How to choose the right shower. How to choose a shower cabin (51 photos): expert advice. Prevention is the best cure for problems

When renovating a bathroom, the main choice is between a shower and a bath - of course, if the area of \u200b\u200bthe room does not allow the installation of both plumbing fixtures. As for the shower cabin, in order to choose a specific model, you need to carefully study the entire range offered by manufacturers. Cabins differ in many respects and can have a lot of additional functions.

Benefits of a shower cabin

Two types of showers

All shower cabins can be divided into open and closed. The choice is often determined by the financial capabilities of the buyer. A closed-type shower cabin has significant advantages over an open design and is not inferior to it in any indicator.

open cabins

The low cost of such devices is due to the small number of elements. The cabin consists of a pallet and doors, often even side walls are missing. Water comes from the shower head, sometimes there are side jets for hydromassage. The main thing to choose in this case is the type of pallet.

Open showers are a pallet + opening doors

The shape of the tray depends on what place you have prepared for the shower cabin. If the plumbing will be placed in a corner, purchase pallets in the shape of a circle sector. If the booth will stand along one of the walls or be in a niche, square or rectangular pallets will be the best choice. Please note that a semi-circular pallet will need curved doors, and their purchase will cost more than buying regular flat doors.

The dimensions of the pallet determine the capacity of the shower itself, so you need to focus on the most, let's say, a large family member. When choosing a cabin in a store, don't hesitate to step inside and perform a few motions that mimic taking a shower. Agree, it will not be very comfortable to swim, clinging to the walls or doors with your elbows.

An equally important indicator is the depth of the pallet. If there are elderly people in the house, it is better to prefer a pallet with low sides. A deep tray is chosen if the shower is the only bathing device. In such a cabin, you can easily bathe babies or pets, the tray can play the role of a practical and capacious tank for hand washing. You will learn all the subtleties in a separate article.

Closed cabins

Such cabins are a separate plumbing device - it can be placed even in the center of the room, if the area allows. Cabins of this type are called boxes - from the English "box" (box). In addition to doors and a tray, they have side walls and a top cover, forming an absolutely hermetic structure. The cost of such a cabin is at least twice as high as the open version. Additionally, each of the numerous functions of the device is evaluated.

Possible functions of the shower box:

Contrast shower - automatic alternation of very hot and almost cold water with a given time interval.
A rain shower is a dispersion of water flow that creates the effect of a tropical rain.
Bath - shower box with a steam generator.
Aromatherapy - if the cabin is equipped with a steam generator, the aromatherapy function allows you to fill the interior not only with steam, but also with aroma. For this, a reservoir for aromatic oil is provided in the wall of the device.
Ventilation - provides air circulation inside the box.
Hydromassage is the most popular feature. A directed jet of water under pressure has a relaxing effect on the muscles, and a tonic effect on the skin.
Illumination - internal lighting is a must for the airtight design of the box.
Radio is for those who like to sing and sing along in the shower.
Phone - will not let you miss an important call.

pallet material

Let's start with the pallet. The choice of material affects the external aesthetics, tactile sensations when bathing in the cabin, the durability and strength of the product, as well as the safety of the swimmer. Please note that most of the bottom surface should not be smooth. Often the bottom of the pallets is covered with protruding hemispheres or ribs.

Cast iron

The material is incredibly durable, but has a significant disadvantage - it heats up for a long time. To take a shower with comfort, you need to warm the tray with hot water for a while. There is an excessive consumption of water and no savings.

Steel

Steel pallets are no less durable than cast iron, but they also have a drawback. The flow of water creates an incredible noise, falling from a height onto a steel pallet. In addition, the enamel chipped over time and may darken.

Acrylic

Plastic pallets have gained their popularity due to their low price and stylish appearance. Acrylic warms up quickly, is pleasant to the touch, does not create noise. Such pallets are sufficient.

Important! A significant disadvantage is fragility- Acrylic may not withstand the fall of a heavy object or intense load on the bottom. This not only entails the cost of purchasing a new pallet, but can also lead to a dangerous situation and injury to swimmers.

