basic knowledge about them.

Before making a purchase that is expected to last for many years, it is necessary to arm yourself with knowledge about the different bathroom materials and their properties.

How to choose an acrylic bathtub

Acrylic bathtubs have recently replaced steel and cast iron ones. Before purchasing an acrylic bathtub, you need to clearly understand what acrylic is in order to know.

On in simple language acrylic is something like plastic. The acrylic sheet is heated and it becomes plastic. It is at this moment that the bath is “blown” out of it. After the product has cooled, it is reinforced.

If you choose which bathtub is better, iron or acrylic, then when choosing an acrylic bathtub you need to pay attention to:

• to the thickness of the manufactured bathtub: the thicker the acrylic sheet from which it is made, the stronger it is (the strongest bathtubs are 5-6 millimeters);
• by the number of layers of reinforcement: the more of them, the stronger the bathtub will be (layers of reinforcement can be easily seen by looking at the side of the bathtub. They look like rings on a tree trunk);
• on the price of the product: a low price may indicate that this is a bathtub made of ordinary ABS plastic, covered on top with only a thin layer of acrylic (1-2 mm);
• to a glossy shine, since bathtubs made of real acrylic have it;
• for the flexibility of the bathtub(you can put a little pressure on the bottom of the bathtub: if the bathtub is made of plastic and not acrylic, then it will sag under the weight);
• on product transparency: acrylic itself is an opaque material, therefore, if you look at the light, the side of the bathtub should not be visible;
• on the shape of the bathtub: the simpler it is, the better (it is easier for manufacturers to blow bathtubs of non-standard design from thin sheets acrylic);
• on the smooth surface of the bath: if there are roughness and dents, then the bathtub is not of high quality;
• on the color of the product: it must be uniform, since acrylic is actually plastic, and plastic with various stains is bad plastic.

Acrylic bathtubs, thanks modern technologies, with which they are produced, are of good quality: resistant to abrasion. Thus, a good acrylic bathtub will last for many years, and the possibility of using it at home will only bring greater pleasure when using it.

If you need a really high-quality acrylic bathtub, then you should not skimp on it: the stronger the bathtub, the more expensive it is.

Therefore, you need to decide for yourself: either quality, or low price, but be prepared for the fact that, perhaps, at one moment such a bathtub may not withstand the water pressure or temperature and burst.

In addition to acrylic bathtubs, there is also a wide variety of other materials from which bathtubs are also quite successfully made, for example, steel. To decide for yourself which bathtub is better, steel or acrylic, you need to obtain information about the properties of steel bathtubs.

How to choose a steel bath

In terms of price, steel bathtubs are cheaper than all their other counterparts, so they are in great demand. But this does not mean that a steel bathtub is worse than all others and does not have any advantages.

Steel is a non-porous lightweight material. Thanks to these properties of steel, a thinner layer of enamel can be applied to the bathtub. During drying at high temperatures, the enamel penetrates 1/3 into the micropores of a product made of steel, which makes such enameled steel subsequently resistant to various acids and abrasive substances. Also, such a bath will have increased wear resistance and impact resistance.

Based on the following reasoning: which bathtub is better, acrylic or iron, then in order to choose a good steel bathtub you need to check it on several points:

• bath wall thickness on average 3-4 mm (if the steel from which the bath is made is thinner, then there is a possibility of its deformation under the weight of a person);
• steel bath weight approximately 30 - 40 kg (if the bathtub weighs less, it will most likely sag from the weight, and the enamel will begin to crack);
• coating quality;
• bathtub warranty (average 10 years);
• bathtub depth: the optimal depth is 50-60 cm, since it is low enough to climb into and deep enough to wash half-sitting;
• bathtub length: 160 – 170 cm is considered optimal, but everything, of course, depends on the height of the person himself.

A steel bathtub also has an attractive appearance due to the enamel coating and in appearance such a bathtub is similar to a cast iron one, sometimes it is even difficult to distinguish them. If we compare which bathtub is better, steel or acrylic, then steel bathtubs are much stronger than their counterparts made of acrylic.

How to choose a cast iron bath

Cast iron bathtubs are still considered the best option for the average buyer who prefers a regular bathtub with a regular shape.

