|
You don’t want to get out of a comfortable bathtub - this slogan perfectly describes a series of bathtubs made of cast acrylic from the Czech company RAVAK. The company was founded back in 1991 and was engaged in the production of shower enclosures and trays made of glass, acrylic and ABS plastic. Acrylic regular and hydromassage bathtubs appeared in the company's product range in 1998 and quickly gained recognition from customers as one of the best, ergonomic, easy to use and care for, durable and wear-resistant. And numerous awards received at international exhibitions have secured the company’s reputation as a successful manufacturer of quality products focused on customer needs. Rawak sanitary ware participates in almost all construction exhibitions and constantly receives awards for innovative solutions. Among the latest are the prestigious design award Red Dot2015, participation in Mosbuild-2016 and many others.
Main advantages:
- More than 25 collections of acrylic bathtubs, developed according to the principle of “useful design”. The products will satisfy any, even the most demanding taste. To ensure maximum comfort, choose products from the You series. The wide sides of Evolution bathtubs will be appreciated by caring mothers and tall people. Readers will be interested in the practicality and ergonomics of the Vanda. But buyers with a massive build will prefer the XXL line - extra-large and ultra-comfortable anatomically shaped bathtubs.
- A variety of sizes rare for manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs.
- Ease of use and versatility. The acrylic surface is smooth, highly glossy and non-porous. Therefore, it is easy to wash and has excellent antibacterial characteristics. One of the signs of high-quality acrylic is snow-whiteness. All products from Ravak are boiling white in color and retain their shape for a long time without bending or cracking. In addition, thanks to the special properties of the material, any additional devices or accessories can be integrated into the bathtub, from faucets to hydromassage complexes. An additional advantage is the presence of our own series of household chemicals, which are ideal for Ravak products and provide proper, gentle care for plumbing surfaces.
- Complete set at the buyer's choice.
- Equipment for hydromassage. Hot tubs RAVAK is one of the best and highest quality.
- Decent service life. The service guarantee for bathtubs is 10 years, for hydromassage systems, regardless of water parameters - 2 years, for additional equipment - 2-5 years.
- Price categories: from economy to premium.
The price ranges from 10,000 to 400,000 rubles.
- Extensive network of authorized service centers. Since the manufacturer guarantees the completion of each purchased bathtub according to the client’s request, this obliges Ravak to keep at least one representative, dealer or service point in each major regional center. Thanks to this, each request is promptly reviewed, and repairs are carried out as soon as possible.
|
A bathtub, like any other plumbing equipment, is purchased not for one year, but for ten to fifteen years. In this regard, it should be chosen with the utmost care. New models are constantly appearing on the market with expanded functionality. Therefore, buying the most suitable model is not as easy as it might seem at first glance. Before considering the most popular models, we decided to make it easier for you to choose an acrylic bathtub and provide some useful tips regarding this issue.
Such products have both a monolithic and layered structure; they are made of polymer materials that do not weigh too much, but throughout their service life they retain their original appearance and key performance qualities. Injection models have greater strength compared to layered ones, but distinguishing them from each other is not very easy. To do this, it is advisable to read the accompanying documentation. During the manufacturing process, special antibacterial additives are added to the material, which prevent the proliferation of microbes.
The use of modern materials and manufacturing technologies makes it possible to obtain structures of unique shapes, which cannot be achieved with materials such as cast iron or steel. The bathtubs are highly durable; in this respect they are not inferior to other bathtubs.
In terms of thermal conductivity, they are much better - in an acrylic bath, the water cools much more slowly. In particular, the water temperature decreases by one degree after 20 minutes. In cast iron bathtubs, less time passes - about 10-12 minutes; in steel baths, the water cools even faster - in 5 minutes. As mentioned earlier, acrylic bathtubs do not weigh too much - no more than 20-30 kg, so installation should not be difficult. Another important advantage of this material is its maintainability. Any cracks, chips or scratches can be easily removed.
Acrylic has almost no pores in its structure, which makes the structures easy to clean. Such bathtubs should not be cleaned with powders or substances containing alcohol. Designs can have different colors and a number of additional features. For example, models are equipped with a hydromassage effect - air mixed with water is supplied through special holes, which relaxes muscles and heals the skin. You can find designs with air massage or chromotherapy. Before purchasing, be sure to determine the size of the equipment so that it fits well into the interior of the room.
When developing our rating, we tried to take into account all these points, and also took into account the price-quality ratio of structures. Feedback from users and professional plumbers was important to us, so our review included only the best models that are widely popular.
The best models in the inexpensive price segment
This is a rather original design, which is produced in various sizes, thanks to which it will easily fit into any bathroom. The device comes complete with a frame on which this model is installed, a decorative screen, and a siphon from the overflow system. The design is made on the basis of cast acrylic, equipped with a reinforced frame, which allows it to maintain its original shape throughout its entire service life. If desired, you can order the product in almost any color.
The device is covered by a 10-year warranty. The bathtub has a seat on one side. In addition, the bathtub has a headrest, the sides are wide enough, so if necessary, you can put cosmetics on them. There are no scratches on the surface of the bathtub.
Advantages:
- Very high European quality;
- Long service life;
- The design retains its original shape;
- Easy to install.
Flaws:
- High sides - it will not be very convenient for older people to use.
2. Roca Hall 170×75
This is a Spanish-made model that fits well into the interior of a bathroom decorated with ceramics from the same manufacturer. The structure is made on the basis of 100% cast acrylic, its thickness is 5 mm. The bathtub is additionally equipped with a reinforcing layer; the bottom has an additional insert that increases its strength. The product comes with a frame with a large number of supports. It is made of a stainless profile pipe, painted with powder compositions, even if a large amount of water gets on it, it does not begin to rust.
