Showers in the bathroom: photos, types, design features, design options. Shower cabin: types, sizes, materials, photos How best to choose a shower cabin

Today, shower cabins are so popular that they are gradually beginning to be replaced. They are chosen when places for both a bath and washing machine , or when it is necessary to minimize the time for taking water procedures. In addition, a shower cabin is a good opportunity to save money, because water consumption is reduced by 5-6 times compared to using a conventional bath. Appearance, functions, dimensions can be radically different, and in order to choose a shower stall it was easier, it is better to know in advance what it offers us modern market, and what exactly we want from this device.

Shower cabin type

Depending on the configuration and equipment, all shower cabins can be divided into open or closed structures. The former are also called shower enclosures.

acrylic... They confidently rank first in terms of popularity. This is a cheap material that has good heat-saving properties, does not make noise, and most importantly, you can get a pallet of any shape from it. At the bottom, as a rule, there are small pimples or slightly noticeable stripes that resist sliding. Such pallets, with a large bather's weight, can bend, therefore, to make them more stable, they should be supplied with a fifth leg, which is located in the middle, just in the place where the load is maximum. They also get scratches over time, but they are easy to grind. Now on the plumbing market there are and : with all the advantages of acrylic, they have increased strength and stability, but they are more expensive;

cast iron and steel quite rarely used for the manufacture of shower trays. Cast iron takes a long time to warm up, is heavy, difficult to transport, does not differ in a wide variety of shapes, and steel pallets are too noisy when splashes of water fall on them from a height. But it should be noted that it is these materials that are considered the most durable and reliable;

ceramic pallets attract attention with their dignified snow-white appearance. It is a safe material, absolutely hygienic, therefore it is perfectly suited for use in plumbing purposes. Such products fit perfectly into classic interior bathroom, but they are also expensive. Other disadvantages can be

carry heavy weight and excessive fragility: the fall of a heavy object can damage and split such a pallet. In order for the ceramics to retain their original appearance, it must be carefully looked after: otherwise, it may darken or turn yellow;

artificial marble pallets are not yet so widespread, but due to their performance they can easily compete with acrylics. They are made from marble chips and various synthetic additives. The result is a durable, strong product that is resistant to low-quality water. The material keeps warm well,

absorbs noise, it is also easy to clean;

wooden pallets Is rather a whim for the sake of pleasure exclusive interioras they are very expensive. They are made of elite wood species, mainly teak. Such products are environmentally friendly and beautiful, but their cost and the need for painstaking care can still scare off many buyers.

Shower doors

Shower doors are an important element that is responsible for tightness, comfort and appearance... First of all, you need to decide on the material of their manufacture and the opening system.

Shower door material

Shower doors can be:

• glass;
• plastic.

Naturally, glass doors - this is a more expensive option, but with them the cabin as a whole looks more solid. Tempered glass is used with a thickness of 5-8 mm, so the risk of breaking it is reduced to zero. Such doors are reliable and durable, do not lose their original appearance. They can be made of completely transparent, matte, tinted glass, or have some kind of pattern. In terms of care, there is nothing difficult, but in order for the bathroom to always be tidy and cozy, it is better to wipe the glass doors after each shower - it will not take much time.

Plastic doors - more affordable option, but over time, the material fades and becomes less attractive in appearance than when purchased. If the budget is limited, and only cabins with plastic curtains are considered, then it is better to choose matte ones, because over time the clouding will not be so visible.

Shower door opening system

Today, most shower cabins are equipped with these types of doors:

• swing;
• sliding.

Swing system provides for one or two doors that are attached either to the walls of the room or to the surface of the shower stall. Be sure to pay attention to the hinges: if they are made from powder pressed metal, and as Chinese manufacturers often do, the system runs the risk of quickly failing. Solid metal hinges are more reliable. Showers with swing doors are cheaper, but if the goal is to save space, then it is better to choose a model with sliding system: Bathrooms often lack space for the doors to swing open normally.

Shower boxes with sliding doors ... There are two guides, magnets and rubber strips are attached to the doors to ensure maximum tightness. The movement is carried out thanks to rollers that travel along the guides. The latter can be plastic, aluminum or steel. Plastic elements are unreliable and will loosen after a few years, having ceased to securely hold the rollers. Replacing them will cost almost the same as a shower, so it is better to overpay a little right away, but choose a product with metal guides. Swing systems - a good option for rooms where every square centimeter counts.

Shower cabin manufacturers

Everyone who makes bathroom renovations wants the new plumbing to last as long as possible. Remembering that the miser pays twice, you should not rush to too cheap models without the appropriate documentation and guarantees. It is better to pay a little more, but be confident in the quality and reliability of the product. In the shower cabins market, a corresponding reputation has already been established, according to which bona fide companies can be distinguished.

In terms of quality, shower cabins are in the lead european production, and the price can be drastically different. So, booths from German companies Villeroy & Boch, Hueppe, Hoesch, Kermibelong to the premium segment in the same way as Italian Jacuzzi, Albatros and Cerutti... A Spanish company appears in the middle price segment Roca, italian Hatria, Swiss Geberit, Finnish Ideal Standard, Slovenian Gorenje and some others. The most advantageous offers on the European market are shower cabins Cersanit, Ravak and IDO.

Domestic manufacturers have recently been pleased with the increasing quality of products. Now on the market, such manufacturers as Bandhours, Doctor Jet, Akrilan, Radomir, Aqua Joy, Indeo, Aquarelle, Aquatika.

Showers from South Korea from Niagara... But there is no consensus about Chinese manufacturers: there are those that offer products of very low quality, without any guarantees, and there are more or less good ones. The latter include Aqualux, Fituche, Appolo, Golden Fish.

Finally

A shower stall is a great alternative to a bath. With it, you can save space, the amount of water used, and purchase many useful functions such as aromatherapy or a bath. This is a great option when you need to place all the necessary plumbing, furniture and equipment in a small area. When choosing a shower stall, it is worth weighing a lot of factors: room size, size of family members, budget, room interior, personal preferences. A variety of shapes, sizes, materials, functions of these products will allow everyone to find perfect optionthat best suits the requirements and desires. By the way, now there are also models on sale that combine a bathtub and a shower cabin: with their help, you can place these two necessary items in a small room.

