Features of angular acrylic asymmetric baths
Corner baths are rightly considered structures that can be placed in a small bathroom, freeing up the useful space in it. In addition, an unusual model will decorate the interior, making it not only functional, but also original.
Distinctive features
Corner baths are located between the perpendicular walls of the bathroom, “rising” in the corner. They are ergonomic and particularly comfortable in small bathrooms, as they free up usable space.
Such models can be equilateral or versatile. The latter are called asymmetric. They may have a variety of forms, but they always differ in spaciousness and ergonomics. The basis of the considered bowls are polymers on the acrylate basis.Modern acrylic baths in their composition usually have additives that provide bioresistance and antibacterial properties of devices.
There are 2 technologies for the production of acrylic bowls.
- From sheet acrylic. Such structures are more durable and reliable, their service life is 10-12 years.
- Extruded acrylic. These are less durable and durable models. Moreover, in a number of European countries such products are not allowed to be used in constructions that have contact with the human body. This becomes a reason to think not only about the technical imperfections of the material, but also its environmental safety.
Acrylic itself is not very durable, especially if its multiple bending is meant, therefore, in the manufacture of baths, it is reinforced by means of polyester resins coated with glass fiber or expanded polyurethane. The second option is more environmentally friendly.
The result is a reliable material, characterized by good performance of sound and heat insulation. This means that such a bath does not rattle when water is added (as happens with metal counterparts), and also retains heat.The acrylic font filled with water slowly cools down - just 1 degree in 30 minutes. The bath surface is smooth, pleasant to the touch.
Due to the plasticity of the material and the features of the technology, it is possible to create bowls of various and intricate shapes. As for color, then buyers are available as a classic white and colored fonts.
The disadvantage of acrylic cups is the fragility of their upper layer, so they should be protected from mechanical damage.
Asymmetrical models can be equipped with a whirlpool system., shower panels, the option of aromatherapy, chromotherapy, have lighting or special grooves, repeating the anatomical features of the body, as well as silicone headrests and handles.
The most popular option is the hydromassage effect, which is provided by the presence of nozzles. Of these, under the pressure, water trickles or water-air jets are supplied, providing a massage effect. This massage improves blood circulation, provides a cosmetic effect.
Advantages and disadvantages
Asymmetric baths have the following advantages.
- Practicality due to the antibacterial and self-cleaning ability of the material, as well as its susceptibility to the formation of corrosion.
- Safety, because the coating does not slip, does not emit hazardous substances.
- Low weight (about 30-40 kg), which provides ease of transportation and installation, as well as the ability to mount the bowl in houses with wooden and dilapidated floors.
- High zvuko-and heat-insulating qualities.
- Unusual design, variety of forms.
- Ease of use - most models have a wide shelf with sides, on which you can place the means for the shower, soap and shampoos.
- Ergonomic.
- Ease of care, eliminating the use of abrasive cleaners.
The disadvantages of acrylic bowls is the fragility of the outer layer, which cracks under the influence of mechanical damage. In addition, the angular design involves the use of special supports that ensure the strength of the bowl.
Over time, the asymmetrical corner bowls turn yellow. You can avoid this by choosing a color model, or fix the damaged version using the bath recovery service.
Dimensions
The main criterion for choosing the size of the bath are the dimensions of the bathroom. First of all, it is necessary to carry out thorough calculations, and then decide on the appropriate size of the font. To do this, it is recommended to create a drawing of the bathroom in a convenient format, transferring to it the features of drainage, water distribution, and also designate the exact location and size of the rest of equipment, furniture, household appliances.
If the bathroom is small enough, then you should not choose too complex asymmetrical models. - their faces "will eat" free space. The dimensions of the bowl are determined by its length and width. For equilateral corner models, a bowl size of 140x140 or 150x150 cm is considered optimal. Based on this, it can be assumed that asymmetric models are 140 or 150 cm long. Dimensions of 140x90, 150x90cm, and also less dimensional models 140x70, 150x70 and 150x75 cm.
Five and hexagonal models in small rooms usually look ridiculous. Their use is irrational in terms of size. They look much more attractive in spacious bathrooms of private houses.Here they look like small pools, and their length can be 180 cm or more, and a width of 110-160 cm.
Depending on the size of the bowl, angular asymmetric structures can be divided into 3 types.
Miniature
Their size is 120x70 cm, which allows the use of such models in small bathrooms. In some instances, the length of the device can reach 130 cm. As a rule, such baths have an increased width. The optimal size of such bowls is 130x70 and 130x80 cm.
