Which acrylic bathtubs are better - TOP-35 rating

Among the huge range of ready-made solutions, the category of bathtubs, which is made of synthetic acrylic, stands out. Let's consider the technical features of the bowls, their advantages compared to analogues made from other materials. Let's take a look at the rating of the best acrylic bathtubs, manufacturers and main selection criteria.

What is an acrylic bathtub

For the production of acrylic bathtubs, technical thermoplastic is used. It is characterized by environmental friendliness, plasticity and maintainability. The surface has anti-slip properties.

The material exhibits low resistance to chemically aggressive reagents (household detergents, hair dyes), but there is a category of care products for acrylic products. Also, when using the bowl, the abrasive action of brushes, sand and hard objects is also unacceptable to avoid scratches and chips. This is where the disadvantages of high-quality samples end.

Advantages relative to steel and cast iron

The most obvious advantage of polymer products is their low weight and high density. The list of advantages also includes the following:

1. Hard acrylic against the background of an enamel coating exhibits better impact resistance. Chips appear on the paint, the damage is more difficult to repair with a complete restoration of the color and shape of the finish.
2. Metal is inferior to plastic analogues in thermal conductivity, that is, water cools faster in them.In addition, more thermal energy is spent on heating the container itself, and the process takes longer.
3. Acrylic products are more pleasant to the touch and are always relatively warm.

Users also note the good sound insulation properties of plastic. The impact produces a dull sound, the sound of flowing water is muffled. In the case of installation work in the private sector, additional reinforcement of the wooden base is not required to accommodate the weight of the empty bathroom along with the frame.

5 Good Inexpensive Rectangular Acrylic Bathtubs

This form is convenient for installation in a room of any size. The product can be installed away from the walls or close to them on the frame and legs. There is also an empty space under the bathtub, access to which is rarely blocked by the transverse inserts of the support system.

Aquanet Seed 100×70 00216658

The model is suitable as an alternative to a shower stall for a small bathroom. The depth of the container is 385 mm, the total height with the frame reaches 610 mm. The surface is white glossy with anti-slip properties. The weight of the set is 17 kg. Warranty from the Russian manufacturer – 10 years.

The support frame is included in the kit and is immediately fixed to the floor for better stability.

Sloping edges along the entire perimeter and equal sides allow you to place the bathtub in any convenient place without adjacent to the walls.

A convenient and water-efficient solution for bathing small children (you can have two at once).

Triton GENA 150

The snow-white glossy model corresponds to high quality at a low price. The installation of the bathroom is carried out without a frame; the supporting part along the entire perimeter is the screen. The height of the product is 600 mm. Capacity volume – 200 l. Warranty – 10 years.

Does not turn yellow over time.

Made of durable thick plastic.

Easy to install yourself.

It has a grooved bottom that is pleasant for the feet.

Equipped with adjustable legs and screen.

Roca Easy 150×70 ZRU9302904 without hydromassage

The model is a product of joint production between Russia and Spain. The bathtub holds 161 liters of water. The depth of the tank is 450 mm, the total height of the structure is 630 mm. The weight of the packaged product is 29 kg.

Simple but interesting design.

There is a comfortable bend under the head.

There is no relief, which eliminates rapid contamination.

The smooth bottom does not slip.

A good solid bottom does not sag.

1ACReal London 160

The model is installed on the frame. The functionality is expanded by a removable front panel. The height of the bathtub on the frame reaches 630 mm, the depth is 335 mm. Before overflow, it holds 182 liters of water. The Russian manufacturer provides a 10-year warranty.

Austrian acrylic sheet is really good quality.

Does not bend under the weight of a heavy person.

Additional reinforcement of the bottom and walls corresponds to high strength.

1 ACReal Gamma 130

Compact model made from Australian acrylic sheet for small bathrooms. The reinforced bathtub has a depth of 400 mm, the bowl capacity is 138 liters. The total height on the frame reaches 560 mm. Warranty from the Russian manufacturer – 10 years.

