Plumbing for the bathroom: types, selection criteria and location options

Plumbing is an important element of any bathroom. Until recently, the choice of sanitary elements was influenced only by their functional components. Today, a beautiful sink or an elegant faucet is a great opportunity to showcase your taste and create the perfect bathroom interior.

Special features

The main requirements for plumbing are comfort in operation, hygiene and functionality. Everything else is taken into account based on personal wishes and opportunities. Each type of plumbing has its differences, we consider them in more detail.

Kinds

All plumbing can be divided into just two groups:

  • products for outdoor installation;
  • built-in products (or the so-called draft plumbing).

The first group has long been considered a classic and is very popular in our time. But if we talk about comfort, it is good to install outdoor plumbing in large bathrooms, where there is enough space for the realization of any ideas.

If there is a need to save space, it is best to choose a flush-mounted embedded installation, which allows you to free up space in the room, while being practical and convenient to use.

Mostly modern bathrooms include several essential elements.

Baths

Until recently, all the bathrooms had heavy cast-iron baths. With the advent of new technologies, the range of these products has been replenished with lighter and no less durable acrylic products. They keep warm well, are easy to clean and durable. Acrylic is a high-quality material that is resistant to mold and fungus. But its biggest plus is the ability to take any form. Due to this, the production of shaped and non-standard baths was put on the conveyor.

However, even today there are manufacturers (French and Italian companies) engaged in the release of baths of cast iron. Their retrostyle and excellent quality are still highly valued in the market.

Almost all modern manufacturers offer products with additional functions: Jacuzzi, seats, armrests, LED lighting.

Shower cabins

These products appeared just recently, but already managed to take their rightful places among the most popular plumbing. Their advantages are in compact sizes, low weight, high strength. For small bathrooms, shower cabins are the most appropriate way to usefully organize space.

The usual cabin is familiar to everyone. Hydrosauna is a “steam room at home”, but hydro-shower is something between a simple shower and a Charcot's shower. Jacuzzi cabins are a small hydro box where instead of a pan there is a small bath with built-in whirlpool elements.

Washbasins

The choice of these products is the widest. In the shops you can find products of different shapes, colors, sizes. And they all look just gorgeous.

Washstands models, in addition to design, differ among themselves by the method of installation. There are so-called sinks tulips (with a pedestal), which are attached to the floor, furniture cabinets and products with wall brackets.Each of them is good in its own way, but consumers are especially fond of shells with pedestals, inside which you can hide water pipes and siphons.

Faucets and water taps

As a rule, mixers are made of brass or stainless metal alloys. The former are considered more durable and durable, the latter are inferior in quality, but with proper care they can last for many years.

There are faucets: single-lever with cartridges, with separate water supply valves, with electronic water supply system.

Materials

Modern manufacturers use for the production of sanitary ware a number of materials, among which are the leading ceramic products. There are more modern materials.

Faience

Plumbing from faience differs impeccable appearance and it is quite cheap. It is light and durable, but there is one drawback - the porous surface quickly accumulates dust and dirt, which is difficult to remove.

Porcelain

Porcelain products are characterized by a smooth dust-repellent surface, which makes it easy to clean. But porcelain is more heavy and expensive material that does not like blows and other impacts - any scratch will be clearly visible on the shiny surface of the sink or porcelain toilet bowl.

Products made of composite materials

Such plumbing appeared thanks to the achievements of modern developments and has continuous advantages: it is impact resistance, resistance to chemicals and acids, ease of maintenance, smoothness of the surface. The only negative is the high price that not everyone can afford.

Marble

The luxurious appearance of sanitary ware made from natural material overshadows all other products. It is strong and durable and is included in the list of premium models. But to care for such products is very difficult because of their porous structure.

Glass

Attractive glassware appeared on the shelves of stores recently. They successfully compete with the most luxurious models of more reliable materials in appearance, but their strength properties are much worse than earthenware or porcelain. The difficulty in the care - another drawback.

On the glass surface will be visible any speck or water droplets.

Cast iron

This material is used in the manufacture of baths and is still recognized as the most durable and reliable of all. It keeps warm well, but the heavy weight of the design and the modesty of the product design clearly loses on the background of other materials.In addition, chips and cracks can form in cast iron baths.

