Design debate: how to choose the right shower enclosure

Additional options

Models are available with steam generators. These units allow you to create the effect of a Turkish bath. In such cabins, the temperature of steam heating reaches 40-45 degrees. It is enough to steam properly.

When choosing such a model, you should pay attention to whether the steam generator is equipped with a fan. This device is necessary to maintain an optimal temperature and create air circulation throughout the cabin.

Inhalation and aromatherapy are also available as additional options. In this case, the back wall of the product is equipped with a special drawer. A medicinal balm or aromatic oil is poured into it. After activating the "Bath" function, the steam passing through this box is filled with the necessary components. The functions of shower cabins can be controlled with a manual thermostatic mixer or with an electronic display. Depending on preferences, one or another option is chosen. To increase the service life of the shower cabin, a water purification function is provided.

Tips for choosing a manufacturer

An equally important criterion for choosing a cabin is its manufacturer / importer. Information about the most popular and proven companies operating in different price segments can be found in the following table.

Table. Choosing a shower cabin manufacturer

Shower doors

Most shower cabins are equipped with two types of doors - sliding and hinged.

The first option is less convenient to use, since the entrance opening is narrower, but it is ideal for small bathrooms.

There is also a compromise option - a folding accordion door. It does not require opening space and at the same time provides a sufficiently wide opening. The disadvantage is a complicated design and, accordingly, a higher cost.

The material of the doors plays an important role. The following options are available:

1. Polystyrene: A type of plastic that is low cost and lightweight. The main disadvantage is that it quickly loses its attractive appearance: it becomes cloudy and becomes covered with stains.
2. Polymethyl methacrylate (plexiglass): like any plastic, this material is unbreakable, but at the same time it is similar in transparency to glass and surpasses polystyrene in strength. However, it should be borne in mind that plexiglass has a lower hardness than ordinary glass, and therefore is easily scratched.
3. Tempered glass: this cabin will look perfect for years to come. No matter how much you wash and rub the glass door, it will remain as transparent and smooth as on the day of purchase. The only drawback of such a booth is that it costs more than a plastic one.
4. Triplex: the material is similar to that used in the manufacture of automotive glass. Unlike ordinary glass, with strong impacts it shatters not into large, but into very small fragments that cannot be cut.

If you decide to purchase a cabinet with plexiglass doors, choose the matte option. If scratches appear, it can be sanded down.

Criteria for choosing a shower cabin for a bathroom

Among the existing variety of shower cabins, two types can be distinguished - open and closed.

1. Closed types

Closed shower cabins are insulated monoblocks of various shapes - oval, square, triangular, bounded by walls on all sides. This is the so-called shower box, which can be placed as a free-standing, in the corners and niches between two vertical walls.

Shower cabins of this type can be either with or without a roof.

A characteristic option of such a box for a shower cabin is the functions of hydromassage, intercom, mp3 player, radio, TV, infrared sauna and aromatherapy. However, when buying such a box, one should not forget that each additional option entails additional expenses.

2. Open showers

The open type is a "lightweight" version of the shower enclosure (because in the overwhelming majority of cases it is installed in the corner), consisting of a tray, sashes or curtains. But you can often find that there are no doors in such a shower stall due to the fact that their function is performed by the tiled walls of the bathroom.

Professional advice on how to choose a shower enclosure by type. Despite the absence of various additional functions, except for the main one - a shower, such a device does not have, this indicates that it is the simplicity of this design that is its "highlight". You can choose a base with a deep pallet or a low one yourself, as well as make doors of any height you like. This type of shower cabins gives complete freedom of action, since there are no restrictions on the size - you can regulate its parameters yourself.

Which shower cabin to choose

1. It is better to fit a combined model into a small room - the old bathtub is dismantled beforehand.

2. In a medium-sized room, it is advisable to add an open corner version - in this case, not only the dimensions are taken into account, but also the opening method - if there is not enough space, the sliding door is suitable.

3. If the bathroom is large, you can install both an open and a closed modification - it all depends on the plans that are available for this device.

4. For elderly and physically handicapped people, the pallet should be of minimum height.

5. Better quality walls are made of metal frame and tempered glass.

6. A ventilation system must operate in parallel with the steam generator.

7. It is better when the hydromassage nozzles rotate - it is always possible to adjust them for yourself, in addition, the effect of them will be only at a pressure of 1.5 ... 3 atm.