If necessary, you can order a hydromassage system, as well as the installation of other additional options. The device has a long service life and is covered by a very long warranty. The bathtub can easily fit into both large and small rooms.
Advantages:
- Attractive appearance that will easily fit into any interior;
- Reinforced frame;
- Small mass.
Flaws:
- The anti-slip coating wears off quite quickly.
1. Jika Clavis 170×70 without hydromassage
This model is equipped with the most compact drain-overflow system, thanks to which it can be installed even on low legs; in addition, a reliable mounting system is supplied with the bathtub itself, allowing it to be firmly fixed to one or two walls at once. The depth of the structure is 45 cm - quite enough even for a fairly large person. Overall dimensions can be different - it completely depends on the wishes of the customer. The minimum bath volume is 190 liters.
This product is based on a multi-support frame, so the structure will not sag even under significant weight. Assembly is quite simple - you do not have to resort to the help of specialists. If necessary, you can additionally order a hydromassage system. The bathtub meets all safety requirements and is made from environmentally friendly materials that are safe for human health.
Advantages:
- Material – 100% sanitary acrylic, produced using injection molding technology;
- Everything necessary for assembly and fastening is included in the kit;
- Long warranty – 5 years;
- Safety in terms of operation.
Flaws:
- Hydromassage equipment must be purchased separately.
The best acrylic bathtubs in the mid-price category
It has a slightly rough surface, so slipping in it can be very problematic. It is made of high-quality acrylic sheet, has reinforced ribs, due to which the structure is able to withstand significant loads. The front surface retains its attractive appearance throughout its service life. Acrylic does not chip even due to impacts; there are no marks left on it at all. The design of this bathtub is classic, but it will look organic even in a bathroom designed according to the latest fashion.
The cost of the model is not very high - without additional options it will cost about 16 thousand rubles. The bowl is oval, there are recesses on the sides, the headboard is wide and has a sloping shape. The minimum volume of the device is 180 liters.
Advantages:
- The front layer cannot be damaged even by fairly aggressive detergents;
- If necessary, the integrity of the coating is quickly restored;
- The bath has high antibacterial qualities;
- Beautiful appearance.
Flaws:
- There are stains that are not washed off too easily.
2. RAVAK BEHAPPY 150×75
This model will fit perfectly into the interior of a compact bathroom. The kit includes all the necessary fasteners, including a drain and overflow. The instructions are quite detailed; they describe step-by-step the rules for installing the structure, so you can easily install the bathtub yourself. In addition, a decorative screen comes with the bathtub, which will cover all unsightly areas, in particular, the frame where it is fixed and other details. If necessary, the screen can be easily removed and the structure can be inspected and even minor repairs can be made.
Caring for the model is quite simple - it does not require specialized detergents. The shape of the device is original: on one side the base is quite wide, and towards the other end it narrows, thanks to which it is possible to save a decent amount of free space.
Advantages:
- Reliable, stable frame with adjustable legs;
- Easy to care for;
- Thick layer of acrylic.
Flaws:
- The sides are narrow, so you can't put anything on them.
1. TRITON VICTORIA
This is a corner model with decent capacity. The bathtub has a high level of strength. The internal part is made of a special high-strength resin - the same material used to make sea yachts. The top layer of acrylic is covered with a special material - gelcoat, which has high antibacterial characteristics and is also capable of giving the structure additional shine. The overall dimensions are not too large: they are only 150x150 cm, but its ergonomics are such that you can comfortably lie in it both lengthwise and crosswise. If necessary, a hydromassage system can be ordered for such a bath.
Advantages:
- Beautiful appearance, the bathtub is additionally decorated with transparent panoramic glass, giving the design even greater originality;
- High quality workmanship;
- Reliable frame - the structure does not wobble after installation;
- Decent volume.
Flaws:
The best whirlpool baths
3. BAS Nicole
This model represents an ideal ratio of price and quality; it is also characterized by small overall dimensions - the length of the product is only 160 cm, width 102 cm, height 50 cm. This allows it to be installed even in a small bathroom. The bowl is located diagonally, due to which its volume is increased - even a tall person will be comfortable bathing in such a bathtub. The bowl is slightly widened on one side and narrowed on the other. On the narrow side you can additionally install a sink or washing machine.
The bottom has a slight corrugation, which is quite enough to prevent slipping even in soapy water. The kit comes with a reliable frame that can withstand significant loads. The fastening system allows you to firmly fix the bottom and sides of the structure. The screen covering the front side is attached to the frame using magnets, making it very easy to remove. There is a spacious shelf for shampoo and hygiene products right at hand, and it can also be used as a seat. The headrest is comfortable, on the left side there are all the buttons responsible for controlling the hydromassage system. With its help, you can also turn on the nozzles that provide air massage.
Advantages:
- Easy to install and maintain;
- Looks very interesting;
- A hydro- and aeromassage system is provided.
Flaws:
- The drain has a small diameter, which is why it will clog quickly.
2. BELLRADO GLORIA
This domestically produced design is a model reinforced with a special frame, which gives it additional rigidity. The bathtub is made from the latest acrylic with minimal thermal conductivity; the hot water in it will practically not cool down. When filling there is no noise whatsoever. The bottom is corrugated, non-slip. The control of the hydromassage system here is completely electronic, so during installation you will need to carefully consider connecting the device to the electrical network. The basic set of bathtubs includes a frame, a decorative screen and a drain and overflow system.