Reliable bathtub, does not deform.

Relax comfortably thanks to the good backrest angle.

Convenient for bathing small children.

5 best acrylic bathtubs 170x70

Bathtubs are usually manufactured using sheet casting technology. In order to increase strength, fiberglass reinforcement is made. The products also stand out due to their compromise design between modern looks and classic style.

AM.PM Gem 170×70 W90A-170-070W-A

German acrylic bathtub with a reinforced body for installation on a frame.Made using vacuum forming technology. The product weighs only 17 kg without components. The volume is 175 l, depth to the edge is 380 mm, total height is 400 mm. Manufacturer's warranty – 15 years.

Optimal size for small spaces.

The front panel can be removed.

Interesting design, looks natural as a freestanding bathtub.

Comfortable back angle.

The manufacturer takes a responsible approach to replacing defective goods.

Roca Easy 170×70 ZRU9302905

Products jointly produced by Spain and Russia. The depth of the product is 450 mm, the total height is 620 mm. Capacity – 240 l. There is an anti-slip coating. The packaged product weighs 33 kg. Warranty – 10 years.

The strict design with the correct geometry of the bathtub fits perfectly into the simple style of the room.

Installation is quick and you can do it yourself.

Instead of a plastic one, you can make a ceramic screen.

RAVAK DOMINO PLUS 170x70

The bathtub is produced under the Czech brand using the casting method. The height of the model is 610 mm, holds up to 200 liters of water. With packaging, the product weighs 28 kg. Warranty period – 10 years.

Comfortable backrest with a slight slope.

The inside has a shape closer to oval, the bottom is wide - thoughtful ergonomics.

Unobtrusive design.

CEZARES Plane Solo 170×70

The model is made in Italy using casting technology. Bath height 470 mm. The depth of the tank is 420 mm, holds 210 liters of water. Warranty – 10 years.

Comfortable, smooth sides.

Sturdy bowl with good thickness.

The front panel can be removed and cleaning supplies can be stored behind it.

Excellent ava 170×70

The model from Poland is made of acrylic sheet 4 mm thick. Product height – 450 mm. Weighs only 22.1 kg. Bath depth 420 mm, capacity – 230 l. Manufacturer's warranty – 20 years.

Classic, strict design without sharp corners.

Made from good quality acrylic.

Comfortable back angle for swimming.

5 best acrylic bathtubs 150x70

Compact models for showering, bathing small children and relaxing in a reclining position. As a rule, such baths are manufactured using sheet casting technology. In order to increase strength, the bowls are additionally reinforced with fiberglass or other means.

Roca Easy 150×70 ZRU9302904 without hydromassage

The reinforced model made of cast acrylic with an anti-slip coating is produced under the Italian brand. The total height of the product is 620 mm. The depth of the tank is 450 mm, it holds up to 190 liters of water. Warranty period – 10 years.

Made from high-quality durable acrylic, does not bend.

The smooth bottom surface does not slip.

Smooth curve under the head, no need to attach a headrest.

Eurolux LAIT X15070, 150x70x40 cm, without frame

The bathtub is manufactured in Russia using Italian equipment. The packaged product weighs only 11.6 kg. The height is 610 mm, depth is 400 mm. Manufacturer's warranty – 10 years.

The original design with an oval bowl narrowed at the bottom is comfortable and looks good.

The reinforcement is made of polyurethane composite, so the water stays hot even longer (better than with fiberglass).

Lightweight, you can install it yourself.

Grossman GR-2701 Black

The model is black on the outside and white on the inside, with rounded corners. The height is 600 mm, the volume of the bath is 190 l. Warranty from the German manufacturer – 5 years.

Original design with a streamlined shape.

There is an anti-slip coating on the bottom.

Installation is carried out separately from the wall on a frame with adjustable legs.

Ravak Domino Plus 150x70 C641R00000

The model is made of cast acrylic, with additional fiberglass reinforcement. Product height – 610 mm, depth – 440 mm, capacity – 225 l. The weight of the packaged goods is 20 kg. The warranty from the Czech manufacturer is 10 years.