But still, when buying even the simplest bathtub, you need to be careful and pay attention to everything:

• the dimensions of the bathtub purchased must necessarily correspond to the dimensions of the bathroom, so before purchasing it is necessary to take the necessary measurements;
• The width of the bathtub should be such that it can easily fit through the opening of the bathroom door, otherwise partial dismantling of the door is inevitable;
• the depth of the bath is also important: especially in old small apartments;
• the enamel coating should be shiny without scratches, which may subsequently cause deformation of the protective layer;
• if you are purchasing a bathtub for a disabled person or an elderly person, then it is better to look in advance for a bathtub with an anti-slip coating and with all kinds of handrails;
• adjustable legs near the bath are important for those bathrooms where there is an uneven floor;
• It is also necessary to pay attention to the manufacturer of the bathtub, which has proven itself well for a long time.

Cast iron bath

Cast iron bathtubs look great thanks to the good enamel. Also, cast iron bathtubs are practically scratch-resistant, and you can care for them using any detergent.

Bathtubs made of cast iron are produced by casting, as a result of which the product is heavy but durable, which guarantees the preservation of the shape of the bathtub under high loads. Due to its high corrosion resistance, a cast iron bathtub can easily live for 50 years.

If you ask the question: which bath is better, cast iron or steel, then a steel bath is lighter, but a cast iron bath has the ability to retain heat longer. And the question “which bathtub is better, cast iron or acrylic” can be answered as follows: acrylic bathtubs are stronger because they have elasticity, while cast iron is a fragile material and the product can be damaged if hit.

In order to decide which bath is better, you need to know about the advantages and disadvantages of different baths.

What are the benefits of baths:

• acrylic (the plasticity of the material makes it possible to produce products of a wide variety of shapes. Also, such bathtubs are very light, retain heat well, are durable and can easily remove scratches);
• cast iron (often has screw legs, which allows you to adjust its height and retains heat well);
• steel (lightweight, low cost).

Based on the advantages of bathtubs, based on weight, we can say that an acrylic bathtub or a cast iron bathtub is better if it can withstand high temperatures.

Disadvantages of baths:

• acrylic (if the bathtub is made of thin acrylic, it will spring under your feet. It is strictly forbidden to clean a bathtub made of acrylic with abrasives. Only liquid cleaning products and soft sponges should be used);
• cast iron (heavy, also modern bathtubs are made of thin cast iron, the surface is porous and, as a result, collects dirt and rust well, it is difficult to remove the resulting chip);
• steel (do not retain heat well, are not stable, water gets into them noisily.)

Based on the shortcomings of various bathtubs, we can conclude that next question: which bathtub is better, acrylic or cast iron. In terms of surface hygiene, an acrylic bathtub is the best, but in terms of durability, cast iron ones are the best.

And the question which bathtub is better, acrylic or steel, can be answered as follows: a steel bathtub costs less, but it is easier to remove scratches with an acrylic bathtub.

Despite the presence of shortcomings in each type of bathtub, some of them can still be eliminated.

In order to correct the poor sound insulation of steel bathtubs, as well as reduce the cooling time of the water in it, several tricks are used:

• At one time, a special polymer coating for bathtubs appeared on the market, which reduced the noise level of water in the bathtub. However, unfortunately, its price was so high that steel bathtubs with such a coating immediately began to move from the economy class group to a more expensive one.
• When purchasing a steel bathtub, some sellers recommend placing it in a container with sand when installing it, immersing it about 1/3 of the way.
• There is also another way to install additional supports under the bottom of the bathtub, for example, from bricks, and free place between and the bathtub fill with polyurethane foam. True, this will require at least 4 cylinders of polyurethane foam.
  After this, you will have to work on decorating the stands and foam using plastic panels or ceramic tiles.
• In European steel bathtubs, special rubber gaskets are attached to the bottom.

Thus, we can say that everything depends not only on the bathtub itself that you chose: expensive acrylic or cheap steel. Much also depends on the correct installation of the selected bathroom. And you can judge which bathtub is better, acrylic or cast iron, only based on your own needs.

If you have already decided to accomplish the feat and are ready to start renovating your bathroom, then you need to first decide on the plumbing. A properly selected bath is the key to health and comfort for many years. Let's try to analyze and learn how to choose correctly this, without a doubt, the most important bathroom item.
Now in stores there is a very large selection of bathtubs for every taste.

