Acrylic bathtub pros and cons, repair methods and care rules

Before purchasing an acrylic bathtub, you should definitely understand all the properties and characteristics of the manufacturing material, as well as weigh all the pros and cons of such a purchase, based on reviews from the owners. Acrylic bathtubs are made from technical acrylic by casting or the ABS method. The first method is considered more reliable and is characterized by high levels of wear resistance and reliability, since casting is carried out from solid sheets of acrylic.

If you want your acrylic bathtub to serve you for a long time, give preference to a cast product

ABS bathtubs are made using layer technology from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, which is coated on top with another chemical substance under the equally complex name polymethyl methacrylate. As a result, ABS baths are much cheaper than cast baths, but they are less durable and will last no more than 3-4 years, which should definitely be taken into account when purchasing.

Since acrylic by its nature is not strong enough, it is reinforced during the production process: metal mesh, fiberglass and epoxy resin are applied. It is important to know that the greater the number of layers, the more reliable and durable the plumbing product will be in practice.

What are acrylic bathtubs made of?

The main material for the manufacture of acrylic bathtubs is a polymer substance such as acrylic.
This material has high plasticity, so bathtubs made from it can be of completely different shapes and configurations. Acrylic is a fairly common polymer material, from which, in addition to plumbing fixtures, home textiles, clothing, sealants, wall primers and much more are made. Therefore, we can safely talk about the safety of using acrylic products, which we use almost every day. In addition to acrylic, epoxy resins and fiberglass are used in the manufacture of bathtubs, with which they are coated on the outside. This allows you to significantly increase the strength of acrylic bathtubs and other acrylic products, significantly increasing their resistance to various mechanical damage.

Today, there are several different technologies for producing acrylic bathtubs. According to them, plumbing products can be cast or extruded. Let's take a closer look at the manufacturing technology of acrylic bathtubs.

Acrylic bathtub production technology

Extruded acrylic bathtubs are made from sheets of acrylic, which are heated to the desired temperature until it becomes plastic, after which the material is “slung” onto a special mold.

After cooling, the outer part of the future plumbing product is covered with a reinforcing layer consisting of epoxy resin and fiberglass.

Cast acrylic bathtubs are made using casting. In terms of strength, cast bathtubs are superior to those made by extrusion, but their cost is also noticeably higher.

More gentle care

Everything is simple here. We are changing our cleaning products to softer ones, to gels and sponges. In addition, the chemical composition should not contain aggressive substances. In any household chemicals store we will find a whole shelf with suitable products. It's not a problem

But most importantly, we acquire one useful habit - every time after bathing, we rinse the bathtub and wipe it dry. This rule alone will save us from the need to “scrub” the bathtub. We highly recommend teaching all family members this simple rule. Acrylic itself “repels” dirt. It is so smooth that there is nothing to catch on. Therefore, basically, cleaning looks like this: rinse with water, wipe dry. All! It is better to prevent limescale deposits than to wash them off later.

Let's move on to the third “disadvantage” - low resistance to high temperatures.

Choosing a cast iron or acrylic bath

Decorating a bathroom, choosing a style, specific elements of plumbing equipment and design is a matter of taste and financial capabilities of the owner. But with any chosen option, from a minimalist-strict bathroom to aristocratic-refined bathrooms, the bath was, is and will always be the queen of this most important room.

When choosing a bathtub, the determining factors are dimensions, functionality, and design solutions. But the first, fundamental question is - what material will the home pond be made of? Will a cast iron or acrylic bathtub decorate your bathroom? Or maybe steel? Or marble?

The main advantage of a steel bath is its relatively low cost. Marble structures, despite their many positive qualities, are not yet available to most families. Therefore, here we will look at bathtubs in the mid-price range. Let's look at the known pros and cons, and hopefully this will help you choose between a cast iron bathtub or an acrylic one.

Cast iron, steel and acrylic bathtubs - comparative table of characteristics

Characteristic	Cast iron	Steel	Acrylic
Ease	Heavy	Heavy	Lungs
Noisiness	Noisy	Extremely noisy	Almost silent
Design variety	Variety of domestic models	Unpretentious appearance	A wide range of
Price	Average	Low	Average
Enamel strength	Small	High	Average
Thermal insulation	Average	Small	High

Indicators affecting service life

In order for an acrylic structure to last for many years, you need to pay attention to two main indicators - how, what it is made of and how its strength is ensured

Material and thickness

Of course, acrylic always contains acrylic - but it can be combined with other materials, and how long it can be used depends on the proportion in which it is used.

Three layers. If you are accustomed to the fact that the more layers, the stronger the result, then this habit will fail here - three layers of an acrylic bathtub indicate that it is not of high quality. Its internal material is ABS - a porous cheap plastic, which is used as a base due to its low cost. Then it is covered with a thin layer of acrylic (no more than ten percent), and then the final structure is reinforced. As a result, after about five years, the reinforcement is wiped away, as is the acrylic layer, and only ABS remains, which quickly becomes saturated with moisture and becomes completely unusable. This is only worth buying if you plan to use it infrequently - or will replace it in the near future anyway.
Two layers. This one consists entirely of acrylic, and a reinforcing substance covers it on top - sometimes in one layer, sometimes in several. The result is more expensive, but will also last much longer. It practically does not wear out; it is very difficult to get a crack to appear on it.

Simply rinse with warm water

Tip To check how many layers a structure you like consists of, just look at its very edge - the one that often bends down. The layers on it are visible to the naked eye.

In addition to the material, it is also important how thick the walls it forms:

two or three centimeters is very thin - it cracks easily and does not last long;
four centimeters is average - it cracks less often, lasts longer, up to ten years;
six centimeters is thick - it’s hard to make a crack on such a structure; it can last for decades if you don’t clean it with a metal sponge.

Tip To check how thick the walls of a bathtub are, you don’t need to have a ruler with you; just shine a flashlight through them. If light is visible on the other side, then the wall is too thin. Additionally, you can tap it with your knuckles - the sound should be dull.

Reinforcement and frame

Reinforcement of acrylic is a mandatory procedure, since plastic itself is not very durable. Typically epoxy resins, fiberglass or polyurethane are used. They protect the bathtub from mechanical damage, abrasion, small cracks and chips.