In favor of acrylic, we can say that it is easy to wash, and small scratches must be polished.

Plumbing faience

Ceramics in the design of the bathroom looks solid and elegant. Such pallets are stable and reliable, but they are fragile, prone to scratches on the surface and may darken over time. Ceramics must be handled with care.

artificial marble

Artificial marble is a durable and beautiful material that is made from marble chips and a synthetic substance. Minor damage to the surface is almost invisible, especially on dark colors.

It is easy to care for such a pallet, it retains heat well and is not noisy.

Door opening methods

The main materials used for the manufacture of shower doors are plastic and strained glass. Glass retains a presentable appearance much longer, but it also costs more. Among the varieties of economical plastic, give preference to matted options.

Cabin or box doors can be hinged or sliding. A hinged system will cost less, but cabins with such doors are usually chosen for bathrooms of sufficient area. Sliding doors are more compact and save valuable space.

Hinged doors

Please note that the doors do not have to be two. You can get by with just one door leaf, for example, if the cabin is installed in a niche. You can also use one curved door for a corner booth, but for such a design decision you will need quite a lot of free space. The durability of the swing system is determined by the material of the hinges. Opt for solid metal hinges - inexpensive Chinese booths can be fitted with powder pressed material hinges.

Sliding doors

The sliding door leaf moves along the upper and lower rails with the help of a roller. The system also has magnets and rubber seals for tight closing. When using the door, make sure that the roller does not leave the canvas. This can lead to a breakdown of the system and to the fact that the door leaf simply comes off the roller.

The budget option is plastic guides, they are short-lived and flimsy. More expensive and reliable - metal guides made of steel or aluminum. You should not save on the quality of a sliding system - its replacement will cost an amount equal to the price of a shower cabin. For high-quality, expensive systems, it is easier to find parts in case they need to be replaced, and reputable brands often provide an impressive warranty period for their products.

Glass for the walls of shower stalls is made of tempered glass with a thickness of 8 - 10 mm or polystyrene (this is a cheaper option). According to the degree of transparency, glass can be: tinted, transparent, matte, optiwhite (clarified), with patterns or embossing.

Additional functions

Vertical hydromassage - jets of water are delivered vertically from nozzles built into the ceiling. Before buying a shower cabin with this option, you should make sure that the inlet water pressure in your apartment is at least 1.5 atmospheres.

Horizontal hydromassage (only for combined cabins and shower boxes) - water is supplied from nozzles in the walls and at the bottom of the bathroom. The water pressure must also be at least 1.5 atmospheres.

A rain shower is a wide nozzle built into the ceiling, from which water flows in thin streams, simulating tropical rain.

The Finnish sauna effect is produced by a steam generator producing dry hot air. As a rule, the mini-sauna has a wooden finish and is separated from the shower cabin by a door.

Turkish bath: using a steam generator in the shower cabin, a temperature of 45 - 60 ° C and a humidity of 100% are created. The option will appeal to fans of a good steam bath.

The built-in display screen shows information about the water temperature, the selected whirlpool mode, enabled options, etc.

The shower cabin can be equipped with a built-in radio and speakers with which you can listen to music.

The hands-free option in the cubicle will allow you to make phone calls without leaving the bathroom.

Shower cabins entered our lives twenty years ago and seriously compete with our usual baths and fonts. This is facilitated by some of the advantages inherent in these plumbing products. You can quickly freshen up with an economical consumption of water, the cabins take up less space. A number of models are endowed with additional features that make the procedure even more pleasant and useful.

Advantages and disadvantages of shower cabins

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

The advantages of such devices include:

You can take a shower immediately, there is no need to wait for water to fill up, as in the bathroom.
Modern cabins allow you to listen to radio broadcasts during the water procedure, communicate with the outside world through the speakerphone or take medical procedures.
In the booth, there is no need to climb over the high side, you just need to step over the side on the pallet.
The risk of injury in the cabin is minimal because 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, so that it is convenient to take procedures
If the device is equipped with a deep tray, it is convenient to use it for preparing laundry for washing or washing the baby.
The shower uses much less water than the bathroom, but the hair after the detergent is washed much better.
Cabins are compact, in limited conditions they take up much less space than a font. A wide choice of execution allows to place the device in any conditions of a bathroom.
Cabins are easy to clean as tightly closed doors prevent water from entering the outside.

