Which bath is better acrylic or steel. Which modern bath is better: cast iron or acrylic

How nice to swim in a nice comfortable bath. Sometimes you don't want to get out of it. To date, there is a huge variety of models of baths, and they are made of various materials. Steel and acrylic are the most popular ones. Just how to understand which bath can be considered the best: steel or acrylic? To determine for sure, it is necessary to compare them with each other, which will be done later.

About the features of steel baths

In order to correctly determine the best, it is necessary to compare the qualitative characteristics of its main varieties.

Plumbing products made of steel are distinguished by a variety of shapes and flexible price grid, which cause considerable interest of consumers. Such baths are made of steel sheets with a thickness of 0.23 (thin-walled) to 0.35 cm (standard). On top of these products are covered with a thin layer of acrylic enamel, which is not as large as, for example, at the baths, but is strong enough and durable.

A bath made of steel can be either a traditional rectangular or oval shape, or rather original shapes: round, asymmetric, polygonal, etc. Among the advantages of such products are the following:

• Species diversity (size, shape);
• Wear-resistant, reliable coating;
• Low weight;
• Reasonable price.

Properly chosen bathtub will fit well into any interior.

In addition to the advantages, steel also has its own not very pleasant features that should be considered before buying such a product: noise (when pouring water into the bath), low heat capacity, excessive flexibility (under heavy weight the bath can bend a little).

Acrylic baths: description, pros and cons

Acrylics are the youngest material used for making baths. In simple terms, it is a synthetic polymer that contains acrylic acid in its base. As a result, the material is quite durable and smooth. A quality acrylic bath has a wall thickness of at least 4-6 mm.

Make it in two ways:

1. Injection method. Its essence is that acrylic is applied to the fiberglass frame. The product is very durable.
2. Sheet method. In this case, an acrylic sheet is used, which is curved to the desired shape in a vacuum chamber, and then the resulting workpiece is reinforced with epoxy resin and fiberglass.

Attention! When tapping the walls of an acrylic bath, the sound should not be very ringing. If it is exactly like this, it means that the manufacturer decided to save money on the production of the product and did not use high-quality reinforcement.

Acrylic: quite young material with many advantages

Among the advantages of acrylic emit the following:

• Excellent heat capacity;
• The presence of a large number of additional options (hydromassage, etc.);
• Small weight of the product;
• Variety of shapes and sizes.

At the same time, such products are considered to be quite difficult to maintain, they are sensitive to high temperatures, are overly flexible and do not have a long service life.

Comparative characteristics of steel and acrylic baths

To determine the best bath, you should familiarize yourself with the comparative characteristics of products made of various materials, based on the feedback from experts in 2017. So, according to the main criteria for the bath, the picture is as follows:

Council Although acrylic baths are notable for their low weight, pay attention to models that are too light: they cannot be a priori high-quality.

Given the characteristics discussed above, we can conclude: a steel bath, after all, turns out to be the best bath by the combination of the main criteria according to which the experts considered it the best.

Now, when choosing a suitable model of such an important sanitary product, you will take into account all its advantages and disadvantages and can choose the best bath for you. Enjoy the shopping!

Video: Comparison of steel and acrylic baths

If you have already decided to accomplish the feat and are ready to start repairing your bathroom, then you need to, first, determine with the plumbing fixtures. Properly selected bath is a guarantee of health and comfort for many years. Let's try to analyze and learn how to choose this undoubtedly the most important subject of the bathroom.
  Now the stores have a very large selection of baths for every taste.

Price, manufacturer, case materials, color, etc. Eyes run away from such abundance. So how to understand this variety of shapes, colors, features, sizes, accessories and accessories? If we discard all the noodles that vendors hang on our ears, then the most important criteria are quality, price and the advantages or disadvantages of various materials.

Bathroom material 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 baths, find out their advantages and disadvantages.

Related videos:Which bath is better to choose and buy?

Description:Which bath is better to choose? How to choose and what bath to buy? Steel, cast iron and acrylic baths enter into the dispute.

  Photo of the bathroom "antique" with gilded legs and deep blue color

Choice of bath: acrylic, steel or cast iron

If you decide to purchase a new bath, you will certainly have a question: which model to choose? What material is in fashion now? What is the best bath in operation: cast iron, steel or acrylic? It is necessary to figure out what indisputable advantages and disadvantages each manufacturing material has.

Old friends - cast iron baths

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

• Good stability. On the edge you can easily sit without fear of swinging it. Cast iron is heavy, so the products are stable, but rather heavy. Cast iron baths that are made abroad are made of lightweight material.