Acrylic

One of the most popular materials, which has many advantages: low weight, easy maintenance, low cost and unlimited possibilities in processing. Original acrylic bathtubs and sinks are rounded, rectangular, triangular or wavy. The disadvantages of acrylic are sensitivity to mechanical stress: it is “afraid” of abrasive and powdery materials, metal brushes, as well as cuts, scratches and bumps.

Bronze

This material is the best suited for the production of mixers. Bronze products belong to the elite plumbing, as the products have a stunning appearance. In addition, they are very strong, reliable and durable. However, their original design can not be called universal for any interior - it requires an appropriate environment.

Style and design

The beauty of the interior of the bathroom depends on the harmony of all its elements: plumbing, furniture, hinged shelves, mirrors and much more. As a rule, laundry baskets, wardrobes or shelves with towels are placed here.If the room allows, you can install a solarium booth. Choosing one or another element of the interior, it is necessary to take into account some factors that affect the durability and quality of their operation.

Everything that is purchased for a bathroom should be moisture resistant. This is especially true of furniture, which, moreover, must combine several functions and, of course, be attractive.

When choosing a place for curbstones and sinks, sets for washing and other plumbing equipment, it is better to place them at a short distance from the wall - this will prolong the life of the products. If the bathroom has a warm floor, the furniture is better to choose on the legs to avoid deformation of its lower parts. Choosing furniture, it is better to refuse bulky models: narrow, high cabinets will look much more modern.

If the house has two bathrooms: the master and the guest, then the set of furniture and plumbing may be different. Almost always in the first case, the room is equipped with additional elements in contrast to the guest room, where you can limit yourself to a modest set of components.

In apartments it is preferable to use small, but functional products. A cabinet with a sink and a mirror - a comfortable and elegant piece of furniture, is very popular.

Using mirrors in the design of the bathroom, you can visually increase the space, and various shelves and cabinets will help to use the space more efficiently.

A few years ago there was a colored plumbing, which immediately fell in love with consumers. Experiments in interior design with shells and toilet bowls of various colors were especially loved by modern designers. Of course, white color is universal and harmoniously fits into any room. But plumbing in contrasting colors will look no less beautiful: red, black, blue.

Modern manufacturers offer both products of one tone, and with patterns. Today, you can even order a print of any image on ceramics.

Original colored ceramic products will complement the bathroom and make it unbeatable.

Famous manufacturers and reviews

German company Grohe It is considered one of the best among analog manufacturers and rightfully occupies a leading place in the world ranking of high-quality plumbing.The products of this brand is one of the most durable, and its luxurious design is almost out of competition.

Technical properties, functionality, practicality - this is why many consumers choose this German company. Grohe faucets - This is a standard plumbing: smooth operation, easy to install, easy to maintain, economical water consumption. The only disadvantage of the product is quite high cost. The price range for elite models varies from 1000 to 1500 dollars. But among the collections of this company there are budget options costing from 50 to 80 dollars.

Roca Company - Spanish manufacturer of quality products from environmentally friendly materials. Plumbing from Roca will appeal to lovers of unusual and original products. The products of this company are striking originality, but it is worth noting that not all of them can be called easy to use.

The price range of plumbing starts from 50 and comes to 500 dollars.

CersanitProbably the most famous at the moment in the domestic market. This Polish sanitary ware differs in rather reasonable price - from 70 dollars.Most models are equipped with modern options, such as anti-splash and microlift. Polish products are distinguished by classic forms, compact size, durability and reliability, ease of maintenance.

Sanita - famous brand domestic plumbing, which harmoniously combines high quality and affordable price. The company has existed for about 100 years and today can boast the widest range of designer sanitary products. Sanita products are manufactured under the strictest quality control, and thanks to the use of modern technologies, the products will last for many years. Most consumers say the excellent quality, durability, luxurious appearance of sanitary ware Sanita.

Jika Tansa Company specializes in the production of baths. The quality of its products meets all European standards. Many consumers note the high wear resistance of Jika Tansa products, which makes them popular both at home and far beyond its borders. A high level of quality control in production ensures reliability and durability of each product.