The best shower cabins 90x90 with a low base

Another popular category of similar products is modern shower enclosures with a low base.They look much more elegant in comparison with those options that were made a few years ago. Low pallet, compact dimensions are preferred by unpretentious people who value simplicity and brevity. After analyzing the defining selection criteria, the experts named the 3 best shower cabins with dimensions 90x90, a low pallet.

River Tana 90

The domestic leader in the manufacture of shower cabins presented the best model from this category - Tana 90, which distinguished itself with a pallet with a height of only 15 cm, a siphon included, a non-removable tap, ventilation holes to avoid condensation. Additional implementations are 2 shelves, a metal overhead shower, a hand shower on a hose with 3 positions, a hand shower with a flexible hose, a mirror. The structure has a roof, swing doors made of impact-resistant glass (6 mm thickness).

Advantages:

• Large height 217 cm;
• Silicone-free assembly;
• Shower cubicle square open type;
• Safety toughened glass;
• Minimalist design.

Disadvantages:

• A swing door requires more free space;
• Frontal glass is transparent.

Externally interesting, unusual model due to its square shape, small dimensions and pallet will become a decoration of the bathroom. A low-budget, convenient option, but it is not quite suitable for a shared bathroom. The fact is that the door, the glass will not hide the bathing person from prying eyes due to the transparency of the glass, which means that only he himself can be in the bathroom.

Atlantis with hydromassage

Symmetrical hydromassage box Atlantis M-90 90 × 90 cm and height 215 cm is an excellent offer at a low price. The shape of the low pallet is a quarter circle, the full-walled structure is complemented by sliding doors. The walls are made of durable glass, the pallet is made of acrylic. Comes with a special watering can, built-in radio, shelf, lighting, and the main purpose is a tropical vertical shower, hydromassage.

Advantages:

• Hydromassage option;
• Radio;
• Low price;
• Tempered tinted glass;
• Extractor hood for quick drying;
• Backlight.

Disadvantages:

• Smell of plastic;
• The fragility of the components.

There are not so many reviews about this model, and those that exist emphasize the low price with good functionality and compact size of the box. Over time, it may be necessary to change the mixer, otherwise the product meets the needs of the buyer.

Grossman GR-121

Of modern, high-quality models, a good compact version with a low pallet is the Grossman GR-121 from a well-known German brand. Its main difference lies in the non-standard design, square shape, swing door. Inside there are 3 spacious shelves for cosmetics, a large mirror, anti-slip flooring. The frame is made of durable stainless steel, the door is fixed on steel hinges, glass with a thickness of 5 mm. The set includes a drainage system, which includes a siphon, a drain corrugation. The overhead rain shower is illuminated in the roof. There is also a hand shower with a flexible hose, 2 hydromassage jets.

Advantages:

• Durability;
• Stylish design;
• Additional features - radio, hood, lighting;
• Remote control on the console;
• Shelves, space under the seat;
• Wide functionality.

Disadvantages:

• Price;
• Seat sold separately.

An excellent option for those who value comfort and high quality. For maximum convenience, you can independently complement the box with a towel rack, a seat. Unlike cheaper offers, this option is very stable and spacious.

Advantages and disadvantages of shower cabins

Such cabins are attractive because:

1. You can start washing in them immediately, without waiting, like in a bathroom, for water to fill up.
2. They combine various functions, up to listening to radio programs, and can have a speakerphone channel. There are cabins that allow for prophylactic aroma treatments or light treatments.
3. Unlike a bathroom, you don't have to climb over a high side. It is enough to step over the side of the pallet.
4. There is minimal risk of injury. The bottom of the pallet is made non-slip. There is something to hold on to in the cockpit, and seats can be installed. Human movements in the cockpit are unlimited.
5. Tall trays can be used for bathing babies, as well as for hand washing large items. This consumes a little water.
6. It uses less water compared to taking a bath. Hair rinses well after detergents for them.
7. They are compact and can be installed with a traditional bathtub. The complete set of cabins is multivariate. This makes it possible to adapt the design of the cabin to the characteristics of the space of the place of its placement.
8. The cabins are easy to clean. Tightly closing flaps prevent water from entering the floor.

