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Bath Tub Buying Guide
Bath Tub Buying Guide
A Bathtub, is a feature of any bathroom and as such it is usually an expensive purchase whether your looking at a traditional cast iron tub or the more modern and economical acrylic options on the market. We here at Durovin have moved away from tradition and have focused on the Acrylic range, and here are a few reasons why to help you when deciding to replace your current model.
Manufacturing An Acrylic Tub
Acrylic tubs, as we have mentioned, are modern concept when compared to some of the other more traditional materials on offer. At the heart of this tub are acrylic sheets that have been vacuum molded into the shape of the tub, or spa. These acrylic sheets are nonporous and have a beautiful glass like finish and are coated with out NANO coating to ensure a glossy finish, making it an ideal surface for the interior part of a tub. To strengthen this mould a layer of fiberglass is sprayed onto the back of the tub, this additional fiberglass coat gives the tub the strength needed to bear the weight needed when a bath is in use. The finished product is a bath that can be molded into many different shapes offering a multitude of designs but more importantly is both strong and lightweight. The weight factor is one of the big benefit of an acrylic tub, as this allows the item to be fitted in a host of designs and locations. An acrylic tub can weigh on average 50kg with cast iron counterparts weight in excess of 5 times this amount.
Life Span of an Acrylic Tub
The life span of a bathtub largely depends on how it is has been cared for as with any item in constant us but an average acrylic tub can last 30 years, if properly installed and cared for.
Installation of an Acrylic Tub
Installation is probably one of the most crucial points to consider if you are planning on buying any bathtub but is essential with an acrylic tub. Their light weight, strength and relatively low cost, acrylic tubs are a popular choice for both new construction and remodeling jobs. It is very important that the tub is installed properly. Unless designed to be free standing, which all Durovin models are, an acrylic bathtub the strength to hold the weight of the water, and you on its own. It needs the support of the walls that frame in the tub, and a solid surface on which it can rest. It is recommended to use mortar or concrete at the base of the tub when installing it. This will create a solid base that is contoured to the bottom of the tub, and will eliminate any movement due to unsupported voids at the base of the tub. Any movement due to lack of support can cause the tub to become stressed and can result in cracking. If you plan on buying an acrylic tub, the other half of your mission should be to find a contractor with experience installing acrylic tubs. If you plan on installing an acrylic tub yourself, make sure you have the proper support for the tub in place.
Cracks and Chips
One of the drawbacks of an acrylic tub is that it can become chipped, or cracked. However, this isn't all bad; on the plus side both cracks and chips can be repaired. Repair kits can be purchased with all the needed parts to repair a crack, or chip. Each kit will have their own instructions to follow. It is best to get the repair kit from the tub manufacturer as the color will be the best match. Matching colors can be difficult and, if not matched just right, the patch can be noticeable. In the case of a crack, you may need to investigate why the tub is cracking, and address the reason for the cause of the crack before repairing the crack in the tub. Cracks can sometimes be the result of an improper installation job. Acrylic bathtubs can also become scratched, or turn yellowish over time if they have not been cared for and maintained. If either or both of these things happen, it is possible to restore it back to its original glossy look by buffing your tub with acrylic tub polishers.
Cleaning an Acrylic Tub
Cleaning an acrylic tub is very simple. Most household bathroom cleaners will make the tub look nice and clean. One of the benefits of acrylic bathtubs is that they are stain resistant, and with our NANO coating this adds an additional layer of protection to the glossed areas of the unit. There are certain chemicals that can damage an acrylic tub such as paint thinners, acetones, high-acidic chemicals, or products containing acetates. Before using a chemical that you are unsure of on your tub, it is best to make sure that it will not cause damage to the tub. These items are not too common place in bathroom products but items like nail varnish remover should be kept away from the bath tub itself.
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