Sliding Bath Screens: Varieties and Sizes
In the modern arrangement of the bathroom is often resorted to buying a sliding screen for a bath. This design has a lot of advantages and significantly increases the aesthetics of this intimate room. However, in order for it to successfully fit into a specific type of room, you need to know a number of nuances - from its purpose and type of design to specific recommendations for selection.
Purpose
Sliding screen under the bath is a significant element of the design room. It allows not only to hide communications, but also is a practical solution in the arrangement, since it performs a lot of useful tasks. For example, thanks to him on the laid pipe will not flow water. Due to the sliding system, it allows rational use of closed space, which is especially important for bathrooms in small apartments.
These screens do not just cover the space under the bathroom: they also decorate the interior. In addition, these devices, in contrast to the blind analogs, make it easy to get to the pipes in case of leakage. It does not need to break anything, to dismantle. Such designs are quite convenient, for which they are popular with modern buyers.
Advantages and disadvantages
These designs have a lot of advantages. For example, today they are often included in the package acrylic bath. This position of manufacturers allows you to simplify the selection and purchase exactly what you need. Moreover, such models are much better than other self-made skins.
Such products look beautiful, stylish and modern. Pleases buyers and the fact that the models are variable, so everyone can choose the option that is suitable for a particular bath, whether it is a design in the form of a panel or analogs with sidewalls. In most cases, the screens occupy a minimum of space, while holding inside the mass of trifles.
Other advantages include the ability of screen skins to improve the sanitary conditions of bathrooms.When they are installed under the bathroom will not accumulate dust and moisture after washing. This, in turn, will eliminate the appearance and spread of bacteria and fungus under it. In most cases, such systems are easy to maintain.
Sliding bath screen is easy to install. As a rule, it is possible for any head of the family and does not take much time. At the same time the result of the installation will look professional.
Self-installation saves the budget for the call of the installer. In addition, the sliding sash opening system is also convenient because it does not require additional free space: just slide the panel to the side.
Due to the rich choice of design, the buyer can purchase the product with the overall concept of style. Products are varied in colors and themes of drawings. In this case, not only the panels themselves can be a decorating element: manufacturers often emphasize supports. For example, they can be designed in the form of plants, flowers, geometric shapes, as well as the paws of animals.
In addition, the range of screens is so wide that you can choose a product, taking into account the various possibilities of the budget. Such designs, as a rule, are never empty. They are able to bring unobtrusive organization to the bathroom space. These are durable moisture-resistant products made by innovative techniques on modern equipment.
Sliding bath screens are safe and withstand temperature changes. However, in addition to the advantages, they have disadvantages. For example, not every type of material used for their manufacture is durable due to the high humidity characteristic of this type of room. Other disadvantages include the ability of some materials to breakage in the event of significant mechanical shocks.
In addition, some models have a low resistance guides. Because of this, over time, the screen may be deformed, which will complicate the movement of the valves.
Materials
For the production of sliding screens under the bath today used various raw materials. The most common types of materials include PVC, acrylic, MDF, as well as wood and glass (including mirror inserts). Each type of material has its own characteristics and is suitable for a particular bath. In the production of each model, the company is repelled by the standards of safety, reliability and moisture resistance.
Acrylic options come complete with similar baths. They are not intended for sanitary ware from other materials (for example, they will not fit the cast-iron model). They are made of polymers, and then covered with a layer of acrylic. Installation of such products does not differ from conventional technology. However, the installation requires special care when drilling acrylic.
For the framework today are more often used plastic and aluminum. Of the two types of material, the second is the best, since it is characterized by greater strength. The disadvantage of aluminum frames is considered to be less resistant to permanent exposure to moisture.
Plastic screens are included in the budget group. As a rule, in most cases they are distinguished by the presence of drawings made by photo printing technology. Their line is the brightest and most colorful, it has a different type of surface and may have original accessories. Plastic is not susceptible to the appearance and spread of fungal growths and mold.
It is inert to temperature changes in the bathroom and is characterized by resistance to rotting processes. However, they are short-lived and in a few years may require replacement. The disadvantage of plastic is a gradual loss of attractiveness of the original form.For example, over time it may turn yellow, and in addition, it is difficult to remove stubborn rust from it.
On sale there are products from plexiglass or so-called plexiglass. According to its properties, it is close to plastic, absolutely immune to the effects of water and moisture. However, it is more aesthetic than PVC, and has a large variety of textural solutions. Despite the fact that it lasts longer, it is quite fragile, what is its main disadvantage.
Analogs from MDF are nothing but products from wood chipboards. In order to improve moisture resistance, manufacturers process them with special impregnations in the form of special resins. Such designs are more reliable than polymeric variants. They have an interesting color palette, which contains a lot of noble natural colors.
Often on the facades of such sliding screens cause a variety of drawings or patterns. In addition, to improve moisture resistance, manufacturers laminate facades with special polymer films. The disadvantage of these screens is their great weight. It is because of him for their installation it is necessary to build a frame of highly durable metal.