Just a few years ago, this type of plumbing, as showers, was known and available only to the wealthy part of the population of our country, being considered a manifestation of luxury. Today, the majority of people are increasingly inclining their choice in favor of a shower, refusing to take a bath. What types of shower cabins does the modern plumbing market offer us and what to opt for?

Corner shower

A shower stall is a limited space designed for showering and other water procedures. By type, they are divided into open and closed.

Open showers

This type of shower cubicle got its name because its design does not have a closed ceiling, but limits the space only on four sides.

Moreover, two or three of the sides are limited by the walls of the bathroom, while the others are limited by the walls of the booth. These are the so-called open shower enclosures.

At first glance, these booths may seem like a simple and cheap option.

But let's take a closer look at the features of their designs and installation.

1. The first and most important feature of this species is high-quality preparation for.
   It is necessary to carefully align the floor and walls, arrange waterproofing, otherwise installation with complete tightness will be simply impossible.
   Such a thorough preparation is due to the fact that the doors are attached to the wall with steel hinges, which are adjustable to only two millimeters.
   In the case of uneven walls, it is impossible to eliminate the cracks, and the tightness is broken.
2. An open shower enclosure fits into a niche or corner of the bathroom.
3. Due to the fact that this view does not have a roof, it lacks some additional functions, such as "aromatherapy", "rain shower" or "Turkish bath".
4. Can be installed directly on the bathroom floor.
   The ability to install on the floor is appreciated when the area is very small.

By picking up transparent doors that open into the cabin, you can not only visually expand the bathroom, but also increase its useful area.

Installation on the floor shower enclosure instead of buying a pallet, it provides for the implementation of a number of activities, namely:

• even before the start finishing works it is necessary to decide on the size and exact place of installation of such a corner;
• waterproof walls and floors;
• mount a water drain system - the so-called ladder;

The water is drained into the grate and through pipes it goes into the sewer system. The kit may include a siphon to cut off odors from the sewer.

The drain pipe is installed in the floor with a slope of at least 2-3 degrees. In this case, it is necessary to raise the bathroom floor to a certain height.

The ladder must be chosen from high-quality stainless steel, which will serve without problems for more than a dozen years.

• in the future, when installing the floor, it is necessary to observe a slope of 3 degrees in the ladder area (for high-quality water drainage);
• shower floor tiles without a tray should have a reduced slip coefficient.

1. When the floor is finished and the sewer is supplied, you can install the shower enclosure on a pallet, matched in shape and size.

Open shower enclosures, made of clear glass, expand the bathroom space and add lightness and elegance.

Closed cabins or shower boxes

The following types of shower cubicles are called shower cubicles. They are considered closed because they have a roof and represent a space that is closed on all sides.

It is not difficult to install them in any place where the water outlet and supply are mounted.

They differ in a number of indicators:

• The number of functions is simple and multifunctional. A cabin is considered multifunctional if it has one or more additional functions in addition to a shower.
• Configurations and sizes. They can be round, semicircular, square, rectangular, angular. Sizes are 70x70, 80x80, 90x90, 100x100 cm depending on the size of the pallet, as well as for rectangular boxes 80x120-210 cm.
• Pallet height and material.
• Wall and door material.

Multifunctional shower cabins

Let's take a look at multifunctional showers - what are their functions, what are their features, and what you need to pay attention to.

1. Hydromassage function.
   There are two types: horizontal and vertical.

• Horizontal hydromassage is available only in expensive combination models that have a hydromassage bath instead of a tray.
  The water supply nozzles are located in the sides and bottom of the bath in a certain order, and the massage process itself is carried out through a layer of water.
  The nozzles create streams of air and water bubbles in different directions, the strength of which can be adjusted.
  Hydromassage can be used daily. It improves well-being and relieves stress after a hard day. When exposed to the skin, it improves metabolism, general circulation, digestion and intestinal motility.
  During this procedure, the process of splitting subcutaneous fat is accelerated, which is the prevention of cellulite.

Note!

In some diseases, the use of hydromassage is contraindicated: heart attack, hypertension, oncology, urolithiasis, etc., as well as at the time of exacerbated conditions of chronic diseases.

In order not to harm your health, get a doctor's recommendation!

• Vertical hydromassage is produced by jets of water coming out of nozzles located on a rack attached to the cabin wall.
  Depending on the number of jets available, the massage can affect different parts of the body: neck, shoulders, back, lower back, and with the help of an additional attachment, massage the legs.
  The nozzles with rotary action are very convenient, making it possible to direct the jets to the desired area.

Don't skimp on quality water filters.

Otherwise, hydromassage plumbing will not work for long.

1. Turkish bath function.
   A steam generator at a temperature of 45-60 degrees creates a humidity of almost 100%.
   With the help of an internal fan, the steam is evenly distributed inside the cabin, which achieves the effect of a Turkish bath.

Before buying a hydrobox, it will be useful to know the value of the water pressure in the pipes of your house, as well as on the floor.

At a pressure of less than 2-3 bar, the hydromassage and sauna functions will not work.

1. Rain shower.
   A special ceiling nozzle sprinkles water in small droplets for a summer rain feel. Recommended for relaxation before bed.
2. Aromatherapy (inhalation).
   The function works in cabins with "tropical rain" and "bath" capabilities.
   Water and steam passing through a special tank filled with aromatic balsam fill the space of the box with a useful aroma.

• Ventilation.
  With this function, steam is evenly distributed in cabins with rain showers and saunas. In more simple models the fan helps you breathe easily while swimming.
• Cold and hot shower.
  It is very useful for hardening the body, as well as for vigor in the morning. This function automatically alternates between hot and cold water.
• Chromotherapy.
  Or light therapy is a very beautiful and beneficial function for the body. Helps to restore nervous system after stress, by exposure to light rays in conjunction with a water treatment.
  It has a positive effect on the hormonal system, skin and other organs. Ceiling-mounted LEDs color the jets of water in different colors according to the program you choose. Controlled by the remote control.
• Voice control.
  Only the most expensive shower cubicle, equipped with the latest technology, has this function.
  Using a voice command, you can, for example, make the water colder or turn on the "hydromassage".