Price, manufacturer, case materials, color, etc. The eyes widen from such abundance. So how do you make sense of this variety of shapes, colors, functions, sizes, components and accessories? If we discard all the bullshit that sellers tell us, the most important criteria remain quality, price and the advantages or disadvantages of various materials.

The material of the bathroom is the main thing that interests us as a buyer at the initial stage of selection. Let's try to structure information about different types of bathtubs, find out their advantages and disadvantages.

Video on the topic: Which bathtub is better to choose and buy?

Description: Which bath is better to choose? How to choose and which bath to buy? I am entering into the debate between steel, cast iron and acrylic bathtubs.

Photo of an antique bathroom with gilded legs and deep blue color

Choice of bathtub: acrylic, steel or cast iron

If you decide to purchase a new bathtub, you will certainly be faced with the question: which model to choose? What material is in fashion now? Which bathtub has proven itself best during use: cast iron, steel or acrylic? We need to figure out which undeniable advantages and every material of manufacture has disadvantages.

Old friends - cast iron bathtubs

Cast iron has been known for a long time. Many people read that a cast iron model will serve for at least 50 years faithfully, and there is no better material for such an important product. Is it so?

• Good stability. You can easily sit on the edge without fear of it swaying. Cast iron has a lot of weight, so the products are stable, but quite heavy. Cast iron bathtubs, which are produced abroad, are made of lightweight material

• Long service life. If the cast iron is of high quality, the service life can be almost unlimited. The main thing is not to damage the enamel. Avoid dropping heavy objects onto the surface
• The product is easy to keep clean. The material is not afraid of various powders and cleaning agents
• Water poured into such a bath retains its original temperature for a very long time. Heat retention in a cast iron bath is the highest possible among different materials
• When filling a cast iron bathtub with water, the noise is insignificant, as, for example, in a bathtub made of sheet steel,
• The cast iron product is installed in the usual way. No special knowledge needed
• The interior of the room where a cast-iron bathtub is installed can be simply luxurious, because bathtubs from this material are often made in a palace style, with inlay, gilding, noble silver or blackening

Photo of a steel bathroom in high-tech style

• Quite an expensive pleasure
• The massive design and fairly large weight create some inconvenience during installation
• Difficulty in restoring the surface of a bathtub after damage

Bathroom sinks are also made from different materials. For example, made of stone. You can find an article about them here.
A glass bathroom sink can be an original and attractive solution.

Photo of a white corner bathroom

Available steel baths

Many people choose steel models, since their cost suits the general public. Imported products are much more expensive than domestic ones, keep this in mind. Besides the low price, there are some other positive aspects. There are not many of them, but still.

• Quite light weight of the product. To install a new or replace an old bathroom, you don’t need many helpers
• High-quality enamel, which can be easily replaced if damaged. Bathtub restoration specialists will cover the unsightly surface of your bathtub with a layer of new enamel in a short period of time.

Steel products have many more disadvantages. It is worth considering that if you are tempted by the low cost of a product, you may soon be disappointed in it. Find out what disadvantages buying a steel bathtub promises you:

• Steel is a rather thin material, so stomping, jumping, or dropping anything in the bathtub is strictly prohibited. You can try, but it’s better not to experiment. The enamel will receive microcracks, and the process of destruction of the coating will begin. Chips and dents can be of different sizes. The stronger the blow, the more significant the damage
• The water in such a bath cools down quite quickly, so you constantly have to add hot water. The steel surface never warms up, so on cool days it is unpleasant to lean your back against the wall of the bathtub
• If you fill a steel bathtub with water, the roar of falling water can be heard to your neighbors. This is due to the thin walls of the product
• It is light in weight and therefore unstable. You cannot stand or sit on the edge, otherwise you may tip over along with the bathtub. Injuries are very real.

Acrylic familiar stranger

Today, many argue that acrylic models are the best among all types of products. Perhaps they are right in many ways. But only a few know what this miracle material is.

An acrylic sheet is made as follows: a varying number of layers of acrylic, a lightweight, durable, impact-resistant material, are applied to a layer of durable plastic. European manufacturers guarantee the presence of at least 5 acrylic layers. Chinese samples, of course, are not of such quality.

Afterwards, using special equipment, a product of the desired shape is extruded from the prepared sheet. For strength and rigidity of the structure, a fiberglass layer is attached to the plastic side, and a wooden board is attached to it. The structure is attached to a frame made of durable metal. The bath is completely ready for use.

