The modern soul: what are the alternatives?

In Soviet and post-Soviet times, the presence of a bathroom gave the apartment a more comfortable status in front of similar counterparts without it. The shower was not excluded, the mixer, as a rule, was installed so that water poured into the bath. To date, modern plumbing novelties allow you to install both elements of the bathroom separately from each other in the presence of free space or to give preference to only one of them.

Small bathroom makes more demands for plumbing. Equipment must be not only beautiful, but comfortable and practical.

Modern shower has several advantages over the bathroom.

• Saving of the useful area.
• Save time. A shower can be taken faster than waiting for the bath to fill. It is very convenient for daily use.
• Target consumption reduces the amount of water used. However, this does not apply to fans of contrasting or hydromassage showers, since in this case more water is consumed.
• Ability to install additional features.

However, there are inconveniences:

• uncomfortable bathing young children;
• difficult to wash pets;
• There is no opportunity to wash voluminous things.

There are several types of soul.

• Classic ordinary watering can. The device consists of a nozzle with a hose. In this case, you need a fastener for hanging the shower, otherwise you will have to wash with one hand. The homemade version of the classic soul in suburban areas is most often encountered.
• Stationary shower has one position, is attached, as a rule, to the wall. Modern models provide moving parts to change the direction of the water jet and the degree of spraying.
• Overhead shower. The simplest design is a large-diameter watering can installed on the ceiling. Models with rigid mounting on the bracket in the form of a metal tube. Such models are not always convenient, because they do not allow to leave the hair dry.

• Headsets. The system consists of a flexible hose with a watering can, a rod and a holder. Often in models there are additional shelves. The bar is attached to the wall so that its top is higher than the owner at least 30-40 centimeters. Various holders are attached to it. A watering can mount is usually equipped with an adjustment mechanism to change its height and angle of inclination.
• Racks. Shower columns are a synthesis of the upper shower and headset. The design includes a standing bar, a hose, two types of showers, manual and upper, regulating holders, additional elements. Water is supplied along the boom; there is a built-in switch for its distribution between watering cans. Often, manufacturers equip such systems with a thermostat mixer. And also attached electric control.
• The panels. Shower panels in comparison with racks have a large number of functions.In addition to the above elements, the design is equipped with nozzles with nozzles for hydromassage. The mixer in such models is built-in, in most cases thermostatic with automatic control.

The classification of shower devices is due to several factors.

In external form, they are divided into two types.

• The open structures are not closed from above; they have only side flaps and a pallet. Showers are compact and low cost.
• The closed construction is called hydroboxing. It is completely isolated, which prevents water from entering the bathroom. The sealed capsule protects the bathroom from evaporation, so the furniture is not in contact with moisture. Shower boxes lose the first option in terms of cost and size, but allow you to connect various additional functions, for example, popular capsules with hydromassage. Modern manufacturers offer models with a high pallet, which has the shape of a half-bath. This modification of the box eliminates some of the inconveniences of a regular shower.

By configuration, they are angular and wall.

1. Corner models are built into the corner of the room.The most common designs are square and semicircular. The second option is appropriate for small areas, since smoothed corners increase the useful space of the bathroom.
2. Wall options are placed along one of the walls.

The screen can be made of different materials, which determines the total cost of the soul.

• Curtain - The cheapest option. Usually as a material used rubberized cloth, oilcloth or polyethylene. It is more often used for an open shower, protecting the environment from splashing.
• Glass. As a rule, plexiglass is used as a screen or doors, but often tempered glass is used. Glass surfaces look great in the interior of the bathroom. It must be remembered that the material is prone to the appearance of plaque during the evaporation of water, so the screen requires careful maintenance.
• Polymers recently very popular. They are cheaper than glass counterparts, aesthetic, easy to clean. Manufacturers offer a wide range of similardecorative elements. It is important not to use hard brushes to clean them, since polymer surfaces are afraid of scratches.
• Plastic - budget option shower screen. Due to the fact that the material bends easily, a frame system is needed to strengthen it. Plastic panels are used in public showers: swimming pools, hospitals, dormitories, hotels.