• Long service life. If the cast iron is of high quality, the service life can be practically unlimited. The main thing is not to damage the enamel. Avoid dropping heavy objects on the surface.
• The product is easy to keep clean. The material is not afraid of various powders and cleaning products.
• Water poured into such a bath retains the original temperature for a very long time. The safety of heat in the cast-iron bath is the highest possible among different materials.
• During the filling of the cast-iron bath with water, the noise is insignificant, as, for example, in a bath made of steel sheet,
• Cast iron product is installed in the usual way. Special knowledge is not needed
• The interior of the room where the cast-iron bath is installed can be simply luxurious, because baths of this material are often made in a palace style, inlaid, gilded, noble silver or blackening

  High-tech steel bathroom photo

• Quite expensive
• The massive design and a fairly large weight create some inconvenience during installation.
• The complexity of the restoration of the surface of the bath after damage

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

  Photo of a white corner bath

Available steel baths

Many people choose steel models, as their value suits the general population. Imported products are much more expensive than domestic ones. Consider this. In addition to low prices, there are still some positive aspects. They are not so many, but still.

• Sufficiently low weight of the product. To install a new or replace an old bathroom, you will not need many helpers.
• High-quality enamel, which in case of damage is easy to replace. The bath restoration specialists will cover the unsightly surface of your bath with a layer of new enamel in a short period of time.

The disadvantages of a steel product are much greater. It is worth considering that being tempted by the low cost of the product, you may soon be disappointed in it. Find out what the cons of buying a bath of steel:

• Steel is quite thin material, so stomping, jumping, dropping something bath is strictly prohibited. You can try, but it is better not to experiment. The enamel will get microcracks, and the process of coating destruction will begin. Chips, dents can be of different sizes. The stronger the blow, the greater the damage.
• The water in such a bath is cooled soon enough, constantly having to add hot water. The steel surface never gets warm, so on cool days it is unpleasant to lean your back against the wall of the bath
• If you fill a steel bath with water, the rumble of falling water is heard to the neighbors. This is due to the thin walls of the product.
• It is lightweight and, accordingly, unstable. It is impossible to become, sit on the edge, otherwise you can roll over with the bathroom. Injuries are 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 what constitutes this miracle material, few people know.

Acrylic sheet is made as follows: on a layer of durable plastic put a different number of layers of acrylic lightweight, durable, shock-resistant material. European manufacturers guarantee the presence of at least 5 acrylic layers. Chinese samples, of course, are not as high quality.

After that, on a special equipment, a product of the desired shape is extruded from the prepared sheet. For durability and rigidity of the construction from the side of the plastic they fix a fiberglass layer, and a wooden board on it. The structure is attached to a durable metal frame. The bath is fully operational.

  Photo of a white rectangular bathroom in the style of hi-tech

• The plastic base allows you to make products of the most incredible forms: angular. with jagged walls, asymmetrical, convex and concave, with panels for massage devices, notches and protrusions
• Beautiful, shiny surface is perfectly smooth.
• Keeps warm well (much better than cast iron models)
• Easy to clean with non-aggressive detergents.
• No surface colonies appear bacteria
• Not afraid of potent detergents
• Large selection of models

What conclusion can be made? If you are a little tight on money, buy a steel bath. Perhaps in time you will replace it with cast iron or acrylic. If finances allow, take a look at acrylic or cast iron products. Their service life is much longer. And acrylic baths often perform additional functions (massage, relaxing, Jacuzzi bath).

  Photo of white steel bathroom in store

Beautiful bath highlight interior

Sparkling clean, with a perfectly smooth surface and an interesting design, the bath will certainly decorate the interior. Pay attention to how diverse the design of bathrooms.

  Photo of the bathroom in the interior of the bathroom

Source: vododelo.ru

Which bath to choose

Cast iron bathtub: reliability and long service life

The invention of iron does not apply to innovations. But fans of this material can not be considered lovers of antiques. Here the choice is determined by the most important criteria - durability and strength. Perhaps the price will seem too high, but the service life of 50 years pays for the acquisition costs. Another advantage is that cast iron keeps heat for a long time. Of course, it warms up for a long time, but it does not take 2 hours to add water with boiling water. And this is enough to relax and unwind.

  Photo of a very beautiful acrylic bath

Competes with the product of cast iron acrylic bath. Decisive in the selection is the form. Pig-iron bathtubs of a round or triangular shape do not exist, but in polymeric products there are enough various protuberances and angles. In addition to this criterion, the owners who change the plumbing in the bathroom will think very strongly about weight.

Lifting 120 kg of iron to an apartment on the top floor, the movers will not be happy, but the owners will be happy. The cast-iron bathtub is stable (due to its weight) and the possibility of flooding the occupants of the lower floors due to the breakdown of the tank is zero.

What to look for when choosing a cast iron bath? The surface of the sample should not be chipped. You should know that the enamel coating is fragile, and if a heavy object falls to the bottom of the tank, then damage cannot be avoided. Cleaning abrasives also have a negative effect. If you pay due attention to this coating, then do not be lazy to inspect the uniformity of color, the absence of smudges, roughness and other defects.

If you choose the perfect enamel on the bath, then it will serve not only for a long time, but also will delight the owners with brilliance. What can be said about the acrylic surface.

  Cast iron bath photo: white inside, red outside

The most popular are high-quality acrylic baths.