For square-shaped bathrooms, you can purchase a bath of 120x90 or 130x100 cm. Installation of a larger bowl is impossible here, since it is necessary to abandon the use of a sink and reduce the free area, while the bowl of the stated dimensions allows you to place everything you need in the room. Another advantage of miniature devices - economical water consumption. The disadvantage is that, taking a bath, it will be impossible to take a prone position. Such constructions in terms of the volume of the bowl are almost identical with the volume of equilateral fonts with dimensions of 100x100, 110x110 and 120x120 cm.
Standard
These baths are different from the previous large size - 150x70 cm.They fit into most of the bathrooms of typical high-rise apartments. Taking a bath, you can take a more comfortable half-sitting position. The presence of hydromassage, built-in armrests or silicone "pads" makes the procedure more pleasant. Spacious baths 150x90, 160x90 cm are also considered standard.
Oversized
The length of such products starts from 170 cm and can be up to 200 cm. Baths of 170x90 cm are considered as “running gears” in this segment. They are intended for spacious bathrooms. At the same time, some models remain fairly compact (for example, bowls of 170x50 cm) or may resemble mini-pools (products 170x110 cm).
Separately, it is worth highlighting the sedentary corner structures, whose dimensions are smaller than the dimensions of miniature analogues. Often their length is less than 90, and the width is less than 70 cm. Such constructions are usually installed for the elderly and disabled. You can take a bath in them in a sitting position. For convenience, they have a seat in the bowl.
The optimal depth is 50-60 cm. This distance is measured from the bottom of the bath to the overflow hole. Usually imported models have a shallower depth than domestic ones.
The shape of an asymmetrical bath is often beyond description.
In general, the following popular configurations are distinguished:
- trapezium;
- the shape of the month, a trimmed drop or heart;
- with one oblique or rounded corner;
- shapes resembling a rectangle or square, but having an angle of more or less 90 degrees.
Individual attention deserve a bath for two, which, as a rule, are equipped with a hydromassage system. Such designs have the form of a heart, in the recesses of which there are armrests for the head. Such designs take up a lot of space. An alternative for small bathrooms are baths for two, shaped like an infinity sign with a hole for draining in the center of the bowl.
Popular models
One of the best manufacturers of acrylic baths is considered Czech brand Ravak. In its assortment there are a lot of asymmetric corner models made of sheet acrylic 5-6 mm thick, reinforced with fiberglass. This ensures the strength and durability of products (warranty - 10 years). The specified wall thickness is sufficient for installation in the bowl of the whirlpool system. The advantage is the variety of models and forms, as well as the ability to choose the same bowl in several sizes (for large and small rooms).The disadvantage is the high cost, however, it is completely leveled by high quality and a long period of operation of the font.
Bowls are equally popular. Polish brand Cersanit. However, for the production of bowls used sheet of acrylic with a thickness of 4 mm. This affects the life of the product - it is 7 years.
Another European manufacturer that manufactures baths with a wall thickness of less than 5 mm is Kolo brand (Poland). The manufacturer says about 3 years warranty, however, users claim that the bath serves 7-10 years without changing its technical and visual characteristics. In general, products are characterized by reliability and durability, however, too thin walls cause the installation of a hydromassage system in the bathroom.
But the baths Dutch company Rihoon the contrary, they are characterized by a maximum thickness of 6 to 8 mm, depending on the model. This provides a good margin of safety, durability of models, as well as their higher cost.
Premium asymmetrical acrylic bowls are produced German (Villeroy & Boch), French (Jacob Delafon) and Italian (BelBagno) companies. They are distinguished not only by their durability, safety and elegant design, but also by the use of modern technologies in the production of sanitary ware. For example, the German manufacturer Villeroy & Boch was one of the first to start producing bowls based on quarian. Quarille is a modification of acrylic, which contains quartz sand, which provides greater reliability of products.
Russian brands also gain the trust of customers. Among them - firm Aquanet, about 10 years specializing in the production of acrylic bowls. The thickness of the acrylic layer is 5 mm. Some models are equipped with stands for the head, armrests, which makes taking a bath more comfortable. The surface of the bowl is pleasant to the touch (without seams and defects). It perfectly keeps the temperature of the water. Among the "minuses" of the product is a small warranty period of one year. In addition, the network a lot of reviews, indicating a low quality system drain. At the same time, it is not sold separately - it needs to be changed completely by purchasing a drain-overflow kit, which is quite expensive.