However, showers are not without drawbacks:

high price;
in the cabin it is impossible to relax and soak in warm water;
dependence of some procedures on water pressure in the water supply system. Tropical showers, hot tubs, or steam baths 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 during the natural drying of moisture.

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

Types of shower cabins

According to their design features, they are divided into three main types:

open;
closed;
combined.

open cabins

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

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

One way to install such devices is to refuse the use of a pallet. Instead, a bowl of high-strength concrete is cast, which is finished with non-slip tiles. Glass walls are assembled in an aluminum or stainless steel profile and are tightly fastened to walls lined with ceramic tiles.

The advantages of open structures include:

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

capital arrangement of structural elements;
significant difficulties in the event of a need for repair;
the lack of the possibility of an ozonation device or a steam generator;
the inapplicability of the overhead shower, cascade or tropical;
increased 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 anywhere where it is possible to connect to communications. The cabin consists of a pallet, side walls and a cover. The equipment includes a 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 to make the pallet, but there are also cast-iron bases, as well as sanitary faience products. The supporting structure is usually made of stainless steel or aluminum. The side walls are made transparent or translucent from silicate or organic glass, monolithic polycarbonate is also used, which easily takes on any shape.

Closed cabin available for 30 - 40 thousand rubles depending on the number of additional functions. But there are also copies priced up to 150 thousand.

The advantages of closed cabins include:

quick installation at the installation site;
a large set of additional features;
a wide range of models from various manufacturers;
soundproofing;
closed cabins are isolated and do not affect the microclimate in the room.

Speaking about the shortcomings, 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 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 the best properties of other types in one device - the Jacuzzi device is combined with the possibility of taking a Charcot shower, a cascade or a tropical version.

At the same time, combined devices require considerable space for installation, 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;
Choice of closed or open version.

Choosing a shower cabin according to various factors

The criteria for choosing such plumbing can be various factors:

dimensions;
pallet shapes;
manufacturing material.

Selection by pallet size

Often the limiting parameter in the selection of a device is the size of the room and the location of the associated communications.

If an option is considered that uses a rectangular shape of the pallet, 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 showers. Dimensions over a meter are used in combined devices with a deep tray.

In addition, corner booths can have a combined shape in the form of a semicircle or part of it, 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. They are allowed to be arranged buried, but this depends on the possibility of supplying the drain system. Often it is necessary to install a booth on a pedestal in order to naturally solve this problem.

It is allowed to install a small pump - a 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. The situation can be corrected by an additional step at the entrance to the bath. The handrails in the booth, available in each design, will help to maintain balance.

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

Selection by pallet material

Pallets for booths 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 their considerable weight, since they are produced by casting. Possess high operational qualities and durability more than 10 years.

Steel pallets are strong enough. Their disadvantage is the rapid cooling of water. This can be eliminated by insulating with mounting foam on the reverse side. Such an event partially eliminates their other drawback - the roar from the water falling into it.

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

Pallets from faience sanitary. Usually these are massive stable products. They are easy to care for and have a long service life. The disadvantage of such products is their fragility, so you need to use faience pallets with extreme caution.

Pallets made of natural stone or artificial marble are very durable and maintainable. Their surface can be restored by simple grinding with emery cloth and subsequent polishing. Mass application is limited by the high cost of products.