A huge plus of polymer baths - all possible shapes and sizes. Manufacturing technology is simple and allows you to stand out for every taste. There is nothing terrible that the size of your bathroom is small. And on such a room you can pick up a suitable synthetic copy. In a large bathroom with the same choice, you can save space for a washing machine, cabinets, shelves or something.

What is acrylic? Common and familiar plastic, which is reinforced in several layers for the strength of the material. It is not necessary to paint products from this raw material, since Color is added at low tide. This gives color stability, it does not burn out and does not change the shade. Reinforced coating becomes resistant to mechanical stress. All damage and abrasions are simply cleaned with fine sandpaper.

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

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

Which bath is better: from cast iron or acrylic?

Cast iron and acrylic bath

• Capacity of acrylic is cheaper and easier to clean (enough helium detergents).
• The fungus on the synthetic surface does not reproduce and does not appear, therefore the safety and ecology benefits of an acrylic bath.
• The lightness of the case, which makes the delivery and installation of the polymer bath easier, but also makes it less stable.
• It keeps the heat inside longer than the cast iron body.
• Cast iron is heated for a long time, and the polymer is fast.
• Acrylic bath can be equipped with hydromassage and other shiny things.

It can be concluded that synthetic material is better. But there are some weaknesses. For example, the service life of an acrylic bath is up to 10 years, but the cast-iron analog will become unusable only in 50 years. You can make a discount on the fact that a synthetic invention has recently entered the plumbing market. Therefore, the actual lifetime is not yet known, but nevertheless it requires more care than cast iron.

  Bath and shower in the interior of a bright bathroom

Steel bath - economy option

Between all the baths: made of cast iron, acrylic and steel, the latter have become the most profitable acquisition. Their lowest cost is the most compelling argument. A positive feedback after the installation speaks about the reliability of the years. Externally, the steel case looks like cast iron, and the weight is not more than 30 kg, like that of a polymer tank.

  Photo of a luxurious bathroom with transparent windows

To pay special attention to some drawbacks, you still have to - these are thin walls that can bend under the heavy weight of water and body. Like on the cast-iron case, enamel is applied on the surface here. And the price for this convenience is surprising - from 3000 rubles. What can be said about the reverse side of the medal:

• The steel construction does not differ by the variety of forms - the angular variant is a rarity.
• When you wash in such a bath, you can hear a stream of water falling to the bottom. If this starts to bother, then the problem is solved by expanding the rubber mat.
• Another not very good quality is the rapid loss of heat. Taking a bath, you can freeze, if you do not add hot water.
• Care of metal fixtures should be delicate, so as not to damage the enamel.

  Or maybe we will put a bath in the hall? If you suddenly do not get into the bathroom ...

The disadvantages of the metal options are not small, but there is always a way to smooth them. In general, steel is stronger than acrylic, it lasts longer and costs less. Damage to the enamel surface, thanks to new inventions, it became possible to correct (restore). The technology of restoring old coatings uses an acrylic element, and it is cheaper than buying a new product.

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

Related videos:LESSONS OF REPAIR. "Choosing a bath".

Bathroom in the interior. French style

Source: tutknow.ru

What bath 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 of the selection of a really high-quality bath. The choice of a bath, like any other choice, is accompanied by the weighting of all the pros and cons. Today, there are only three basic materials for baths. But there are so many disputes around them that there is a need to devote a separate article to the bath review. Surely you yourself wondered - which bath is better cast-iron or acrylic? If yes, then the text below is for you.

Related videos:What baths are better cast-iron, steel, acrylic

Description:Which bath is better - cast iron. steel. acrylic ???

How to choose an acrylic bath

Acrylic bath is a great option for those who want nice and not expensive
  Acrylic baths have come to our market recently. Their characteristic features include low price, rather elegant forms, and complexity of installation. Unlike other materials, acryl is more susceptible to chemical attack and does not tolerate pressure. Acrylic bath is more difficult to repair, but, in fairness, it is worth noting that such a bath breaks less often. The main advantages of such baths include:

  Finishing white corner bathroom mosaic tiles

• Low price
• Variety of models
• Light weight

Unfortunately, acrylic baths are much more. It is worth highlighting the following:

• It bursts easily from point punches.
• Does not withstand strong pressure at one point
• Short lifespan compared to steel and cast iron
• Acryl may turn yellow with time
• Poor tolerates boiling water
• Must be cleaned with special chemicals.

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

Do not choose a bath with too intricate forms. Armrests, bends for the head, and other orthopedic textured protrusions look beautiful and may be useful. However, in places of such bends most often damage occurs.

A frequent problem of baths are acrylic drips on the walls of the bath. Such a problem can not immediately be determined by eye, but it is well checked by touch. Feel the bath before you buy. It should be perfectly smooth, without waves. In addition, you should inspect the bath for mechanical damage. Acrylic baths easily burst with inept handling at the warehouse. You must ensure that there is no marriage before purchase. Otherwise, after - to prove that you did not break the bath - it will be difficult.

