Choose the bathtub
The materials
There are three types of bathtubs:
The cast iron tubs
See also
Solid and insulating material, cast iron resists knocks and scratches, however cast iron tubs are very heavy and offer a rather narrow range of shapes.
The steel tanks
Steel tubs also resist scratches and blows well, but are much lighter than cast iron ones. The disadvantage is that steel does not retain heat and therefore these pools are less insulating and often very noisy, so relaxing becomes more difficult. Furthermore, steel is quite slippery and splinters easily.
The tubs in synthetic material
- Made of acrylic: solid and insulating, the acrylic tubs are very resistant and non-slip. On the market there are many different shapes and colors, at reasonable prices.
- In quaryl ®: the bathtubs in quaryl ® have the same qualities as those in acrylic. Furthermore, quaryl ® is modular and allows you to create tubs of different shapes: rounded, angled or straight.
- In reinforced acrylic: also called toplax, this material has the same characteristics as acrylic and allows the construction of very light and fully recyclable tanks.
As for the maintenance of the tanks in synthetic material, avoid solvents and other chemicals, and preferably use white vinegar.
Shapes and sizes
To choose your model, you have to bear in mind ...
1. The space you have available:
- For small bathrooms, choose a square or compact bathtub that doesn't take up much space.
- For medium bathrooms, the best choice will be a corner or asymmetrical bathtub.
- For large bathrooms, why not dare the round bathtub? To be positioned in the center of the room, it must have a diameter between 160 and 180 cm.
2. Your physical structure
Each member of the family must be able to take advantage of the comfort given by the bathtub, so when choosing, keep in mind not only your physical structure, but also that of your partner: you don't want your Him to get cold!
Good to know
It seems obvious, but it is better to repeat it: the bathtub must adapt to the style of the bathroom!
The accessories
1. The taps
The thermostatic variator and the classic mixer are the most economical and ecological systems. You can install the faucet on the long or short side of the tub, but always choose a model that matches the style of the bathroom.
2. The shower knob
One or more jets of water, it's up to you to choose ... if you have a boiler, make sure it has enough pressure to feed the flow.
3. The anti-skids
If the tub is slippery or if you have small children, non-slip mats can prevent accidents.
4. The support bar
The support bar is a useful accessory for older people.
5. Accessories for well-being
In order for relaxation to be truly complete, some bathtubs (generally acrylic ones) have integrated hydromassage and balneotherapy systems. To own these gems, however, you must have a very large bathroom, because they measure at least 1.50m in width!
Good to know:
- Always ask your dealer for the complete technical data sheet, and check that your future tank is produced according to ecological and responsible criteria.
- You can also install a hydromassage or balneotherapy system in the bathtub you already own, if the latter meets all the required criteria (size, material ...), but to do so it is better to use qualified personnel.
- To allow people with reduced mobility to bathe there are various accessories, such as the shower stretcher or the folding chair. Another solution is represented by the tub with the door, which ensures maximum comfort for those who use it but which is rather expensive.
