TapsnBaths

If you are choosing a new bath it helps to be informed about what is on the market. The range of shapes, sizes and materials modern baths are available in is huge. You can choose from classic or modern styling, from a standard bath to a luxury whirlpool. The most common material used in bath manufacturing is cast iron which is then coated in porcelain enamel or sometimes acrylic and steel, although the latter is less common. Bath sizes can vary from 30-34" wide and 14-20" deep. Designs vary too from freestanding corner baths or sunken baths which are positioned in plinths which are custom made.

Cast Iron Baths

The weight of a cast iron bath is approximately 350lbs. Depending on where you live they can be difficult to transport, especially if your bathroom is upstairs or if there are any tight corners and doorways in your property. They do have their benefits however. When compared to acrylic baths, for example, they are quieter when filling up with water, retain the heat of the water for longer and are much more durable. They have a more robust feel to them and don't feel as "spongy" as their acrylic counterparts.

Plastic (Acrylic, Fibreglass) Baths

Although it is common knowledge that fibreglass is used in boat manufacturing it is also used for making baths. Fibreglass baths have a gel coating which provides strength while keeping them light in weight. Partly because they are easy to manufacture they are cheaper than cast iron baths. However, because of their thinness they are easily scratched, especially if strong abrasive cleaning solutions are used. Stronger cleaning solutions also affect the colour of the bath which, over time, would appear faded.

How Baths Are Made

In the manufacturing process several layers of fibreglass are moulded together as a support layer then it is given a spray coating of a special gel. To give improved strength other materials such as foam, wood or corrugated paper are used. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is sometimes used as a more cost effective alternative to acrylic. The downside to this is that it is softer than acrylic. On a more positive note however, scratches can be eliminated by sanding. Also it not prone to colour fading.

Another process in bath manufacturing it is also worth being aware of is injection moulding. Here liquid plastic is injected into the bath mould. Once it has cooled down it is withdrawn. Injection moulded baths do not have the same rigidity as, for example, cast iron baths and they dull rapidly.

Plastic baths have the problem of being "spongy" and flexible. This is the case whether they are injection moulded or laminated (gel coated). Obviously the more layers of fibreglass or reinforcing used bumps up the price. A good idea when installing a plastic bath is to position a small amount of cement under the bath to give more stability.

Harry Young is Internet Marketing Project Manager for Tapsnbaths.
TapsnBaths offer quality affordable baths, shower enclosures, bath screens.

Allocate space!

When planning a new bathroom space allocation should be your first priority. You’ve seen that sparkling new shower enclosure that you want, but what if its door won’t open out into where you want to put it? Measuring up first is always a must. Just in case of emergencies, you may need to access the bathroom window, so, again, ensure you have safe access. If your bathroom has a sloping or cambered ceiling, take this into account when installing either a shower cubicle or bath screen; when your engineer comes to fit it he may not have enough space!

Mobility

Not everyone is full mobile, so please take into account those who have mobility problems or disabilities. This may be a factor if you wish to sell your home at some point.

Measure Up

It’s a good idea to take measurements of your existing bathroom items – basin, toilet, shower cubicle, bathroom furniture. If you are buying replacements you don’t want to have to re-tile that odd square foot of wall.

Use Your Walls

For the smaller bathroom, where space is at a premium to store such items as shampoo or shaving materials, a good idea is a wall cabinet. These are available with mirrored doors which also helps save space: you may not need an extra mirror!

Taps are Top!

If you’re tired of the way your bathroom looks but can’t afford a complete bathroom remodel, you might think or replacing your taps. Modern tap ranges come in many varieties: minimalist, modern, classical, traditional, contemporary, luxury, economy. Just choose what design suits your personality or the look and feel of the kind of bathroom you want to create.

Storage Solutions

For some, storage space in a bathroom is not only a necessity but a problem. If you live in a flat, for example, where storage space is an issue, where do you store your towels? One answer is a vanity unit. That is, a combination unit comprising basin with built-in cupboards underneath. It really is the ideal solution to storing not only bulky items like towels, but those smaller things like bottles of shampoo.

Consult an Expert

As with all remodelling or home improvement, if you are in any doubt as to whether an item will fit or can be plumbed into existing fittings, seek out a plumber or DIY expert.

Harry Young is Internet Marketing Project Manager for Tapsnbaths.

TapsnBaths offer quality affordable bathroom suites, shower enclosures, and bath screens to the UK consumer market.