When choosing a shower tray tray, first of all they are guided by the material from which it is made. This criterion determines durability, sound absorption and cost. An important requirement is the presence of an anti-slip bottom surface that will avoid injuries.

Shower structures are also classified according to the material of the pallet.

• Acrylic models - leaders in popularity. The main advantages are a small time for heating, anti-slip surface, operational safety, good noise absorption. Acrylic is easy to process, so you can give it any shape, attach additional parts. Caring for such models is simple, the appearance is maintained for a long time. Experts note that acrylic trays must be reinforced with a metal frame, otherwise it is deformed.
• Cast iron modifications durable and more affordable in comparison with all the options presented. The material retains heat well, but this will take some time. Among the shortcomings can be noted a significant weight, uniformity of configurations, low sound absorption. Experts recommend choosing models with thicker walls, such designs produce less noise. It is necessary to take into account the fact that plumbing from cast iron is often enameled, and it tends to break off and scratch when used carelessly. This will require replacing the enamel layer after some time.

• Steel pallets last longer than acrylic. There are models whose bottom is covered with enamel. In this case, the durability of the product depends on the quality of the enamel layer. Steel models are easy and cheap. The disadvantages include slippery surface (it is better to purchase a rubber mat) and low noise insulation.
• Ceramic structures hygienically, they have no equal: they are easy to clean, they heat up quickly and keep warm for a long time, they absorb sounds perfectly. But the pros are equally balanced by the downsides: heavy weight, high price, low impact resistance.
• Stone Pallet The designs are not cheap.Most often marble is used for these purposes. Alternatively, manufacturers offer products made of porcelain.
• Wooden bottoms pleasant tactile and do not let your feet get cold. The tree is optimal for shower rooms in country houses. Experts warn when choosing such models about the complexity of care and the need to treat wood with special compounds.

The classification by shower head is simple. Manufacturers produce watering cans of various geometric shapes: round, square, triangular, dome-shaped, flat, hemispherical.

In addition, the nozzles perform different functions.

• Rotary shower in the form of a propeller, on the blades of which there are many holes. When water strikes out of them, the watering can unwinds, tight spiral streams provide a massage effect. When installing the shower, it is better to combine this option with a conventional nozzle, since the rotational watering can is not intended for daily hygiene procedures.
• Cascade - This is a device that provides muscle relaxation. The pressure of the jets is adjustable. However, with the “raging waterfall” mode, a huge amount of water is wasted, which will cause additional costs.
• Especially popular in recent times "Tropical rain". Most often it is set as the upper shower and is used for relaxation.

If there is free space in the room, it is possible to install both a bath and a shower cabin at the same time.

This is especially true for country houses, where the presence of two components is laid at the design stage of the house. In this case, the bathroom is divided into several zones by partitions or by means of other interior elements. In one, as a rule, the largest of all, a bath is installed, in the other - a shower, in the third a toilet and a bidet or their combined version.

Designers offer several interior solutions for the design of a spacious bathroom.

1. If the bathroom is long and narrow. Along one of the walls it is better to place the font and shower, the latter will be just in the corner, on the opposite wall are mounted washbasin and toilet. If the width of the room allows you to set the bath along the end wall, then more space is available for other parts.In this case, you can arrange not only a shower cabin, but also a washing machine, laundry basket.
2. In the presence of a square bathroom. A small square leaves few possibilities, most of the details are located in the corners. In the case of large areas, the location of the bath and shower depends on the design project, here the range of options is unlimited.
3. In the case of a bay window. The architectural feature allows designers to fantasize. In most cases, in the bay window have a bath as a place for relaxation. To install the shower, you can use any angle.

In small apartments, owners are forced to make a choice between a bath and a shower cabin, since the installation of both products is impossible. However, plumbing manufacturers offer such a variety of devices that the problem remains only in the choice of design.