In addition, almost any shower box is equipped with a radio receiver and a hands-free telephone, as well as additional side and top lighting, a mirror, a seat, a handrail, shelves for cosmetics and wall-mounted dispensers of liquid detergents.

Note!

Multifunctional showers consume a lot of electricity.

For safe use, it is imperative that a separate wiring line of sufficient cross-section with the cab ground be laid.

Shower trays

Studying the types of shower stalls, one cannot but mention their very important component - the pallet on which the cabin is mounted.

The pallets are divided by depth:

• flat - 0-3.5 centimeters;
• small - from 10 to 18 centimeters;
• deep - up to 45 centimeters.

And also by the material from which they are made.

The pallets have a non-slip surface, and the colors are often matched to the color of the accessories or the cabin walls, creating a stylish ensemble.

Cast iron and steel pallets have an enamel coating, which is quite vulnerable to scratches and impacts.

They differ in a similar way to bathrooms: cast iron is quieter when water falls, while steel hums and rumbles. Also, cast iron retains heat longer.

Ceramic trays are durable and impeccable in terms of hygiene, as the care of these materials has never been difficult. They do not lose their dazzling brightness for a long time.

But they are quite fragile, like any ceramics. Another drawback is their low thermal conductivity, due to which the pallet is initially cold, so it is not always pleasant to stand barefoot under the shower.

But there is a way out: rubber mats for shower stalls, made of high-quality non-slip material with the addition of antibacterial components. This little detail will not only make the pallet surface pleasant to the touch, but also more stable.

Acrylic - relatively new material, always warm to the touch, has an ambient temperature and a non-slip surface, therefore it is a sales champion.

It is easy to give him any interesting shape because of his pliability. These pallets are drawn from straight acrylic sheets on special molds.

They are lightweight, strong enough, do not change their original color. The appearance of scratches can be easily corrected by rubbing with a special paste.

For additional rigidity they are installed on an aluminum frame.

Walls and doors

The walls and doors of the cabins are made of impact-resistant glass or acrylic. Acrylic surfaces come in any transparency and color scheme.

Glass is easy to clean, drops of water flow off faster, does not leave traces, and it does not become cloudy during prolonged use.

Doors are:

• sliding, consisting of 2, 3 or 4 leaves;
• swing.

Sliding doors are more airtight, have a roller mechanism for movement, and do not require additional space to open.

Having studied in detail all the possible nuances and functions of shower cabins, it is worth weighing the wishes of all family members. There is no point in overpaying for an unnecessary feature if no one is going to use it. Happy choice!

Shower cabins entered our life twenty years ago and are a serious competitor to the usual baths and fonts. This is facilitated by some of the inherent advantages of these sanitary ware. You can quickly freshen up with economical water consumption, cabins take up less space. A number of models are endowed with additional functions that make the procedure even more pleasant and useful.

Everything is learned in comparison, and we will also pay attention to some of the features of shower cabins.

The advantages of such devices include:

1. You can take a shower immediately, there is no need to wait for water to fill up, as in the bathroom.
2. Modern cabins allow you to listen to radio broadcasts during the water procedure, communicate with the outside world via speakerphone or receive medical procedures.
3. In the booth, there is no need to climb over the high side, you just need to step over the side on the pallet.
4. The risk of injury in the booth is minimal as the bottom of the pallet is non-slip. They are also equipped with handrails and seats. The dimensions of the device can be selected individually in a wide range of sizes to make it convenient to receive procedures
5. If the device is equipped with a deep tray, it is convenient to use it for preparing laundry for washing or washing your baby.
6. The shower uses much less water than the bathroom, but the hair is washed much better after the detergent.
7. The cabins are compact; in limited conditions, they take up much less space than a hot tub. A wide range of designs allows you to place the device in any bathroom environment.
8. The cabins are easy to clean as the tightly closed doors prevent water from entering the outside.

At the same time, shower cabins are not without disadvantages:

• high price;
• it is impossible to relax in the booth and soak up the warm water;
• dependence of some procedures on water pressure in the water supply system. Taking a rain shower, hydromassage treatments or a steam bath can be a problem;
• the need to wipe the walls of the booth dry after each procedure so that a whitish coating does not form on it when moisture naturally dries.

All this suggests the need to take into account all the circumstances when choosing this device.

Types of shower cabins

By design features, they are divided into three main types:

• open;
• closed;
• combined.

Open booths

Products of this type are integrated into the bathroom. It can be corner or wall-mounted. These structures are prefabricated. The cabin pallet is arranged over the sewer drain. The walls are arranged along its perimeter, adjoining the contour of the bathroom. Most often, organic or hardened silicate glass is used for this design.

A characteristic feature of open booths is the absence of an upper enclosure. For this reason, it is impossible to arrange a tropical or cascade shower in them. When washing, you have to use only a standard flexible hose with a watering can. Functionally, the open cabin is used only as a means for washing the body.

One way to install such devices is to avoid using a pallet. Instead, a bowl of high-strength concrete is cast, which is finished with non-slip tiles. The glass walls are assembled in an aluminum or stainless steel profile and firmly attached to the walls faced with ceramic tiles.

To the benefits open structures can be attributed:

1. Low cost, within 8 - 20 thousand rubles.
2. Possibility to manufacture the cabin in a wide range of sizes.
3. Simplicity of design, making it easy to mount the device with your own hands.

• capital device of structural elements;
• significant difficulties when a repair is needed;
• lack of the possibility of an ozonization device or a steam generator;
• inapplicability of the overhead shower, cascading or tropical;
• high humidity in the room when taking water procedures.

In general, these are simple devices without additional functions, intended only for sanitary and hygienic needs.

Closed cabins

They are produced in the form of a stand-alone box that can be installed in any place where there is a possibility of connecting to communications. The cabin consists of a pallet, side panels and a lid. The equipment includes a wide variety of devices with specific functions. The device is easily dismantled and can be transported or simply removed for the period of repair.