Which bathtub is better - acrylic or steel: reviews from experts

Which bathtub is better - steel or acrylic? And in what specific cases?

Which is cheaper?

Comparing the cost of buying a bathtub, we come to a clear conclusion - steel bathtubs are cheaper than their acrylic counterparts.

Comparing the weight of an acrylic and steel bathtub, the cost of delivery, lifting to the floor and installation - for acrylic and steel bathtubs this figure is almost the same.

Which is more durable?

Acrylic and steel bathtubs in the lower, middle and high price ranges are practically the same in terms of service life. Outright fakes are not taken into account.

The service life of cheap bathtubs is 2-3 years, during which the cheap enamel and thin layer of acrylic are erased. The service life of mid-price bathtubs is 5-7 years, and the service life of the most expensive counterparts (acrylic bathtubs made by casting, steel bathtubs made of structural steel coated with high-quality enamel and steel bathtubs made of stainless steel).

Variety of shapes and sizes

According to this indicator, the undisputed leader is acrylic bathtubs, which are available in almost any shape and size.

Resistance to external influences

Acrylic bathtubs crack from impacts, they are easy to scratch, but they are afraid of aggressive detergents. Under the influence of temperatures close to 100 degrees Celsius, they soften with subsequent deformation. But, all damage can be corrected through restoration. When the person taking the bath weighs heavily, it begins to “breathe.”

Steel bathtubs are inferior to acrylic ones. Enamel, although it often cracks, does not hold well and wears out over time, behaves better in relation to the effects of aggressive detergents. Steel bathtubs also deform under the bather's weight of about 100 kg.

Please note that cheap samples of both acrylic and steel bathtubs are not taken into account because they, as a rule, cannot withstand the heavy weight of the bathtub.

Ease of use

In terms of functionality, acrylic bathtubs have an undoubted advantage. All known bathtub functions were developed specifically for these bathtubs. Steel bathtubs also have some functionality.

Acrylic bathtubs have the same advantage in terms of cooling time for the collected hot water. Due to the rapid cooling of water in a steel bath, there is no comfort when taking water procedures.

Easy to care for

Steel bathtubs must be constantly washed, otherwise the fat and limescale that accumulate on the surface will eat into the enamel. But the process of caring for steel and acrylic bathtubs is simple: you need to wash it with a soft sponge and apply detergent, then the surface of the bathtub is rinsed with warm water. The acrylic bathtub must be wiped dry.

Don't buy with your eyes closed - What quality are the individual bathtubs!

Advantages of acrylic bathtubs

Each product has its own advantages. If we talk about structures made of acrylic, their main advantage is that small scratches that may appear on their surface during operation can be easily removed by the owner. To do this, you need to use regular sandpaper. A few movements with this material and you will be able to observe the ideal surface of your bathtub, and there will be no roughness or scratches on it.

Another advantage is the fact that such products have a long service life. Modern technologies that are used today in the manufacture of such products make it possible to produce products that can last up to 20 years. If the owner knows about the rules of care and does not violate the operating conditions of such products, then the bathtub, which is made of polymer material, will not lose its attractive appearance throughout its entire service life.

Many owners of such products like the fact that such vessels are not damaged in case of accidental falls. Therefore, if such a vessel accidentally falls while moving, then nothing bad will happen to it. An undoubted advantage of such products is that they are lightweight. This ensures ease of movement of such structures. In addition, the installation process becomes a simpler task.

After purchasing a bathtub, you do not need to hire movers to deliver your purchase to your own home. You can do it on your own. The weight of such a product is insignificant, so you can easily cope with this task.

Acrylic bathtub advantages

Anyone who has bathed in an acrylic bathtub and previously used a steel or cast iron one will admit that it is warmer to the touch. In addition, its surface is smooth and easy to clean. The advantage of acrylic products is their light weight: they weigh less than all other types of bathtubs. For example, a bathtub measuring 150 x 100 weighs only about 20 kilograms. Therefore, they are easy to transport and install.

An acrylic bathtub maintains water temperature better than a steel bathtub, although slightly worse than a cast iron bathtub. It is also more soundproof: drawing water is not accompanied by noise, as is the case in a steel bathtub. In addition, you can install a hydromassage in an acrylic bathtub and eliminate scratches on the surface without traces of repair. A very important advantage is the price: acrylic bathtubs are the cheapest in their group.

What about hygiene? An acrylic bathtub is more hygienic compared to an enamel bathtub. The second, if it is not properly cared for (for example, with overly aggressive means) or due to too much degreasing of the surface or old age, the enamel becomes dull and becomes porous. Dirt settles on its surface, penetrates into the grooves in the enamel, and is difficult to get rid of. We have to take increasingly drastic cleaning measures, which, in turn, further destroys the product.

An acrylic bathtub is easy to care for and can be cleaned without any problems. Hygiene is enhanced by natural resistance to discoloration caused by rust or lime deposits. The antibacterial properties of such baths are explained by the fact that acrylic has silver ions in its structure, which are known to prevent the proliferation of microorganisms.

Option #3. Through holes

If something massive accidentally falls on the bathtub, not only the enamel will have to be restored, as on a metal product. A whole hole is formed on the acrylic.

Through hole in an acrylic bathtub

To seal it, follow the instructions.

Step 1 . At the opposite edges of the hole, make a pair of indentations with a diameter of 2-3 mm.

Step 2. Clean the holes thoroughly using fine-grained sandpaper, then degrease with alcohol.

Step 3. The repair kit should contain instructions according to which you will prepare a mixture of acrylic and hardener.

Repair kits for restoration of acrylic bathtubs, instructions

Step 4 . Apply the mixture in one layer to the desired area.

Step 5. Press the reinforcing material into the mixture, directly over the hole.

Step 6. Apply a second coat so that the entire reinforcement patch is covered.

Step 7. Wait for the acrylic mixture to dry completely (the specific time is indicated in the instructions). After this, sand the sealed area using medium-grit sandpaper, then fine-grit sandpaper.

Step 8. Re-treat the crack with alcohol, then apply a special polish there (should be included in the kit).

Step 9. Finally, polish the surface of the product using flannel.