If the family has small children, or someone from the owners likes to take baths, then it is better to consider the combined option. The shower set is mounted on the ceiling or on the wall with the help of brackets, the bathtub serves as a shower tray. Instead of panels, you can use a more economical design: watering can-chandeliers.They have a large diameter and are mounted on the ceiling. As a screen, you can use a curtain or a special screen. Experts recommend using a three-sectional curtain as a splash guard, after use they are removed to the side.

Manufacturers also offer high-drain showers that allow you to draw water into them. They are not a full bath, but for bathing children or animals are fine.

One of the sharing options is to use a “sit-down” bath. It takes up little space, especially for corner models. Therefore, next to it is quite fit a small shower.

Acrylic baths due to the physical properties of the material are available in a variety of configurations. This makes it possible to choose a modification for a specific room.

If the presence of the booth is not important, only a shower is needed, then we can restrict ourselves to properly performed repairs to ensure waterproofing of the floor and its slope to the drain hole. In this case, you only need the shower rack. As a screen, you can use the simplest option in the form of a curtain or more expensive with the installation of hinged doors.

Recently, whirlpool procedures are very popular. They allow you to relax after a hard day's work, which is sometimes difficult for a modern person. Water jets produce massage actions, stimulate skin cells, improve blood circulation.

To date, many showers are equipped with a hydromassage function. Since in this case water is supplied under pressure, and the splashes fly in different directions, a dense protective partition is necessary. As a rule, such functional additions are inherent in hydroboxes.

To ensure the hydromassage effect on the shower panel have special nozzles, the number of which varies from 1 to 20. The more of them, the better the massage effect. The nozzles are located at different levels and provide different intensity of water jets depending on the height.The hardest pressure is usually at the level of the waist and thighs.

Nozzles are of three types.

1. Hydromassage. Water is fed through such openings under pressure.
2. Aero massage. Such nozzles are needed to supply air, which under pressure turns into bubbles.
3. Combined. Combine the functions of the first two types.

Manufacturers offer various types of massage showers:

• conventional hydromassage using adjustable nozzles of different types;
• the overhead shower with a watering can "tropical rain";
• rotary shower.

During installation, you should worry in advance about cleaning filters for nozzles, preferably of high quality. This will ensure a long service life and good water flow.

If the central water supply delivers very "hard" water, then it is better to refuse to install a hydromassage model. The nozzles have very small holes that will quickly become clogged with salt deposits.In this case, an additional filtering system will be required, which implies financial costs.

Hydro massage shower can be taken daily. Depending on the time of admission, it has a different effect. Morning - invigorating, evening - relieves fatigue.

Doctors recommend that when using to follow some rules that allow you to avoid trouble.

• Water pressure should not cause discomfort. If the shower is uncomfortable, you should adjust the system.
• The tilt angle of the jets should be adjusted so that the water does not beat into the body, but passes tangentially.
• The temperature should not be less than 35 degrees. Hydromassage with cold water is contraindicated even for a healthy person.
• After drinking alcohol or eating a lot of food, you should not take a shower.
• A long period of taking the procedure can make you feel worse.
• After taking a hydromassage shower, it is better to let the body rest and calm down for a while.

According to experts, the hydromassage shower relieves muscle tension, relaxing them, reducing swelling.The procedure stimulates metabolism and blood circulation, and this helps to eliminate varicose veins and improve lymph flow. In addition, it has a beneficial effect on the digestive system, removes toxins, cleanses the body of toxins. Since water jets under high pressure are able to break down the subcutaneous fat accumulations, hydromassage is recommended as a preventive measure for cellulite. Neurologists prescribe this procedure as a beneficial effect on the entire nervous system, which causes an improvement in health and the elimination of chronic insomnia.

Doctors warn against the use of massage showers in the following cases:

• diagnosed with ischemia and hypertension;
• people with urolithiasis;
• in the presence of oncology and malignant tumors;
• during an infectious disease;
• during pregnancy;
• with dermatitis, psoriasis and other skin diseases;
• with various bleeding;
• with thrombophlebitis;
• after a heart attack or stroke;
• There are contraindications for exacerbation of chronic diseases.