Photo of a white rectangular bathroom in high-tech style

• The plastic base allows you to produce products of the most incredible shapes: angular. with uneven walls, asymmetrical, convex and concave, with panels for massage devices, recesses and protrusions
• Beautiful, shiny surface is perfectly smooth
• Excellent heat retention (much better than cast iron models)
• Easy to clean using non-aggressive detergents
• Colonies of bacteria do not appear on surfaces
• Not afraid of strong detergents
• Large selection of models

What conclusion can be drawn? If you're a little strapped for cash, buy a steel bathtub. Perhaps after a while you will replace it with cast iron or acrylic. If finances allow, take a closer look at acrylic or cast iron products. Their service life is much longer. And acrylic bathtubs often perform additional functions (massage, relaxation, Jacuzzi bath).

Photo of a white steel bathtub in a store

Beautiful bathtub is the highlight of the interior

Sparkling clean, with perfect smooth surface And interesting design, the bath will certainly decorate the interior. Pay attention to how varied the design of bathrooms is.

Photo of a bathroom in a bathroom interior

Source: vododelo.ru

Which bath to choose

Cast iron bath: reliability and long service life

The invention of cast iron is not an innovation. But admirers of this material cannot be considered lovers of antiques. Here the choice is determined by the most important criteria - durability and strength. The price may seem high, but the service life of 50 years pays for the purchase costs. Another advantage is that cast iron retains heat for a long time. Of course, it takes a long time to warm up, but you won’t need to replenish the volume of water with boiling water for 2 hours. And this is enough to rest and relax.

Photo of a very beautiful acrylic bathtub

An acrylic bathtub competes with a cast iron product. The shape is decisive when choosing. There are no round or triangular cast iron bathtubs, but in polymer products there are enough all kinds of bulges and corners. In addition to this criterion, owners who are changing bathroom fixtures will think very carefully about weight.

When lifting 120 kg of cast iron into an apartment on the top floor, the movers will not be happy, but the owners will be happy. A cast iron bathtub is stable (due to its weight) and the possibility of flooding the residents of the lower floors due to a broken tank is zero.

What to look for when choosing a cast iron bathtub? There should be no chips on the surface of the sample. You should know that the enamel coating is fragile, and if a heavy object falls to the bottom of the container, damage cannot be avoided. Abrasive cleaning agents also have a negative effect. If you pay due attention to this coating, then take the time to inspect the uniformity of color, the absence of smudges, roughness and other defects.

If you choose the perfect enamel for your bathtub, it will not only last a long time, but will also delight its owners with its shine. The same cannot be said about the acrylic surface.

Photo of a cast iron bathtub: white inside, red outside

The most popular are high-quality acrylic bathtubs

A huge plus of polymer baths is that they come in all shapes and sizes. The manufacturing technology is simple and allows it to be made to suit every taste. There's nothing wrong with your bathroom being small. And for such a room you can choose a suitable synthetic specimen. In a large bathroom, the same choice can save space for washing machine, cabinets, shelves or something else.

What is acrylic? Ordinary and familiar plastic, which is reinforced in several layers to ensure the strength of the material. There is no need to paint products made from this raw material, because... color is added at low tide stage. This gives the color stability; it will not fade or change shade. The reinforced coating becomes resistant to mechanical stress. All damage and abrasions are simply sanded with fine sandpaper.

Not all samples are sufficiently strengthened by several protective layers. You should only pay attention to the presence of metal mesh and fiberglass in the base. The more of these layers, the stronger the walls and bottom of the bath. European manufacturers do not neglect this criterion, so professionals advise relying on the price and manufacturer when choosing. Buying from an unknown manufacturer without a guarantee and at a low price would be a mistake.

The layer thickness should not be less than 6 mm. Better than 8 mm. This parameter is observed mainly by English companies. Europeans also use thick-walled plastic in their products, for example, companies such as Ravak, Bas, Riho and some others. Plumbing fixtures from these manufacturers are in great demand in the CIS.

Which bathtub is better: cast iron or acrylic?