Advantages:
- Increased strength;
- Minimum thermal conductivity;
- Doesn't make any noise at all;
- High quality production.
Flaws:
- It will be a little cramped for a tall person.
1.GEMY G9083
This is a fairly expensive model, one of the most expensive among the bathtubs included in our review, but the price is quite justified: the capacity is 280 liters - almost twice as much as the average bathtub. The power of the hydromassage pump is 1.1 kW, and the function of water ozonation is also provided. All controls are electronic; if necessary, the intensity of the massage can be changed. Made from durable acrylic sheet that can withstand significant loads for a long time. It is also worth noting that the design is quite deep - 72 cm.
Due to its large dimensions, the bathtub can comfortably accommodate two people at once. The device is additionally decorated with multi-color lighting. A remote control is supplied with the hydromassage system. A number of additional options are provided, in particular, there is a radio, the ability to receive incoming calls to a landline phone, there is a built-in refrigerator and a TV. In addition, the bathtub comes with a faucet with spout, as well as a soft headrest, allowing for additional relaxation.
Advantages:
- Roomy;
- Multifunctional;
- Beautiful.
Flaws:
- Price;
- Needs a lot of free space.
In conclusion, an interesting video
As you can see, choosing an acrylic bathtub is not so easy, because such devices have a number of functions and capabilities that should not be discounted - they will in any case affect the cost of the product. You should not purchase unnecessary options that you are unlikely to use.
Cheap, strong, durable, varied in design and easy to transport - steel bathtubs combine many of the advantages of acrylic and cast iron counterparts. The market offers a wide selection of similar products, and they differ not only in size and appearance, but also in quality of execution. It is sometimes difficult for an unprepared buyer to identify a sample manufactured in violation of technology. To purchase a truly high-quality, durable and strong product, you need to figure out which steel bathtub is best to choose. We study all the intricacies of the issue and compare steel bathtubs with cast iron and acrylic counterparts.
No. 1. Steel baths: pros and cons
Steel bathtubs are often recommended to those who are tired of bulky ones, but do not yet have confidence in suspiciously light and, moreover, expensive ones. A steel bathtub has a decent number of advantages, and those disadvantages that are inherent in it can be very easily corrected.
Advantages of steel baths:
Minuses steel baths also have:
Many consider it shortcomings the ability to deform under the weight of water and a person, but this is typical only for products with thin walls (1.5-2.5 mm), which are difficult to recommend for purchase. Also, steel bowls are sometimes accused of instability, which can actually make itself felt when mounted on legs. Indeed, a steel bath is lighter than a cast iron one, so it must be secured more carefully. If we are talking about wall installation and covering the bathtub with a screen, then you will not notice this drawback. Some people complain that steel bathtubs cannot be cleaned with abrasive products. Please note that other bathtubs (cast iron and acrylic) are also not recommended to be cleaned with substances containing solid particles.
It turns out that There are only two real disadvantages to a steel bathtub– low thermal insulation and strong noise, but sometimes they are enough to refuse to purchase such a product. In vain! All can be easily fixed. There are special ones on sale soundproofing pads, which are attached to the walls of the bathtub from the outside. Instead, you can use cork or - a layer of 3-4 mm will not only increase sound insulation, but also reduce the thermal conductivity coefficient - 2-in-1. True, the appearance of such a bath will suffer, so you have to. If the bathroom is small, and you were going to install the bathtub under the wall anyway, then it’s okay, but if you install the bathtub in the center, you will have to abandon such a modernization system.
By the way, not so long ago steel bathtubs began to be produced with using special noise-absorbing material, but such products are not yet widespread and are expensive. 
No. 2. Which bathtub is better: steel, cast iron or acrylic?
We hasten to disappoint you; it is impossible to give a definite answer to this question, since each type of bath is good in its own way. If compare steel and cast iron bathtub, then a steel bowl will outperform a cast iron bowl in terms of price, ease of transportation and installation, and variety of shapes and sizes. In terms of service life, cast iron bathtubs are slightly more durable: 50+ years versus 20-30 years for a steel product. The enamel on both types of products is strong and resistant, but on cast iron, as a rule, it is applied in a slightly thicker layer. In terms of heat and sound insulation, cast iron bathtubs are ideal - you don’t have to invent anything.
If we compare steel and acrylic bathtubs, then you can find that a steel bowl is easier to install and maintain, more durable (maximum for acrylic - 15 years) and, of course, more affordable. In terms of variety of shapes and sizes, acrylic and steel bathtubs are almost equal, but the polymer version is still half a step ahead. The acrylic sample weighs less: this simplifies transportation, but somewhat complicates the installation process. In terms of warmth and sound insulation, acrylic is much better than steel.
So, to summarize, we note that a steel bathtub is a kind of compromise. It is cheap, lasts a long time, weighs little, you can find any shape, just solve the problem of thermal insulation and noise - and everything will be fine. If such homemade products and improvements are not for you, then take an acrylic bowl, and if you want an option that will last forever, then -.
No. 3. Types of steel baths
Usually, when they talk about steel bathtubs, they mean enameled samples, but if we consider the topic in detail, it should be noted that there are two types of steel bathtubs:
- made of structural steel with enamel coating;
- made of stainless steel.
Structural steel, coated with a thick layer of durable enamel, is a classic in the world of plumbing. Such products are affordable, perform well in use, and are easy to maintain. The enamel is so durable that it doesn’t care about everyday stress. Of course, over time, cracks and chips may form on it, but with proper care this will not happen soon, and the enamel coating can be done quite simply.