Repair of a through hole

As a result, the hole will disappear, and the bathtub will look like new.

Disadvantages: why cast iron is abandoned

The first minus is the other side of the plus and is a consequence of the large weight of the cast iron bathtub. Due to the massive structure, considerable difficulties arise during transportation and installation. In addition, for some buildings the additional load acting on the floors must be taken into account. This is especially true for large-volume baths.
Another disadvantage of cast iron bathtubs is also directly related to their advantages. Enamel, for all its strength and hardness, is a rather fragile material, and in the event of an impact, chips may form on its surface. Such a chip cannot be eliminated with improvised means; it is necessary to call a specialist with special tools, materials and appropriate skills for the restoration of enamel coatings.
In addition, even with external integrity, over time the upper smooth layer of enamel is destroyed, and the coating acquires a porous, rough structure. Housewives who use products based on oxalic or orthophosphoric acid to maintain cleanliness especially often encounter this problem. Subsequently, the damaged enamel, like a sponge, absorbs iron salts contained in tap water, turning yellow and practically impossible to clean with mild means, so to maintain the whiteness of a bathtub with damaged enamel, you again have to resort to acidic preparations.
And finally, the third disadvantage of cast iron bathtubs is the conservatism of the form. Cast iron is not malleable enough to allow designers to experiment with fancy configurations. Therefore, the strict classical form of cast iron baths remains unchanged. However, for some, this disadvantage turns into an advantage, because strict classics never go out of fashion.

Flaws

All types of acrylate-based plumbing fixtures have both general and individual disadvantages. Among the disadvantages inherent in all acrylic bathtubs, it is necessary to highlight:

low surface hardness - it is easy to leave scratches even with brushes with medium-hard hair;
difficult care - you need special equipment and specialized detergents (more details can be found here);
fear of hot water - acrylic softens and can float down the sides.

In addition, each type of bowl has its own disadvantages.

Cast acrylic. For consumers, the most unpleasant disadvantages of cast acrylic are:

fragility - a small glass perfume bottle falling from a height of 1-1.5 m can pierce through;
heterogeneity in the thickness of the walls and bottom of the bowl;
the need for rigid fixation of the bathtub using a frame;
lack of rigidity - the bowl “breathes” during water procedures;
high price, which is unaffordable for most of the Russian population.

Composite Composite bowl options have many of the same weaknesses as cast acrylic. But there are also individual disadvantages:

during the stamping process, the acrylic layer can be reduced to 0.2 mm, which subsequently will lead to very rapid wear of the protective coating;
the acrylic layer begins to peel off from the ABS during operation;
Over time, a leak appears at the siphon insertion site;
short service life (about 10 years) - the font quickly loses its shape and surface shine;
the walls may bend during water procedures, which sows anxiety on a subconscious level;
low maintainability;
the need for additional fastening of the side to the wall;
difficulties in installing blind screens (many experts generally claim that such work is impossible).

Kvaril. If we consider the disadvantages of quaril bathtubs, then first of all we need to note the price - it starts from 25.0 thousand rubles. and ends in the region of 200.0-240.0 thousand rubles. (there are models for 850.0 thousand rubles.) In addition, the disadvantages include:

limited assortment - it is difficult to obtain original forms;
unsuitable for standard bathrooms - they look pretentious;
expensive restoration of the decorative layer.

Pros and cons of acrylic bathtubs

Even before the renovation, you have to decide which acrylic bathtub to choose. To make it easier to decide, let’s weigh the positive and negative qualities of acrylic bathtubs. We will talk about good quality products, and not about cheap fakes.

Pros of replacing a steel or cast iron bathtub with an acrylic one:

Light weight. An average-sized acrylic bathtub weighs about 12-15 kg, so one person can carry it. This reduces delivery costs and makes installation easier.
Low heat capacity. Even in the cold season, acrylic feels like a warm material. It is more pleasant to stand and sit on it than on metal; it heats up quickly. Many times faster than steel or cast iron.
Plumbing acrylic is a low-porous material, but even when wet it is not slippery.
There is almost no sound when filling with water.

These are positive points. Now about the shortcomings, they are serious. In order not to regret your decision, you need to choose an acrylic bathtub after being aware of all the nuances. So, the disadvantages of acrylic bathtubs:

Acrylic requires special care. You can only use special non-abrasive products, wash the container only with soft cloths, do not use graters, hard sponges, etc. To wash acrylic bathtubs, you cannot use products containing ammonia and chlorine, or bleaching additives (that is, washing powders are also undesirable). To wash off heavy dirt, the special composition is simply left on the surface for a while and then washed off.
When loaded, the bottom bends slightly, causing the walls to move. For this reason, the installation of an acrylic bathtub is carried out according to a special algorithm - on standard or additional stops (bricks). The gap between the side or wall is closed with a special plinth or tile, but everything must be done according to the manufacturers’ recommendations.
You need to handle the container carefully - acrylic gets scratched. For example, you need to put some kind of cloth under the basins, do not stand in the bathtub with shoes on, etc. If it is high-quality plumbing acrylic, the scratches are shallow and do not interfere with use; moreover, they can be sanded using special polishing pastes. In cheap composite models, scratches remain forever, and can also cause the protective coating to peel off.
If something heavy falls into the bathtub, chips may appear on the surface. They can be repaired, but only if it is high-quality acrylic.
The acrylic bathtub has thin movable walls. And although during installation a frame is placed under the sides, it will not be possible to fully rest on the edge of the bathtub. Moreover, you won’t be able to sit on its edge. This trick is only possible for people with low weight.

All these shortcomings are in the area of operation and maintenance, but it is worth knowing about all these nuances so that you are not in the know when purchasing.

Popular manufacturers: average market prices

The price in our case always depends on the quality of the materials used in production and the thickness of the sides. Other characteristics that affect the price include the shape and additional built-in devices. If you prefer minimalism, then your bath will cost from 5,000 to 9,000 rubles. More functional tuning plumbing will cost more - at least 20,000 rubles.

Also, the cost depends on the specific manufacturer. Western models, for example, offer bathtubs costing from 10,000. Finally, if you decide to purchase a product equipped with chrome handrails, beautiful legs and faucets, then be prepared to pay at least 50,000 rubles for it. Let's consider the average market prices of the most popular modern manufacturers.