Bathtub made of cast iron and acrylic

• An acrylic container is cheaper and easier to clean (gel detergents are sufficient).
• Fungus does not multiply or appear on a synthetic surface, so the safety and environmental advantages of an acrylic bathtub.
• The lightness of the body, which makes delivery and installation of the polymer bath easier, but also makes it less stable.
• Retains heat inside longer than a cast iron body.
• Cast iron takes a long time to heat up, but polymer takes a long time to heat up.
• An acrylic bathtub can be equipped with hydromassage and other shiny things.

We can conclude that synthetic material is better. But there are some weaknesses here too. For example, the service life of an acrylic bathtub is up to 10 years, but a cast-iron analogue will become unusable only after 50 years. You can make allowances for the fact that a synthetic invention recently entered the plumbing market. Therefore, the actual service life is not yet known, but nevertheless it requires more care than cast iron.

Bathtub and shower in the interior of a bright bathroom

Steel bath - an economical option

Between all the bathtubs: cast iron, acrylic and steel, the latter have become the most profitable purchase. Their low cost is the most compelling argument. A positive reviews after installation they talk about reliability years later. Externally, the steel body looks like cast iron, and the weight is no more than 30 kg, like a polymer container.

Photo of a luxurious bathroom with transparent windows

You will still have to pay special attention to some shortcomings - these are thin walls that can bend under the heavy weight of water and the body. As with a cast iron body, enamel is applied to the surface here. And the price for this convenience is simply surprising - from 3,000 rubles. What can be said about the other side of the coin:

• The steel structure is no different in its variety of shapes - corner option very rare.
• When you wash in such a bath, you can hear a stream of water falling to the bottom. If this starts to bother you, the problem can be solved by laying out a rubber mat.
• Another not very good quality is rapid heat loss. You can freeze while taking a bath if you don’t add hot water.
• Caring for metal plumbing fixtures should be gentle so as not to damage the enamel.

Or maybe we can put a bathtub in the hall? If suddenly it doesn’t fit into the bathroom...

Metal options have quite a few disadvantages, but there is always a way to smooth them out. In general, steel is stronger than acrylic, lasts longer and costs less. Thanks to new inventions, damage to the enamel surface has become possible to correct (restore). The technology for restoring old coatings uses an acrylic element, and this is cheaper than buying a new product.

All the advantages and disadvantages of a particular bathtub material can be learned by using them for quite a long time. And in order to make the right choice in the supermarket, the information provided in the article is enough. After studying it, you will achieve your goal: efficiency, comfort, durability, or all in one bottle!

Video on the topic: REPAIR LESSONS. "Choosing a bath."

Bathroom in the interior. French style

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Which bathtub is better, cast iron acrylic or steel?

If the design of a bathroom with a shower is not for you, then you should take care to really select quality bath. Choosing a bath, like any other choice, is accompanied by weighing the pros and cons. Today, there are only three main materials for bathtubs. But there is so much controversy surrounding them that there is a need to devote a separate article to a review of bathtubs. Surely you yourself have asked the question - which bathtub is better, cast iron or acrylic? If yes, then the text below is especially for you.

Video on the topic: Which bathtubs are better: cast iron, steel, acrylic?

Description: Which bathtubs are better - cast iron. steel. acrylic???

How to choose an acrylic bathtub

An acrylic bathtub is an excellent option for those who want something beautiful and not expensive.
Acrylic bathtubs have recently come to our market. Their characteristic features include low price, rather elegant forms, and difficult to install. Unlike other materials, acrylic is more susceptible to chemical attack and does not withstand pressure well. An acrylic bathtub is more difficult to repair, but, in fairness, it is worth noting that such a bathtub breaks less often. The main advantages of such baths include:

Finishing a white corner bathroom with mosaic tiles

• Low price
• Variety of models
• Light product weight

Unfortunately, acrylic bathtubs have many more disadvantages. It is worth highlighting the following:

• Easily bursts from targeted impacts.
• Cannot withstand strong pressure on one point
• Short service life compared to steel and cast iron
• Acrylic may yellow over time
• Does not tolerate boiling water well
• Must be washed with special chemicals

In general, when choosing an acrylic bathtub, you should be guided by the following principles:

Don't choose a bathtub with too intricate shapes. Armrests, head curves, and other orthopedic textured protrusions look nice and may be useful. However, these bends are where damage most often occurs.