Stainless steel baths still remain a curiosity. They look great and quite unusual, they will decorate the bathroom, but they cost a lot. Another disadvantage is that it can quickly ruin the appearance of such a bathtub. Be prepared to wipe the walls with a dry cloth each time.
No. 4. Steel bath size
We all sometimes want to soak in a spacious bathroom, but not every apartment can afford such luxury. Common sense and logic tell us that we need to take the largest bathtub that can fit in the room and not interfere with the movement and placement of other important items. Since the vast majority of bathrooms have enough, the choice is sometimes difficult.
Steel bathtubs are available in different sizes, from 120 to 200 cm long, 70-85 cm wide:
- bathtubs 120 cm long are called sessile. They can be installed near a short wall in the bathroom, saving space. Of course, you can’t count on the most comfortable water procedures (unless you are a child under 10 years old), but if free space is in short supply and for some reason is not suitable, then there is no choice;
- bathtubs 140-150 cm long slightly more comfortable, but tall people will still have to bend their knees. However, many of us opt for 150 cm bathtubs, which is why they are called standard;
- baths length 160-170 cm with a headrest will be comfortable for people with a height of up to 180 cm;
- the largest baths have length 200 cm and will allow you to get maximum pleasure from water procedures.
Bath width is selected depending on the size of the room and the dimensions of the bather: obese people may not be very comfortable in bowls with a standard width of 70-75 cm. As for the depth (defined as the distance from the bottom of the bathtub and the overflow holes), bathtubs with a depth of about 50 will be most comfortable cm.
No. 5. Steel bath shape
The market offers us a lot of different options for steel bathtubs:
- standard rectangular and oval the samples will be appropriate in any bathroom. They are convenient, compact, but quite ordinary and familiar, so if you want something special, then it is better to look towards other options;
- corner baths are used in square bathrooms and become their decoration. They provide a little more space for swimming, but caring for such a product is a little more difficult than the usual rectangular one, since the width in the corner area is increased;
- round baths beautiful and elegant, they are usually installed not under the wall, but in the center of the room, so they require a sufficient amount of space, and it’s not so easy to do it neatly. Round bathtubs provide ample space for the bather, who will feel like they are in a small pool. Such products in private homes are often built into the floor. In this case, the aesthetics are in place, and even problems with heat and sound insulation can be solved by using polyurethane foam or other materials mentioned above;
- asymmetrical bathtubs complex shapes are also more suitable for spacious rooms and can become an interior decoration.
If the bathroom area allows, then you can decide not only freestanding bath, but also placing it on it will look very impressive. The final touch is interesting spot lighting built into the floor or podium, and you won’t want to leave such a bathroom.
No. 6. Steel bath wall thickness
The thickness of the walls determines the strength of the bathtub, its ability to withstand constant loads of water and bathers, and not deform. In addition, the thicker the walls, the higher the heat and sound insulation. It is better not to take products with a wall thickness of less than 2.5-3 mm. It’s even better to choose a product with a wall thickness of 4 mm.
Some manufacturers and sellers deliberately resort to trickery and overestimate the wall thickness in the documents. Especially cunning manufacturers make the walls thicker on the sides of the bathtub, where the cut of the product is visible. If the buyer decides to look at the end, he will see that everything is in order. The best way to make sure you are not being scammed is to check the weight of the product. A full-size bathtub with walls of at least 3 mm weighs about 30-40 kg, miniature bathtubs cannot weigh less than 20 kg.
No. 7. What to consider during an external inspection?
Which steel bathtub is best to buy to be sure that it will last at least the stated 20 years and will maintain its performance throughout its entire service life? When inspecting the store in person, pay attention to the following details:
- product surface should be smooth and even, without depressions, bumps, cracks and other defects. This is evidence that the production technology has not been violated;
- enamel quality. Enamel is the protection and decoration of a steel bowl. Normal manufacturers use durable compounds and special application technology. If you see smudges, chips or similar defects, then it is better to refuse the purchase, otherwise in a year or two you will have to repair the bathtub or buy a new one. By the way, the enamel color is usually light (beige, bluish, white). The choice of color is a matter of taste and combination with other plumbing items. You can also find quite extravagant black, blue, red and other bathtubs on sale, but you should use them very carefully, otherwise such a product can turn from a stylish decoration into complete bad taste;
- If knock on the walls of a quality bathtub, then you can hear a clear, even sound without extraneous vibrations.
As for additional options, many steel bathtubs are equipped with headrests and handles. There are also steel whirlpool baths. A special motor in them pumps water from the bowl into the nozzles and delivers it under pressure, mixing it with air. The effect of such aerated water jets on the human body produces a relaxing effect.
No. 8. The best manufacturers of steel bathtubs
Large companies that have worked for years to create an honest name, have the funds to timely modernize production and value their reputation, will not produce products of dubious quality. That is why when buying a steel bathtub it is better to pay attention to products from reputable brands.