The disadvantages of such cabins include:

1. Their high cost.
2. Impossibility, as in the bathroom, to relax, lying in warm water.
3. The influence of the water pressure in the mains on the effectiveness of procedures such as hydromassage or steam bath.
4. Problematic of using most pallets for hand washing large items.
5. The need to thoroughly wipe the doors and walls from water drops after each shower to prevent whitish deposits.

What else to pay attention to

In addition to such components, when buying any option for a shower stall, you should also focus on several important principles. It is they who are able to help you choose the best installation option for the bathroom, which will last a very long time.

It is imperative to pay attention to the quality of the steel or plastic from which the enclosing shower enclosure is made around the perimeter. The material must be of very high quality

Otherwise, after a while, it will be possible to encounter the problem of cab leakage, insufficient tight closing of the doors.

Be sure to ask for warranty documents and all necessary documentation for the installation. In the papers, the goods must fully correspond to reality. So you can protect yourself from buying a fake and be sure that even in the event of a breakdown, within a certain period of time, the installation will be repaired free of charge by experienced specialists. After all, well-known and conscientious manufacturers always give a guarantee for their goods.

Choose shower enclosures from renowned brands. They care about their image, so the quality of the materials used in such booths is usually always on top. But still, during the purchase, inspect it carefully. In case of damage to the material during transportation, the seller will have to make a replacement.

So, which shower stall to choose - each owner must decide on his own. The main thing is to take into account all the subtleties described above, then the risk of receiving a low-quality product will be minimized.

Bathroom interior. How not to spoil the look

Many buyers are very concerned that this type of plumbing fixture can spoil the appearance of the entire room. It is especially difficult for owners of small apartments who want to install a large cabin and keep the elegant look of a small room.

Functionality and beauty

The transparent model of the shower set will look spectacular and beautiful. They fit perfectly into almost any modern interior. But they need careful care, as stains and drops of water will ruin the look of the booth in a matter of days. To eliminate such troubles, you will have to use special cleaning agents every day.

In order to avoid this kind of problems, it is worth choosing a textured or glass booth. They will look no less harmonious and beautiful in almost every bathroom.

Types of shower cabins

There are three main types of shower cubicle construction: open, closed and combined.Let's consider in more detail the features of each of them.

Open showers

Models of this type are integrated into the general layout of the premises, which is the reason for their popularity. Open shower cabins are prefabricated, do not have an upper base and exclude the possibility of connecting a cascade or tropical shower, limiting the bathing process under a standard mixer with a flexible hose in a special braid.

When installing an open model, you can dispense with the installation of the lower pallet. Instead, it is recommended to use a floor pallet connected to a sewer riser. To protect the room from splashes around the perimeter of the pallet (from one or all sides), it is possible to install Plexiglas or glass walls on aluminum, brass or steel with an anti-corrosion coating. The other sides are protected as standard by bathroom walls tiled with ceramic tiles.

Immediately, we note that the floor pallet can be designed independently and different heights of the walls can be adjusted.

Giving preference to such a base, pay attention to the brand of concrete, tiles with a non-slip surface

A characteristic feature and advantage of open models are: low cost, the possibility of individual sizes, taking into account the specifics of the space of the room.

Disadvantages that must be taken into account during installation:

• problematic repair of sewerage and water supply units;
• high humidity in the room;
• structural elements are installed in one piece and, when repairing or replacing the cabin with another model, will require capital costs.

Closed shower cabins

The fully self-contained design, consisting of a tray, walls and a ceiling base, makes the model ideal for those looking for a comfortable bathing and relaxation area. In addition, manufacturers fill the portable box with numerous additional functions and fashionable devices.

The standard pallet material for these models is acrylic and steel, less often sanitary ware and cast iron. Structural elements, as in the case of open models, are made of metal with a corrosion-resistant coating and durable polymer compounds. The side walls of the closed models are made of plexiglass or transparent / translucent glass.

A significant plus of closed models is that they can be easily dismantled and installed in the event of a move or repair! In contrast to the open type, closed cabins have good sound absorption and isolation from the general microclimate.