Simple but interesting design.

Comfortable tilted back, no need to install a headrest.

Easy installation by yourself without any help.

Lavinia Boho One 37010050

The model was made in Poland from acrylic sheet 6 mm thick. The depth of the tank is 400 mm with a height of 420 mm and holds 155 liters of water. The kit may include a frame and screen at the discretion of the seller. The manufacturer provides a 25-year warranty.

Looks great in a corner and next to a wall.

Withstands heavy weight (up to 500 kg stated).

It is comfortable to relax in a sitting position despite its compact size.

5 best acrylic bathtubs 180x80

Bathtubs of similar sizes can be installed both along the walls and at a distance from them. Wide with good recess, they are suitable for bathing children and comfortable rest. The bowls are made from durable acrylic by casting and are additionally strengthened.

Jacob Delafon Evok E60269

Model from France for installation close to or at a distance from the wall. The total height of the bath reaches 687 mm. Capacity is 260 liters with a depth of 390 mm. Together with packaging, the product weighs only 23 kg. Warranty period – 10 years.

The internal corners are smoothed, making the surface easier to clean.

There are inclined backs on both sides, and a drain in the center - two children and adults can swim comfortably.

A symmetrical bowl with strict geometry is well suited for a modern interior.

BAS Nirvana 180x80

A Russian-made bathtub with a semicircular bowl near the drain. Product height 510 mm, depth 440 mm.Holds up to 250 liters of water. The wall thickness is 4 mm, the bathtub weighs 23 kg excluding the frame. Warranty period – 10 years.

The original design fits almost any bathroom design.

There is plenty of storage space behind the removable front panel.

There is an anti-slip coating.

Cersanit CREA 180×80

Model for installation on a frame, on top of which a lined screen can be installed. The height of the bath is 485 mm, the depth is 475 mm. Bowl volume – 300 l. Packaged weight – 23.5 kg. Warranty from the Polish manufacturer – 10 years.

Narrow, even sides.

Comfortable lying thanks to the inclined back.

Excellent for further cladding work (adjacent walls, screen).

Riho Miami 180×80 without hydromassage

The model is made of acrylic sheet 5 mm thick and has a semicircular bowl. It was made in the Netherlands or the Czech Republic. With a total height of 440 mm without frame, the depth of the bath is 405 mm. The volume is 220 l. Product weight with packaging – 28 kg. Manufacturer's warranty – 10 years.

The reinforced bottom does not bend (reinforced with laminated chipboard).

Simple design, but has its own interesting features.

Comfortable backrest tilt and head bend.

Aquatek Oberon 180×80 without hydromassage

Russian-made products with an oval bowl design. The depth of the container is 430 mm with a total height of 610 mm. Holds up to 275 liters of water. Warranty period – 20 years.

Some sellers complete the bathtub with a drain and overflow.

There is a collapsible frame, which is convenient for installation.

High level of quality.

5 best acrylic corner bathtubs

Such models are often made with equal sides that are adjacent to adjacent walls. The installation is carried out in a right angle, that is, the room must be prepared in advance.The supporting part is a frame with adjustable legs.

Excellent aquarella 170×110 WAEX.ARP17WH

Corner model from Poland with a semicircular outer wall and an oval bowl. The height is 505 mm. Wall thickness – 4 mm. Bowl volume – 250 l. Manufacturer's warranty – 20 years.

You can choose to install a right-handed or left-handed bathtub.

There is a convenient shelf in the corner where you can sit.

The bottom does not bend due to the attached plate below.

RAVAK Avocado 160

Czech asymmetrical model made of sheet acrylic with fiberglass reinforcement. The width of the bath is 750 mm, the total height is 475 mm. The depth of the product is 465 mm, holds up to 175 liters of water. The product weighs 22 kg. The warranty is 10 years provided that original support elements are used.

Non-standard interesting design with a drop-shaped bowl.