Such structures, as a rule, have 3 flaps, the central of which remains fixed. The other two work on the principle of doors in wardrobes. Glass and mirror versions of screens on sale are less common products from polymers and wood products. This is due to their lower resistance to mechanical damage.
However, they are quite resistant to the effects of water, they look presentable. So that they perfectly fit the existing bath, they are often ordered for specific sizes. Glass for a sliding screen under the bath can be dull or gloss. In addition, trademarks produce products not only transparent, but also color.
The surface of such screens made of glass may have a patterned pattern. An interesting solution to the design of the glass screen is the backlight. Mirror elements allow you to decorate a different type of material. However, they can be installed at different angles, which will ensure the play of light.
However, the disadvantage of such structures is their fragility. Besides the fact that it is more difficult to care for such a surface, the panels of these materials are more difficult to install.
Dimensions
As a rule, models of sliding type have standard sizes. On the one hand, it simplifies their purchase, on the other hand, it does not allow choosing a non-standard option. It has to be ordered individually. The standard length of the frame can vary in the range from 150 to 180 cm. The height of products usually ranges from 56 to 60 cm.
Typical screens with two doors often have a length of 150 cm. When the length is longer (for example, 160, 170 cm), their number can reach up to four. Less commonly, models with a length of 120, 130, 140 cm can be purchased on the construction market. If a model with a greater height and, for example, a shorter length (for example, 190 cm) is needed, it must be ordered privately.
High screen may seem due to the adjustment of the legs. Model parameters manufacturer indicates on the label attached to each product (for example, 120x70, 150x52, 150x56, 150x54 cm).
Constructions
The design of the sliding screen may be different, depending on its model and the presence (absence) of the roller mechanism for opening panels. Sliding bath screens with a roller design resemble the mechanisms of the wardrobe. The rollers themselves are mounted on the panel; when opening and closing the leaves, they move along guides.Besides rollers, they have convenient handles which allow to move panels.
The main components of this type of screen are panels, frame, related fittings. Often, for greater functionality, the design is complicated. In this case, it is complemented by a variety of shelves. The number of shelves can be different, which often depends on the number of screen panels themselves.
In order to visually enlarge the space of a small bathroom, the panels are decorated not only with shelves, but also with mirror inserts.
The upper and lower bars can have a profile in the shape of the letter "Ш". Depending on the type, 2 or 3 sliding panels can be inserted into its slots. The range of other manufacturers developed models specifically for people with disabilities. Such products, in addition to other additions, are equipped with special handrails.
In general, on-screen constructions are a worthy element of the design, regardless of their type, whether it is an option with only one facade or models with side panels. Depending on the type of material used, they successfully fit into the interior against the background of other furniture, which is today decided to be installed in bathrooms.For example, a screen with doors and shelves of moisture-resistant MDF on the background of furniture of a similar shade creates the appearance of a furniture ensemble, thereby introducing special notes to the interior.
Popular manufacturers
A modern market for plumbing products offers a wide range of screens to customers, which can satisfy even the most demanding customer. Among other trademarks can be noted the products of several companies, including brands of Germany, Russia and other countries of the world, which is in special demand according to the available reviews.
- Edelform. Sliding screen with MDF facade, adjustable legs, aluminum handles. A bonus is the presence of inserts, organizers in the form of convenient plastic niches with shelves that can be inserted behind the screen.
- ROCAelegance. A successful model that can transform any bathroom. The facade is made of VMDF, the design of the door has a fixed insert. The material of the panels and legs is plastic. The product has 3 stable supports.
- Alavann. The Russian brand produces plastic screens, including those with acrylic coating. Models are varied in colors.In the line there are options with photo printing. The average cost of products is about 3,600 rubles.
- MetaKam. The product line of domestic manufacturers, characterized by different shades and a rich selection of textures, allowing you to choose products in height from 56 to 60 cm from restrained and strict to unpretentious and bright colors. When assembled, their length can be 1490 and 1690 mm.
- Englhome. A wide range of models. Products are designed for a different market segment, have a roller opening and closing mechanism. A lot of options for every taste from different materials, among which every buyer will find exactly what he needs.
Prices of models of different companies differ, depending on the type of material used, as well as the method of its processing. For example, the cost of a screen under a plexiglass bath with photo printing can be about 7,150 rubles. A series of economy will cost the buyer about 2500 rubles. Varieties with roller mechanisms can cost up to 6,700 rubles. Products with photo printing, depending on the degree of complexity and the number of panels, can cost more than 7,000 rubles. Premium glass screens sometimes cost more than 7,500 rubles.
Tips for choosing
The choice of a sliding screen under the bath is not as complicated as it may seem.When the question of buying a trim instead of a curtain arises, it is necessary to start from the design features of a particular room, the personal preferences of the owners of the house and their financial possibilities. To choose a quality and durable model, you should listen to the main recommendations of specialists. First of all, it is important to pay attention to the frame material. It must be durable and resistant to mechanical stress.
In the choice of material, you can give preference to the combined models. The number of sliding doors in this case may be different. The main thing is to think in advance how it will be convenient after installation for a specific bath. It is desirable to purchase functional products with shelves (they are more aesthetic). Regarding glass, it is worth noting that the option of a transparent type loses the meaning of a purchase, because it does not perform the main function of hiding pipes.