If you are looking for the most useful hydromassage system, pay attention to the asymmetrical Spanish-made corner models. brand pool spa. The type and location of the nozzles in such cups corresponds exactly to the medical recommendations, thus allowing to get the maximum recovery from the procedure. Most models are equipped with a system of supplying jets of water, highlighted in different colors. Light rays are fed at different frequencies, have a different duration, which contributes to relaxation, the restoration of psychological balance. Since the manufacturer focuses on the production of hydromassage bowls, there is no need to worry about the strength and thickness of the bath walls. The latter is 6-8 mm. The lack of structures - the high cost.
If you are looking for cheaper models, pay attention to the hydromassage corner brands from domestic manufacturers. Among the manufacturers working with acrylic sheet - 1Mark and H2O companies. Their products are characterized by durability, a variety of shapes and sizes, and the presence of several hydromassage modes. Bathtubs "1Mark" have a 10-year warranty from the manufacturer. Such a long warranty period is a rarity for models of domestic companies.
When buying a bath, it is important to understand that a high-quality asymmetric model cannot be cheap.Thus, the minimum price for a cup from a European manufacturer ranges from 15 000-17 000 rubles, domestic - from 13 000 to 15 000 rubles. Please note that the minimum cost is set on the standard bowls. So, for a similar device with a hydromassage, the average price starts from 22,000-25,000 rubles.
Too low a price usually indicates that you have a plastic model with an acrylic coating with a thickness of no more than 1 cm. This bath does not withstand the weight load and is easily deformed. From its purchase should be abandoned.
The trust of buyers can boast of a premium segment from Jacuuzzi, Villeroy & Boch and Jacob Delafon. When buying premium models, you can choose any reputable manufacturer, focusing on personal preferences and dimensions of the design. True, it is these baths are fake most often, so before buying it is important to ensure the originality of the product.
The most purchased baths belonging to the average price category are products of the company Riho, Ravak. Among the available models are “Triton”, “1Marka”, and also “Riho” (along with more expensive collections in some rulers there are quite affordable products).
How to make a choice?
When you have decided on the size and shape of the bowl, ask the vendors for certificates confirming the high quality and originality of the products. This is due to the fact that asymmetric corner fonts are more often falsified - careless manufacturers use plastic, which is covered with a thin layer of acrylic. Such a device will last no more than 2-3 years.
You can verify the quality and sufficient thickness of the walls using a flashlight. It should be included and attached to one of the walls. If it does not shine through (the beam from the flashlight does not appear on the other side of the wall), you can continue to inspect the model. The optimum thickness of the sides of the bath is 6-8 mm. In any case, it should be at least 5 mm.
Press down on the bottom and sides of the bath - they should not "play" and fail. This indicates a fake product or insufficient reinforcement. Tap the surface of the bath. The sound should be deaf and the same in all its parts.
Products that are too complex configuration, usually less durable than analogues of simpler forms. This is due to the fact that the more curved and multifaceted the bowl, the more difficult it is to reinforce it.As a rule, the service life of asymmetric baths of complex configuration is 7-8 years.
Pay attention to the surface - it should be smooth, uniform (without chipping and damage). There should be no chemical or plastic odor from the bath. This is usually evidence of a fake.
When buying an asymmetric model, note whether it is right or left-sided. The choice is determined by which side the communication pipes are located in the bathroom.
If a frame is not provided with the bathroom, it should be purchased separately or independently make a stand for the bowl. When buying a frame, pay attention to the quality of welding, it is necessary to have a corrosion-resistant coating.
The frame should be a frame structure corresponding to the shape of the bowl. Its corners should be mounted on supports, which guarantees the rigidity of the structure. Adjustable legs are attached to the frame structure. The frame must have a complex shape. If these are just frames under the sides of the bowl, the purchase of the kit should be abandoned.
There are several types of frame.
- Frame, repeating the shape of the bath and having a lower part, calculated on the weight of man and water.The design in this case is not fixed under the sides of the bath, since the strength of the latter is provided by reinforcement. Reliable base, which is usually equipped with high quality baths.
- The frame supports the sides of the bath and has adjustable legs. Usually at the base of the frame - U-shaped profile. Such a frame is considered more difficult to install, but also more durable.
- The frame of the square profile, designed for asymmetric hydromassage bowl. This base is a structure that supports the sides of the bath and allows you to evenly distribute the weight of the load on its bottom. It has several points of support on the floor.
When choosing a bowl with a hydromassage, make sure that it is equipped with a compressor, a pump and nozzles. Well, if the device will have an automatic cleaning system. This is not an obligatory element of a complete set, however, it provides the increased hygienic procedure Nozzles should be located in the neck, back, waist, legs along the massage lines. Well, if they are located not only horizontally, but also vertically - this will provide a better massage.These parts should not protrude from the bowl or otherwise cause discomfort.