Selection by door design

Door opening systems in cabs are as follows:

Swing. This design of the doors allows them to be most widely opened towards the bathroom. The door leaf is hung on hinges to the broom door frame.
Hinged. In this design, the doors are hinged to the upper and lower bar of the box. The door opening allows you to enter and leave the cabin as comfortably as possible.
Sliding. This design is chosen for a booth in a cramped room, when the space does not allow swing doors to work. In it, the door leaf moves along a metal guide along the side wall. They can be made with one sliding canvas or two smaller ones.
In conditions of insufficient space, mono stop the choice on rotary ( rocking) doors. It is easily opened, guided by a special hinge and allows easy access to the cabin.
Folding door ( "book") is used in conditions of insufficient space outside the cab. Its two wings are folded in the middle, tightly fitting one to the other, and are closed inside the cabin. Such designs are used for cabins in combined versions.
Curtain doors have become a development in the design of book doors. They smoothly fold into a compact package, do not take up any bathroom space at all and have a presentable appearance.

Wall material selection

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

Polystyrene. This is a family of translucent or transparent plastics that are moisture resistant and light in weight. The main disadvantage of this material is its short service life. Not suitable for installation at home, it is better to use such a cabin in the country. The problem is also the care of polystyrene, because the surface tends to precipitate dirt and soap suds. Finding an effective detergent for him is very problematic.
Glass doors for cabins are the most popular. You should not be afraid to break the door and injure yourself, because triplex is used for their production - durable laminated glass. When destroyed, it simply crumbles to the floor. But this can also be avoided - special film coatings are currently used, thanks to which the glass is simply covered with a network of cracks. Caring for such surfaces is elementary simple.
Plexiglas. Not to be confused with polystyrene! In terms of strength, it is similar to silicate glass, but does not prick. The disadvantage is that 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 matt opaque wall designs.

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

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

It is important to choose a reliable manufacturer with a certain reputation. With caution, you need to treat the products of Chinese manufacturers. It is better to turn to products of well-known brands, the staff of such manufacturers is very demanding on the quality of their products.

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

Additional functions of shower cabins

In addition to a banal wash, a shower cabin allows you to get additional amenities 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, as well as a contrast one, is built in.

This type of spout allows you to dramatically 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 raise the temperature inside the cabin to 55 - 60 degrees using steam generated by a special generator. Often this function is associated 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 fans of dry steam, a function with a sauna is built in, in which dry heated air is blown into the cabin with 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 pay attention to a number of points that need to be considered before purchasing them:

You need to decide on the feature 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 bulk construction work.
The selected cabin must correspond to the size of the room where it will be located. There are many cases when, when installing the cabin, it was necessary to cut down part of the wall, as a result, the cost of repairs and the time spent on it increase significantly.
Before buying a product with additional functions, you need to get advice from plumbers about the amount of water pressure in the network at different times of the day, especially during peak consumption hours.
It is risky to install a cabin without a pallet in a multi-storey building. Such a device will require reliable waterproofing under it, and it must be performed by qualified specialists.
Of great importance is the visual perception of the product that you are going to purchase. There are many opportunities for this, including the study of photos, which abound on the Internet.

Thus, the decisive factor influencing the choice of a shower enclosure is the budget. Based on this indicator, the size corresponding to the size of the room is selected. Other 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 designs of shower cabins allows you to install them yourself from a set of purchased parts. Before starting work, carefully read the manufacturer's installation recommendations. Only after that you can proceed with the installation.. If a complex design is used, and questions arise, it is better to postpone this event and entrust its execution to invited specialists.

Increasingly, people are installing shower cabins near or instead of bathtubs. One of the reasons is the ergonomics of the device. However, it is worth noting also the functionality of showers.

In addition to the opportunity to perform hygiene procedures, the owners of the unit have the opportunity to enjoy SPA treatments without leaving home. Even inexpensive modern models are equipped with hydromassage, different types of showers.

More expensive options offer to enjoy bath procedures, pamper yourself with aroma and chromotherapy, soak in the Jacuzzi.

However, in order for the design to meet all your requirements, serve for a long time and do not require repair, it is important to know what to look for when buying a device.

Peculiarities

Shower enclosures are designed to be used in a standing (in some models also sitting) position. However, if you choose a design with a high tray and large enough dimensions, it can also be used for bathing.

You can install shower cabins in private houses, apartments, baths and saunas. The main thing is that the building has a water supply, and water is supplied under a constant pressure of at least 3 bar.

