If earlier plumbing fixtures were chosen based on the size of the room, now other criteria are also taken into consideration. Types of bathtubs are classified by material, shape, sets of functions. Some bathtub models are supplied with accessories.
Varieties of bathtub by material of manufacture
Metallic bathtub
The performance of a metal bathtub is similar to that of acrylic structures. However, such models are often compared with cast iron. The advantages of a steel product include the following characteristics:
- Light weight for easy installation
- Acceptable price
- Long service life (up to 30 years)
The metal quickly loses heat, which is considered a disadvantage. To slow down the cooling, an insulating material is placed under the bottom.
Cast iron bathtub
In the past, this type of plumbing was installed in all apartments, and such devices are often bought now. Cast iron bowls have the following characteristics:
- Weight – 70-150 kg (depending on size)
- Water cooling rate – 5 … 10 ° C / hour
- Shape – rectangular or oval.
The positive qualities of cast iron models are low noise level, increased durability. The heavy weight makes it difficult to install in a bathroom, disassemble or transport. The enamel coating is sensitive to aggressive substances, impacts, abrasion.
Acrylic bathtub
The popularity of acrylic models is due to the presence of such advantages:
- Variety of colors and shapes. They make not only classic white, but also colored bowls that are combined with any design of the room. They are oval, rectangular, round or multi-faceted.
- Ease of installation. The product has a folding design, the elements of which are installed in stages.
- Light weight. A standard acrylic bathtub weighs 20 kg for easy transport.
- Slow heat loss. This prevents the water from cooling down too quickly.
Conill bathtub
Conill is a type of acrylic with improved performance characteristics. Plumbing made from this material is practically devoid of disadvantages. The heavy-duty material consists of acrylic mixed with silica dust. A Conill bathtub has the following advantages:
- Low thermal conductivity, which reduces the rate of water cooling
- Resistance to mechanical damage
- Insensitivity to aggressive substances
Conill bath differs from acrylic bathtub by its high weight. Despite this, the pedestal is easily installed, the joint becomes invisible. A variety of shapes allows you to choose a plumbing fixture for a room of any size.
Ceramic bathtub
Ceramic retains heat well; no noise occurs when a jet of water falls. The material does not lend itself to corrosion, corrosive substances. The disadvantages include the following characteristics:
- Large weight (up to 150 kg)
- Fragility (under mechanical stress, chips or cracks remain on the surface)
- The complexity of installation, dismantling or transportation
Artificial stone bathtub
The material consists of clay, quartz or granite chips, pigment. It is used to make plumbing fixtures of different colors and shapes. The material resembles natural stone, but is lighter in weight.
Natural stone bathtub
For the manufacture of stone plumbing fixtures, marble is used. The bowls are beautiful in appearance. They are in harmony with the classic design of the room. Another advantage is low thermal conductivity, which makes water procedures more comfortable. The large weight of the device makes installation difficult. When heavy objects fall, chips remain on the surface. Difficulties also arise when caring for a marble product.
Glass bathtub
For the manufacture of baths, laminated glass is used that can withstand increased loads. The hardened material is not subject to mechanical damage.
Other benefits of glass products include:
- Long service life. Glass does not rust, does not tarnish over time.
- Hygiene. Cracks do not appear on the surface, in which bacteria and dirt accumulate. Glass does not emit toxic substances that cause allergic reactions.
- Attractive look. Glass bowls match any interior. They are used to visually increase space.
Wooden bathtub
Unusual bathtubs for country houses are often created from wood. Some foreign companies sell finished products. The disadvantages of wood include sensitivity to moisture, the need for special processing. The advantage of the material is safety.
