How to choose a good acrylic bath: which one is better and why, manufacturer rating

Which acrylic bath is better to buy

First of all, any bath is selected according to its size and shape. Bowls 160-180 cm long and 60-70 cm high are considered standard options. However, there are both more compact and larger models.

Given the ease of working with acrylic, bathtubs from this material can be made in any shape. Standard options include oval, rectangular and triangular bowls (acrylic bowls only). However, both round and asymmetric models can be found on sale.

The cost and comfort of acrylic bathtubs is affected by the presence of additional options:

• Pens;
• Headrest;
• Hydromassage;
• Air massage;
• backlight;
• Chromotherapy etc.

The package may include or be purchased separately: overflow and drain siphons, legs, decorative screen, metal frame and fasteners.

In general, there should not be any difficulties with choosing an acrylic bath. Their range is so diverse that everyone can choose the best option for themselves.

acrylic bath rating

The top of the best designs was compiled on the basis of various tests that took into account technical data, the quality of the selected models, consumer and expert reviews. The distribution of nominees in the rating involves an analysis of their following characteristics:

• The level of thermal conductivity;
• The weight;
• Functional features;
• The complexity of installation;
• Structural strength;
• The form;
• Preparation method;
• material thickness;
• Volume;
• Dimensions.

Be sure to take into account the cost of models and the convenience of location in the bathroom. The review nominees are divided into 4 categories. In each, designs with a certain form and functionality are presented, their advantages and disadvantages are considered.

The best showers

Tips & Tricks

Experts recommend taking a flashlight with you before you go shopping. For example, the thickness of the product can be clearly seen with the included flashlight, if you lean it against the side, the light spot should not be visible from the opposite side. Bathtubs of poor quality may have uneven thickness, so it is better to inspect the entire product from different points.

Having “knocked” an object, you can judge its strength by sound, a dull sound indicates the reliability and good quality of the bathroom.

Not all consultants have a complete understanding of the product, some tell only from the description of the manufacturer. Very often, stores cannot provide complete information about the product.

Choosing an acrylic bathtub is a rather difficult task for an ordinary consumer, so it’s better to read the reviews of people who have already made such a purchase in advance, decide on the manufacturer and take the time to inspect the product. To make the purchase successful, you must also heed the advice of experts. Replacing a bathroom should not be a common thing, because it is chosen for more than one year, it will depend on how comfortable it will be to take a bath every day.

Nikolaev Oleg Petrovich

What should be the thickness of the acrylic sheet and reinforcement

As it was written above, if you look at the end of the bathroom rim, you can visually distinguish several layers in the sheet structure. To the eye, the layers in the structure of the bathroom wall are in many ways similar to age-old rings that can be observed on a stump after a tree has been cut down.

Since the main question is how to choose a durable acrylic bath, the main attention should be paid to the thickness of the acrylic layer itself, that is, the front layer.

In a supermarket or plumbing store, you can find models of acrylic bathtubs with an outer layer thickness of 2 to 6.5 mm.

On average, the trend is as follows: if the acrylic layer is 2-3 mm, the bathtub will last about 3-4 years; acrylic layer about 4 mm - the bath can last up to 7 years; acrylic layer 5-6.5 mm - the bathtub can last 10-12 years.

In addition to the thickness of the acrylic layer itself, it is also worth paying attention to the general condition of the inner surface.Sometimes there are such “crafty moments” when the seller consultant begins to paint the not quite smooth surface of the acrylic bathtub as some kind of know-how in the world of plumbing

This is a lie. Most likely, the seller or, in fact, the store, is trying to get rid of the stale low-grade or even defective goods.

Ways to reinforce the bath, and which one is better

In its pure form, an acrylic bathtub is not very durable, because acrylic is a flexible and ductile material. To give it rigidity, a reinforcing layer is applied to the outer surface of the bathtub sink. The reinforcing layer is applied at the factory, already on the finished, molded bowl over ABS / PMMA or PMMA from the outside.

Structurally, the reinforcing layer is fiberglass, which is treated with epoxy resin.

The total number of reinforcing layers can be from 1 to 5, depending on the quality of the plumbing. In general, when buying an acrylic bathtub, it is enough to take a good look at the end of the bathroom wall in order to visually assess the number of layers and the total thickness of the reinforced base.