Advantages and disadvantages

Shower cabins have a number of advantages:

save space, because on average they occupy only 1-1.5 square meters. m;
reduction in water consumption compared to the water consumption in the bathroom by about 3 times;
multifunctionality - modern models are not just a washing place, but combine many pleasant healing procedures;
ease of use - the ergonomic organization of the interior of the cabin allows you to quickly reach for a washcloth or detergent;

high thermal efficiency, if we are talking about closed and combined models - due to the tightness of the structure, it quickly warms up and retains heat;
a variety of models, thanks to which you can find a suitable model for a variety of rooms (from a bathroom in Khrushchev to a large room in a private house);
ease of care (for care it is enough to use special tools, it is recommended to dry the surfaces after water procedures and ventilate the cabin);
safety (the pallet has an anti-slip coating, all surfaces are impact-resistant, the heating elements are “hidden” inside the system);
the ability to heat water, which is especially valuable if hot water is suddenly turned off.

The disadvantage of the system is the requirement for a constant water pressure. For the operation of additional options, a pressure in the pipes of at least 3 bar is required, for the operation of the shower - at least 1.5 bar. It is possible to level the inconstancy of the pressure by using special pumps. If it is not possible to achieve the latter indicators, special pumps are used, which are recommended to be installed as close as possible to the entry point of the water supply to the apartment or house.

Another disadvantage is the quick failure of the nozzles, which is associated with increased water hardness.

The use of a three-stage water filter will help to avoid such a breakdown.

The higher cost of a high-quality model of a shower cabin can also be considered a minus compared to the price of a bathtub. As a rule, showers are installed instead of it, therefore, in addition to the cost of buying a cabin, you cannot avoid spending on dismantling the bathtub, repairing the room after dismantling.

Finally, even the most modern models will not replace the bath, because the shower is just an alternative.

Criterias of choice

It is necessary to choose one or another model based on your own needs and the size of the room. If you only need to wash, then it makes no sense to spend money on closed cabins equipped with many options. Enough open-type design, equipped with a shower.

Corner models are optimal for small and medium rooms because they are more ergonomic. In this case, the type of door should also be taken into account. Swing doors are considered the best in quality and reliability (that is, opening outward, in some models in both directions). However, they require free space when opened. If the room does not have this, you can choose a sliding door.

When choosing a pallet, pay attention to its height. Higher ones, from 30 cm, are usually chosen by families with children. In such a pallet you can bathe a child. Fans of soaking up in the bathroom should purchase trays 50 cm high. However, the latter should be in a sufficiently large cabin (so that you can take a reclining position). Otherwise, any sense of acquiring such a pallet is lost. If there are elderly people in the family, most likely it will be convenient for them to use a cabin with a low (20-25 cm) pallet.

Kinds

Depending on what criterion the classification is based on, shower cabins can be divided into different types.

First of all, it should be noted that, depending on the type of construction, 3 types of cabins are distinguished.

Open. Such systems are organized near one or two walls of the bathroom, and therefore they have only front panels and doors and do not have a top closing part. A tray is installed below, in the cabin itself - a mixer and a shower head. Such cabins can also be organized in a wall niche. Roofless models are prefabricated. This is the simplest cabin model, in which it is impossible to organize additional functions (hydromassage, steam generator, etc.). Its advantage is mobility, low cost.

However, such structures do not have high thermal efficiency, which is due to the absence of a dome.

Closed. They are closed boxes with a frame, ceiling and front doors. Thanks to their tightness, it is possible to manufacture a cabin of any shape, install it in a convenient place and equip it with numerous additional options. Such cabins warm up quickly and retain heat for a long time. Sheer walls - a guarantee that the water will quickly flow down, leaving no traces and streaks. Naturally, they have a higher cost.