Popular manufacturers: average market prices

The list you have just seen is not limited to the brands described, as there are many other manufacturers.

Note! According to consumers, the following are considered the best manufacturers: Riho, OSM, Teuko, Relisan, Golf, Radomir and Ravak. The products of these brands are characterized by a long service life and high strength properties.

Acrylic bath Ravak

The cheapest products are produced by manufacturers from Turkey, China and Russia. However, the quality of such plumbing often leaves much to be desired, since low-quality polymer is used in all these countries. For this reason, it is better to give preference to Western brands.

Top best manufacturers of acrylic bathtubs

From all this we can conclude that it is better to buy products from well-known manufacturers (even if it will cost more), since the service life of such bathtubs is quite long, and no difficulties will arise during maintenance. Otherwise, there is a risk of running into a fake. Cheaper acrylic bathtubs, devoid of decorative elements and additional options, are almost in no way inferior in quality and performance characteristics to their expensive counterparts.

Acrylic bathtub Riho

Differences from other materials

Acrylic is a relatively new material. It appeared on the construction market only ten to fifteen years ago and is not yet as widespread as other, more familiar materials. It is a strong plastic that can be given any color, any shape, or faked to resemble any other material.

Acrylic bathtub can be any color

Do you want a marble bath, but stone is too expensive and heavy? Acrylic is definitely the answer to this problem.

It has a number of specific advantages:

Low thermal conductivity

This is very important for a bath, since lying in quickly cooling water is not very pleasant. Acrylic keeps the temperature constant for about half an hour, and it also has a special heater.

Plastic

Acrylic can be given any, most bizarre, shape. It can go in waves, it can have unexpected angles. There are even companies that make custom-made structures from acrylic.

Easy to care for. Acrylic is not susceptible to the formation of a layer of dirt on it; pathogenic microorganisms do not linger on it. Simply rinse it with warm water after each use.

Light weight. It is easy to lift an acrylic bathtub to the desired floor, and it does not have much impact on the floors.

No noise. Falling water produces a dull, weak sound.

Reliability. Acrylic will last longer than two decades if you buy the structure at a reasonable price and then use it carefully.

Special coating. Unlike cast iron, whose coating is usually slippery, acrylic is covered with a special plastic, which, despite its external smoothness, is very difficult to slip and fall on. Very useful for a home where an elderly person lives.

Acrylic is a relatively new material

But there are also disadvantages:

Special care. Acrylic is easy to wash, but if it does get dirty, you will have to use specialized soft products that will not harm it.
Sensitivity to temperature. Like any plastic, acrylic will melt if the temperature gets too high. Models with a small price can even become deformed if too hot water is poured into them. In any case, it is usually recommended to pour the cool one first, and only then turn on the hot one.
Sensitivity to mechanical influences. Acrylic can be scratched, and impact resistance varies from product to product. If something heavy is dropped into a low-priced model, there is a high chance that it will crack.

The material is not prone to the formation of a layer of dirt on it

If you compare acrylic with cast iron and steel - traditional materials for manufacturing - you get the following result.

Steel characteristics:

strength - low, sensitive to chips, cracks, scratches;
thermal insulation is low, water quickly changes temperature and cools;
weight is relatively small, it is easier to bring a steel structure into a house than a cast iron one;
the noise is loud, when the stream hits the bottom, it can be heard throughout the entire apartment;
shape - clearly defined, rectangular or slightly rounded corners;
the price is low, which is the main advantage of a steel structure.

Has low thermal conductivity

Characteristics of cast iron:

strength is the highest, it is difficult to break a cast iron bathtub, even if you decide to do it on purpose and use construction tools;
thermal insulation is high, but half the temperature will be spent heating the cast iron itself, as a result of which the water will still cool down;
the weight is huge, it’s not easy to bring cast iron into the house, plus it puts pressure on the ceilings;
noise is average, you can hear water, but if you close the door, the sound will be muffled;
shape - strictly defined, either rectangular or slightly rounded;
the price is high, which is justified due to the high reliability of cast iron, which can last for several decades and only peel off slightly.

Acrylic will last longer than two decades

Acrylic characteristics:

strength is low, you should not drop heavy objects into the bathtub;
thermal insulation - high, enough to keep the temperature for half an hour;
weight - light, like any plastic, easy to bring into the house, the ceiling does not press;
noise - absent, since plastic muffles sound;
any form, up to the one invented by a specific buyer;
the price is high, which is justified due to the quality of the product.

Advice It’s worth buying acrylic if you need an intricate shape or high thermal insulation. It will also fit best into any modern interior.

Falling water makes a dull, weak sound

What is acrylic

Acrylic is a smooth, transparent thermoplastic that does not react with most harsh chemicals. Plexiglas is often used for the production of sanitary ware, subjecting it to thermal and mechanical processing.

Acrylic is produced in the form of sheets with a thickness of 1.0-24.0 mm. One side of the material may have an anti-reflective or corrugated surface.

Physical characteristics of the material

Plexiglas is not exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Even if the material is exposed to the sun for a long time, yellow spots do not appear on it and it does not become brittle.

Organic glass is resistant to various chemicals. The material does not deteriorate when interacting with alkalis, acids, and salts, but esters, ketones, and chlorinated derivatives of hydrocarbons can cause harm to it.

Organic glass.

Acrylic is lightweight, density is 1.19 g/cm3. When compared with other substances, it is 2.5 times lighter than glass, 17% lighter than PVC, 7% lighter than polyester glass.

The material is resistant to moisture, so it is used in the production of plumbing fixtures, aquariums and yachts.

Plexiglas is flammable, but when burned it does not release toxins like other flammable plastics. The material can ignite at a temperature of 460-635°C.

Acrylic has dielectric properties and frost resistance. Plexiglas can withstand frosts down to -40°C. The material can easily bend without heating (“cold method”).

Acrylic softens well when heated and retains the required shape when cooled, making it possible to manufacture various three-dimensional products, including bas-relief ones.

“Frosted” plexiglass transmits from 20% to 75% of light.