Among the best manufacturers of steel bathtubs It is worth highlighting the following companies:
- Kaldewei, Germany. Manufacturer with extensive experience in the production of steel bathtubs. It uses high-quality steel and glass enamel, which, by the way, is the only one in the world that it produces independently, using a special recipe and modern melting furnaces. The company's main plant is located in Germany, quality is strictly controlled at all stages. The products are presented in several collections; there are bathtubs of different sizes, classic rectangular, oval and asymmetrical shapes, with different drain locations;
- Roca, Spain. The well-known company producing sanitary ware, tiles and lamps has dozens of factories and hundreds of representative offices around the world. In the domestic market, the company's products receive special treatment, as they are of the highest quality. Despite the decent cost, Roca steel bathtubs are in great demand;
- Estap, Slovakia. The company has been operating since 1991, but is already competing with more experienced players in the market. They have developed and are using a unique technology for powder coating of enamel in an electrostatic field, which makes it possible to achieve high quality coatings. The product range is quite extensive and is constantly being updated;
- Emalia, Poland. The company produces strong, durable, fairly simple in shape and affordable products. The combination of all these features ensured the manufacturer’s high popularity in a number of European countries and in the domestic space;
- BLB, Portugal. The company exports products to 50 countries. The increased demand is due to high quality and wide range. Particular attention is paid here to the durability of the enamel coating and design. The company's bathtubs appeared on the domestic market not so long ago, but have already proven themselves to be excellent;
- Jika, Czech Republic. Produces high-quality steel bathtubs. It does not have a large assortment, but it produces products of all standard shapes and sizes, and this, together with a low price, has brought success to the company;
- VIZ-stal LLC(Verkh-Isetsky Metallurgical Plant). A domestic enterprise that will give odds to any foreign one. The enamel is applied here in two stages, which allows you to obtain a durable, smooth, even surface with ideal protection indicators. In addition, the manufacturer uses an increased mounting area for the legs, vibration-damping plates and an anti-slip coating. In terms of variety and price, you can’t complain either;
- Lipetsk Pipe Plant LLC has been producing steel bathtubs for over 70 years, but today they are not so easy to find in stores. For the most part, these are products with a length of 150-170 cm. The wall thickness is usually about 2 mm, but there is no need to complain about durability - the products last about 20 years. The main advantage of the factory bathtubs is their very low price.
Finally, we note that when purchasing, it is important not only to evaluate the wall thickness, weight of the product and the quality of the enamel, but also to ask for documentation for the product confirming its quality and whether it has a warranty.
Buying a bath is a serious matter and must be approached responsibly. And the first thing you will need is knowledge about how to choose the right bathtub, what it is made of and which manufacturers you should give your preference to.
What parameters should you use to choose a bath?
A bathtub is not just a large white container used for hygiene purposes. This is expensive plumbing equipment, which must be chosen wisely. First, let's define the parameters and characteristics of the bathtub that you should pay attention to when studying models.
All these characteristics are summarized in the list below:
- the material from which the plumbing fixtures are made;
- bathtub shape;
- lenght and width;
- bowl depth;
- bath manufacturer;
- the cost of a specific model;
- reviews about this bath;
- complete set – are the legs and fasteners sold with the bathtub?
Important! It would also be a good idea to pay attention to the presence of additional functions, such as disinfection, chromotherapy, water heating, and a filling sensor. If you have a lot of money set aside for the purchase of plumbing fixtures, it is advisable to purchase one of these bathtubs. Otherwise, if you have a small budget, it is not advisable to overpay for additional functions at the expense of the quality of the material.
Having decided on the list of bathtub characteristics that you should pay attention to, we will create a plan of action to be taken when choosing plumbing fixtures. The most convenient way to present it would be step-by-step instructions.
Step 1. Determine how much money you are willing to spend on buying a bathroom. Write down the lower and upper limits of the cost of a plumbing product that will be acceptable to you.
Step 2. Take measurements of the area of your bathroom and the old plumbing, if it has not yet been dismantled. This action will protect you from purchasing an overly large product that simply won’t fit in your space.
Requirements for the size and free space in the bathroom and combined bathroom
Step 3. Determine who will use the bathroom and what height and build they are. This will directly affect the size of future plumbing fixtures.
Step 4. After comparing your desires with your budget, decide what material you will buy a bathtub from.
Step 5. Based on the data obtained in the second and third stages, select the shape, length, width and depth of the bathtub. Here it would be advisable to determine not exact numbers, but ranges, upper and lower limits.
Step 6. Find the nearest plumbing stores in your city. Study reviews on the Internet and recommendations from friends.
Step 7 Explore the range offered by these plumbing stores. Choose those bathtub manufacturing companies that have proven themselves only from the best side.
Step 8 Based on the selected material, size, optimal price and manufacturer, select the bathtub model that suits you best.
Important! It is advisable to select for yourself not just one model, but several - if a particular product is not available in the store, you can always purchase another one with similar characteristics.
Now let's move on to a detailed and more thorough study of the parameters that are taken into account when choosing a bathroom.
Choosing the material from which the bath is made
And let's start with the material - one of the most important characteristics of such plumbing products. The strength and durability of the product, comfort of use and ease of maintenance depend on it.
Let's present the materials used in the manufacture of bathtubs in the form of a list:
- cast iron;
- acrylic;
- steel;
- quaril;
- ceramics and other exotic materials, including wood.
Cast iron bath
The most popular material from which bathtubs are made is cast iron - an alloy of iron with a large amount of carbon. It is from cast iron that most of the old plumbing fixtures are made, which still serve regularly in some houses and apartments. Since cast iron is a relatively brittle alloy, bathtubs made from it are made with very thick walls. Therefore, only a very strong blow (or even several blows) with a heavy sledgehammer can damage such a product in any way.
It should be understood that all the advantages of acrylic bathtubs indicated above are valid only for high-quality products created by manufacturers who have proven themselves only from the best side. When buying plumbing fixtures of unknown origin, you risk encountering the following problems.