A common problem with bathtubs is acrylic drips on the walls of the bathtub. This problem cannot be immediately identified by eye, but it can be easily checked by touch. Before purchasing, be sure to feel the bathtub. It should be perfectly smooth, without waves. In addition, the bathtub should be inspected for mechanical damage. Acrylic bathtubs easily burst if handled improperly in a warehouse. You must ensure that there are no defects before purchasing. Otherwise, it will be difficult to prove that it was not you who broke the bathtub.

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How to choose a steel bath

A steel bathtub is the golden mean. Such a bathtub has a number of advantages over acrylic bathtubs, and a number of disadvantages over cast iron bathtubs
Steel bathtubs have a number of advantages over acrylic ones, but also a number of disadvantages. With proper thermal insulation, they retain heat on par with acrylic competitors, and during correct operation, are far ahead in terms of wear. The advantages of steel bathtubs include the following points:

• Does not require special means for sanitary treatment.
• Acceptable price
• Pressure resistance

In turn, there are also disadvantages:

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• Unpleasant noise when filling with water
• Suffer from pinpoint impacts (a bottle of cologne falling from a shelf can damage the enamel)
• Stamped design, small variety of models.

When choosing a steel bathtub, pay attention to the condition of the enamel. The coating should be without the slightest cracks. If the seller assures that nothing bad will happen from minor deformation, do not believe it.

Even a small crack on steel bath may cause significant corrosion. The coating rots very quickly and the product becomes unusable. When choosing a bathtub, calculate the size correctly. After all, under a seemingly thin steel bathtub, you will have to fit a fairly thick layer of thermal insulation so that the bathtub does not cool quickly.

Thermal insulation also serves for sound absorption. A well-insulated steel bathtub will not rattle under running water.

White corner bath framed with blue mosaic tiles

How to choose a cast iron bath

Long service life, good heat capacity, heavy weight and expensive price
Cast iron bathtubs appeared earlier than others, and maintain the quality bar to this day. A cast iron bathtub has a high heat capacity. Although it takes a long time to heat up, it will also take a long time to cool down. This is a quality product, the impression of which, however, can quickly be spoiled by raising the bathtub to the 13th floor. Let's take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of these baths.
The advantages of cast iron bathtubs include:

• A cast iron bathtub retains heat well
• In case of damage, the bathtub can be restored. To do this, apply acrylic coating to the bathtub.
• The cast iron bathtub looks really solid and expensive
• Doesn't rattle when filled with water
• Copes well with high pinpoint pressure. Such a bathtub will not burst, like an acrylic one, if you press it hard.
• Unlike acrylic bathtubs, they do not require treatment with special cleaning agents.
• It is not afraid of strong impacts and cannot be deformed.
• Does not require additional insulation
• The bath is stable due to its weight.
• Not afraid of sudden temperature changes

Despite the huge number of advantages, cast iron baths also have disadvantages:
Before choosing a cast iron bathtub, you should make sure that it has no visible defects or damage. Although it is almost impossible to break a cast iron bathtub, there is a high risk of damaging the enamel. If you buy a bathtub with even the smallest cracks, there is a high probability that these scratches will significantly damage it later. general form.

Photo of a steel bathtub with hydromassage

What to choose

Cast iron or acrylic bathtubs have their own advantages; which one is better is up to you to choose. An acrylic bathtub is an excellent economical option for those who want beautiful product at a low price. It is much easier with a cast iron or steel bathtub. They are not difficult to use, they are easier to clean, and they are not likely to break. And even if a cast iron or steel bathtub breaks, they can be repaired, unlike the acrylic version, which is almost impossible to repair. However, the choice is yours. All baths have positive and negative sides, and now you know about them.

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Which bath is better to choose?

Cast iron bath: pros, cons, standard sizes and weight of cast iron baths

Photo of a white bathroom surrounded by yellow and green flowers

For many years, cast iron bathtubs were the most familiar to our compatriots. To this day you can hear that cast iron bathtubs are the best. Indeed, a cast iron bathtub is distinguished by its strength, heat capacity, durable coating, and stability without the use of additional fasteners.

Video on the topic: Bathroom interior design. Choosing a bathtub material.

Description: This video will help you decide which material is better to buy a bathtub from: cast iron, steel, acrylic, quarry. I will tell you about all the advantages and disadvantages of a steel bathtub, cast iron, acrylic and quarryl. Which bath is best to bathe a child in? In which bath does the water cool faster?