Installed separately from the wall or in a corner.

The front panel is removable.

Gemy G9252

Chinese model in the shape of an isosceles triangle with a round outer wall. The width of the straight sides is 1550 mm, the height is 670 mm. The depth of the tank is 450 mm, holds up to 250 liters of water. The warranty for a multifunctional product is 1-3 years, depending on the seller.

Almost complete set from the manufacturer (no need to choose separately).

2 people can take a bath at the same time.

Interesting design.

BAS Riola 135×135 without hydromassage

Russian model made of cast acrylic with a quarter-circle outer shape. The internal design with a round bottom has walls in the form of a curved closed line. Bath height is 710 mm, bowl depth is 500 mm. Capacity – 310 l. The weight of the set with packaging is 57.2 kg. Warranty – 10 years.

Non-standard original design.

Reinforced walls and bottom do not bend under pressure.

The kit includes an installation frame with a painted surface.

Convenient to swim with a small child.

Triton KYLIE 150x100

Russian model with asymmetric design. The depth of the bowl is 395 mm, its volume is 250 liters. The height of the installed bath reaches 630 mm. The weight of the packaged goods is 41.8 kg. Warranty period – 10 years.

Convenient corner recess to sit down or put shower accessories.

You can choose a right or left bath.

The frame is included in the factory kit.

5 best acrylic freestanding bathtubs

The shape of such samples is streamlined, as a rule, without straight lines and angles. Therefore, installation is carried out at a distance from the walls. Supporting elements are legs with height adjustment.

Grossman GR-1201

Oval model with a wall thickness of 5 mm and a reinforced frame. Bathtub length is 1660 mm, width – 750 mm, total height – 560 mm. The depth of the bowl is 340 mm and holds up to 270 liters of water. The weight of the package, taking into account different configurations, can reach 37 kg. Warranty up to 13 years depending on the seller.

The kit includes a drain and overflow, and may include support elements.

Withstands heavy loads (up to 300 kg).

Simple but interesting design.

Gemy G9030-A

The model, reinforced from sheet acrylic, is made in a retro style and can be installed on legs. Size along the outer edge is 1750*820 mm, height – 820 mm. Holds from 200 liters of water. The product weighs 37.3 kg. Warranty from the Chinese manufacturer – 3 years.

The designers successfully combined modern preferences and retro style.

The set includes a drain-overflow and original legs.

Large thickness of durable walls (8 mm).

RAVAK Freedom O 170

Czech model made of acrylic sheet with fiberglass reinforcement.The width of the product is 800 mm, the length is 1690 mm, the height is 565 mm. The depth of the bowl is 445 mm, holds up to 320 liters. The manufacturer's warranty is 10 years.

Handles and legs, drain and overflow are included in the factory kit.

The sewer pipe is built into the floor, which does not spoil the appearance of the free-standing bathtub.

Interesting design.

Cerutti Spa C-454 170×120

A rectangular hydromassage model with transparent inserts in the longitudinal walls made of high-strength plastic (thickness 12 mm). The height of the rectangular bathtub is 580 mm. The depth of the tank is 510 mm, holds up to 170 liters of water. The total weight of the product with packaging is 165 kg. Warranty from the Italian manufacturer is 1 year.

You can relax peacefully together, there are a pair of comfortable headrests.

Interesting design.

Effective hydromassage system (with 8 nozzles, air massage from 12 holes), controlled by remote control.

Copper durable drain-overflow.

Full quality complete set from the factory.

Triton STANDARD 120

Russian rectangular model of a universal type in the Modern style. The height of the product is 520 mm. The depth is 320 mm, holds 136 liters of water. The product weighs 12.8 kg in packaging. The warranty period is 10 years.

There is an anti-slip coating.

Simple laconic design.

The bottom is made with a pleasant ribbed surface.

5 best acrylic bathtubs with hydromassage

Such bathtubs are maximally equipped to ensure a good rest. This is a backlight, radio, different locations and sizes of massage nozzles. The functionality also includes ozone therapy, chromotherapy.