Acrylic can be easily cut, glued, drilled, milled, painted, engraved, polished, and molded. The material has excellent adhesion to various types of self-adhesive vinyl films.

The average service life of acrylic coating is 10 years.

Effect on the human body

Acrylic is an environmentally friendly material that is not capable of releasing toxic substances, so it is a safe product. Items made of plexiglass can be used in children's, medical and health institutions. The material may be reused after it has been processed.

Pros and cons of acrylic bathtubs

these baths are lightweight compared to cast iron products, which makes transportation and installation of the device easier, reduces the load on the ceiling (the weight of an acrylic bath is from 15 to 40 kg, depending on the size of the product, the weight of a cast iron device is 100 kg or more);
acrylic bathtubs are varied in size (from small dimensions 120x70 mm to impressive ones - 194x170 or 207x160 mm), shape (rectangular, oval, round, square, etc.), color and functions (hydromassage, aeromassage), which cannot be said about cast iron and steel products;
they retain heat well, since the material has significant heat capacity; standing barefoot on the bottom of an acrylic bathtub is much more pleasant than standing in a cold cast-iron or steel container;
acrylic bathtubs are impact-resistant, since the structure is based on a steel lattice and fiberglass reinforced walls;
in case of damage to the walls in the form of scratches, it is not difficult to restore the surface using a polishing paste, and the crack is eliminated with an acrylic restorer (you can find special repair kits for acrylic bathtubs on sale), you can do this work yourself, without the involvement of specialists;
The disadvantages include the service life; the manufacturer gives a guarantee of 10-15 years for a quality product.

Service life largely depends on proper care and choice of surface cleaning products. Do not use abrasive products.

If there are animals in the house, such as dogs, then you need to use special mats to wash them to avoid scratches.

Cast iron bathtubs last much longer, the manufacturer’s warranty is 20-25 years, they are stronger, and with proper care they retain their original appearance for a long time.

Option number 4. Stains

Cleaning an acrylic bathtub

If small stains appear on the surface, you can remove them with a cleaning agent. If they are more serious, then you cannot simply remove them - this will require toothpaste, acrylic or silver polishing.

Method one . Treat the stain with a chemical. product and wait a couple of minutes, then rinse with a sponge and rinse with water. If necessary, you can repeat the procedure.

Whitening stains with toothpaste

Method two . Fill the bowl with water and dilute the detergent there. Wait 1-2 hours, drain the water and rinse the surfaces thoroughly.

Note! To remove the sediment that has formed, you can use hot table vinegar or lemon juice - moisten a rag with one of the products and walk it over the surfaces (do not pour them into the bowl).

Caring for an acrylic bathtub

Method three . If the previous methods did not give the desired result, use liquid acrylic. Seal the stain with acrylic, then treat with toothpaste.

As we can see, even such disadvantages as low resistance to damage and chemicals are insignificant compared to the advantages, since they can be easily eliminated. Moreover, the comfort and lightness of acrylic will always cause extremely pleasant sensations. Find out what types of bathtubs there are and their sizes by following the link.

General recommendations for repairing acrylic bathtubs

Pros of why consumers choose cast iron

The first and perhaps main reason is durability. The mechanical strength of the material used plus the chemical resistance of the enamel to almost all types of cleaning agents make this choice attractive. If treated with care, a cast iron bathtub will last as long as you want.
The second reason is that the low thermal conductivity of cast iron and its high heat capacity keep water poured into a cast iron bathtub hot for a long time. Thick walls accumulate the heat of hot water and then gradually release it back, allowing the bather to soak longer.
The enamel used to coat cast iron is highly durable, smooth, its colors are rich and bright, the enameled surface is shiny and gives the structure an overall elegant look. The absence of pores on the enamel surface makes it easier to remove dirt.
Another distinctive feature of cast iron bathtubs is their large mass. Even the most modern lightweight models weigh at least 100 kg. This is not always convenient, but such a large weight also has positive aspects - cast iron bathtubs are extremely stable and usually do not require any additional strengthening measures during installation. In addition, thick walls muffle the sounds of flowing water, without requiring additional sound insulation.

Acrylic bathtubs critical analysis

Disadvantages of acrylic bathtubs

So, we have received the necessary minimum information about what acrylic bathtubs are. It's time to analyze why an acrylic bathtub is actually bad: are these actually disadvantages, or features that can be tolerated under certain conditions.

Cracks in acrylic

So, the disadvantages:

Insufficient resistance to high temperatures. Typically, acrylic, which is used to make bathtubs, has a melting point of up to 160 degrees Celsius. Naturally, an acrylic bathtub will not be subjected to such a temperature load - but there are precedents when acrylic bathtubs filled with hot water are deformed. Of course, this applies to bathtubs from the economy segment, but if, for example, you have a steel bathtub installed, disadvantages of this kind can be completely ignored, unlike the situation with an acrylic bathtub.
Another disadvantage of acrylic bathtubs is their mechanical fragility. Firstly, an acrylic bathtub can sag and “play” under your weight, which may well cause some discomfort. And secondly, if a fairly heavy object falls into an acrylic bathtub, a crack or hole may form in it. Again, it can be fixed - but the situation itself is not pleasant.
The third disadvantage is the sensitivity of acrylic to household chemicals. If a steel or cast iron bathtub can be cleaned with almost any means (excluding very aggressive chemicals and abrasives), then for an acrylic bathtub you will have to purchase a special cleaning agent. And if you try to go over an acrylic bathtub with more traditional cleaning compounds, be prepared for scratches, clouding, and discoloration of the acrylic.

Wash only with special ingredients!

The cost of acrylic bathtubs (taking into account their limited service life) also cannot be considered an advantage. A bathtub made of high-quality acrylic is quite expensive, and its service life of 10-20 years makes this financial investment even less justified.

Note!

It is quite difficult to determine the quality and authenticity of acrylic by eye. Therefore, there is a risk that the bathtub you bought will lose its shine and turn yellow after just a few months of use.

This means that either extremely low-quality acrylic or simple plastic was used in the manufacture of the bathtub.