Therefore, if there are any abnormalities, it is better to initially consult a doctor.

Modern plumbing over the years has undergone many changes, has become more comfortable and functional. Many tasks, the implementation of which had not even been considered before during its installation, are standard today.

Recently, in the bathrooms establish a bidet for hygienic purposes. However, residents of small apartments do not have such an opportunity. In this case, manufacturers offer a special hygienic shower installed in the toilet. The nozzle is attached directly to the toilet, which saves space and intimate hygiene.

The standard model includes the following components:

• hose;
• a shower with a valve;
• handle with water supply controls;
• fasteners depending on the model.

The cost of a hygienic shower depends on the status of the company and the degree of reliability of the parts. According to consumer feedback, manufacturers such as Grohe and Hansgrohe have proven themselves well. More affordable products of the company Oras, while the quality remains at a height.

Before you install a hygienic shower, you need to weigh the pros and cons, decide on how much it is needed, since its installation will require certain financial costs.

Personal hygiene should be done daily. Among the advantages of hygienic devices should be highlighted several of the most important.

• Convenience. The design allows the use of the shower to the elderly and disabled.
• Suitable fasteners. Installation can be done where required.
• The presence of a thermostat makes it possible to adjust the temperature of the water, depending on the wishes of the owner.
• Security.
• Efficiency. You can carry out the procedure at any time.
• Ergonomic. Additional space during installation is not required.
• Price availability.

Among the minuses are the following.

• After switching off, the water supply stops, but for some time the remnants of the hose and watering can drain. Therefore, smudges may form on the floor.
• Not all models are designed to connect hot water.

The modern market of plumbing allows you to choose the modification of the soul for personal hygiene,which is suitable for a particular interior.

There are several ways to install structures:

• on the sink located near the toilet;
• on the toilet lid;
• on the wall.

Experts recommend wall models as the most practical and convenient. Models are built into the wall, so part of the communications is hidden, which does not violate the design. In this case, the structure includes a small flexible hose, through which the mixer and the watering can are connected. More expensive options equip the thermostat to provide more comfortable use. It is appropriate to install the built-in wall hygienic shower either at the initial stage of installation of sanitary communications of a house or apartment, or in the overhaul of a bathroom. This is due to the need to make a recess in the wall. If the owner is not ready for cardinal actions, then it is better to use other installation options.

Manufacturers offer a universal device for intimate hygiene, which is installed on the toilet. The nozzle is compact, its installation is simple and does not depend on the form of plumbing.The kit includes a mounting plate, mixer, ergonomic specialized watering can and hose. Installation is made from any convenient side.

Before installing any model, you should choose the right place and height, as well as calculate the required length of the shower. Experts advise after the hygienic procedures to block the water. The fact is that if this is not done, then the shut-off valve is always under pressure, which will lead to rapid failure. This problem is absent in the model with the shower mount to the sink, because there when disconnecting, the water goes away.

If you need an adjustable shower for frequent use, it is better to opt for the headset.

The shower rack allows you to experience all the benefits of a vertical water supply. To increase the level of comfort, give preference to models with additional shelves and different holders.

The shower panel combines in one system not only the function of the shower, but also such supplements as hydro-massage, aromatherapy, light therapy, the effect of the sauna and others.

If there is a small bathroom in a small apartment, and there is no need for a bathroom, then it is worthwhile to install a modern shower cabin or hydroboxing instead.

Once with the necessary functional component of the soul decided, proceed to the choice of model. Experts advise first of all to pay attention to the pallet. Everything affects its durability: material, resistance to stresses, compactness, the presence of an anti-slip coating.

As for the material, then the choice is determined only by the wishes of the owner, but it should take into account not only advantages, but also disadvantages:

• earthenware trays are durable and hygienic, but easily split under blows;
• artificial or natural stone - absolute record holders for durability and look great, but are expensive;
• steel models, covered with enamel, are beautiful and aesthetic, but have a low operating life and are very noisy;
• Acrylic trays are practical, durable, easy to care for, but they require the installation of an additional frame.