Grossman GR-17000

An asymmetrical corner model with a glass outer wall. The base is made of acrylic with 4-layer reinforcement.Dimensions: length – 1700 mm, width – 800 mm, height – 590 mm. The depth of the product is 390 mm, holds up to 200 liters of water. Permissible load – 300 kg. The weight of the packaged goods is 72 kg. Warranty from the Chinese manufacturer – 5 years.

There are 6 holes for hydromassage and 10 holes for air massage.

The massage system is controlled from the remote control.

Multifunctional bathtub for complete relaxation.

There is LED lighting (sets comfort for relaxation).

You can select a pattern to install in the left or right corner.

High-quality factory equipment.

A nice addition is the FM radio.

Cerutti Spa C-400 135x135

Italian model with equal side walls and a glass semicircular insert. The bowl holds up to 280 liters of water. A complete set of equipment with packaging weighs 110 kg. The warranty period is 10 years (for the Chinese analogue it is 1 year).

There is an anti-slip coating on the bottom.

The glass is thick and highly durable.

Good massage system (4 nozzles, 12 holes for air massage).

The backlight smoothly changes colors under water.

Control is carried out from the remote control, there is a radio.

Orans BT-65105

Rectangular model from a manufacturer from Germany with an ergonomic design. Bathtub dimensions: 1200*1800 mm, height – 680 mm. Bowl volume – 500 l. The packaged product weighs 64.9 kg. Manufacturer's warranty – 2 years.

Multilayer reinforcement copes well with the weight of two people.

There are options with left and right connection.

Well-thought-out massage system (8 and 12 nozzles of different diameters for hydromassage, 16 for aeromassage).

You can fill the bathtub with water through a mixer and in a cascade.

The operating mode is accompanied by a low noise level.

Welt Wasser WW HB CONSTANCE 150 WT

German model in the shape of a quarter circle with equal sides, glass outer wall. The height of the product after installation is 590 mm. The weight of the complete set with packaging is 70 kg. The manufacturer's warranty for the hydromassage system is 2 years, for the bathtub - 1-5 years, depending on the seller.

The 5 mm thick walls are reinforced with five-layer fiberglass, which works well in practice.

High-strength glass (thickness 10 mm).

There are 5 nozzles for hydromassage installed on the sides, and there are 12 holes for air massage.

There is a comfortable built-in seat.

Push-button control.

Eago AM220JDCHZ 180×90

Chinese rectangular model with touch control panel. The height of the product is 600 mm, the depth is 500 mm. Bowl volume – 420 l. The weight of the completed product is 69 kg. Warranty period – 1 year.

There are 2 headrests for bathing 2 people together.

There are 10 nozzles for back massage (5 on each side), 4 more on the sides, and 8 holes for air massage.

The intensity of the massage system can be adjusted.

For a comfortable stay there is a radio and lighting.

Water can be poured through nozzles.

10 popular manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs

The bathtub is purchased with the prospect of using it for a long time. Therefore, in addition to technical characteristics and customer reviews, the reputation of the manufacturer is important.

Triton

The plumbing manufacturing company began its activities in 2002. Later she began to specialize in the manufacture of acrylic bathtubs in a wide range. As the product developed, bathroom furniture, faucets, shower cabins, and heated towel rails began to appear in the catalogue. Main market: Russia and neighboring countries.

The warranty on Triton baths is 10 years. Austrian sheet acrylic is used for production. The steel frame is highly durable and can withstand up to 450 kg. To ensure the stability of the structure, mortgages are installed between the acrylic and the reinforcement.

Roca

The Spanish company began operating in 1917. The first products were cast iron radiators. Further items such as boilers, bathtubs, sanitary porcelain, and mixers were added to the assortment. The next step in development was to organize joint production with other countries and expand the market.

Today the company is one of the leaders with 84 enterprises around the world. In Russia, a joint project was implemented in 2006 in the form of a plant for the production of sanitary ceramics in the city of Tosno.