Most consumers note a rather wide selection of sanitary products in Ikea trading network. Here are copies of quality products, and a large price range allows you to pick up plumbing affordable. In addition, it is possible to choose at once all the elements for the bathroom, including the sink, bathtub, cabinet, toilet, all kinds of shelves and small decor.

Which one to choose?

When choosing a sink, it is better to give preference to models with a protective hole from the overflow of water. It is also good if they are equipped with special fasteners and an individual siphon. Be sure to consider the method of attachment and shape of the product.

If you plan to mount the faucet directly into the wall, it is better to choose a sink with a single drain hole.

Choosing a toilet, it is better to consider options for modern production. For example, the toilets of recent years are equipped with a system of silent water. There are economical models that consume less water. Especially popular today are products coated with special water-repellent and antibacterial agents.

If we talk about the practicality of use, the toilet bidet clearly lead. At first glance, they are no different from ordinary toilet bowls.Their feature in a special water supply system, located on the sides of the toilet. In general, such products function perfectly both as a bidet and for their intended purpose.

Choosing towel warmers, it is better to give preference to durable products made of brass., with polymeric or chrome plating. There are more budget options, but their shelf life does not exceed three years.

Location options

Making the bathroom, the correct location of the plumbing is extremely important, because its comfort and cosiness depend on it.

According to the designers, in the center of the room should be a sink with a mirror and a cabinet. At least 0.7 m of free space should remain in front of the sink. If the family is large, you can install two sinks, this will save time on work and study fees. Between the edges of the shells should be left about 25 cm.

In standard apartments and private houses, the location of the toilet depends on the location of the sewer riser. Of course, if desired, you can achieve a remote placement, but it is much more difficult to implement than the standard familiar installation. Between the front edge of the toilet and the wall should be about 0.6 m, and on the sides of the free distance should be at least 25 cm.

Effective solution will be a free-standing bath. But this model requires a large floor space: at least 9 m2. In small rooms, it is more practical to use shower cabins or corner plumbing options. In any case, for comfortable operation, a design must remain at least 0.7 m.

Tips and tricks

Care for plumbing - a pledge of its durability. Wash all plumbing should be at least two times a week. It is not necessary to wait until a patina forms on the sink or mixer, otherwise scaling forms, which will be more difficult to remove.

Do not forget about the precautions and safety during the care of plumbing. Most products contain acids or chemicals that can damage the skin of the hands.

It is worth noting that overly concentrated cleaning products can damage the sensitive enamel of the toilet bowl or sink, and even leave marks on the chrome-plated surface of the mixers. To avoid such problems, it is recommended to use mild detergents.

If cleaning plumbing does not bring the expected result, you can try home remedieswhich sometimes are more effective, than shop.Regular baking soda does well with the removal of scale, it is enough to apply the product to the surface and leave it for a few minutes. You can remove old stains with the same tool by rubbing the coating with a special brush or a brush.

Another excellent tool in the fight against pollution - table vinegar. To do this, it is necessary to warm up a little and wipe problem areas.

As a prevention of uninterrupted operation of cranes it is not recommended to twist them.

And if water began to drip from the tap, it may simply be necessary to replace the rubber gasket or stuffing box packing.

The operation of the equipment may be adversely affected by sudden drops in water temperature, the use of cold water only, or the use of products for other purposes.

Proper maintenance of plumbing guarantees uninterrupted operation and long service life.

Modern examples in the interior

A wide range of sanitary equipment allows you to choose it for any style and interior.

  • Plumbing in a classic style would be appropriate in any interior. The severity of forms and clarity of lines - this is something that will never go out of fashion.
  • Choosing a plumbing in a classic style, remember that the classic requires appropriate clearance.
  • Fans of extravagant products will love colored bathroom fixtures from global manufacturers. A wide range will allow each consumer to choose the best option for themselves.
  • Ecostyle is recognized as one of the most popular styles of modern designers. Creating a bathroom in this style is not difficult. Plumbing of unusual shape will add color and emphasize the originality of the design.

How to install plumbing in the bathroom, see the following video.

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Information provided for reference purposes. For construction issues, always consult a specialist.

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