In such devices, acrylic or stainless steel is most often used for the manufacture of a pallet, but there are also cast-iron bases, as well as products from plumbing faience. Basic structure, as a rule, metal from stainless steel or aluminum. The side walls are made of transparent or translucent silicate or organic glass, monolithic polycarbonate is also used, which easily takes any shape.

A closed booth can be purchased for 30-40 thousand rubles depending on the number of additional functions. But there are also copies with a price of up to 150 thousand.

The advantages of closed-type cabins include:

• quick installation on site;
• a large set of additional features;
• a wide range of models from various manufacturers;
• soundproofing;
• closed booths are isolated and do not affect the indoor climate.

Speaking of the disadvantages, we can only mention the high cost of products of this type.

Combined designs

Their feature is the use of a recessed tray, more like a bath. The material for it is acrylic, cast iron or stainless steel. The side walls are made from the same materials as the other types. The top cover can be used or not, it depends on the design decision of the manufacturer. This combination allows you to combine in one device best properties other types - the jacuzzi device is combined with the possibility of taking a Charcot shower, cascade or tropical version.

At the same time, combined devices require significant installation space, which limits their use. Prices for such plumbing start at 70,000 rubles.

These devices have the following positive qualities:

• the ability to use all the advantages of a bathroom and shower;
• a large selection of models;
• the choice of closed or open version execution.

The choice of a shower cabin for various factors

The criteria for choosing such plumbing can be various factors:

• sizes;
• pallet shape;
• material of manufacture.

Selection by pallet size

Often the limiting parameter when choosing a device is the size of the room and the location of the associated communications.

If an option is considered in which a rectangular shape of the pallet is used, then the market will offer the following dimensions (in centimeters):

• 80 x 80;
• 90 x 90;
• 100 x 100;
• 120 x 80;
• 100 x 100;
• 120 x 120;
• 70 x 70;
• 150 x 150.

Sizes up to 100 centimeters are used in the manufacture of open and closed shower cabins. Dimensions over a meter are used in combined devices with a deep tray.

In addition, corner cabins can have a combined shape in the form of a semicircle or part thereof, as well as a semi-oval for combined models.

Regarding the depth of the pallet, it should be noted that it can reach 40 centimeters. It is allowed to arrange them buried, but this depends on the possibility of supplying them to the drain system. Often it is necessary to install the booth on a pedestal in order to naturally solve this problem.

It is allowed to install a small pump - sololift - for forced pumping of water from the sump.

When using pallets with a depth of 30 - 40 centimeters, there is a problem associated with the need to overcome a high barrier. An additional step at the entrance to the bath can correct the situation. The handrails in the booth, available in each structure, will help maintain balance.

For a comfortable shower, the most popular is the size of the shower cubicle 90 x 90 centimeters.

Selection by pallet material

Cabin pallets can be made from the following materials:

• metal stainless steel or cast iron;
• from acrylic;
• artificial marble;
• natural stone.

Cast iron pallets are distinguished by significant weight, since they are made by casting. They have high performance and durability over 10 years.

Steel pallets are strong enough. Their disadvantage is the rapid cooling of water. This can be eliminated by insulation polyurethane foam on the back side. Such an event partially neutralizes their other drawback - the roar from the water falling into it.

Acrylic pallets are most common because of their low price and manufacturability. The opportunity for the manufacturer to produce the most diverse forms of these products is attractive to the manufacturer. Today it is not often possible to find pallets made of pure acrylic, more often they are made of two-composite plastic.

Pallets from sanitary faience. Usually these are massive, stable products. Caring for them is simple, the service life is long. The disadvantage of such products is their fragility, so use earthenware pallets with extreme caution.

Natural stone or artificial marble pallets are very durable and maintainable. Their surface can be restored by simple sanding with an emery cloth and subsequent polishing. Mass application is limited by the high cost of products.

Choice by door design

Cab door opening systems are as follows:

1. Swing. This design of the doors allows them to open most widely towards the bathroom. The door leaf is hung on the hinges to door frame out of a broom.
2. Articulated. In this design, the doors are hinged to the upper and lower frame of the frame with hinges. The door solution allows you to enter and exit the booth as comfortably as possible.
3. Sliding. Such a design is chosen for a booth in a confined space, when the space does not allow swing doors to work. In it door leaf moves along a metal guide along the side wall. Can be produced with one sliding canvas or two smaller ones.
4. In conditions of insufficient space, it is mono to stop the choice on the turning ( swinging) doors. It opens easily, guided by a special hinge, and allows easy entry into the cab.
5. Folding door ( "book") is used in conditions of insufficient space outside the cab. Its two doors fold in the middle, tightly fitting one to the other, and close inside the booth. Such designs are used for combined cabins.
6. Curtain doors have become a development of the design of book doors. They fold smoothly into a compact package, do not take up the space of the bathroom at all and have a presentable appearance.

Selection by wall material

For the manufacture of the side walls of the cabins are used various materials, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages. Let's dwell on this in more detail:

1. Polystyrene. It is a family of translucent or transparent plastics that are moisture resistant and lightweight. The main disadvantage of this material is its short service life. It is not suitable for home installation, it is better to use such a cabin in the country. Caring for polystyrene is also a problem, because the surface tends to settle on itself dirt and soap suds. Finding an effective detergent for it is very problematic.
2. Glass doors for cabins are the most popular. You should not be afraid to break the door and be injured, because triplex is used for their production - durable laminated glass. When destroyed, it simply crumbles to the floor. But this can also be avoided - currently, special film coatings are used, thanks to which the glass is simply covered with a network of cracks. Care of such surfaces is elementary simple.
3. Plexiglass. Not to be confused with polystyrene! It is similar in strength to silicate glass, but does not prick. Disadvantage - the surface is susceptible to mechanical stress with the formation of scratches. It is almost impossible to correct such a defect on transparent glass by grinding. This is only available on matte opaque wall structures.

Knowing how to choose the type and design of the cabin, you need to be careful about the obviously inexpensive devices. It is very likely that the costs incurred will be wasted.

Particular attention should be paid to the material from which the cabins are made, preferring the more expensive, obviously low-quality products.