- Deflection of the walls and bottom of the bowl of an acrylic bathtub under high pressure on it.
- Damage and undesirable changes in the shape of acrylic sanitary ware at high (more than +70°C) temperatures.
- In addition, acrylic bathtubs require careful and more careful selection of detergents - not every household chemical is suitable for such products, this is not an “indestructible” cast iron product.
Important! When choosing an acrylic bathtub, pay attention to the thickness of the walls - it is advisable that it be more than 3-4 mm. If this condition is met, then the plumbing fixtures you purchased will not bend under the weight of a person and the water collected in the font.
Not long ago, the material quaril was introduced to the plumbing market, which in the future may become a serious competitor to acrylic. The material was originally created by Villeroy&Boch AG for the restoration of plastic bathtubs. Quaril is a composite created on the basis of quartz crystals, each of which is covered with an acrylic shell. Bonded together, these particles form a material that has the look and feel of PMMA, but is much stronger, more durable, and more resistant to high temperatures.
As a result, bathtubs are obtained from quaril, which combine the advantages of cast iron and acrylic products, but without their inherent disadvantages. The only problem with plumbing fixtures made from this composite is the cost - bathtubs made from quaril will seem unnecessarily expensive for many.
Bathtubs made of ceramics and other materials
Exotic among sanitary products are bathtubs made of stone and various types of ceramics. Due to its low popularity, such plumbing fixtures are, whenever possible, made only to order and have an appropriate cost. But for a lot of money you get an extremely durable product with a perfectly smooth surface in which you can relax for hours. In addition, by purchasing a custom-made ceramic bathtub, you can independently choose the shape and size of the bowl you need.
Video - How to choose a bath
Choosing a bath manufacturer
In addition to the material, the manufacturer is of great importance when choosing a bathtub. It is advisable to trust your money only to those companies that have already proven themselves to be the best, that have experience in the manufacture of sanitary ware and entire lines of successfully selling bathtub models. The following is a list of such companies, their features, advantages and disadvantages.
Roca. This Spanish company is a well-deserved leader in the production of bathtubs, dating back to the beginning of the last century. During this time, Roca has accumulated enormous experience and now many of its factories located around the world (including in Russia, in the Leningrad region) produce hundreds of thousands of sanitary ware units per year. The main advantage of this company is a huge selection, a wide variety of shapes and sizes of bathtubs. In addition, Roca has a network of hundreds of service and dealer centers where you will have the opportunity to purchase high-quality plumbing fixtures with warranty service and without fear of receiving a fake.
Next, it is worth highlighting this brand, under which various plumbing fixtures and accessories are manufactured in Poland and Romania. Acrylic bathtubs from Cersanit are strong, average, with low cost and an acceptable level of quality.
Ravak- a Czech company that produces plumbing fixtures under this brand is known for its quality, the use of thick acrylic sheets and a wide variety of shapes, sizes and product configurations. In addition, their whirlpool bathtubs are considered the best in the middle price class among all those on the plumbing market.
Among other manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs it is worth noting Triton, BAS, Pool-SPA, Aquanet, Alpen and Riho.
Important! When choosing plumbing fixtures for your home, be careful - today there is a risk of purchasing a counterfeit that masquerades as products from well-known companies with a good reputation. As a rule, such products cannot boast of quality - they are produced from the cheapest materials with violations of technological processes.
It is also worth noting companies that produce high-quality bathtubs made of cast iron and steel - we have combined them into one list presented below:
- "Universal";
- Lipetsk Pipe Plant;
- Bette;
- Jacob Delafon;
- Estap.
Prices for Roca baths
Five best bathtubs – rating of models
Now, from individual companies, let’s turn our attention to certain models - the table below shows the five most popular bathtubs, which have earned a considerable number of positive reviews.
| Bath model | Material | Dimensions, LxWxH, cm | Volume, l | price, rub. |
|---|
| Cast iron | 170x75x42 | 185
| 27 000
|
| Steel | 170x70x41 | 111
| 15 500
|
| Cast iron | 170x70x40 | 182
| 26 500
|
| Acrylic | 150x90x42 | 200
| 9 999
|
| Steel | 170x70x40 | 195
| 7 800
|
Please note that all prices indicated in the rating are current at the beginning of 2017, and over time they may change in one direction or another.
Roca Malibu 170×75
Kaldewei Saniform Plus 170×70
Roca Continental 170×70
Cersanit Joanna 150×95
Roca Contesa 170×70
Sizes and shapes of the bathroom - nuances of choice
Choose the dimensions of the bathroom based not only on the size of the bathroom in which it will be located, but also taking into account the size of the people who will use this plumbing. For most, bathtubs 170-180 cm long and 70-80 cm wide will be just right. But if necessary, feel free to make your own adjustments to these figures.
Interesting! A simple way to determine the desired width of the bowl is to measure the width of your heat and add 10-20 cm to the resulting figure.
Having decided on the length and width, you need to choose the bath height and bowl depth that suits you. Yes, don’t be surprised, these are slightly different parameters. Height is the distance from the floor to the top edge of the sides of the bathtub, on average it is 60-70 cm. The depth of the bowl is the distance from the bottom of the font to the siphon hole for draining. For a person of average build and height, 50-60 cm is enough - the water will cover you up to your neck. If you have small children in the house and they will also take a bath, then it makes sense to choose plumbing fixtures with a shallower bowl depth - it will be safer.
After choosing the length, width, height and depth of the bowl, pay attention to the shape of the plumbing fixtures.
In this regard, baths can be of several types.