Combined. Contain the features of a shower and bath. That is, this is a design that is externally and in its functions close to a shower cabin, but at the same time the owner has the opportunity to take a bath. Transparent, as if hinged, the design can cover the entire bathroom or only part of it. The advantage is comfort, versatility of use, ergonomics and economy (installation of a combined cabin will cost less and take up less space than the simultaneous installation of a shower box and a bathtub). However, such systems require a large installation space, and their price is quite high.

materials

Speaking about materials for shower cabins, one should distinguish between those from which pallets are made and those used for doors.

Depending on the type of material, several types of pallets are distinguished.

Acrylic. They are characterized by a variety of forms, ease of care, affordability. However, acrylic itself is a fragile material, so it is important that there is a reinforcing layer inside the pallet. In the absence of such, it is necessary to install the pallet on a concrete base covered with a metal sheet. With such “support”, the pallet will last up to 15 years. A stronger and more durable variation of the acrylic pallet is the quaryl analogue. Its distinguishing feature is the presence of quartz chips in the composition, due to which the strength indicators increase.

Cast iron. Their main feature is increased strength characteristics, which ensures a long (up to 30 years) service life of the pallet. Unlike acrylic, it heats up more slowly, but also cools down longer. The disadvantage of the model is its heavy weight, high cost and limited choice of forms.

Ceramic. They have an impeccable appearance, thanks to which they fit into any interior. Despite the large margin of safety, the model requires careful handling. Minus - high price.

Stone. They are based on natural stone, which has unsurpassed strength. It is worth noting the high price of pallets, especially when it comes to marble.

More affordable are porcelain stoneware models, which, by the way, can imitate any other stone surfaces (including marble).

Various materials are used for the manufacture of cabin doors.

Plexiglas. One of the most affordable options, which, unfortunately, cannot boast of high impact strength and safety. With careless handling, cracks form on its surface, and the material itself is considered a fire hazard, since it is highly flammable.

Plastic. Another budget option for a door made of polystyrene. Such doors have a low cost and a small thickness. However, plastic is not very durable, with careless handling it can become cracked, and when exposed to high temperatures and “jumps” in water temperature, it can deform. In addition, under the influence of water, the surface of the door may become stained and streaked (they are especially noticeable on colored doors). To avoid this, the purchase of a door with a special polymer coating will help. Water flows off it without affecting the plastic.

Strained glass. It has increased strength characteristics, which is due to the special technology of its production. The glass is first heated to high temperatures, and then immediately cools down. The surface is resistant to temperature changes, impacts. If, nevertheless, the glass breaks, its fragments will not have sharp edges.

Triplex. Its manufacturing technology is similar to the production of automotive glass. The material is 2 or 3 layers of glass, between which a polymer film is laid. This provides high surface strength, including mechanical damage, resistance to temperature. If the triplex is damaged, its fragments will remain on the interlayer film.

The side and rear walls are made of the same materials. As for open models, they usually involve tiling. Fixing tiles must be carried out before installing the pallet. At the same time, it is important that the tiles are intended for rooms characterized by high humidity.

If we talk about multifunctional cabins, then certain models of them may have a sauna. Such designs are 2 boxes: washing and directly the one where bath procedures are taken. For the design of the sauna, plastic or wooden surfaces are used.

The latter are remarkable in that they allow you to completely recreate the atmosphere of a steam room.

Forms

The shape of the shower cabin is determined by the shape of the tray.

Rectangular- the most common variety. Depending on the size, it can be installed in any room. The minimum size (length-width) for the cabin is 90x70 cm, the maximum is 170x90 cm.
Square. It can have different variations, the most convenient are models whose sides are 80-150 cm.
Corner. It can be represented by a semicircular shape, as well as a quarter circle shape. In this case, the door may have a spherical shape. The best option for small spaces, as it allows you to increase the useful area of the room. The dimensions of the sides forming a right angle range from 80-150 cm.

Round. Differs in original design therefore allows to recreate a stylish interior. Depending on the size, it fits well in both small and spacious rooms. A feature of the model is the versatility of its installation. You can mount the structure both against the wall and in the center of the room. As a rule, a round cabin has a radius of 90-120 cm.
Pentahedral. Also suitable for installation in the corner of the room, while it looks more attractive than the corner counterparts. Despite the greater number of components, its production is simpler than the production of angular models with a smooth contour.
Asymmetrical. The wall width in such models is usually 80-150 cm.