Acrylic bathtubs are presented in 24 collections, which differ in shape, configuration and functionality. For production, cast acrylic from France is used, the sheet thickness is 4-5 mm. The reinforcement is performed without gaps, the sides are reinforced. The frame system is characterized as multi-support.

Am.Pm

The German brand appeared on the plumbing market in 2010. The path to development was chosen to be customer-oriented without any specific specialization. That is, the range was initially designed to be wide: bathtubs, porcelain products, shower cabins, accessories, etc. An innovative approach is the production of several items in a single style solution. There are 10 collections in total.

Today the company owns 37 factories in different countries. One of the development centers is located in St. Petersburg. The main operating principle is a combination of original design, new technologies, and high quality materials.

Acrylic bathtubs are presented in 9 collections. There are rectangular and angular asymmetrical hydromassage models. Two technologies are used in production: sheet casting and vacuum forming. For reinforcement, a polyurethane-based composite material is used. Additionally, it is practiced to install a steel reinforcing element under the side.

Aquanet

Initially, the Aquanet company opened in 1997 as a dealer of Spanish doors, which turned into the sale of imported furniture. Based on the increased demand for bathroom products, further specialization was determined. Ultimately, the decision was made to open our own plant. At first, the assembly of imported products was carried out, today it is the development and production of our own collections from many different positions.

In 2003, a production complex with Italian equipment was opened in Obninsk. In 2004, the production of acrylic bathtubs began using molds from Italy. Today the range is represented by almost 80 models.

Acrylic is used as the main material, which meets all the requirements of international standards. 2 technologies are practiced: injection molding and coating of ABS plastic base. Sheets used are 6mm thick from Ireland. Metal frames are powder coated. Bathtub shapes: rectangular, corner, asymmetrical.

Aquatek

The Russian company specializes in the production of acrylic bathtubs and shower trays. In the Kaluga region, the production site began operating in 2005.

To manufacture high-quality products, imported materials from leading European suppliers are used.Vacuum forming technology is used. Each position undergoes multi-stage control and is certified.

Acrylic bathtubs from Aquatek made from a German base are characterized by increased strength due to multi-layer fiberglass reinforcement. The shape of the products may vary. There are models with hydromassage, aeromassage, and chromotherapy functions.

Cersanit

The name comes from “ceramika sanitarna”, which means “sanitary ceramics” in Polish. The first sanitary ware production plant was opened in 1998. The brand became famous in Russia in 2002. After that, the company launched 3 production sites here.

The range of finished products for arranging sanitary facilities is represented by many items. Acrylic bathtubs are in greatest demand. They can be angular, rectangular, quarter-circle or figure-eight, asymmetrical. The thickness of the acrylic sheet is 4 mm. Installation is carried out on the frame or only on the legs.

Jacob Delafon

In 1889, the company was founded by Emile Jacob and Maurice Delafon. The first products were fireproof ceramics. After the launch of advertising promoting the beauty and style of the bathroom, the takeover of small enterprises begins in order to expand the production of new items.

A representative office of the French company appeared in Russia in 2008. A mono-brand showroom opened in Moscow in 2018. Collections of sanitary equipment, accessories and bathroom furniture are located on three floors. Master classes are also held here, lectures are given, and meetings of professionals are organized. In 2019, a similar complex opened in St. Petersburg.

Acrylic bathtubs are presented in 17 collections (7 of them are in high demand).The shapes of the products may vary regardless of the installation method. The appearance is always distinguished by French charm. The walls are made of acrylic sheets with increased thickness, additionally reinforced with fiberglass.

Radomir

The first batch of innovative acrylic bathtubs at that time went on sale in 1991. The Russian company developed in this direction in cooperation with an American corporation. After 8 years, its own production site was purchased to replace the rented one, the second appeared in 2004. In 2010, the company began to expand its sales market outside the country.

Today, Radomir is a reputable manufacturer at the international level. The range of plumbing products includes acrylic bathtubs, shower cabins, swimming pools and hydromassage equipment.