Advantages of acrylic bathtubs

And yet, despite the impressive list of disadvantages, it is often the advantages of acrylic bathtubs that outweigh:

Acrylic bathtubs retain heat well, and water poured into such a bathtub remains warm for much longer.
Acrylic bathtubs are not afraid of damage to the bathtub enamel - the scourge of bathtubs made of steel and cast iron.
Acrylic bathtubs (naturally, if they are made of high-quality acrylic) are easy to clean. In most cases, it is enough to rinse the bathtub with warm water and wipe dry.
And finally, the design of acrylic bathtubs is much more diverse than the design of bathtubs made of steel and cast iron.

Acrylic bathtub design

Thus, the conclusion is quite obvious: acrylic bathtubs, like bathtubs made of any other material, are not ideal. They have a number of shortcomings, which for some will be insignificant, but for others they will become critical and serve as a reason for refusing to purchase.

In any case, when choosing plumbing fixtures, you should not fundamentally ignore acrylic bathtubs: the advantages and disadvantages of these bathtubs very often balance each other out, and it is still worth at least evaluating this or that model!

Tips for choosing a product

When thinking about buying an acrylic bathing container, potential buyers try to find out as much as possible about it. What is not surprising is that a new product is quite expensive, so you should frivolously take the first model you come across.

The seller will not always recommend a quality product. Especially on the market you can buy a cheap fake for the price of an original bathtub from a famous manufacturer

You can often come across this advice: you should choose a bathtub only from top manufacturers. This statement justifies itself, but not all consumers are ready to shell out 5-12 thousand dollars for an acrylic bathtub. Even if it's just excellent quality.

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Acrylic bathtub from Jacuzzi

Original design of expensive baths

Unconditional quality of branded baths

Expensive baths are fashion items

Therefore, when choosing, you should first of all focus on your budget - even among inexpensive offers you can choose a decent option.

To choose the optimal model, you need to use the following tips:

smell;
touch;
look.

The sense of smell will help to identify a fake - if the product smells sharp and unpleasant, then it is better to refuse to buy it. It is quite possible that during production the hardworking Chinese used toxic substances that will be actively released during operation.

The result is allergic rashes and a constant stench in the bathroom. After two to three months, the aroma from such a bowl will decrease, but the pseudo-acrylic coating may disappear along with it.

When choosing a bathing container, don’t be shy about using your fingers – tactile sensations will help determine the quality of the product being offered. So, good acrylic will be smooth over the entire surface of the product.

It is important not to be afraid to check the bottom of the bathtub - it should be free of tubercles, swellings, pits and other irregularities

Another piece of advice is to carefully inspect your intended purchase. If you purchase through an online store, upon delivery you should carefully inspect the product, paying attention to the number of layers on the cut.

In a situation where a bowl was ordered from a two-layer material, and upon inspection, 3 layers were discovered, there is a deception. This option is cheaper than a quality product. One or three layers are ABS plastic with a thin layer of acrylic, which can wear out in places after a couple of years.

It would also be a good idea to hold the product up to the light - it should be uniform and not show through.

If you buy plumbing fixtures with additional functions, you must check the functionality of the supplied equipment.

The appearance of the bath is important - its color should be uniform and the same over the entire surface. Stains and stains indicate a fake. It is better to refuse such a purchase, even if the seller offers a good discount - it is unlikely that you will be able to get rid of the stains.

Having made a decision to purchase, you should not forget about the documents - you should ask the seller if he has not provided them himself. Conscientious companies complete their products with instructions for installation, operation and care.

We also recommend that you read the tips for caring for an acrylic bathtub, which we discussed in a separate article.

Disadvantages of an acrylic bathtub

Well, now it’s worth talking about the disadvantages. One of the significant disadvantages of this model is considered to be low strength and instability to surface damage. To prevent scratches in the bathtub, you should use special mats. This is especially true for those who have pets who are periodically bathed in the bath. Well, as for the price, which is sometimes considered too high, it is quite adequate considering the technology of its manufacture.

When buying a bathtub, you should think carefully and compare all the pros and cons of not only the acrylic model, but also other options. Because sometimes it makes more sense to choose an inexpensive cast iron bathtub than to buy an acrylic one.

Pros: the new product is in the lead

The first advantage of an acrylic bathtub is that the new material has taken leadership in the area where the superiority of cast iron has always been generally recognized: in heat preservation. It is believed that the water in a cast iron bathtub cools to room temperature in about an hour and a half. That is, the cooling rate is approximately 1 degree per 5 minutes. The cooling rate of water in an acrylic bath is approximately one degree per 10 minutes. Of course, these calculations are very approximate, a lot depends on the conditions in the room, but one thing is certain - from the point of view of heat conservation, acrylic has taken over the palm from cast iron.
Another advantage of an acrylic bathtub is the absence of an enamel layer. Shallow damage that occurs on the surface, such as scratches, can be cleaned and sanded almost completely using available tools. The surface of an acrylic bathtub is not as shiny as enamel, but it is much safer, as it can be made non-slip.
The third advantage of an acrylic bathtub that I would like to note is its lightness. The weight of the structure usually does not exceed 30–40 kg, which makes it possible to do without the services of loaders for transportation and installation.
And finally, the fundamental difference between acrylic as a construction material is the opportunity for the designer to show all his imagination without forcing it into the framework of strict forms. The plasticity of acrylic and the use of extrusion and casting technologies when molding bathtubs make it possible to create sanitary fixtures that are approaching the complexity of their form to works of art.

Disadvantages of acrylic bathtubs

There are, of course, disadvantages to acrylic bathtubs. They should under no circumstances be overlooked. Otherwise, you may experience some disappointment after installing the product and starting to use it.

Experts cite the low resistance of these products to high temperatures as the main disadvantage of such vessels. This is due to the fact that acrylic, a polymer material, has a low melting point. It is 160C. Of course, you can pour hot water into such containers and nothing will happen to them. There is no doubt about this. However, such a bath should never be filled with boiling water. Otherwise, after such exposure, you may observe a change in the appearance of the product for the worse.

Another disadvantage that you should focus on is that although acrylic is a material with high strength characteristics, it is better not to subject it to serious loads. This is due to the fact that the product itself has a rather small thickness.

Therefore, if a lot of weight falls on such a bathtub, you can see how it bends. However, even this unpleasant moment does not in any way affect the integrity of this vessel and does not contribute to its destruction.