It is important to choose a reliable manufacturer with a certain reputation. You need to be wary of the products of Chinese manufacturers. It is better to turn to products of well-known brands, the personnel of such manufacturers are very picky about the quality of their products.

You need to carefully consider the quality of plumbing - mixers, shower devices, as well as other components and equipment. Sometimes poor quality products are used in the pursuit of profit.

Additional functions of shower cabins

In addition to the banal washing, the shower cabin allows you to get additional conveniences in the form of a circular shower, therapeutic hydromassage, a steam room and other amenities.

Of the shower functions, the shower stream pouring from the ceiling predominates, often a tropical, cascading shower, and also a contrast shower is built in.

This type of spout allows you to sharply change the temperature of the water flow in automatic mode. This helps the body to cheer up, increases its efficiency.

The Turkish bath mode allows you to increase the temperature inside the cabin to 55 - 60 degrees using steam generated by a special generator. Often this function is coupled with the possibility of using aromatherapy. In this case, the steam from the generator passes through a container with aromatic substances placed in it.

For lovers of dry steam, a function with a sauna is built in, in which dry heated air is blown into the cabin by a fan heater. The temperature in such a steam room is set by the regulator and maintained automatically.

Recognizing the unconditional usefulness of shower cabins, we draw attention to a number of points that must be considered before purchasing them:

1. It is necessary to decide on the peculiarity of the drain device in the bathroom. When choosing a booth, it is better to focus on a design in which these communications are mutually compatible. Otherwise, there will be a need for large-scale construction work.
2. The chosen cabin must correspond to the size of the room where it will be located. There are many known cases when, when installing the cabin, it was necessary to cut down a part of the wall, as a result, the cost of repairs and the time spent on it increase significantly.
3. Before buying a product with additional functions, you need to consult plumbers about the amount of water pressure in the network at different times of the day, especially during peak consumption hours.
4. It is risky to install a cab without a pallet in a multi-storey building. Such a device will require reliable waterproofing underneath, and must be performed by qualified professionals.
5. The visual perception of the product you are about to purchase is of great importance. There are many possibilities for this, including the study of photos, which the Internet abounds in.

Thus, the decisive factor in choosing a shower stall is the budget. Based on this indicator, a size is selected that corresponds to the size of the room. The rest of the factors are considered after the first two are taken into account. But with all the variety of offers, the choice depends on the range of such products on the local market.

The perfection of the shower cabins design allows you to install them yourself from a set of purchased parts. Before starting work, carefully read the manufacturer's recommendations for installation. Only after that you can proceed with the installation... If a complex design is used, and questions have arisen, it is better to postpone this event and entrust its execution to the invited specialists.

Shower boxes are closed-type cabins with a roof and walls on all sides. They are simplified and multifunctional, different shapes and size. Being inside, the feeling of a separate room is created. The use of functional boxes requires water filtration.

Additional functions of shower boxes:

• Hydromassage - horizontal or vertical water supply through the side nozzles in the sump or wall. Designed to improve blood circulation, relieve fatigue and fight cellulite.
• "Turkish bath" - the steam generator creates 100% humidity at a temperature of 50-60 degrees, and the fan evenly disperses the warm air inside a closed shower.
• "Rain shower" - a special nozzle in the cab ceiling that creates the effect of summer rain with a special supply of drops. Relaxes before bed.
• Aromatherapy - water and steam pass through a special reservoir for aroma oil and fill closed space pleasant aroma.

Other useful features that are available in expensive models:

• cold and hot shower;
• radio;
• voice control.

In addition, shower boxes are equipped with a mirror, shelves and a dispenser for liquid detergents.
Pallets come in different heights, shapes and sizes. The most popular material for closed boxes is acrylic. The dimensions of one wall of the box range from 70 to 210 centimeters. Pallet shape:

• triangular;
• rectangular;
• square;
• semicircular;
• round.

• flat - 1-3.5 cm;
• medium - 6 - 20 cm;
• deep - up to 45 cm, represent a bathroom equipped with a seat.

Shower box walls are made of glass or acrylic. Glass is the most practical material housing, since it does not tarnish during long-term use, drops do not leave streaks, and limescale can be easily cleaned.

Door types:

• swing;
• sliding - compact and reliable option. A special roller mechanism is built into the box, which ensures tightness.

The main plus of shower boxes is ease of installation and the absence of special requirements for the bathroom, except for the drain hole.

Shower cabins with deep tray

Shower enclosures with a deep tray are convenient and popular as they combine a bathtub and a shower cabin. The dimensions are different, and it is worth choosing them based on the size of the bathroom. Optimal size such a shower room is considered 100x100cm.

Most often, deep angular (triangular) trays are mounted in the corner of the bathroom and are complemented by doors, and, if necessary, additional walls.

Possible forms:

• semicircular;
• triangular;
• square;
• rectangular;
• asymmetrical;
• hex;
• pentahedral.

When choosing a pallet, be guided by the following rule: in the shower cabin, you must move your hands freely and sit on your knees.

The shower tray is the backbone of the shower stall structure, so it must be stable and strong. Materials:

• Acrylic is strong, lightweight, durable and easy to install. Scratches and damages are not visible on it. All cleaning agents are suitable for cleaning acrylic, and visible damage can be polished with a special paste. In addition, acrylic heats up quickly and maintains the water temperature. The only drawback is the sagging of the material under the weight of the body.
• Enamelled steel and cast iron are the strongest, most durable and reliable materials. But they are already rarely used in production due to their severity, slow heating and fragile enamel coating.
• Faience is a resistant material, but fragile and demanding to care for.
• Artificial marble is a durable, reliable and easy-care material, but very rare, heavy and expensive.
• Kvaril is a new combined material made of acrylic and quartz sand. It is stronger than acrylic and is available in different colors.
• Ceramic is a fragile material that requires careful maintenance, as it is often prone to cracks.

Benefits of shower enclosures with a deep tray:

• The height of such a pallet is 40-45 cm, but this is enough for a comfortable stay in warm water, for bathing a child and washing clothes.
• The risk of flooding the neighbors is reduced, as the water has nowhere to seep.
• Inside such a shower is warm, since hot water heats the walls of the sump and creates a warm temperature inside.