  Photo of a white bath in a blue frame

How to choose a steel bath

The steel bath is the golden mean. This bath has several advantages over acrylic, and a number of disadvantages over cast-iron baths.
  Steel baths have several advantages over acrylic, but also a number of disadvantages. With proper insulation, they retain heat on a par with acrylic competitors, and during proper operation, they go far ahead in terms of wear. The advantages of steel baths include the following points:

• Does not require special tools for sanitization.
• Acceptable price
• Resistance to pressure

In turn, there are downsides:

  Photos of cornflower bath in the interior

• During the filling with water an unpleasant rumble
• Suffering from pinpoints (a bottle of cologne dropped from a shelf can damage the enamel)
• Stamped design, a small variety of models.

Choosing a steel bath, pay attention to the state of enamel. The coating should be without the slightest cracks. If the seller assures that from the minor deformation, nothing terrible will happen, do not believe.

Even a small crack in a steel bath can cause substantial corrosion. The coating rots very quickly, and the product becomes unusable. When choosing a bath, calculate the size correctly. After all, under the seemingly thin steel bath, you have to fit a thick enough layer of insulation in order that the bath does not cool quickly.

Thermal insulation is also used for noise absorption. A well-insulated steel bath will not boom under the tap.

  White corner bath framed in blue mosaic

How to choose a cast iron bath

Big term of use, good heat capacity, big weight and expensive price
Cast iron baths appeared earlier than others, and keep the bar of quality to this day. Cast iron bath has a high heat capacity. Although it heats up for a long time, it will also cool for a long time. This is a quality product, the impression of which, however, can quickly deteriorate by raising the bath to the 13th floor. Let's take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of these baths.
  Of the advantages of cast iron baths should be highlighted:

• Cast iron bath keeps you warm
• In case of damage, the bath may be restored. To do this, apply acrylic coating bath.
• Cast iron bath looks really solid and expensive
• Does not rattle when filled with water
• It copes well with a large point pressure. Such a bath does not burst like acrylic, in case of a strong pressing on it.
• Unlike acrylic baths, it does not need to be treated with special cleaning agents.
• Not afraid of strong blows, defies strain.
• Does not need additional weatherization
• Bath is stable due to its weight.
• Not afraid of sudden changes in temperature

Despite the huge number of advantages, the cast-iron baths also have disadvantages:
  Before you choose a bath of cast iron, you should make sure that it does not have visible defects and damage. Although it is almost impossible to break the iron bath, there is a big risk of damaging the enamel. In case you buy a bath with even the smallest cracks, there is a high probability that these scratches will significantly spoil the overall look later.

  Photos of steel bathroom with hydromassage

What to choose

Their advantages have cast-iron or acrylic baths. Which is better - you choose. Acrylic bath is an excellent economy option for those who want a beautiful product at a low price. With cast iron, or steel bath, much easier. They are not difficult to use, they are easier to wash, and the probability of breaking them is not great. And even if the cast-iron or steel bath breaks, they can be repaired, unlike the acrylic version, which is practically beyond repair. However, you choose. All baths have positive and negative sides, and now you know about them.

  White wood finish

Source: provannu.com

Which bath is better to choose?

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

  Photo of white bath surrounded by yellow and green colors

Cast iron baths for many years have been the most familiar to our compatriots. To this day, you can hear that the cast-iron baths are the best. Indeed, the cast iron bath is durable, heat capacity, durable coating, resistant without the use of additional fasteners.

Related videos:Interior design of a bathroom. The choice of material for the bath.

Description:This video will help you decide from which material it is better to buy a bath - from cast iron, steel, acrylic, and quarry. I will talk about all the advantages and disadvantages of a steel bath, cast-iron, acrylic and quartz. Which bath is better to bathe the baby. In which bath water cools faster.

The standard sizes of cast iron baths are as follows: 170 × 70 cm and 150 × 70 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 baths are made of thinner cast iron (wall thickness not exceeding 5 mm). They look much more elegant, and some models have comfortable handles.

Baths with a capacity that tapers at the foot end are mounted on screw legs, allowing them to be adjusted in height.

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

French, Spanish and Italian cast iron baths are of very high quality and can be equipped with gilded or chrome fittings, a semi-automatic drain system, and a massage unit.

If the listed qualities are important to you, then, perhaps, taking care of which bath is best to choose, you will stop on this option. However, it does not hurt to get acquainted with the baths from other materials.

Steel bath: the pros and cons

Steel is more plastic than cast iron, which allows you to create steel products with any shapes and sizes.
  The surface of the cast iron has a porous structure; therefore, over time, particles of rust and dirt accumulate in these pores, and it is almost impossible to get rid of them. Baths from steel are deprived of this disadvantage, since the pores on the enamel are smaller.

But because of the small thickness of the walls, steel baths ring when water is collected. To increase the sound insulation of a steel bath, it is immersed by a third in a box filled with sand.
  Or you can fill the outer surface of the bath with foam, which solves the problem of not only sound insulation, but also stability. Yes, and the water will cool slower.

Poor quality water can leave yellow patches on the walls of the bath, which are difficult to remove. However, there are baths, originally covered with a special composition, forcing dirty water to curl into drops. These drops roll into the sink and the bath remains clean.