If you are a person of great weight, then having bought an acrylic structure, all you have to do is get used to this feature.

An acrylic bathtub is a rather fragile product, so you should not test its strength and conduct experiments by throwing various objects of heavy weight into this vessel. If you neglect this recommendation, you may encounter cracks that appear on the surface. In the most severe cases, you can notice breaks that have appeared on the surface of the vessel.

Many people like an acrylic bathtub because it has a beautiful and even surface that is absolutely smooth. To ensure that this smoothness is not disturbed, it is necessary to follow certain rules when cleaning this vessel from contaminants. It is not recommended to use cleaning products containing aggressive substances. It is necessary to abandon the use of various solutions that contain abrasive substances. It is necessary to understand that to maintain the beauty of this bath, you need to provide the product with gentle care. This means that it is necessary to use not ordinary means, but special ones that are intended for structures made of polymer material. Care must be taken with care, then it will remain beautiful for many years.

Another unpleasant moment associated with acrylic vessels is due to the fact that when looking at models made of this polymer material in a store, it is difficult to determine how high quality the material is. It is also difficult to understand whether the bathtub is made of acrylic or whether a substitute for this material was used to create the vessel. The products you purchased should not lose their color and smoothness throughout their service life. If this happens, it means that you did not purchase an acrylic container, but a product made from a cheap substitute.

Particular damages and ways to eliminate them

We should start with the fact that all damage to acrylic bathtubs can be divided into two large groups.

Chemical. They are “burns” caused by using an inappropriate or too strong cleaning agent. As a rule, they are observed after repeated soaking of laundry, because washing powder has a negative effect on the material. To remove such “burns”, conventional polishing is used.
Mechanical. Various cracks, chips and scratches are considered serious defects. But acrylic is unique; even a 10-centimeter through hole can be repaired in it. Cracks up to 50 cm are even easier to eliminate.

Repair kits for acrylic bathtubs

To eliminate the damage, you must first of all purchase a repair kit for acrylic bathtubs, which consists of:

liquid acrylic;
epoxy glue (it is used to repair scratches smaller than 0.1 cm);
special hardener;
solvent (necessary for degreasing work surfaces);
"sandpaper";
polishing paper (you will use it for finishing).

With this repair kit you can repair almost any crack or scratch.

Option #1. Minor scratches

To eliminate “burns” and minor scratches, prepare:

“sandpaper” of different grain sizes;
polish.

Step 1: First sand down any damage to the surface. Do this in several stages: first use coarse sandpaper, then gradually reduce its grit.

Sanding an acrylic bathtub

Step 2: Next, polish the surfaces. If the damage is too deep, then sanding will not give any results, so you will have to use liquid acrylic.

Bead polishing process

If the thickness of the scratch exceeds 1 mm, then follow these steps.

Deep scratch on an acrylic bathtub

Step 1. Carefully clean the damage using sandpaper.

Step 2. Make holes at the ends of the cracks, rinse them thoroughly and dry them.

Step 3 . Prepare a piece of repair tape of the required length, remove the protective film and stick it (the tape) to the scratch.

Step 4: Smooth out the repair tape to remove any air bubbles. After three hours you can use the bathroom.

Repairing cracks in an acrylic bathtub

Option #2. Cracks

With them everything is much more complicated. Here you will need either a repair kit or the special tape mentioned above. Such kits come in different forms, but each of them should have everything you need. You can purchase missing components at any specialized store.

Below is an algorithm of actions for eliminating a crack.

Step 1. Widen the crack to increase the area of adhesion between the old acrylic and the new (up to about 1 mm).

Step 2: Thoroughly clean and degrease the desired area.

Step 3. Prepare a portion of liquid acrylic according to the manufacturer's instructions. As a result, the mixture should resemble resin in consistency.

Step 4. Treat the required area with liquid acrylic, level the material over the surface.

Applying repair mixture to a crack

Distribution of the repair mixture along the crack

Step 5. Cover the treated crack with tape. Drying time depends on the specific repair kit and can reach 12 hours. During this time, do not touch the bathtub, otherwise the new layer of material will not adhere to the old one.

Step 6. Remove the tape, treat the area to be restored with alcohol, and then sand it with the sheets included in the kit.

If you follow the instructions, you will repair any cracks and restore your bathtub to its original appearance.

Advantages of modern material

Often, the disadvantages of acrylic bathtubs are compensated by its advantages, so this option cannot be definitely written off

Pay attention to new products; as a rule, they do not have the disadvantages of previous models

Maintains water temperature. Hot water poured into an acrylic bathtub for a longer time retains heat compared to steel or cast iron. For those who like to soak in warm water, this will be the best solution.
Easy to clean. Simply rinse the surface with warm water and wipe with a dry cloth. Thanks to the characteristics of the material, caring for it becomes much easier.
Design. An undeniable advantage over competitors. The variety of types and shapes is much greater than that of cast iron or steel options. There is a suitable option for even the most demanding buyer.

It is impossible to draw an unambiguous conclusion from an analysis of the pros and cons of acrylic bathtubs. Here you first need to decide what you expect from new plumbing. Will it be an elegant solution for a non-standard bathroom, or a reliable, durable and practical bathtub, designed in its classic image. It's up to you to decide.

Performance characteristics

Bathtubs made of cast iron and steel are produced according to state standards. For cast iron GOST 18297, steel - GOST 23695. For other types of materials, such as acrylic, quarry, natural stone, glass, etc. Manufacturers develop TU (Technical Conditions) or STO (Organization Standard).