Dimensions

The dimensions of the shower cabin should be selected based on the size of the bathroom. At the same time, it is important that the cabin is comfortable and spacious enough for the largest member of the family - a person must move his arms freely, be able to bend his knees.

An important selection criterion is the depth of the pallet.

There are several types of pallets.

Deep. Characterized by a height of 25-35 cm or more. There are models whose height is up to 50 cm. Provided that the cabin itself is large enough, such a pallet can easily replace a bathtub, and if equipped with additional elements, the pallet will turn into a jacuzzi.

Shallow. Such models are also called averages. Their height is from 10 to 18 cm. In principle, this height is sufficient to prevent water from pouring onto the floor.

It is usually used in those cabins used by elderly family members, as well as people who, for some reason, cannot cross the high “threshold”.

As flat as possible the pallet has a height that does not exceed 10 cm. As a rule, they are installed in structures designed for baths and saunas.

Device

In general, a shower cabin includes walls, a shower head, a top panel (dome), a tray, and a door. Open models are characterized by a simpler organization - they are not equipped with side and top surfaces. The walls of the room itself act here as the walls of the unit.

Closed cabins are more organized and have all the elements specified for the general view of the cabins. And to be more precise, even more, since closed boxes usually have additional functions. Such systems have a frame. It comes in plastic and metal. The latter is more durable, but due to the fact that it is made on the basis of aluminum profiles, it is lightweight. Panels, a dome, doors are assembled on the frame, after which the entire system is mounted on a pallet.

The shower head and additional nozzles (if there are additional options) are located on the panel. Today's watering cans have many holes for different modes of water jet. A specific program is set by changing the position of the lever on the device. The shower is connected to a rubber hose, which can be of various lengths. Optimal is 1.5 m.

The possibility of hydromassage is provided by nozzles located on the wall panel.

They can be of the following types:

hydromassage (massage effect is provided by a jet of water supplied under high pressure);
air massage (instead of water, air is supplied to the nozzles, which, when it enters the water, forms bubbles);
combined (nozzles of this type combine the capabilities of 2 previous types).

The nozzles are installed at different heights, and the power of the supplied jet depends on the massaged part of the body. So, in the neck and legs, the streams are weaker than those that fall in the back.

The pallet may have special legs, the adjustment of which ensures the correct position of the pallet - it must be strictly parallel to the floor. If the legs are missing, you should take care of the impeccable evenness of the flooring.

Be sure to take care of waterproofing the floor, and so that the water in the pan does not collect in puddles, it is permissible to install it at a slight slope with respect to the drain.

For the shower cabin, there are 2 types of faucets.

Single valve. Convenient and practical option, also called single-lever. Thanks to the presence of an air generator, it is possible to reduce water consumption. One movement of the hand is enough to adjust the temperature and water pressure.
Two-valve. The traditional mixer model, also called thermostatic.

The organization of the drain involves the connection of the drain of the structure with a pipe passing under it. The pipe, in turn, passes into the sump, and it is connected to the sewer.

Ease of use, durability and ergonomic design also depend on the type of doors used.

Depending on their design features, there are several types of doors.

Traditional hinged doors. They can have one or two doors, the first ones always open outward, the second ones can also open inside the cabin. Doors of this type are considered the most reliable, even with a significant impact, they will not fly out of the hinges. The only "minus" - when opening such a door requires free space, and therefore is not always suitable for small rooms.
Sliding. The door leaf opens in the same way as a closet door. An ideal option for small rooms, because when the door is opened, the usable area of \u200b\u200bthe room is not “eaten up”. They are considered less reliable than the previous version. When choosing a sliding door type, preference should be given to aluminum profiles and metal rollers.