You should not take options from chipboard, because they will not last more than 5 years. In addition, this type of product is not environmentally friendly. You can choose between two types of materials: plastic and MDF. However, with regards to the second material, it is worth considering that you need to buy a version of VMDF, which differs from the usual furniture raw material by the type of binder.
If you plan to buy acrylic products of non-standard size, the screen should be ordered in advance. If you wish, you can pick up the finished version with 3D effect. When it is decided to purchase a plastic model, in the process of buying it is worth deciding which type of latch it has: magnetic or spring. This information is available on the factory instructions, you need to pay attention to it before the product is bought, because in some cases, the snapping method is particularly important.
To buy a model correctly, you need to go to the store with measurements of the distance from the bathroom to the floor. Good options are products with niches and three stable legs. For a cast-iron bath, choosing a “coupe” screen today can be problematic due to its low demand. More often, such products are made by the owners themselves, using metal profiles.
Their shutters can be made of plastic or MDF. The second option is appropriate when there is enough space in the room. With regards to the shade of any screen, it is worth starting from the color background of the interior. If you wish, you can also buy a white screen, since this color is combined with all the tones of the color palette.
Bundling must be checked in the store. It is important that the handles are made of a corrosion resistant material. Plastic hardware wears out quickly. If the store has a model with a galvanized coating, it is worth taking it.
It is desirable to choose a screen with the ability to adjust. In other words, you need to take the model, which has struts and legs. This will simplify the process of installation of the bath plating. It is undesirable to buy kits with wooden beams, because the tree has the ability to expand and contract.
When choosing a material can be considered and ventilation. If there is no such system in the bathroom, it does not make sense to purchase a product from MDF. When a good hood is available, the moisture will not linger in the room, so the life of the screen will not be reduced.
In addition to the main points, when buying you need to pay attention to the quality of the guides, the serviceability of the roller mechanism. It is important that it is convenient to adjust the height of the legs.
How to install?
Installing the screen under the bath with your own hands today does not require special construction skills. For installation you will need a construction level, a tape measure,sealant and ordinary simple pencil or marker.
The algorithm will be as follows:
- Initially inspect the surface of the bath. Ideally, it should not have projections or other irregularities.
- After that, measure the distance from the side of the bath to the floor and twist the legs, making sure that the distance to the top was identical.
- The frame of the screen is brought overboard, it is fixed with preliminary unscrewing of the legs.
- Using the building level, it is set vertically.
- On the side of the junction with a pencil perform a mark in the form of a line (it will become a guide for further work).
- After that, the frame is removed, then silicone sealant is applied on its upper edge.
- The frame with sealant is brought back under the edge of the bath.
- To fix it in the correct position, use the open-end wrench. At the same time they rely on a landmark (the line outlined earlier).
- After this, it is necessary to check the position again by means of the building level. If necessary, it is adjusted vertically.
- That the screen looked decent and there were no defects in the installation, remove the remnants of the exposed sealant.If a marker was used for basting and its traces are visible, they are also disposed of.
In fact, the installation of the screen under the bath should not cause difficulties. In the course of its implementation, one should not forget to check the work of the valves.
It is important that nothing be wedged anywhere. The doors should go smoothly and smoothly.
What else to consider?
When installing a protective sliding screen should bear in mind its degree of reliability. For example, it is possible to strengthen the plastic construction due to the correct choice of the place for installation, as well as a slight recession towards the bath. So the drops flowing from the board will not be able to get behind the screen itself. When purchasing it is important to consider the complexity of care, since the surface of the screen will need it regularly.
It is important to choose a screen so that it can be cleaned, wiped without harm to the coating. For mounting additional shelves you can use screws, fixing them directly to the design of the screen. When buying a product made of polymer, you need to pay attention to the quality of the plastic, and its coating - resistant.
This is explained by the fact that products of low quality with frequent cleaning can gradually be erased from the surface.Purchase should be carried out in a proven store, which has a lot of positive feedback from real buyers. It is advisable to acquire branded models, as well-known companies carefully monitor their reputation. As a rule, they produce high-end products.
Screen design handles should be comfortable. Do not buy accessories, which in case of accidental mechanical action can damage the skin.
Better that their shape was streamlined. With regards to height, everyone decides individually. Some people like when there is more free space between the floor and the bottom bar, others prefer it to be minimal.
Reviews
According to many buyers, a bath screen is a must have with a host of useful properties. Those who installed such constructions in their houses or city apartments, note: it is not only beautiful, but also aesthetically pleasing. People like the fact that the range of these products is quite wide and unlimited in the choice of color. Often, customers purchase a curtain for such screens in a single theme, emphasizing its integrity of the interior composition.In addition, the screen design of the sliding type is much better than the screen curtains.
With regards to the choice of design, the reviews indicate that in this case, it is often the price that is the determining factor. Buyers who bought products with a roller mechanism say that this is a good investment, because the sash turn is convenient, and these products last longer. Of course, such models are significantly more expensive, but in this case the price is quite justified.
How to install the screen under the bath, see the following video.