This means that the enterprise can independently set any operational parameters of the manufactured product: dimensions (depth, length, width), configuration, type of external and internal coating, etc. within the framework of the law (if there are direct instructions or references in legislative acts). Therefore, different manufacturers have different operational characteristics of the hot tub:

product weight - 15-30 kg acrylic, 35-45 kg - quarry;
depth - from 40 cm (shallow) to 60 cm (very deep). The norm is 50 cm (deep);
the length has four main sizes (you can also find non-standard ones, for example, 100 or 200 cm):

120 cm - for taking water procedures in a sitting position;
150 cm - you can only be in the font with your legs bent at an angle of 90o;
170 cm - the classic size, which comes from cast iron baths, where the legs are slightly bent;
180 cm - for tall people. For owners of average height, this size allows them to be comfortable in the water. There is only one problem: often the bathroom dimensions are designed for a bowl length of 170 cm, which does not allow the installation of longer sanitary ware.

the width is more conservative: only three sizes - 70, 75 and 80 cm;

Attention: on the forums people are constantly asking what sizes of acrylic bathtubs are on sale? Length - 100-200 cm, width - 70-110 cm, depth - 38-65 cm.

the standard height of an acrylic bathtub above the floor is 60±2 cm (for bathtubs up to 50 cm deep);
withstand weight. Details are needed here.

When buying a bathtub that is light in weight, doubts arise about its reliability, especially among obese people. The question immediately arises: how much weight can an acrylic bathtub support? Can a person weighing 100-120 kg swim in it?

Laboratory tests have shown that cast acrylic can withstand a weight of 500 kg. The composite bathtub is even larger. But this is in theory. In practice, the real figure will be 400 kg. This is both the weight of the collected water and the person taking the bath. So that our readers do not carry out complex calculations, we will immediately reassure them.

Manufacturers are aware of these features of acrylic and produce hot tubs with a volume of up to 290 liters. This means that the depth, length and width are calculated in such a way that when multiplied, the volume indicator does not exceed the value given above. Considering that the human body is heavier, in such a font the weight of the bather and the water cannot exceed 310-320 kg.

But there are some nuances here.

People weighing more than 60 kg are not recommended, and people weighing more than 80 kg are prohibited from sitting on the side of the bowl.
You need to enter the bath carefully and with your full foot, distributing your weight evenly. It is advisable to use additional support points (wall or side).
We do not recommend doing squats and jumping.
The given strength figures were calculated at a water temperature of 38-40oC. Hotter water softens acrylic, reducing its strength characteristics. This must be taken into account when taking a bath that is too hot.
Fonts of larger volume are additionally reinforced on the outside.

Advantages and disadvantages of acrylic plumbing fixtures

Like any other product, acrylic bathtubs have their own pros and cons. Among the advantages, the most valuable are:

Light weight. An acrylic bathtub of standard sizes weighs on average 30 kg. It can be transported, lifted, carried, installed even alone.
Easy installation. Bathtubs made from other materials are usually placed on legs. A special adjustable frame is provided for mounting the acrylic product. It comes included, no need to buy additional parts.
Wide selection of models. Among all the materials used to make bathtubs, acrylic is the most flexible. It can be given any, even the most intricate, shape. This property is successfully used by designers who create stylish models. For connoisseurs of unique and aesthetic interiors, this is a real find.
Easy maintenance and repair. To clean the bathtub, you can use dishwashing detergents and liquid soap, but it is better to buy special formulations. If a minor scratch appears, it is smoothed out with sandpaper. Large cracks require restoration of the coating with liquid acrylic, and this work is performed by specialized companies.
Ability to maintain temperature. For lovers of relaxing treatments, this quality is priceless. The water cools slowly, and the surface itself is not as cold as that of metal baths.
Anti-slip coating. The surface of acrylic bathtubs is smooth, but does not slip, so the risk of injury is significantly reduced.
Hygiene. Acrylic does not rot, is not attacked by fungus, and does not promote the growth of bacteria.
Additional accessories. If desired, the owner of an acrylic bathtub can purchase attachments and massage devices that will make water treatments even more enjoyable.

The main disadvantages of acrylic bathtubs include low static strength, insufficient scratch resistance of the coating and high cost. As for the price of the products, it is quite justified, because high-quality acrylic bathtubs are manufactured using sophisticated technologies.

However, when choosing, you should weigh and compare: perhaps a cheaper cast iron analogue will do.

Static strength is ensured by a metal frame; without it, a bathtub filled to the brim changes shape. Special bathing mats will help protect the product from scratches. They are used for washing pets, etc.

When swimming you have to be careful: the material can easily be damaged by a sharp, hard or heavy object

What types of acrylic models are there?

If metal bathtubs have predominantly simple shapes, then acrylic allows you to create unusual models of bathtubs of any size, incl. and non-standard. This expands the possibilities for decorating bathrooms.

Each owner can find the most convenient form that will fit into the interior style and will fully meet the needs of the family living in the house. Another plus is the ability to combine acrylic with various materials. This is an additional “bonus” when creating original products. Let's see what acrylic bathtubs come in different shapes.

Option #1 – rectangular

These are universal models that can be installed in rooms of any size, except very cramped ones. They look nice and are comfortable, but most often they are not original and sometimes seem too bulky.

Rectangular bathtubs may seem too bulky in a small room, but they look great in spacious rooms

Option #2 – oval

The smooth curves of an oval bathtub are suitable for any interior and combine well with other shapes. However, many are simply tired of rectangles and ovals, which were very popular in Soviet times.

In a spacious room decorated in a classic style, an oval bathtub complements the smooth shapes of the rest of the items.

Option #3 – asymmetrical

The interior of a bathroom with an asymmetrical model is completely transformed. The room looks ultra-modern and stylish. Asymmetrical products are made right and left. Depending on the shape, they can be installed in a corner.

The only caveat: when purchasing, you need to purchase a special panel for finishing, since tiling can be difficult.

Asymmetry is always advantageous in the interior. An unusual bathtub made of combined materials attracts increased attention and therefore requires especially careful care.

Option #4 - corner

In popularity they compete with asymmetrical ones. Corner models are installed to individualize interiors, visually ennoble them, and at the same time arrange plumbing fixtures as compactly as possible.

These bathtubs are very convenient to use, but there is a slight difficulty in washing: due to the large width of the product, you have to climb inside it to reach all surfaces.

Corner models are not only beautiful and original, but also very convenient due to the fact that they fill the space in the corners

Option #5 – round

Such bathtubs usually have a large diameter and are only suitable for large rooms. In a modest room they will take up the entire area. Washing round models is just as inconvenient as corner ones.

Round hydromassage bathtubs made of acrylic are a real luxury. If you install such a model in the middle of the room, this will solve the problem of the inconvenience of caring for a sensitive surface.