  Soft-purple color and snow-white bath

Steel baths have a much smaller mass than cast iron. When installing a bath, this is a definite plus, since it can be manipulated alone. However, the stability of the steel bath is worse precisely because of its lower weight, so you only need to install it against the wall. Because of the less massiveness, steel baths warm up faster when hot water is poured into it. But because of the same water faster and cools. So, thinking about which bath is better to choose, consider all of the above.

Acrylic baths: pros, cons, features of care for acrylic baths

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

The glossy shiny face of the bath is the result of the properties of acrylic itself.
  An important indicator when choosing a bath of acrylic - environmental friendliness: this material corresponds to the metabolism of the human body. Acrylic is the most hygienic of all materials.

The lack of acrylic as a material is insufficient stiffness. The stiffness of the products is given 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, it is necessary to consider the edge of the side of the bath - here the layers are clearly visible. Also, the number of layers can be determined by the sound: the more layers, the duller the sound. Subtlety and sonority of the product speaks of its low quality.

To increase rigidity and to evenly distribute the load, the bottom and sides of the bath are strengthened.
  Frames for acrylic baths, which have from 8 to 10 points of support and from 3 to 5 stiffeners, can significantly increase the strength and stability of the bath itself. A layer of polyurethane foam applied additionally to the reinforced coating provides thermal insulation of the bath.

Thanks to the design of the legs of the frame, the unevenness of the floor is compensated.
  The legs have special holes that allow the screws to securely attach the bath to the floor.

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

  Bathroom with hydromassage for two

The lack of acrylic baths - its surface is easily scratched. Therefore, bathing pets in them is not recommended. And do not use abrasive powders and pastes for cleaning, aggressive cleaning emulsions containing alcohol, white spirit, etc. thinners. It is better to use special formulations for acrylic surfaces. And wipe with a soft cloth with a liquid detergent.

Which bath is better to buy acrylic or cast iron or steel - the algorithm of choice for the items with a clear selection of the pros and cons of each material.

How to choose a bath

Obvious situations

Sometimes there really is no choice. It is with such simple cases that we start:

1. You need corner  or asymmetrical  bath. Only acrylic and composite baths are not rectangular, there are no other options.
2. You have dogs. Then only a cast iron or steel bath, because only their enamel can withstand the claws of dogs. Which is better next.
3. Do you want to big bath. Even among rectangular baths, the largest ones are acrylic. The choice of sizes of iron and steel bathrooms is very small. Details about.
4. Want modern and even ultramodern appearance. It is better to choose again an acrylic bath. Features of the production and casting of iron and steel make their appearance slightly clumsy.
5. Highly modest budget. Your choice of steel bath. Cheap acrylic bathrooms are very bad, and cheap iron does not exist.

If your case does not fall under any item, you will have to choose the best bath weighing the pros and cons of each material. Let's figure out how to choose a bath when you have already decided on the type of material.

If suddenly you have already decided which material for the bath is better for you, the last step remains - not to receive a defective copy.

When inspecting a bath, you definitely need a rule or other even long object. The bath may have a curved geometry, and this is very bad. You will not notice the curve of the side of the bath with the naked eye immediately, but you will notice after laying the tile. The seam at the junction of the bath with the wall will be uneven and it is very striking.

If it is a hollow or a hill, and the bathtub is acrylic, then everything is not so bad. When installing the wizard, he can lift the hollow and support it with corners screwed to the bathroom wall. But if the bath is iron or steel, then fix it will be impossible and difficult, respectively.

The bath should not be a curve either on the upper side of the side or on the side. In the first case there will be a curved seam between the bathroom and the tile. In the second, it will not come close to the wall.

Check the geometry of the sides of the bath rule - must be perfectly flat for cast iron and steel, acceptable for acrylic.

Acrylic bath

There is an opinion that nothing better than cast-iron baths was invented. We do not agree. In our experience and reviews, acrylic baths are an ideal choice for almost all people, except perhaps dog owners.

Poor reviews on acrylic baths come only from too cheap samples.. Allegedly, they sag under the weight, unstable, lose color. A good acrylic bath should not cost less than a cast iron, and the minimum required layer of acrylic is 4 mm. Acrylic baths best manufacturers: Ravak, Riho, Kolpa-san, Poolspa. Any of their bathroom will be quality from a fairly thick acrylic.

Advantages of acrylic baths

1. Large selection of shapes and sizes, modern appearance.
2. Low thermal conductivity. Always seem warm.
3. Low weight and ease of installation.
4. Not as slippery as cast iron and steel.
5. Scratches on normal acrylic baths with a layer of acrylic more than 4 mm can be ground off.
6. Does not lose appearance with time.
7. They are not afraid of corrosion and chemistry.

In our opinion, the advantages of acrylic baths, especially low thermal conductivity and a large selection of sizes and shapes, make them the standard choice. If you have, then it is among the acrylics you can find the option that most accurately fits in size, because they have a small step, and the choice is maximum. Now to the minuses.