It is important to remember the following: a high-quality acrylic bathtub is reinforced with a uniform layer over its entire outer surface. Many unscrupulous manufacturers, in the production of plumbing, use the following trick. Knowing that a “savvy” buyer will definitely evaluate the thickness and layers of reinforcement along the end, in the process of applying the reinforcing layer, manufacturers deliberately reinforce the ends of the sides better than the bathroom bowl itself

In order not to fall for this trick, in addition to visual inspection of the end, you need to lightly press on the bottom of the bowl and the walls of the bathroom.With high-quality reinforcement, they should not bend like a plastic lining, but should retain elasticity.

Another way that can help you choose a quality acrylic bathtub is to try to put a flashlight close to the bottom of the bathtub and at the same moment, with your palms together, look at a section of the same surface from the other side. If you see very clearly a gap from a flashlight, you should know that the thickness of the bottom of this bath is less than the thickness of its walls and, in fact, these products are of dubious quality.

In general, you have to do three things:

• Examine the butt;
• Press on the walls and bottom;
• Test the walls and bottom for light with a flashlight or laser pointer.

Of course, here we were talking about if you need to choose an acrylic bathtub from an unknown manufacturer, or if the plumbing store itself does not inspire much confidence. In cases of buying an acrylic bathtub in a specialized store from a well-known manufacturer, you are unlikely to encounter such a "hack". But of course it's better to check everything.

The best oval shaped acrylic bathtubs

Bathtubs with an oval bowl are also classics. They do not take up space in the room as efficiently as rectangular ones, so they are more often installed in spacious rooms. But such plumbing looks elegant and allows you to comfortably take bath procedures.

Gemy G9219 E - modern and stylish bathtub

5.0

★★★★★
editorial score

89%
buyers recommend this product

One of the leading manufacturers of sanitary ware Gemy (China) produces bathtubs not in collections, but individually. And this model quickly won the hearts of many of our compatriots.It is made in a modern style and is designed to be installed on a flat base - the legs are not provided for by the design. The length of the bowl is 175.5 cm, the drain is located in the center.

The bath is already equipped with air massage and a chromotherapy system that is beneficial for the body. It is made of high quality materials and has thick walls, which guarantee the durability of the bowl and better retain the heat of the water.

Advantages:

• Air massage;
• Chromotherapy;
• Electronic control;
• Thick walls;
• Frame and drain-overflow included.

Flaws:

No handles or headrest.

Bathtub Gemy G9219 E is suitable for a medium or spacious room and will not only allow you to comfortably take procedures, but also improve your health.

Belbagno BB05-CRM - comfortable bathtub with exquisite design

4.9

★★★★★
editorial score

86%
buyers recommend this product

This bath is made in a classic style and is installed on decorative legs in the form of lion or eagle paws. The color of the legs can be chrome, bronze or gold. The narrow edges of the bowl are raised, which makes it more comfortable to bathe while sitting. The overflow and drain are located in the center, which means that it will be possible to install a floor tap nearby.

The length of the bath is 182.5 cm, the height together with the legs is 80 cm. The bowl is quite roomy, it will be convenient to wash even a tall person in it.

Advantages:

• Elegant appearance;
• Variety of leg designs
• capacity;
• 10 years manufacturer's warranty;
• Central location of the drain.

Flaws:

Legs and everything else sold separately.

Acrylic bathtub BB05-CRM from Belbagno (China) will decorate the bathroom, decorated in a classic style.

How much does an acrylic bath cost

When choosing an acrylic bath, the question of cost invariably arises.The fact is that the price for a bowl of approximately the same size can differ by 3-5 times. It's not so much about the "appetites" of manufacturers, but about production technology. Acrylic bathtubs are made in three ways:

1. The so-called casting baths. The finished form is filled with acrylic. After it hardens, the front surface is covered with a layer of fiberglass, filled with epoxy resin. The thickness of the acrylic layer with this production method is the same - there are no thinner sections in the places of bends / kinks. Since sanitary acrylic is expensive, bathtubs made using this technology cost a lot.

2. From sheet acrylic. In this case, the acrylic sheet is heated over the mold until soft, after which, with the help of vacuum, it is “sucked” into the mold, and remains in it until it cools. Acrylic bathtubs made using this technology have different thicknesses. At the bottom, where there is usually the most active wear, the thickness of the acrylic is less, since the stretching of the sheet in this place is maximum. But, with good quality of the source material, the thickness of acrylic here is 3-4 mm, which is quite enough for long-term operation.

3. Extrusion or composite baths. Strictly speaking, these are not acrylic baths, but many unscrupulous sellers also call them acrylic. A bowl is formed from a sheet of ABC plastic, its front surface is covered with a layer of acrylic. Usually these are the cheapest products - plastic is cheap, acrylic is often used cheap. Despite the low price, these "works" are better not to buy. The fact is that plastic and acrylic do not have very good adhesion and different thermal expansion. As a result, during operation, the protective surface peels off, the acrylic layer cracks and begins to peel off.There are many negative reviews for this product.