- A rectangular wall-mounted bathtub is a classic that fits the standard bathrooms of most apartments in the CIS.
- A wall-mounted corner bathtub is a product that, despite its relatively small size, provides enough space for comfortable spending time in the bathroom and washing in it.
- Wall-mounted corner asymmetrical bathtub is a subtype of the previous form. It is an intermediate option between rectangular and angular.
- Round and oval bathtubs are in most cases quite large products that are the central element in the room. It, in turn, must have a significant area so that such plumbing can be installed without any problems.
Corner asymmetrical bathtub
Also, when purchasing plumbing fixtures, be sure to familiarize yourself with what is included in the kit - you may have to purchase some parts separately. It would also be a good idea to study analogues of the bathtubs you have chosen, but with various additional functions, such as hydromassage, disinfection and chromotherapy.
Roca Malibu 170×75
Kaldewei Saniform Plus 170×70
Roca Continental 170×70
Cersanit Joanna 150×95
Roca Contesa 170×70
Cast iron bathtub 170×85 Newcast
The acrylic bathtub market in Russia has undergone saturation. There are all sorts of Russian, European, and Chinese manufacturers here. To understand all the diversity, the editors decided to go to construction and plumbing stores in Moscow and compile their own rating.
We will select the most notable brands 1Mark, BAS, Bach, Akrilan, Radomir, Triton ,
Aquanet, Ravak, Kolpa-San, Riho, Pool SPA, Massimo, SSWW. They are all produced in different countries, but in this case the nationality of the brand does not matter to us. We will evaluate the parameters of the baths and give our ratings for each of them.
So, the following characteristics are important to us: 1) quality of bathtubs, 2) reliability, 3) hydromassage system design and assembly, 4) assortment, 5) price, 6) customer loyalty.
Bath quality
Russian manufacturers Aquanet, 1Marka, BAS use material with a thickness of 3.5 to 5 mm for the manufacture of bathtubs. The smaller the thickness of the sheet from which the bath is made, the lower its quality. Triton uses the Austrian Senosan, but saves on thickness (3.7-4 mm). The thin thickness of acrylic is also on Akrilan bathtubs.
Radomir bathtubs have a good indicator among domestic manufacturers; they have an acrylic thickness of 5-7 mm and are made from high-quality Austrian material. Czech Riho bathtubs are made of American-made cast acrylic with a thickness of 6 mm or more. The products are reinforced with a layer of polyester and fiberglass. Chinese bathtubs are very thin (no more than 3 mm) and also have a non-uniform acrylic thickness, which is especially noticeable when viewed through light.
On Kolpa-San bathtubs, a discrepancy between the color of the bathtub and the front screen was discovered.
The color difference between the bathtub and the panel was also noticed on Akrilan bathtubs. Instability of color indicates that the bathtub and the front panel are made of different materials.
Reliable welded powder-painted frames are installed on Riho and Radomir bathtubs. PollSPA bathtub frames are of very high quality and stable. This is visible to the naked eye. They have multiple supports depending on the shape of the bowl and strong connections using threads and nuts.
In comparison with these manufacturers, acrylic bathtubs Kolpa-San, BAS, Triton and 1Mark have an unstable frame with a stud fastening.
While studying the design of Bach bathtubs (St. Petersburg), it was discovered that the manufacturer saves on strengthening them. Reinforcing the bowl with chipboard is done only under the frame slats, and not along the entire bottom. The absence of a solid embed will sooner or later lead to cracking of the bathtub. There is no reinforcement at the upper ends of the bathtub, and only point reinforcements have been added under the frame.
There is also no reinforcement at the ends of the bathtubs on Ravak products.
When examining bathtub models, specialists found that some models had poor fitting accuracy of parts. For example, the assembly of Chinese bathtubs SSWW and Massimo, as well as Russian bathtubs Aquanet, BAS, Akrilan, is quite sloppy.
In the bathtubs of the Kazan manufacturer 1Mark, gaps were also noticed between the bathtub and the front panel. Even the products of the European manufacturer Ravak revealed a lack of front panel geometry.
On Akrilan bathtubs, the front panel is attached to the bathtub using screws and springs, which does not ensure the stability of the panel and its even fit to the bowl.
The front panels of Radomir bathtubs clearly follow the shape of the bowl
When examining the bathtub models, it was discovered that some models had poor fitting accuracy of the parts. For example, the assembly of Chinese bathtubs SSWW and Massimo, as well as Russian bathtubs Aquanet, BAS, Akrilan, is quite sloppy.
The mismatch between the geometry of the bathtubs and their panels leads to the formation of large gaps, which is immediately visible on the assembled products of the Triton company.
Hydromassage system
Among Western manufacturers, PoolSPA has good quality hydromassage systems. Powerful engines, durable pipes, protection against leaks, high-quality stainless steel jets - all this characterizes their products. Russian manufacturers Aquanet and Radomir have good hydromassage baths, and the latter has especially powerful motors up to 1500 W, a compact current protection device, convenient touch controls and high-quality elements of the hydromassage system of its own production. In our opinion, Triton bathtubs have low quality and sloppy assembly of the hydromassage system, which is a weak point.