As for the shortcomings, there are practically none, with the exception of the high cost and requirements for the availability of quality certificates, which will protect you from poor-quality construction and provide additional guarantees from the manufacturer.

Combined shower cabins

The most interesting models, from the point of view of designers and lovers of exclusiveness, are presented among the combined shower cabins. Most often, the box looks like this: a deep pallet, sometimes in the form of a bath bowl, made of acrylic, steel or cast iron. Walls made of glass or plexiglass are located along the perimeter of the bowl, the upper part can be either open or closed.

Combined designs often combine all the advances in modern baths, jacuzzis and showers! What are the advantages of this type of model:

• variety of technical functions and models;
• the ability to choose an open or closed type;
• combination with a box-sauna.

The disadvantages include:

• the large dimensions of the combined models will fit well into a bathroom with an area of ​​at least 7 sq. m .;
• high cost and mandatory availability of a quality certificate.

Material

Most of the cab elements are made of plastic. The doors are usually made of acrylic or tempered glass (plexiglass is also used).The latter material, according to consumers, is more preferable, since it practically does not undergo deformation and mechanical damage. In addition, the technologies used in the production of shutters make it possible to reliably protect a person from injury. The plastic used in the manufacture of structures is harmless to health. However, this material can be of different qualities. As a rule, consumers prefer German products. Cabin trays are made of steel, acrylic, ceramics, cast iron or earthenware. The latter are hygienic. However, according to buyers, they are very unreliable, since they are prone to mechanical damage. Steel and cast iron elements are covered with special enamel. Pallets made of these materials are reliable and durable. Ceramic products are considered durable. But at the same time they heat up rather slowly. Many consumers choose acrylic elements because they are pleasant to the touch and quickly reach the desired temperature.

But in this case, you should pay attention to the reliability of the reinforcement. If it meets the requirements, then an acrylic pallet would be ideal.

Manufacturing materials

The cost of a shower stall is influenced not only by its dimensions and equipment, but also by the material of manufacture of the pallet and doors.

The pallet generally needs to be given special attention, since all the load falls on one point on its surface

The structure must meet the rigidity requirements and be made of durable materials, which include:

• acrylic;
• cast iron;
• a natural stone;
• cooked.

Acrylic is the most common material for making a shower tray. It lends itself easily to transformation, due to which surfaces are obtained in a wide variety of shapes and with many protrusions and bends, and its low cost determines its popularity.

The widespread use of acrylic as a material for the manufacture of a pallet confirms its reliability and durability in the form of many positive consumer reviews.

Advice!
When choosing an acrylic pallet, you need to ask sales consultants about the presence of stiffeners in the structure. If they are absent, then additional construction of the frame is required for reliable fastening.

An absolute favorite is natural stone, which, by its very appearance, attracts attention and gives the room a sense of luxury. Most often, granite trays have a rectangular or square shape with a small rim to prevent water from spilling out without any special frills or fantasies.

And the price range for shower enclosures with a lower base made of stone starts with a very large number.

Most often, granite trays have a rectangular or square shape with a small rim to prevent water from spilling out without much fancy or fancy. And the price range for shower enclosures with a lower base made of stone starts with a very large figure.

Wooden pallets are especially luxurious. Basically, they are made to order, since their cost is characterized by a special surface treatment for constant contact with water without consequences.

And their installation falls on private country houses, in which it is necessary to maintain a certain style even in such seemingly not too significant details.

Advice!
When choosing a shower cabin, you need to pay attention to the surface of the pallet. It should be made with grooved lugs for stability.

It is advisable to touch these bumps with your hand and compare your feelings, otherwise being in the shower will bring discomfort.

As for the material for the doors, here the choice is limited between plexiglass, polycarbonate and ordinary glass. The presented options can be accompanied by both patterned paintings and a regular surface without any frills.

Special attention was paid to the transparent tempered glass doors with small patterns in the form of small flowers or geometric lines. Such shower cabins not only fulfill their functions, but also decorate the room with their attractive appearance.

Which manufacturer can you trust

The list of countries-manufacturers of shower cabins is represented by European, Chinese and domestic brands

What you should pay attention to when buying:

• availability of a quality certificate;
• clearly marked warranty period from the manufacturer and the reseller;
• detailed operating instructions;
• the possibility of technical support and the provision of services by the company for delivery, installation and maintenance.