The standard sizes of cast iron bathtubs are as follows: 170x70 cm and 150x70 cm (there are exceptions: 75 and 80 cm width). There are also shortened models: 120 and 105 cm, which are available straight or seated.

Imported cast iron bathtubs are made from thinner cast iron (wall thickness no more than 5 mm). They look much sleeker, and some models have comfortable handles.

Bathtubs with a container tapering at the foot end are installed on screw legs, allowing their height to be adjusted.

How much does a cast iron bath weigh?— From 80 to 150 kg!

Cast iron bathtubs made in France, Spain, and Italy are of very high quality and can be equipped with gold-plated or chrome-plated fittings, a semi-automatic drainage system, and a massage unit.

If the listed qualities are important to you, then perhaps, when worrying about which bathtub is better to choose, you will choose this option. However, it doesn’t hurt to get acquainted with bathtubs made from other materials.

Steel bath: pros and cons

Steel is more ductile than cast iron, which allows you to create products from steel of any shape and size.
The surface of cast iron has a porous structure, so over time, particles of rust and dirt accumulate in these pores, which are almost impossible to get rid of. Bathtubs made of steel do not have this drawback, since the pores on the enamel are smaller.

But due to the small thickness of the walls, steel bathtubs ring when taking in water. To increase the sound insulation of a steel bathtub, it is immersed by a third in a box filled with sand.
Or you can fill the outer surface of the bathtub with polyurethane foam, which solves the problem of not only sound insulation, but also stability. And the water will cool more slowly.

Poor quality water can leave a yellow coating on the walls of the bathtub, which is difficult to remove. However, there are bathtubs that are initially coated with a special composition that makes dirty water collapse into drops. These drops roll down the drain and the bath remains clean.

Soft purple color and snow-white bath

Steel baths have significantly less weight than cast iron ones. When installing a bathtub, this is a definite plus, since you can manipulate it alone. However, the stability of a steel bathtub is worse precisely because of its lower weight, so it should only be installed against the wall. Due to their smaller mass, steel bathtubs warm up faster when hot water is poured into it. But because of the same thing, the water cools faster. So, when thinking about which bathtub is better to choose, take all of the above into account.

Acrylic bathtubs: pros, cons, features of caring for acrylic bathtubs

Acrylic is a reliable and durable synthetic material. Due to its properties it is deservedly recognized throughout the world.
Acrylic, like any polymer, is plastic, so acrylic bathtubs are available in different shapes, colors and sizes. The wall thickness of the acrylic bathtub is from 7 to 9 mm.

Glossy shiny front side bathtubs is a result of the properties of acrylic itself.
An important indicator when choosing an acrylic bathtub is environmental friendliness: this material corresponds to the metabolism of the human body. Acrylic is the most hygienic of all materials.

The disadvantage of acrylic as a material is its lack of rigidity. Rigidity is imparted to the products by several reinforcing layers (a mixture of epoxy resin and fiberglass). The greater the number of reinforcing layers, the higher the quality of the bath.

To see the number of reinforcing layers, you need to look at the edge of the side of the bathtub - here the layers are clearly visible. Also, the number of layers can be determined by the sound: the more layers, the duller the sound. The thinness and sonority of the product indicates its low quality.

To increase rigidity and to distribute the load evenly, the bottom and sides of the bath are reinforced.
Frames for acrylic bathtubs, which have from 8 to 10 points of support and from 3 to 5 stiffening ribs, can significantly increase the strength and stability of the bathtub itself. An additional layer of polyurethane foam applied to the reinforced coating provides thermal insulation of the bathtub.

Thanks to the design of the frame legs, uneven floors are compensated.
The legs have special holes that allow the bathtub to be securely fastened to the floor with screws.

Acrylic has a smooth, non-porous surface that is pleasant to the touch.
An acrylic bathtub maintains the water temperature for a very long time. If in a cast iron bath the water cools by 1 degree in five minutes, then in an acrylic bath it cools by 1 degree in 30 minutes.

Bathroom with hydromassage for two

The disadvantage of an acrylic bathtub is that its surface is easily scratched. Therefore, it is not recommended to bathe pets in them. And for cleaning, do not use abrasive powders and pastes, aggressive cleaning emulsions containing alcohol, white spirit, etc. thinners. It is better to use special compounds for acrylic surfaces. Wipe with a soft cloth and liquid detergent.

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