Assortment of acrylic bathtubs
In the course of collecting data on manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs, the range of products of different brands was studied and the number of models of bathtubs produced was calculated.
| Manufacturer
|
Number of acrylic bathtubs without hydromassage
|
Number of acrylic whirlpool baths
|
| 1Stamp |
61
|
43
|
| BAS |
35
|
32
|
| Bach |
11
|
11
|
| Akrilan |
33
|
28
|
| Radomir |
105
|
90
|
| Triton |
51
|
37
|
| Aquanet |
36
|
33
|
| Ravak |
47
|
21
|
| Kolpa-San |
80
|
4
|
| Riho |
73
|
82
|
| Massimo |
5
|
5
|
| SSWW |
18
|
96
|
| PoolSPA |
8
|
58
|
The table shows that the widest range of acrylic bathtubs is offered by manufacturers Radomir, Kolpa-San, Riho and SSWW. However, with a large selection of bathtubs without hydromassage, Kolpa-San practically does not have bathtubs with a hydromassage system in its model range, and the Chinese brand SSWW, on the contrary, has a small assortment of empty acrylic bathtubs, like the Spanish brand PoolSPA. Therefore, in terms of the breadth of assortment, only the Russian company Radomir and the Czech manufacturer Riho can be distinguished.
Price of acrylic bathtubs
Prices for acrylic bathtubs depend on the quality of materials, production technology and differ markedly depending on the manufacturer. Well-known European brands carefully monitor quality, but the prices for such plumbing equipment are measured in hundreds of thousands of rubles, so imported products are of little interest to our customers.
Ravak 60,000-300,000 rub.
Kolpa-San 55000-830000 rub.
Riho 23000-250000 rub.
Chinese bathtubs have inconsistent quality and dubious warranties, which manufacturers try to compensate for with the number of options. Most Chinese baths are sold with hydromassage and a bunch of built-in functions, which no longer makes them so cheap. In addition, due to the rise in the dollar exchange rate, even simple Chinese baths have become noticeably more expensive.
SSWW 25000-90000 rub. (with hydromassage up to 200,000 rub.)
Massimo 20000-50000 rub. (with hydromassage up to 50,000 rub.)
The “golden mean” is domestically produced bathtubs. In conditions of crisis and the desire for import substitution, buying a bathtub from a Russian manufacturer will be the most rational decision. Just not an economy option, but a mid-price segment. Radomir and Aquanet baths have the best price-quality ratio.
1 stamp 8000-50000 rub. (with hydromassage up to 65,000 rub.)
BAS 6000-30000 rub. (with hydromassage up to 55,000 rub.)
Bach 10,000-30,000 rub. (with hydromassage up to 55,000 rub.)
Acrilan 13000-32000 rub. (with hydromassage up to 85,000 rub.)
Radomir 18000-60000 rub. (with hydromassage up to 70,000 rub.)
Triton 7000-48000 rub. (with hydromassage up to 60,000 rub.)
Aquanet 8000-35000 rub. (with hydromassage up to 58,000 rub.)
As can be seen from the above list of prices, they are approximately the same for Russian manufacturers. The only difference is the quality of the product itself. A high-quality acrylic bathtub cannot cost less than 20 thousand rubles. Therefore, beware of baths that are too cheap; there is always a catch in quality.
Customer loyalty
A positive attitude towards a brand and product consists of many things. These are the reputation of the manufacturer, product quality, reasonable prices, promotions and discounts for customers, breadth of the model range, fulfillment of warranty obligations, friendly service, experience of operating other users.
According to available data, Russian plumbing fixtures are in stable demand today. Manufacturers offer high-quality products at competitive prices that successfully compete with European ones. Based on personal impressions based on online reviews, scores were assigned for this criterion as well.
Based on the results of a study of plumbing products from different manufacturers, a comparative table was compiled, which shows how well the brands meet the evaluation criteria (maximum score 5 points).
Criterion
Manufacturer ratings
|
Bath quality |
Reliability of design and assembly |
Hydromassage system |
Range |
Price |
Customer loyalty |
| 1Mark (1MarKa) |
3
|
2
|
3
|
3
|
4
|
4
|
| SSWW |
2
|
1
|
2
|
4
|
4
|
2
|
| Aquanet |
4
|
3
|
5
|
2
|
4
|
4
|
| Akrilan |
2
|
1
|
2
|
2
|
5
|
3
|
| BAS |
3
|
3
|
3
|
2
|
5
|
3
|
| BACH |
3
|
1
|
2
|
1
|
5
|
3
|
| Kolpa-San |
3
|
3
|
4
|
4
|
2
|
4
|
| Massimo |
2
|
2
|
2
|
1
|
5
|
3
|
| Radomir |
5
|
5
|
5
|
5
|
4
|
5
|
| Ravak |
4
|
3
|
4
|
3
|
2
|
5
|
| Riho |
4
|
4
|
5
|
5
|
4
|
4
|
| Triton |
3
|
2
|
2
|
3
|
5
|
5
|
| Pool SPA |
5
|
5
|
5
|
4
|
5
|
5
|
Conclusion:
Thus, according to the study, the leaders among manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs were the Russian company Radomir and the Spanish manufacturer of sanitary ware PoolSPA.
They scored 29 points out of 30 and topped the rating. The products of these brands seemed to us to be of the highest quality, durable, reasonably priced and in demand among customers. In second place with a score of 26 points is the Czech brand Riho. Russian Aquanet took third place.
Results:
1st place - Radomir and PoolSPA (29 points)
2nd place – Riho (26 points)
3rd place - Aquanet (22 points)
4th place - Ravak (21 points)
5th place – Kolpa-San and Triton (20 points)
6th place - 1Mark and BAS (19 points)
7th place – SSWW, Akrilan, Bach, Massimo (15 points)
We remind you that the scores given are the private opinion of the editorial members, and the selected criteria are solely the choice of the editors.