So in order to choose a good quality acrylic bathtub, you need to understand what technology it is made of. To determine this "by eye" is unrealistic. You can try only by indirect signs to understand whether it is good or not. The most accessible indicator is the strength of the sides. If they bend and look unreliable, it is better not to take this copy.

You can also see the thickness of the acrylic around the drain hole. Of course, the thicker the white layer, the better. Another indirect sign of good quality is a large mass. It happens that bathtubs of the same manufacturer have the same size, but the difference in weight is about 50%. The one that is heavier usually has more acrylic. Well, another indicator is the price. Good acrylic bathtubs are not cheap. Plumbing acrylic is an expensive material. The more it is, the more expensive the bath. So “cheap and high quality” is not about this product.

Since outwardly it is impossible to understand by what technology this or that bath is made. Therefore, manufacturers supply their products with passports, which describe the manufacturing method, the installation procedure and conditions, and the care method. Before buying, you need to study this information and only after that buy. And then, if everything suits you.

No. 2. Technology and material for the manufacture of acrylic bath

The technology for the production of acrylic bathtubs is quite simple. The acrylic sheet is heated to a temperature where the material acquires good plasticity and fluidity. Then it is placed under a press, which forms the shape of the bath. The reverse side of the bathtub is reinforced with a composite, often using polyester resins with fiberglass, or polyurethane.After that, all the necessary holes are drilled.

Acrylic baths today are called two different types of products that are made from different materials:

• cast acrylic bathtubs are the best option. Such products are created on the basis of polymethyl methacrylate. The compound is poured into sealed molds and polymerized in steam ovens. Such baths come out very strong, wear-resistant and durable, they serve at least 10-12 years. Additionally, the acrylic bowl receives a reinforcing base;
• tubs made of co-extruded acrylic, or two-layer plastic, ABS/PMMA. ABS is Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, a resilient plastic that forms the base of the tub and makes up about 90% of its weight. PMMA is polymethyl methacrylate already familiar to us, it is also acrylic, which is only 5-10% here. Such baths also receive a reinforcing base. They are produced by the method of simultaneous extrusion and combination of melts of two substances. ABS plastic has a porous structure, so it can absorb moisture to a small extent. If such a bath is used frequently, then the base will quickly collapse. The thin acrylic layer is also quickly erased, so the durability of such bathtubs is low.

At first glance, it is obvious which bath is better to choose. Of course, the one made of cast acrylic, even if it costs more. This is true in cases where you select plumbing for an apartment or house where you live permanently. For a country house with seasonal living, you can safely take a bath made of ABS / PMMA - the savings will be tangible, and wear and tear under intermittent loads will not be catastrophic.

Conscientious manufacturers and sellers will always honestly say what material this or that bath is made of. But what to do if doubts creep in and you want to make sure that you are not being deceived? It's simple - just count how many layers the bath is made of, and for this look at the edge on the side. A cast acrylic bath will have only two layers: acrylic and a reinforcing base. A cheaper co-extruded acrylic option has three layers: acrylic, plastic, and base.

Criteria for choosing an acrylic bath

The material affects the price and quality of the model.

The production process is based on technical cast acrylic, which is covered with a reinforcing layer. There is also industrial acrylic. Technical has an antibacterial property. Thanks to the additives, the products will be comfortable and harmless to use. Large models are made of cast acrylic, but light in weight, meeting all the requirements for reliability and structural strength.

In the sales area of ​​stores there are models made of plastic (ABS) coated with acrylic and a reinforcing layer. They are lower in price, but worse in quality.

Knowing the differences between these models will help you buy the right acrylic bathtub. If there is no conscious desire to purchase a model at a low price (from ABS), then it is recommended to study the section of the structure. Molded tubs have 2 layers, ABS tubs have 3 layers. The consultant may say that the thickness of the model is 8 mm. This is not true, 3-4 mm is the thickness of the acrylic structure.

The beam from the flashlight does not shine through the walls of a quality model. Only poor quality acrylic transmits light. Durable bathtub is made of opaque material.Good acrylic bathtubs are able to compete in reliability with steel and cast iron products, despite the fact that they are much lighter. Quality products withstand stress.