The absence of one of the points should alert you and become a reason for refusing to purchase. Self-respecting manufacturers strictly monitor their reputation and quality, be sure to confirm their work with all the necessary documents and additional recommendations for use. Have you purchased a construction without documents? Unfortunately, then you can only make a claim to yourself!

Domestic manufacturers are adequately represented in the sanitary ware market and can fully compete with European counterparts. We will highlight the following companies: 1MarКa, Alavann, Bach, Bas, Finn and the popular Aqualife, Eurolux.

Which European firms should you trust? Among the proven German companies, it is worth highlighting: Stiebel Eltron, Sturm, Edelform, Wasserfalle and Westerhof. Italian cabins are represented by brands: Primo, Valencia, Sturm, Axa

In addition, you should pay attention to the brands of Finland: Novitek, Master Finn, Oras and Timo, as well as the Czech Republic: Vagnerplast, Riho and Luxus. Despite the rather high price of shower cabins, you get additional functions in the kit, and every year brands delight with the introduction of new devices

The middle price segment and good quality are shown by Chinese manufacturers, the most famous brands: Avanta, Ammari, Baraka, Goldman, Fresh, HX, Ika, Optima, Eago and Gllon. Companies offer a variety of modifications, related components and a budget price.

Please note that Chinese manufacturers, like European ones, attach quality certificates and warranty cards to shower cabins.

Which company you choose depends on you and your list of requirements.

Curtain doors

Shower curtain doors contribute to its aesthetic appearance. This means its structure without a roof and complex plumbing systems. This option is economical and simple. After all, only the fencing of the place for pouring a shower is made.

Such elements can move apart and swing open. Sliding shutter doors move on rollers. They are comfortable, sealed and do not need additional space. This is suitable for a small bathroom. Solid sliding curtains work quietly and softly.

Hinged doors can be opened inward or outward. The doors that open inside the cab make it easy to clean. A door that opens outward requires additional space. In addition, drops of water drip from it onto the bathroom floor.

Curtain doors can be made of heavy-duty glass or durable plastic, mainly polystyrene. They are cheaper than glass ones. Manufactured in a wide range of colors. However, polystyrene becomes cloudy over time.

Types of shower cabins

There is a rich assortment on the market and no one can say how to choose a cab exactly. It all depends only on personal preferences and capabilities.

There are several basic types of booths:

• shower corner;
• cabin "Box";
• cabin "Box" with hydromassage;
• cabin "Box" with a bath.

The shower enclosure is essentially a simple cubicle, but with two rather than four walls, as usual. The two sides in this case are the walls in the bathroom, and the two are the walls of the booth.

It is worth noting that in this case, the walls and floor at the installation site will have to be prepared and leveled under the base.

If you do not want to do this, you can choose the "Box" cabin.It will consist of four partitions and a special pallet.

How to choose shower cabins?

Everything is also quite simple here. Before purchasing equipment, carefully inspect it, check the cab doors - they should always open and close easily, fit well and tightly to the walls and to each other.

In no case should there be gaps. But the most important thing is that water should not leak under any circumstances; in a properly working shower stall, this is impossible.

The assembly of such equipment should be carried out by professional assemblers; you should not do this yourself in order to avoid damage to the booth.

However, if you have the necessary tools, knowledge and the desire to do it yourself, feel free to get to work, there are a lot of tips and articles on the Internet that will help you in assembling a shower cabin with your own hands.

Shower stall assembly process

Which shower cubicle is better to buy

The choice of a shower room should be based on the technical and functional characteristics of the product, reliability, reputation of the manufacturer, and most importantly, on your own requests and desires. The experts compared all the pros and cons of the presented nominees, and then came to several conclusions:

• Frank F658 - has the longest service life;
• SSWW BU108A - equipped with the widest, modern functionality;
• Niagara NG 444 is the most affordable budget model;
• Parly Z90 - the most compact cabin for a small family or summer cottage;
• Timo T-7725 - the best quality / price ratio.

The presented rating, an overview of each nominee, as well as expert recommendations will become faithful helpers in choosing the best brands and models. TOP-17 can be used as a guide, which box is better to buy, based on personal opinion and needs.