Shower enclosures with a low base

These are open, roofless showers that fit snugly against the bathroom wall tiles. The only function of shower cabins with a flat base is to shower without the possibility of sitting down. Such cabins are different sizes and forms:

• corner;
• rectangular;
• square;
• semicircular.

The pallet height is 0.5 - 3.5 centimeters. The choice of size and shape depends on the layout and space of the bathroom: there are spacious and compact options.

Benefits of shower rooms with a lowered base:

• Since the pallet is at floor level, getting in and out of the cab is easy for an elderly person and a small child, because they do not have to step over a high side.
• Showers with a lowered base are able to emphasize the interior of the bathroom, as the design of the ceramic tiles is visible through the transparent walls. Faucets and additional shelves are attached to the bathroom wall.

Disadvantages:

• You can't sit down.
• Such showers are much colder than the others, since the water does not stay in the pan, and the cabin does not have time to warm up.
• The bathroom is more likely to be flooded due to a clogged drain. The water will quickly come out over the edges, because there is nowhere for it to accumulate. To prevent this from happening, you need to ensure that hair, animal hair and other debris do not fall into the drain.
• Lack of hydromassage, "Turkish bath", aromatherapy, contrast showers and tropical rain.
• Complex installation of a shower room with a flat tray.
• You cannot wash things, bathe the child and lie in the water.

Many problems will help to avoid correct installation low pallet. Such a shower cabin is installed in a corner or niche. There should be a recess in the floor, which will be inclined towards the drain by 3 degrees for quick water drainage.

The walls and floor must be level for waterproofing, as the doors are fixed to the wall with steel hinges, adjustable within 2 mm.

Before use, you should carefully check all joints for tightness.

Shower cabins with bath

Shower cabin with bathtub is the best option for all family members, since instead of a deep or lowered pallet, it has a full acrylic bath height 45 cm.

There is a variety of models on the market that differ from each other in design, dimensions, functions and design features.

Advantages of a shower cabin with a bath:

• It retains all the functions of the bath: you can lie down in it, wash your clothes, bathe your child, wash your pet, indoor flowers, large things, etc.
• The ability to take a horizontal and vertical shower, enjoying music, hydromassage and other additional functions.
• Easy to install and no special requirements for the bathroom, except for the presence of a drain hole.
• The shower room with bathtub has an antibacterial coating that prevents the growth of fungal flora.
• Easy wall cleaning and acrylic bath from limescale.
• Compactness and comfort of the interior: the presence of numerous shelves and dispensers for detergents, handrails and built-in ventilation.
• Aesthetic appearance. Shower with bathtub will fit into any spacious bathroom design.
• Reliability and high tightness of the structure.

Disadvantages:

• Bathtub showers are expensive compared to small cubicles or baths.
• Expensive installation. To extend the life of such a shower with a bath, be sure to filter the water in the room.
• Calcium deposits on the walls and doors of the shower stall.
• A shower with a bathtub is not suitable for small bathrooms due to its bulkiness. The most compact option is a corner built-in bathtub.

Corner showers

Triangular shower cubicles are a great option for people who value practicality and comfort. They save space in the room due to their geometry, but they are spacious inside.

Depth of shower tray for corner shower cubicles:

• Flat - up to 3 - 4 cm.
• Deep - 40-45 cm. It is a triangular bath in which you can bathe a child, wash things or sit in the water for an adult.
• Without pallet. This option is inconvenient for city apartments, since this requires a water drain, a raised floor and a laid drain channel. This will reduce the height of the bathroom.

Forms of corner cabins:

• Rectangular. Due to their rather large size, they are designed for spacious bathrooms.
• Semicircular. They save space, since the walls are close to the surface of the room and are installed in the corner. The smallest shower enclosure size starts from 70x70 cm and 80x80 cm. Such a shower room can fit into the smallest bathroom.
• Asymmetrical. There are many asymmetric corner cabins (80 * 90 cm in size, etc.), which, due to the expansion of space on one side, make it convenient to receive water procedures.

The front wall is fenced off with a curtain or a full-fledged door, which swings open or moves to the side due to the roller mechanism. The height of the shower enclosures ranges from 2 to 2.3 meters.

They can be both open (without a roof) and closed (boxes).

Fixed corner boxes have various built-in functions: music, lighting, hydromassage, "Turkish bath", air ionization, tropical and contrast showers.
Other benefits of shower enclosures:

• Saving your budget. Less water consumption compared to taking a bath.
• A large selection of pallets of the required height and material. Deep shower trays are equipped with a seat and hydromassage function. And cabins without a pallet are able to highlight the decor of the bathroom tiles and give the interior a unique style.
• Simple shower care. After taking water procedures, wipe the pallet and doors dry.
• Huge selection of materials, colors and designs for the bathroom interior.

Disadvantages:

• A shower enclosure equipped with a deep tray does not fully replace a bathtub in which you can take a horizontal position.
• High price and expensive installation.
• Over time, the material of doors and walls fades, and scratches and cracks appear on the acrylic pallet.

Shower cabins for summer cottages

There are many shower cabins designed to be placed in a summer cottage.

They are comfortable, reliable, easy to install, and made from materials that will withstand direct sun rays and high humidity

.
Types of country shower cabins:

• Standard - consists of a solid frame, body, pallet, which is equipped with a drain system; from the water tank, shower head and hose. The standard dimensions of such square cabins are 90 * 90 or 100 * 100 cm. Semicircular and asymmetric shapes are less common. This is a comfortable option for one or two people in the country.
• With a dressing room. The standard shower area fits snugly into the small dressing room, where they undress and leave things without worrying about getting wet. Shower and changing room are separated by a thick curtain.
• Toilet and shower cabin. Combines bathroom, dressing room and shower. Large in size, in winter period you can store summer cottage inventory. Often these cabins are heated.
• Open - with a partially or completely open top. It is recommended to tile this type of cabin from the inside with tiles. Pros: lightness of construction, easy installation and compactness.
• Closed. A hygienic view of country cabins, since due to the roof and complete insulation, dirt and other natural debris will not get into it. Do not need interior decorationcomfortable inside.