Cons acrylic baths

1. Require more careful treatment. If you use only as intended and wash your body, then there will be no problems. But no dogs and technical processes.
2. Quite a price for normal-quality acrylic baths.
3. Cheap acrylic baths - a complete flaw.

Use for its intended purpose, do not drop heavy objects in the bath, and the bath will serve you no less than the cast-iron one. It is always warm and pleasant to the touch. In addition, when the area of ​​the bathroom is large, for example, in, there is a reason to put the corner bath, and they are only acrylic.

Cast iron bath

The most durable type of bath, with a limited choice of sizes and the same appearance. If a bath is used for something larger than lying, or if only the standard size of the bath is inserted into the bathroom, then it is a rational choice.

Pluses cast iron baths

1. Enamel is the most resistant to mechanical stress. Not afraid of dogs and hard brushes (within reasonable limits).
2. Silent, although the importance of this parameter is exaggerated.
3. Theoretically can be restored even after damage to the enamel.
4. Keep the temperature for a long time. It is only important if you lie down with water for a long time.

Cons cast iron baths

1. There are only rectangular and standard small sizes.
2. Cold and slowly heat up.
3. Heavy and difficult to install.
4. If the geometry is not perfect, it is impossible to correct.

If at purchase you missed an uneven top with a hollow in an acrylic bath, then during installation it can be lifted with a corner. With a cast-iron such a maneuver is not a ride, check the geometry!

Steel bath

It has the disadvantages of both types of baths, almost no advantages. But the king of cheap options. Much better than cheap acrylic.

The advantages of steel baths

1. Enamel is almost as good as cast iron, much stronger than acrylic.
2. Low cost with acceptable quality.
3. Low weight and easy installation.

Cons of steel baths

1. The choice of sizes is only slightly larger than cast-iron, only rectangular in shape.
2. Cold, cool quickly, but also heat up quickly.
3. Slippery.
4. Damage is almost impossible to repair.
5. Ring in the water.

Composite molded marble baths

The material is known for a long time, but for the manufacture of baths used relatively recently. Not very popular due to the high price, but it has several unique advantages. Deserves attention.

Advantages of composite baths

1. A huge palette of colors. The only bath that can be in any color, including speckled, shiny, etc.
2. Thermal conductivity is low as in acrylic baths, therefore it is never cold.
3. Composite baths are angular and large, although the choice is smaller than that of acrylic.
4. Not noisy, perceived durable and monumental.

Cons of composite baths

1. It is easily scratched, although at normal thickness it is also easy to grind.
2. High price. Composite baths are not cheap at all.
3. Very gentle and often damaged before the end of the repair.

To summarize Bath selection algorithm:

1. A steel bath is better with a limited budget. Carefully check whether the sides are even.
2. Cast iron bath is better if used actively and not only for washing people. If you plan to wash the dogs, some hard objects, etc. Check geometry.
3. If finances allow, and you want a non-standard color, choose a bath of composite materials.
4. In all other cases, choose a quality acrylic bath. Important! Do not buy cheap acrylic baths - they are very bad.

By the way, maybe you don't need a bath at all? Read about

Before starting repairs in the bathroom, the tenants are first determined with the plumbing. After all, a properly selected bath is a guarantee of health and comfort for a long time. But which bath to buy: acrylic or steel? What choice to make so that you never regret buying? In this article we will share with you useful information and hope that we will help you make the right choice.

What is an acrylic bath?

If to explain in simple words, acrylic is something like plastic. After heating, the acrylic sheet becomes plastic and at this moment a bath is “blown out” from it. Then, as the product cools down, spend reinforcement. It is not necessary to paint baths from this raw material, because the color is added at the low tide stage. This gives color stability, it does not burn out and does not change the shade. Reinforced coating becomes resistant to mechanical stress. All damage and abrasions are simply cleaned with fine sandpaper.

What you should pay attention when buying an acrylic bath

1. The thickness of the product. The thicker the sheet from which the bath is made, the stronger it will be.
2. The number of layers. It is equally important how many layers of reinforcement a product has. From this will also depend on the durability and strength of the bath.
3. Acrylic bath has a glossy shine. Attention should be paid to its transparency. Acrylic is not transparent material, so the side of the bath should not shine through. The color of the product should be uniform and without streaks.
4. Price. Too low price may indicate that the bath is made of ordinary plastic and is covered with acrylic only on top.
5. Pay attention to the form. The simpler it is, the better. Keep in mind that it is easier for the manufacturer to blow out non-standard baths from thin sheets of acrylic.
6. Ease. These acrylic baths are the lightest and weigh 15-20 kg.

Acrylic Bath: List of Benefits

1. Acrylic baths retain heat for a very long time, so water will be hot in them for a long time.
2. The color range of products is not limited, while they have a radiant purity of color and an attractive sheen.
3. Acrylic baths have good antibacterial and soundproofing properties.
4. Acrylic baths have an attractive appearance, they are easy to care for, and they come in a wide variety of forms.
5. Such baths can be easily restored with their own hands.