When choosing fences and doors better guided by the size of the room.If the area allows, then swing models will do; in other cases, it is better to give preference to curtains and sliding screens. The only mandatory requirement is that fencing should provide splash protection. The choice of material from which the doors are made depends on the wishes of the owner, the design project and the financial possibilities of the client.

When buying showers and hydroboxes, you should also focus on the status of the manufacturer. From this often depends on the quality of the product. Verified firms provide a wide range of additional services, for example, warranty service.

The procedure for installing a shower cabin depends on its design and can be done by hand.

The simplest is a shower area without a pan. In this case, the main thing - to properly mount the flooring. What is required first to waterproof the selected area. To avoid the formation of puddles, the floor must have a slope to the drain hole. Its height may not be too big, the main thing is that from all sides.

Manufacturers offer two types of elements for water disposal: a drain and a canal.The first utilizes water in the grate, and the channel discharges through the chute. When choosing any of the options, the height of the entire installation system plays an important role. Manufacturers took into account all possible options, even with a low screed. Professionals recommend to calculate in advance the flow of water in the shower to choose the right ladder or canal. After installing the drainage system, the floor is poured with a screed.

Installing a shower area includes several basic steps.

• Evaluation of all factors affecting the possibility of construction.
• Choosing a drain device. In the apartments, a horizontal system connected to the common sewage system is more appropriate. In a private house, you can mount a vertical drain with drainage into the sewer.
• The absence of a pallet makes it necessary to choose between a podium in the shower and raising the entire floor in the bathroom for at least 10 cm.
• Installation of communications.
• Installation of the podium or raising the floor.
• Installation of fencing.

In the case of installing a shower cabin, the main thing is to choose the right place. It should be located near the hood. All joints during installation of the pipeline must be insulated with a sealant. If there are electricity-dependent functions, the box is grounded. Drain connected to the sewage through a special adapter, it is usually included in the box. All other parts are mounted in accordance with the installation instructions.

Due to the fact that the screens are often attached directly to the walls, they will have to be pre-aligned.

Sex in this case also requires additional preparation.

It is necessary to carry out the procedure of waterproofing all surfaces, so to reduce costs it is better to use angles for installing such zones.

As a rule, closed capsules require professional installation and configuration, since they are expensive and have electronic filling.

Warm floor in the bathroom increases the comfort of this room.Especially relevant is its installation in the shower without a pan.

During installation, specialists are guided by the following criteria:

• required floor temperature;
• the size of the room;
• exit of walls to the outside.

Taking into account the above factors, the method of installation of the system is chosen:

• snail;
• snake;
• double snake.

The "warm floor" system solves several problems in the shower and bathroom:

• eliminates moisture, which prevents the appearance of mold;
• increases comfort during the adoption of procedures, as warm floor is tactilely more pleasant than cold.

The design requires the installation of a thermostat that provides temperature control.

Before installation it is necessary to provide all the nuances. For example, water floors can not be installed everywhere. Older buildings, as a rule, do not allow the use of a central heating system at home, since the pressure drop can disrupt its operation. Such work is better to coordinate with the housing department.

In a private house, this problem is not worth it, but a competent communication plan is necessary.

There are several types of warm floors, some of them are most effective.

They appeared earlier than others, so they are considered classic. We can say that they are in some way related to heating. The design is a flexible hose through which hot water runs, the pipes are laid under the screed. The advantages, undoubtedly, is a long service life and savings in utility bills. In addition, the system allows uneven heating of different parts of the same room.

It is worth noting and disadvantages.

• Difficult installation. Before installing the floor should be leveled, lay a layer of insulation. Pipes must be of high quality, welding is reliable, otherwise there will be problems during operation.
• High price. Installation of the system includes all the additional work on the preparation of the floor itself, as well as the cost of pipes.
• Existing restrictions and approvals. Most often the system is connected to central heating or to a heated towel rail. Since this is considered a re-planning, it is necessary to obtain permission from the relevant authorities.