Case material:

• Tree. Eco-friendly material that is able to refresh in hot weather and keep warm in bad weather. But it has one drawback - it is highly exposed to the environment and needs special treatment (painting, drying oil, primer) and shelter for the winter. When proper care a wooden shower enclosure can last for decades.
• Plastic. Not afraid of temperature extremes and high humidity, not whimsical in care. The main advantage of a shower cabin made of PVC sheets is a good tightness of the structure, which does not need to be painted and additionally mounted. This is a popular material for the manufacture of shower cabins for summer cottages.
• Metal is the most durable body material. But it is difficult to install, as it requires special fasteners. To prevent the metal body from corroding, it is covered with a fresh coat of paint every year.

• If the water tank is located on the roof, then the frame must be strong and made of metal, shaped pipes.
• If water is supplied from a permanent source through a boiler, then a frame made of wood, aluminum or a thin profile pipe is preferred.

Spacious shower cabins

The oversized shower stall will fit into any spacious bathroom design. If the buyer is not faced with the goal of saving space, then a practical option would be to purchase such a cabin.

Spacious shower shapes:

• Rectangular - a convenient view of the cabin, as it does not limit the space when receiving water procedures inside.
• Asymmetrical - one side is larger than the other: 80 * 100 cm; 90 * 100 cm; 90 * 120 cm; 80 * 120 cm; 85 * 150 cm; 100 * 140 cm.
• Triangular - able to fit into any corner of a spacious bathroom and has the shape of a quarter circle, saving space 100 * 100cm, 110 * 110cm or 100 * 110cm, 100 * 120cm.

The height of spacious cabins reaches 260 cm. The most popular height is 210-220 cm.
Pallet height:

• Flat (up to 3.5 cm) or its absence is rational for use in those rooms where there is a full bath. Since when choosing this option, there is no way even to sit down. Suitable for the elderly and children.
• Medium - 10-30 cm.
• A deep shower tray in spacious rectangular shower enclosures can replace a bathtub. Height - 45 cm.

The entrance to a rectangular, square or asymmetrical shower room is located on the right or left side, depending on the structure of the structure. The doors in the boxes are equipped with a roller mechanism, due to which they open to the side.

Requirements for the bathroom.

Not so long ago, showers could only be found in the homes of rich and wealthy people, as it was considered a great luxury. But, today, most of the population prefers shower cubicles, rather than a bathroom, and the modern plumbing market can offer us shower cubicles for every taste and color. Then people have a question, which one to choose?

A shower cubicle is an open or closed space, limited in size, used for taking a shower or other water procedures. What is the difference between open and closed booths?

Open showers

This type of shower cabin is characterized by the fact that it does not have a closed ceiling, but only the presence of a bottom, and four walls that limit the space inside the shower.

Also, such stalls have open shower corners, that is, of four walls that limit the space, two or three walls are the walls of your bathroom, and the remaining walls are retractable walls of the shower stall, which serve as an entrance to it.

At first glance, this option seems cheaper and simpler.

Let's take a closer look at the design and installation features of an open booth.

1. One of the main features is high-quality preparation for the installation and installation of a shower stall.
   Before installing an open-type stall, you should carefully level the walls and floor, as well as make waterproofing, since without it, it will be simply impossible to ensure complete tightness of the shower stall after installation.
   The alignment of the bathroom walls is necessary so that when installing the walls of the shower stall, to avoid the appearance of gaps between the walls of the room, and the opening walls of the stall itself, which are attached to steel hinges, and are adjustable to only two millimeters.
   If you do not align the wall, the gaps that appear will break the tightness of the shower stall.
2. When installing an open-type shower stall, it is worth considering the number of stall walls. If there is only one wall, then you should prepare a niche for installing this booth, and if there are 2 walls of the shower cubicle, then it is not necessary to make a niche, you just need to install the booth in the corner of the bathroom.
3. The disadvantage of the open-type shower stall is the lack of additional functions, such as: "Turkish bath", "aromatherapy" and "tropical shower".
4. It is allowed to install the booth directly on the bathroom floor.

The installation of transparent walls of the booth with opening inward of the booth will not only visually expand the bathroom, but also help to increase the area of \u200b\u200bthe room.

This feature is very useful when planning the design of a small room with a limited area.

When installing the shower enclosure on the bathroom floor, no shower tray is required.

Instead, a number of activities should be performed, such as:

• Before you start leveling the walls and ceiling, it is necessary to accurately determine the installation location and the exact dimensions of the shower enclosure.
• It is imperative to waterproof the floor and walls.
• Install a special water drain system, which is called a drain.

The water in the shower stall is drained through the grate into the drain. Complete with a drain, there can also be a siphon, which serves to eliminate odors from the sewer.

A ladder for draining water should be chosen from high-quality material, for example, stainless steel, for its long and serviceable service for many years.

A drain pipe with a grate is installed on the floor, with a slope of at least 2 - 3 degrees. To ensure the correct slope, raise the bathroom floor to a certain height.

• With further installation of the booth, you should follow the slope of the floor to the place where the ladder is installed. The slope must be at least 3 degrees. Thanks to the correct slope, all the water will drain to the place where the drain is installed, and the floor of the shower stall will dry out as quickly as possible.
• When choosing floor tiles for the shower stall, make sure that the tiles are not slippery as much as possible.

1. If the bathroom floor is already tiled and there is a sewer connection, then it is better to install the shower stall on a pallet of a suitable size.

Transparent open-type shower enclosures made of clear glass will visually expand the bathroom space and add elegance to the design of any room.

Closed cabins and shower boxes

This view shower cabins is called a shower box. Such shower stalls are considered closed because they have a roof in the kit, which makes the stall completely closed and sealed.

Such a booth can be installed in any place where it is convenient to bring the drainage and water supply.

The characteristic difference between this type of cabins:

• In addition to simple enclosed cubicles, there are also multifunctional cubicles that have a number of additional functions in addition to a shower.
• Choice of configuration and size of the booth. There are such configurations: corner, square, rectangular, round and semicircular. The sizes of such booths are: 100x100, 90x90, 80x80, 70x70 cm, depending on the size of the pallet. Dimensions for pallets of rectangular boxes - 80x120 - 210 cm
• Pallet material and height
• The material from which the walls and doors of the box are made.