The bathtubs of this manufacturer are distinguished by their original unique design and a wide selection. There are rectangular and square, corner, built-in and freestanding models, as well as special ones for pets. The material for production is high-quality Australian acrylic. Sheet blanks have a thickness of 5-8 mm.

Additionally, reinforcement with moisture-resistant chipboard, fiberglass and epoxy resin is practiced. This approach makes the product heavier compared to similar products from other manufacturers. However, this drawback helps to extend the service life and increase strength. And the welded frame made of a square-section profile is protected with powder paint.

Ravak

The company became the product of two Czech families. At first, they produced shower enclosures and trays under a French license. In 1994, they received a patent for their own production technology, which is still practiced today.Acrylic bathtubs, including hydromassage ones, appeared in the range in 1998. The RAVAK Rosa model (1999) immediately became recognized on the international market.

In subsequent years, the family company established cooperation with the Austrian car manufacturer and designers from different countries. The catalog now includes bathroom furniture and faucets. The development strategy included maintaining high quality standards, developing new style solutions and full-fledged collections.

The company produces bathtubs from cast acrylic, the wall thickness at the outlet is 6 mm. Polyurethane foam and fiberglass are used to increase strength. The range includes rectangular, oval, round, corner and asymmetrical models. There are wall-mounted and free-standing samples. In addition to the bathtub, you can purchase original accessories.

Bas

The Russian brand is considered one of the leading manufacturers of acrylic shower cabins and hydromassage bathtubs. For more than 15 years, the brand has conquered the domestic market and is in great demand in the near abroad. The range also includes bathroom furniture.

Italian and American equipment and imported materials are used to produce products. Acrylic bathtubs are manufactured using the vacuum forming method. Reinforcement of the bowls is carried out using two technologies: a combination of polyester resin with fiberglass and high-density polyurethane foam. In addition to the main part, you can choose powder-coated aluminum curtains with stained glass inserts made of plexiglass.

What to look for when buying an acrylic bathtub

The main criteria for choosing plumbing fixtures are manufacturing technology, composition and appearance.Each of the points is reflected in the performance characteristics of the product to one degree or another. Let's consider them in more detail.

Material and manufacturing technology

For the production of acrylic bathtubs, a single-component composition or composite is used as the base raw material. In addition to the base, various additives are used. Thus, the final product may contain the following components:

• synthetic acrylic;
• acrylane in powder form (together with a special solvent);
• organic ester methyl acrylate (made on the basis of methacrylic acid);
• colorless polymethyl acrylate or plexiglass;
• antiseptic additives.

Manufacturers practice 3 technologies for the manufacture of sanitary containers;

1. Casting. A plastic sheet, usually 5 mm thick, is subjected to thermal effects. The soft workpiece is given a given shape by stretching. The final product has high strength, wear resistance and low weight.
2. Composite. A mixture based on organic glass in combination with butadiene and ABS plastic is subjected to pressure in a vacuum. The products have a multilayer structure, which provides them with mechanical strength. The wall thickness is 2-4 mm.
3. Fusion. PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) and additives in powder form are poured into a glass mold. A technical gap of a certain thickness (at least 5 mm) is set between the two glasses. In a special furnace, conditions are created for the fusion of particles and polymerization of raw materials.

The first type of acrylic bathtubs is slightly denser, more resistant to bending, harder, and can withstand heating up to +100 ° C.The latter at this temperature begin to soften and release a small amount of toxic acrylonitrile (in practice, the process is not observed if you follow the instructions for use). However, many models, compared to injection molded samples, better resist compression pressure and retain heat longer. The third type is considered the strongest, most reliable and durable.

Thickness

You can visually determine the thickness of an acrylic bathtub by cutting along the side. Typically, the value is in the range from 2 to 6 mm. Another point that needs to be taken into account is the uniformity of the thickness of the walls and bottom as a whole. It is very difficult to check, but the presence of “transparent” areas is easy to notice.