Board. For cleaning acrylic baths, it is undesirable to use powders with abrasives and cleaning products with chlorine - this can be harmful to internal surfaces.

The disadvantages of acrylic baths

Unfortunately, this bathroom is not designed to solve household problems. It should not wash and soak clothes. Its only drawback is the fear of high water temperatures and the use (as we have already noted) of abrasive materials as detergents.

What is a steel bath?

But, as you have already guessed, it is possible to judge which bath is better, acrylic or steel, only on the basis of your own needs. And we, in turn, hope to help you in choosing the most suitable option for you, commensurate and taking into account all the necessary parameters.

Now the bath, which has served faithfully, is really easy to change to a new one, because the product range presented in stores allows you to choose not only the desired design, but also a set of functions, color. But on the other hand, this diversity does not allow you to quickly make a choice. Bath can pick up really any color. If you need some specific or rare color, you can order it without any problems. Just be aware that all the plumbing in the room should look harmonious, that is, have the same color.

In addition, you can choose any shape of the product: oval, round, rectangular, triangular, which one you decide. Sometimes you can see the most unusual specimens:

• for two,
• with lots of pens,
• ladder
• with armrests that are designed to give extra comfort.

Interesting to know! You can choose a bath that will have a non-slip bottom. In addition, the size of the product also plays an important role in order for it to fit perfectly into the room itself.

Materials of manufacture are also excellent, baths can be from: copper, steel, iron, cast iron, acrylic and others. And it is impossible to say which one of them will be better, to choose cast iron or acrylic, especially if you do not have special knowledge about them.

Before you buy a product that should serve more than one year, you need to study a lot of information about the baths and materials of their manufacture.

How best to choose an acrylic bath

Before deciding on the answer to the question: which bath is better to choose, acrylic or cast iron, consider both types. Baths made of such material as acryl, recently began to replace their counterparts of iron and steel. But before you make a purchase, you need to arm yourself with the knowledge of acrylic itself in order to make a conscious choice of a bath from this material.

To answer the question which bath is better to buy, acrylic or cast iron, it makes sense to read detailed customer reviews on the Internet.

If you follow a simple language, then we can say that acrylic is somewhat similar to plastic. The acrylic sheet is heat treated and it becomes plastic, at which point they begin to “blow out” the bath from it. After cooling, the product must be reinforced.

If you find it difficult to make a choice between acrylic and cast iron (as well as steel, iron) bathroom, then you should pay attention to such moments when viewing products made of acrylic:

• the thickness of the bath itself plays a role: the thicker it is, the stronger it is, the thickest options are 5-6mm;
• the number of reinforcement layers also plays a role; the more, the stronger the product, the more easy to see them, if you look at the bathroom side, they are somewhat similar to the rings on the timber cut;
• the cost of the product - if the price is underestimated, then it can speak about the manufacture of ABS plastic from ordinary plastic, which is only covered with a thin layer of acrylic in 1-2mm;
• there should be a glossy shine, as it looks like this;
• the flexibility of the pressure bath speaks of the manufacture of ordinary plastic, which is unacceptable;
• transparency of the product should not take place, acrylic is an opaque material, so when looking at the light, the side should not shine through.
• the simpler the shape of the bathroom, the better it is, because the custom design of products is much easier to make from a thin sheet of acrylic;
• the surface of the bathroom should be smooth, and all the roughness and dents say about the inadequate quality of the product;
• the color of the product must be uniform, since acrylic is one of the varieties of plastic and the stains on it indicate a low quality of the material.

Modern technologies have allowed baths of acrylic to have simply wonderful qualities, for example, simply a unique resistance to abrasion. It can be argued that a bath of acrylic will serve you for many years, and the wonderful possibilities of restoring products in the home will only give additional advantages to its use.

Please note! If you need to buy a really high-quality product, then you do not need to try to save, because its price depends on the strength of the product.

You should decide what is more important to you: low cost or quality, since with low quality it may not cope with water pressure or high temperature and will burst. In addition, you can choose from a variety of materials, acrylic is not the only one, for example, steel is also used successfully for manufacturing. In order to make a choice between steel and acrylic bath, you need to have information about steel products.

How to choose the right steel bath

If we talk about the cost, then, as many buyers state in their reviews, it is the most acceptable for them, which gives rise to such high demand. But do not think that this indicates its inferiority in relation to other products - it has its advantages.

Steel is a non-porous, lightweight material. Such properties help to reduce the cost of enamel. When drying with high temperature, the enamel can penetrate into the micropores of the product by 1/3, which allows us to speak about the resistance of the bath to various kinds of acids and other abrasive substances. In addition, such products have wear resistance and impact resistance at a high level.

If we compare acrylic and steel baths to make a choice, then for a steel product it is necessary to pay attention to the following points:

• the average wall thickness of the product must be at least 3-4mm, otherwise there is a risk of its deformation even under the weight of a person;
• the weight of the product itself reaches 30-40 kilograms; if it is lighter, it will not be able to withstand the weight of a person, and the enamel will crack due to the deformation;
• the coating must be of high quality;
• the bath should go about 10 years warranty;
• the normal depth of the bathroom should be 50-60cm, it should be low enough so that you can wash yourself in a semi-sitting state;
• the optimal bath length is 160-170 cm, but much depends on the person’s height.