Consider the functions and features of multifunctional shower stalls, and find out what you should pay attention to.

1. Hydromassage function.

There are two types of this function: vertical and horizontal.

• Horizontal hydromassage is installed in expensive models, which also have a hydromassage bath instead of a tray.

The nozzles through which water is supplied are installed on the walls and on the shower tray. And the massage itself is done using a layer of water supplied under a certain pressure.

When water is supplied to the nozzles, streams of water are created in the booth, which beats in different directions and with different strengths, and a stream of air bubbles. The strength and direction of the water can be adjusted.

Hydromassage treatments can be performed daily. Moreover, this is the best way to relax after a hard day at work, as well as to improve bowel function, blood circulation, digestive tract function and improve metabolism. All this is due to the effect of jets of water on the skin. And also, jets of water serve to prevent cellulite, accelerating the process of splitting subcutaneous fat.

Attention!

The use of hydromassage procedures is not recommended for cardiac, oncological and hypertensive diseases, or for urolithiasis. Also, it is not dangerous with exacerbation of chronic diseases. If you have any medical conditions, be sure to consult your doctor before taking hydromassage treatments.

• Vertical hydromassage works by jets of water that are supplied through nozzles located on a special stand.

Depending on where the jets are located, and in what quantity, the massage affects different parts of the body, from the neck to the legs. An additional platform with nozzles is installed for foot massage.

There are also nozzles that can be manually adjusted in the direction you want.

Never buy cheap and low-quality filters for wastewater treatment. Thus, you reduce the service life of the hydromassage plumbing

1. Turkish bath function

The effect of the so-called Turkish bath is achieved by creating 100% humidity with a steam generator, at a water temperature of 45 - 60 degrees.

An internal fan distributes steam evenly throughout the booth, thus creating a sauna effect.

1. Rain shower function

To install this function, you need to purchase a special additional nozzle, which distributes the jets of water from the nozzles into small droplets, and evenly feeds them into the cabin in the form of rain. This function is very relaxing, especially before bedtime.

1. Aromatherapy (Inhalation) function

This function is used in conjunction with the above functions. The water and steam released by the "rain shower" and "Turkish bath" enter a special container filled with aromatic balsam, thereby filling the space of the booth with a pleasant and healthy aroma.

• Ventilation

This function serves to evenly distribute steam throughout the entire space of the booth, when using the "Turkish bath" function, and also removes excess steam generated from very hot water, thereby making it easier for you to breathe (in simple models of shower stalls).

• Cold and hot shower

This function serves for dispensing hot and cold water... A very useful function for relieving drowsiness sutras, or for hardening the body.

• Chromotherapy

A function designed to calm stress and restore the nervous system. Chromotherapy is done through the combined effect of light and water on the body.

For this function to work, a system of LEDs should be installed in the ceiling of the shower stall, which color the jets of water in different colors. You can adjust the frequency of changing colors using the remote control.

• Voice control

Well, this function is the height of technological progress. This function is available only on the most expensive shower stalls.

Attention!

Multifunctional showers consume more electricity.

For safe operation of the stall, it is necessary to lay separate large-section wiring with grounding of the shower stall.

In addition to the above functions, almost every shower box comes with:

• Additional cabin lighting located from the side and from above;
• Dispenser with detergent and sticks for cosmetics; handrail and seat;
• FM - radio and telephone; mirror.

Shower trays

The most important part of the shower stall is the pallet. It is on it that the entire structure is mounted. So what pallets are there, and which one is better to choose from?

Pallets are divided into 3 groups, depending on their depth:

• Flat pallet - edge height up to 5 cm.
• Shallow pallet - edge height from 10 to 18 cm.
• Deep pallet - edge height from 18 to 45 cm.

Also, pallets can be divided according to the materials from which they are made.

All pallets have maximum non-slip bottom, and color range you can choose to your taste.

The first type of pallets is steel or cast iron. This species is most vulnerable to damage due to the presence of an enamel coating on it.

The difference between them is quite significant. The cast iron sump absorbs the noise of water, and the steel sump makes a very loud noise when drops hit its surface. And also, the cast iron tray keeps heat longer.

The advantage of ceramic trays is that they are much easier to care for than any other type of trays, which affects the hygiene in your shower stall. Also, the ceramic coating has the property of not losing its gloss for a long time after cleaning.

The disadvantages of ceramic coatings are that they are quite fragile and also have poor thermal conductivity.

But in order not to stand with your feet on the cold ceramic pallet, you can also use special rubber mats. The advantages of these rugs are that they have a non-slip coating, and they are absolutely hygienic, as they contain antibacterial components. Also, the mat will help increase stability on the pallet during water treatments.

The leading pallet material is acrylic. It tends to heat up to room temperature and keep this temperature. It also has a non-slip surface, which also adds ball to such a pallet.

Acrylic is easy to deform, so an acrylic pallet can be given any interesting shape. Forms for such pallets are deformed from straight acrylic sheets using a pre-prepared special form.

In addition, acrylic pallets are lightweight for easy transport. Also, the acrylic pallet does not change the shade of its color and is scratch resistant. Any scratch left on acrylic coating, you can easily rub with a special paste.

To give acrylic pallet more rigidity and durability, install it on an aluminum frame.

Walls and doors

The walls and doors to the booth are usually made of shock-resistant glass or acrylic. When installing an acrylic door or wall, you will have the opportunity to choose the color and transparency of the material.

Glass doors and walls are easy to clean and have more slip, so drops run off on glass faster than on an acrylic surface. Also, such glass does not tarnish over time.

Doors are:

• Unbuttoned
• Sliding, consisting of 2, 3 or 4 elements.

The advantages of doors with a sliding mechanism are as follows: high tightness of the booth space; save space in the bathroom, thanks to the sliding mechanism; the doors slide open and slide with a roller mechanism, which does not require effort when opening and closing them.

Having reviewed all the types and functions of shower stalls, also take into account the wishes of the rest of the family. This should be done in order not to overpay extra money for a function you do not need. Have a good choice.