• Structural strength testing. She doesn't bend. This is easy to verify if you press on the bottom with your hand. There are models that hide the lack of a good frame, but a quality product should not “play”.
• A long warranty period is a guarantee of the quality of the model. After all, the manufacturer is sure that during this time he will not be disturbed by the issue of replacing the goods. For example, a manufacturer from Germany provides a 5-year warranty.
• A glossy and uniform surface is an important sign of quality. The absence of spots, darkening and roughness on the surface confirms the originality of the design.
• The quality of the outer layer depends on the material used. A conscientious manufacturer uses polyurethane. Then the surface on the outside will be smooth and dark. There should be no roughness or unpleasant odors. If fiberglass with synthetic resins was used, then it should be frankly said that saving on material and such a bath is not bought.
• The stability of an acrylic bath depends on the design of the frame. It looks like a bathroom fixing frame with adjustable legs and supports at the corners. A regular frame under the sides will be an unstable frame.
• Additional features - additional cash costs. You can save money if you buy a regular acrylic bathtub. Whirlpool Bath Buying Tips: It's worth researching the manufacturers that design and manufacture these models.
• The stability of a model depends on its shape. A simple form is strength and stability.The more complex the configuration of the bath, the greater the quality of the design must be. Hence the price increases.
• The price increase is also affected by the design of the drain-overflow system: traditional, semi-automatic, automatic. This will not affect the quality of the models. Therefore, the buyer independently chooses which acrylic bathtubs are best for him.

Choosing a bathtub by size

It does not matter for a large or small family, an acrylic bathtub is bought. Its size is determined by the level of comfortable immersion of the tallest and largest member of the family.

Don't forget about the rest of the residents. Therefore, the details are thought out: armrests, handles, the presence of a shower.

Which acrylic bath to choose

1. Rectangular models fit perfectly into small-sized bathrooms, which abound in city apartments. They, as a rule, are pressed against the far and two side walls, and the front view is covered with a protective and decorative screen. For the most part, these are classic devices - additional options are rarely provided for in them. Among the most appropriate amenities: headrest, armrests and side handles.

2. For medium-sized rooms, corner modifications are best suited: a quarter of a circle and non-standard ones. As a rule, they have a curved third wall, an angular seat, a bowl turned by 45 ... 90 °. Such products are equipped with more exquisite. The kit includes all the same handles, armrests, headrest, as well as hydromassage, glass inserts and a faucet embedded in the board, a spout, a shower head.

3. Spacious bathrooms can accommodate virtually any model, including Jacuzzi, chromotherapy and TV.Alternatively, round, oval and square versions mounted in the center of the room will look interesting - with this arrangement, communications will have to be pulled under the floor. At the same time, users who prefer minimalist style can purchase a bowl equipped with only a drain and overflow.

The Best Rectangular Acrylic Bathtubs

Bathing tanks of this type can most often be found in the store. Their popularity is due to the convenience of placement in a standard-sized bathroom. The rectangular shape of personal hygiene rooms in ordinary apartments involves installing the device along the wall, which is not very convenient for oval structures. The low price is due to the ease of manufacture.

Roca Hall 170×75

The bathtub is made of cast acrylic with a thickness of 5 mm. In addition, the manufacturer equipped the bottom of the structure with a reinforcing layer that protects against mechanical stress and increases strength. The frame is made of stainless profile pipe. It is powder coated to prevent rust. Bath capacity is enough for one person.

Advantages

• Anti-slip coating that increases safety when swimming;
• Durable material;
• Removable front panel;
• Stylish appearance, providing a combination with any interior;
• Light weight;
• Possibility of installation of a hydromassage, a head restraint;
• Long-term warranty - 10 years;
• The presence of protrusions for the hands.

Flaws

• Fast erasing anti-slip coating;
• Low enamel strength;
• High price.

Consumer reviews confirm the good quality of acrylic, the deformation of the structure is not fixed.Wide, even sides make it easy to install a curtain or a shelf with the necessary accessories for washing. At first, the bath may creak. After taking the forms, the sound disappears.

Triton Ultra 150

The dimensions of the acrylic bathtub allow it to be classified as a compact device. The length is only 150 cm, and the volume is 145 liters. Extruded acrylic is used for manufacturing, which involves the use of ABS plastic for the carrier base. In terms of impact resistance, the designs are slightly inferior to cast acrylic models. At the same time, their price is much lower. The kit includes a steel frame with a zinc coating.

Advantages

• The ability to install a built-in or remote mixer, headrest;
• At the request of the client, the bath is equipped with an overflow system;
• Warranty - 10 years;
• The height of the legs is adjustable;
• At the bottom there is an anti-slip coating;
• Low price.

Flaws

• The need for installation on the frame;
• There is a marriage.