They are easy to use, easier to install.

The advantages of this type include the following factors:

• minimum preparatory work;
• simple installation;
• the entire surface of the floor is heated equally;
• there is no need to coordinate and obtain installation permits;
• the cost of materials and components is lower than that of water.

Despite a large number of positive factors, there are similar systems and disadvantages:

• utility bills for electricity will increase significantly;
• for the floor will have to divert a separate electric branch, because the system is designed for a certain voltage.

Are one of the varieties of electrical. In this case, not a cable, but a film serves as a heating element. On it are graphite panels. The name of the system comes from the spectrum in which the structure operates. It provides natural warmth and is adjustable.

The advantages of the infrared model a lot.

• The installation is so simplified that it can be performed by a layman. It can be placed on top of the old coating without leveling the floor.
• The system is available for all categories of customers.
• The design is reliable. Graphite elements are not connected with each other, therefore the failure of one of them will not entail a breakdown of the entire system.
• Since the installation is not considered as redevelopment, permission to assemble is not required.

The main disadvantage of the system is a small service life.

• Design. The stage includes the calculation of the consumption of materials and parts required for installation work, the layout of the cable or pipes, the cost of work.
• Preliminary preparation of the floor surface. At this stage, the floor is cleaned from the old coating and leveled.
• Installation of insulation.
• Laying. Before laying it is better to perform the layout of the scheme. After installation of the collector for the water floor and the distributor for the electric one. Laying produce one of two main ways in increments of 10 to 30 centimeters with the help of special fasteners. Experts note that the "snail" scheme wins before the "snake" when installing a water floor, because the quality of heating in the first one is better.When laying a flexible pipe, it is important to ensure that there are no kinks.
• Fill with a coupler. Before pouring, a reinforcing mesh is laid and a test run of the system is carried out. If the "warm floor" is working properly, then proceed to a further stage. The solution for screed in the shower consists of concrete, plasticizer and a modified fiber. This composition can withstand mechanical and temperature effects. Experts advise to dilute the mixture to such a consistency that it gently wraps around the pipes or cable over the entire diameter, without forming air voids. The thickness of the layer should not exceed 3-5 cm.
• The finish coat is laid only after the complete drying of the screed. In the bathroom most often used tiles, ceramic tiles or porcelain. More expensive interior options offer natural stone.

In the post-Soviet period, the presence of a separate bathroom was the ultimate dream of housewives and determined the prestige of the apartment. Today, some owners of small apartments, seeking to expand the space of the bathroom, on the contrary, demolish partitions. Combined bathroom gaining popularity.

In fact, in a small apartment it is rational to use such solutions. This will allow to use the bathroom ergonomics correctly, to create a harmonious and functional design. Combining the rooms will provide additional space for installing not only a bathroom, a washbasin and a toilet bowl, but also a shower cabin.

Perception is influenced by two main factors: the color scheme and the location of the interior details. A minimum of accessories in a small-sized bathroom, the presence of glass and mirror surfaces, the walls apart, will make the bathroom more spacious.

Hinged toilet bowls and sinks add airiness and weightlessness.

Streamlined shape allows you to release excess space and improve perception.

There are many styles for decorating the bathroom, but minimalism or high-tech are most often used. Both styles imply simplicity in details and strict lines.

High-tech uses plumbing with a large number of chrome and metal elements. It is characterized by interiors with top built-in lighting, various lighting.

Minimalism is most appropriate for small bathrooms. He has the presence of glass, the absence of unnecessary details and pastel palette.

If the bathroom is not limited to the area, then, as a rule, the toilet is divided with a bathroom. This option is suitable for large families, as well as for private houses, where many tenants live. In addition, in a separate bathroom you can place additional functional equipment.

For a large sanitary room, experiments with style, color, materials are possible. However, this is what can cause difficulties in its design. Large size bathroom require use of all useful space. For this, designers recommend dividing it into several functional areas: for recreation, storage, SPA.

Tips on the arrangement of the modern soul - in the next video.