  A steel bath is not less attractive than acrylic, as it is covered with enamel, and it may look somewhat similar to cast iron, they can be difficult to distinguish. But the comparison should be carried out only after getting acquainted with the features of iron products.

How to choose a cast iron bath

The average buyer still prefers products made of cast iron when choosing a bathroom, especially if it should have a standard shape. By the popularity of this type they say many reviews and surveys of various sociological and marketing services.

The choice between acrylic, cast iron, steel or iron bath depends not only on the price, but also on the desired consumer and external characteristics. But even when acquiring a simple bath, you need to pay attention to all the little things:

1. before you make the purchase, you must clearly measure the dimensions of the room and the dimensions of the product itself, because they must exactly match each other;
2. the width of the bathroom must pass freely into the existing doorway, otherwise you will have to deal with the partial dismantling of the door;
3. pay attention to the depth of the product; the parameter for old-style apartments with small dimensions is especially important;
4. the enamel coating must glitter and has no scratches, otherwise the protective layer may be deformed in the future;
5. if you choose a bath and the disabled person will bathe in it, then it is better to immediately pick up a product with a lot of various handles and handrails, as well as an anti-slip coating;
6. if the floor in the bathroom is not even, then you can pick up a product with adjustable legs;
7. you need to pay attention to the manufacturer of the product, it should be a good recommendation.

Interesting information! Good enamel provides an attractive look. In addition, such a bath is almost impossible to scratch, and absolutely any cleaning agent is suitable for it.

The design is made by casting, it gives the weight of the product, but also the strength, which can guarantee endurance to high loads without changing the shape. This product has a high resistance to corrosion, which provides 50 years of service and more.

If you have a question about which bathroom is better from steel or cast iron, then we can say that the steel product has less weight, but the cast iron will retain water heat longer. But when choosing a cast iron or acrylic, it is worth noting that acrylic is more durable, as it has elasticity, but upon impact the cast iron can be damaged.

To make an informed choice, let's dwell in more detail on the advantages and disadvantages of different bath options.

First, the merits:

• acrylic bath: the material is plastic, which allows you to give the product almost any shape, in addition, the bathroom has lightness, it will be great to keep warm and all scratches on them can be easily removed;
• cast iron bath: often has screw feet, and its height is easily adjustable, it keeps warm remarkably;
• steel bath: light and not so expensive.

If you look at the merits of the very conclusion that it is better to choose between cast iron and acrylic, as cast iron has a high resistance to high temperatures.

And now a little tar:

• acrylic product: if thin acrylic was used in the manufacture, it will begin to spring under your feet, besides abrasives are not suitable for cleaning it, only cleaning fluids and soft sponges are not suitable;
• cast iron product: it weighs a lot, modern products are made from thin material, there are many pores on the surface, which provides remarkable penetration of dirt and rust, all chipped are difficult to remove;
• steel products: they do not keep the temperature well, they are not stable, when you draw water, you hear noise.

If we talk about the shortcomings of different materials, then we can say that the acrylic bath will be much more hygienic, but the strength is won by cast iron. But when choosing between acrylic and steel, the cost of a steel bath is less, but it is easier to eliminate scratches on an acrylic product.

Each type of product has its drawbacks, and some are easily eliminated. To improve the insulation of the steel bath from the noise when typing water, as well as to reduce its cooling time, you can resort to such tricks:

1. There is a special-purpose polymer coating that can reduce the noise level of water that hits the product, but such a coating had a high cost, and this dramatically translated this class of baths from the economical to the expensive.
2. Some sellers say the buyer that you can put a bath in a container with sand at installation, about 1/3 of the height.
3. It is possible to install additional supports under the bottom of the bathroom, for example bricks, but completely fill the free space between them with assembly foam. Just remember, this may require about 4 packs of foam, and then you have to come up with decorations for your bricks and foam, for example with a plastic panel or ceramic tile.
4. European steel baths have special rubber pads on the bottom.

Comparing acrylic and cast iron bath - which is better?

So, to summarize all of the above. For clarity, we present the main characteristics of the considered samples in the form of a table.

In the end I would like to note that after all the choice is always purely individual. Each individual has his own preferences and needs. For example, some people prefer the classics proven over the years and, accordingly, opt for a cast iron bath. She is a model of reliability and durability, the “soul” of a bathroom that will live almost forever. Acrylic bath is a sample of modern lightness combined with design, aesthetics and beauty. In addition, it will perfectly fit into a bathroom of any size and with any interior.

Thus, both acrylic and cast iron baths have both advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, the beauty and sophistication of acrylic baths, on the other hand, the durability and reliability of cast iron - is the personal choice of each customer. The most important thing for your bathtub is to please everyone with its beauty, reliability and durability.

Video instruction