Buyers are attracted by the whiteness and strength of acrylic. Experts say that the quality of the bathing tank corresponds to the price declared by the manufacturer. Most reviews of the model are positive. It is advised to purchase with a small budget for the purchase.

1Marka One Modern 165×70

The free-standing acrylic bathtub is made using injection molding technology, the thickness of the material is 4 mm. Equipped with a hydromassage, a protective jet against dry descent. For installation, the kit includes a steel frame with a polymer coating. The warranty for the model is 10 years. The height of the structure is 60 cm, which exceeds the parameters of the previous nominees by 20 cm.

Advantages

• Low price;
• The presence of fasteners to strengthen the sides of the bowl;
• Fast installation;
• Absence of bulges on the inner surface;
• Removable front panel;
• Light weight - 22 kg.

Flaws

• Smaller volume compared to Roca Hall;
• Separate purchase of components (handles, headrest);
• Frame installation.

Spacious and comfortable bathtub with stylish design. Unpretentious in care, the price corresponds to the quality.

Cersanit Lorena 170×70

One of the cheapest models in the line of rectangular acrylic bathtubs. In terms of quality and configuration, it is not inferior to models of famous brands. The design involves installation on a frame, the presence of wide sides and armrests. The kit also includes height-adjustable legs, a removable front panel. Demand for Cersanit Lorena 170×70 is due to the low price, high wear resistance of acrylic.

Advantages

• Low price;
• material strength;
• Anti-slip coating;
• Stylish design;
• Ease of use;
• Smooth surface.

Flaws

Possible marriage.

Users note the good capacity of the model. Its volume is 215 liters, which is 20-45 liters more than other nominees. Also, the advantages include ease of use, ease of maintenance, the presence of a dirt-protective layer.

Advantages and disadvantages of acrylic plumbing

The main thing that distinguishes acrylic bowls from sanitary ware made of the same steel or cast iron is the unique shapes that are unusual for other bathtubs.

Using the properties of the polymer to react to high temperatures and remain flexible when cooled, manufacturers create different bowl configurations.

A variety of options for the execution of bowls is achieved due to the plasticity of the material, which, under the influence of high temperature, is able to take any shape.

Among the undeniable advantages of acrylic baths, it is worth highlighting:

1. High strength.Modern technologies make it possible to create bathtubs from acrylic, which are almost as strong as steel and cast-iron plumbing.
2. Low thermal conductivity. Polymer material retains heat well. The temperature of the water taken into the bath remains practically unchanged for half an hour.
3. Lightweight design. Bowls made of lightweight material weigh no more than 20-30 kg, so they do not cause difficulties in transportation and installation.
4. Maintainability. Chips, cracks and scratches on an acrylic surface can be easily restored with a polish.

The minimum porosity of acrylic has a positive effect on the operational parameters of the product and simplifies its care.

Thanks to the polymer structure, the acrylic bathtub is able to perfectly absorb the noise that occurs when the bowl is filled under pressure with tap water.

Acrylic plumbing is not without its drawbacks. She reacts sensitively to powdered products and alcohol-containing preparations. Therefore, it is possible to clean the acrylic surface only using products that do not contain abrasive particles and aggressive chemicals.

Products of poor quality with thin walls under the influence of the weight of a person are able to bend. And in the event of a heavy object falling on them from a height, there is a high probability of a crack or even a hole.

Some users note that over time, under the influence of constant loads, the sides of the bowl can approach each other: with each year of operation, these deformations become more noticeable

In addition, the melting point of acrylic is only 160 °C. Therefore, under the influence of hot temperature, the thin walls of a low-quality acrylic bathtub can be deformed.

To prevent the occurrence of a situation, a little cool water is first poured into the bowl, and only after that the tap with a hot jet is opened.

Freestanding bath features

Usually the font is installed against the wall. For typical apartments, this is the simplest and most convenient option. However, with the advent of large-area housing, appliances that can be placed in the center of the room have gained popularity. When choosing a free-standing (island) bathtub, it is necessary to answer two questions: will it be possible to connect water supply communications to it, and what type of flooring is suitable for this place.

Bathtub BelBagno acrylic

Even in non-standard apartments, water supply and a drain pipe are usually brought down the riser; you should find out in advance about the possibility of stretching them to the middle of the room. In addition, you need to understand how the faucet, shower head and other plumbing equipment will be attached. So, an appropriate project should be developed.

In some cases, communications can take up such a large space that it will not work to place them under the floor. The way out will be a model with a podium, where you will have to hide everything you need

Sometimes it makes sense to pay attention to baths in which the shower and faucet are already built into the body: such a design will undoubtedly speed up installation work.