Regarding the relationship between bowl thickness and durability, there are three options:

• up to 3 mm – 3-4 years;
• 4 mm – up to 7 years;
• from 5 mm – 10-12 years.

There are samples in which the thickness of the acrylic base exceeds 6.5 mm. Here, high-quality products are manufactured using complex technologies, since it is not easy to shape the workpiece. This, accordingly, affects the durability, strength and cost of products.

Reinforcement method

Lightweight acrylic bathtubs have thin walls and bottom. Therefore, to increase the strength of the bowl, various reinforcement methods are practiced. This can be fiberglass, epoxy resin, high-density polyurethane foam or moisture-resistant chipboard sheet.

The workpiece is reinforced from the outside. The reinforcement structure can be multi-layered. Each layer is formed in a perpendicular direction relative to the previous one. Before creating the next one, the samples are dried in special ovens. Mortgages can be secured between the coverings for installation.Chipboards are installed on top of the finish, but not on all models.

Shape and dimensions

In the era of cast iron and steel bathtubs, the size range was reduced to three standard positions: 700*1500 mm, 700*1700 mm, 900*1800 mm. With the advent of acrylic bowls, the range has expanded significantly both in terms of dimensions and shapes. Plastic material allows you to expand the range due to its lightness and plasticity, ease of processing.

The sizes of modern products can be familiar from Soviet times, compact for bathing pets, or large-format for installing mini-pools. The height of models for installation on a frame or legs is usually 650-700 mm including supports.

In terms of shape, rectangular and corner samples are considered the most popular. They are followed in popularity by oval and free-standing options. Universal models, which can be used as a compact bathtub and shower tray, are in smaller but also high demand.

Modification

Almost all corner models are thoughtfully manufactured in 2 versions: for installation in the left or right corner. It is in this part of the products that holes for the drain and overflow are formed.

Freestanding bathtubs also come in 2 types: rectangular/corner and oval/round. The former can be installed separately or close to the walls, since, unlike the latter, they have straight sides.

Additional options

Among the first on the list of accessories for an acrylic bathtub is a screen. This is an aluminum frame with doors, sliding plastic panels or a solid structure, which consists of MDF, melamine, acrylic. You can choose the color, shape and design. Some manufacturers offer custom-made screen manufacturing services.

The legs can be hidden in a simple design or decorative for open installation. In any case, they are made of high-strength materials and act as a reliable support for the bowl. The handles are attached to the wall or bathtub for ease of use. There are also options regarding style and composition here.

Headrests are often presented in the form of a compact cushion or pillow made of polypropylene and polyurethane. Artificial leather is used as a decorative covering. They can be attached using suction cups; less often, there are chrome-plated holders.

Among other things, if desired, you can expand the functionality of a regular acrylic bathtub into a home jacuzzi with all its advantages (if this is not included in the kit initially). This includes hydromassage and aeromassage, which consist of a pump, compressor and tubes with nozzles for supplying water or air. Here, a programmable control unit is additionally installed to change the operating modes of the system.

Chromotherapy is based on electromagnetic radiation from a light source in one color or another. It can be a high security LED strip. Aromatherapy involves releasing heated essential oil vapor from a special compartment in a bowl. Innovative implementation – ozonation. This is water and air purification using ozone.

Equipment

There is a concept of basic and additional equipment. The first includes a bowl and instructions for installation and operation. In addition to this, at the discretion of the manufacturer or seller, supporting elements, a screen, a drain-overflow, and fasteners may be included. Often, “gift” promotions are held, where the buyer receives one or another original accessory in addition to the basic set.

The main advantages of acrylic bathtubs compared to steel and cast iron ones: lightness, low thermal conductivity, and the ability to absorb noise. These and other properties are manifested in all types of bowls, regardless of the composition and method of reinforcement, shape and size. The supporting elements are the frame and legs. Additionally, you can install a screen, headrest, handles. To expand the functionality, there are additions to the bath in the form of massage or therapy systems, lighting, control panel and radio.