Nozzles are extremely sensitive to water quality, so if you do not want to regularly clean and change them due to sediment, take care of a multi-stage cleaning system. To do this, you should purchase special filters and accessories for their installation, as well as softening systems (salt granules, for example).
When choosing the size of the bowl, consider the following factors:
- the area of the bathroom;
- the presence of other plumbing and furniture;
- the size of the area in front of the bathroom, free from plumbing and furniture;
- the distance from the bath to the door must be at least 70 cm;
- the location of sewer pipes (this factor is not decisive, but considering it, it is possible to simplify the process of water supply).
Select the bath should be, given the weight and dimensions of the largest family member. Do not hesitate to "try on" the bowl, climbing into it in the store.
Bathroom preparation
First of all, it is necessary to turn off the water supply, and then dismantle the old device - disconnect the pipes and hoses, unscrew the legs. When it comes to old Soviet baths, their legs and side walls are often cemented.Hammer and chisel will help to beat them. After the bath is dismantled, it is necessary to level the surface of the walls and the floor, remove dust and dirt from the working surfaces.
It is important to make sure that the sewer system is in good condition, its suitable location. Optimally, if the pipe rises no more than 10 cm above the floor. After leveling the floor, you can lay the floor covering, the walls should also be leveled and covered with non-absorbent material, such as paint.
Installation details
Bath installation is carried out in several stages.
- It is necessary to assemble the metal frame, after which, taking into account its dimensions, to make the marking of the walls in the bathroom. Usually the assembly process does not cause difficulties, if you follow the attached instructions.
- After the frame is assembled, a bath is placed in it, and then the whole structure moves to the wall. At this stage, it is important to make sure that the drain holes are compatible with the stability of the bowl.
- The sewer and drain hole are connected, the sides of the bath are fixed to the wall.
- Cold and hot water supply is connected, if necessary a mixer is mounted on the side of the bathroom.
- The tightness of the bath and wall joints is checked. It is possible to eliminate the gaps with curb ribbons, silicone pistol, plastic skirting. The latter are usually attached to silicone glue or liquid nails.
If the frame with the bathroom is not provided and it is not possible to purchase it separately, you can make a support for the bowl with your own hands. Usually, foam-concrete blocks or bricks are used for mounting the stand, laying out a construction that completely repeats the shape of the bathroom. Sometimes the support is made of wooden bars. However, before using them, they should be treated with moisture-proof impregnation and means ensuring the bioresistance of the material.
When installing the hydromassage bowl, it is important to take care to ground the wires. Be sure to use cables that have 3 conductive wires. It is better if the power outlet is moved outside the bathroom. If this cannot be done, remove it from the bowl (at least) by 70 cm.
Useful recommendations
When choosing a bath for elongated bathrooms, give preference to asymmetric corner models that are installed along the short wall.In this case, in the narrow part of the room you can place the sink, along the opposite wall - the toilet (if we are talking about a combined bathroom), washing machine, furniture.
For combined bathrooms "Khrushchev" the optimal asymmetric bathroom will be a bowl with dimensions of 90x100 cm, which is placed along the far side of the bathroom. At the same time there will be a place for placing a sink and a toilet or a narrow washing machine.
For small rooms, you should choose a white cup and other plumbing, which will visually increase the area of the room. With the same purpose you should buy a light palette for wall decoration, as well as use mirrors.
The outer panel of the bathroom may have sharp corners and pronounced edges.that looks appropriate in minimalist and avant-garde, as well as high-tech interiors. For rooms in the classic spirit is better to choose a smoother rounded panels. For oriental interiors, it is not forbidden to choose bowls of complex (five-hexagonal shapes) of unusual colors. For the podium, you should choose a stone or revet them with tiles and mosaics.
The podium will be appropriate in eco-interior, Provence style rooms.In this case, it is sheathed with wood, and the bath at the same time has a drop-like shape.
For classical, empire or Japanese interiors, you can build a pedestal, which then mount the bowl. She will perform 20-30 cm above the pedestal.
To extend the life of the bowl and keep its visual appeal, it is important to take care of it. For cleaning it is unacceptable to use products containing abrasives, as well as metal and hard brushes. The best option - a special tool for acrylic or gel-like substance for washing dishes, as well as a soft sponge or rag.
See the following video for the peculiarities of angular acrylic asymmetric baths.