Swivel. Such canvases have several flaps that are easily moved apart, being hinged.
Folding. Such designs are also invented to save space. The swinging halves of the canvas are simply bent and superimposed on each other. Such systems are also called "books". If the sashes are made of soft materials, then they are assembled with an accordion, for which the model got its name. Folding structures, despite their ergonomics and low cost, are rarely used. This is due to their unreliability and low thermal efficiency.

Special attention deserves the design of the cabin with a sauna. It consists of 2 cabins separated by a partition. The first is for taking a shower, the second is a mini-sauna. The transition from one zone to another is carried out through the door. There are also models with a separate entrance to each of the zones.

The control of the sauna parameters (heating temperature, humidity) is regulated by the control panel, which is taken out of the cabin.

To make the process of using the shower as comfortable as possible, choose cabins with a seat. Such a kind of "chair" will help to relax as much as possible, and sometimes it is completely impossible for people of advanced age or poor health to take a shower. When buying this design, be sure to sit on the bench. The place should be deep enough so as not to slip off it, located at the optimum height. For an ergonomic cab interior, choose models with a folding seat.

Equipment

Modern shower cabins are a whole SPA complex in your home. Among the most common, there are several types of options.

Hydromassage. Represents water jets beating under pressure. For their organization, nozzles are used, placing them in different parts of the cabin panel. Hydromassage stimulates blood circulation, energizes, relieves feelings of fatigue and irritability.
Tropical shower. The system imitates a tropical downpour, which is achieved by installing a special nozzle on the shower. It separates the stream of water into separate drops. A rain shower is a great way to relax.
Air ozonation. A useful feature that allows you to get rid of the smell characteristic of wet rooms, as well as an excellent prevention of mold.

Aromatherapy. It implies filling the cabin (as well as the bathroom itself) with your favorite aroma. To do this, a few drops of essential oils are added to a special compartment. Under the action of hot water and steam, they evaporate, delighting users with fragrance. The procedure allows you to relax or, on the contrary, cheer up, acts as an effective prevention of colds.
Chromotherapy. In other words, color therapy. Along with the flow of water, a person is affected by multi-colored illumination. Scientists have proven that each color has a beneficial effect on different organs and systems of a person.
With a bath. They allow you to recreate the atmosphere of a steam room.
Jacuzzi. A relaxing bubble bath is organized in high trays, for which they are equipped with special equipment.

Useful options include volumetric ventilation, thanks to which it is possible to quickly ventilate the cabin or evenly distribute steam.

Cabins with a sauna deserve special attention. They can be of 2 types: those that have a steam generator, as well as devices equipped with a separate steam room.

The first are conventional closed structures equipped with a steam generator.

The steam temperature in such devices is not higher than 50-55C.

Designs with a steam room allow you to feel like in a bath, because higher humidity and temperature values \u200b\u200bare set here (up to 120C).

Depending on the characteristics of the microclimate, there are 3 types of cabins with a sauna.

Finnish sauna with its characteristic dry hot steam;
Turkish bath, a feature of which is high (up to 60C) temperature and 90-100% humidity;
Bath with infrared radiation, which provides uniform heating of the human body. A great option for those who want to sweat well, but do not like the burning moist air of the bath.

Among the popular options is the ability to listen to the radio or your favorite music via DVD or USB-system. Thanks to the design features, the sound of pouring water does not drown out your favorite tracks.

Modern models can also be equipped with a radiotelephone and have a voice control system.

For more convenient use, the structures are equipped with one or more shelves on which you can store bath accessories. Pay attention to whether the shelf has protective sides. With the latter, stored bottles of shampoos and gels will not slip and fall to the bottom of the booth. The shape resembling a basket in shape will also be convenient.

It is important that its lower and side parts are perforated, then water will not linger on the shelf. Only closed and combined cabins have this type of additional functions.

Accessories and design

The design of the booth should match the overall style of the interior. When organizing the unit in the lower, as well as in the corner devices and boxes made of transparent glass, the adjacent walls need to be lined. Ceramic tiling looks beautiful, practical and beautiful. It is important to close the seams well. After all, the durability of the coating depends on it.

Surfaces decorated with mosaics look original and stylish. The cost of such a design will be higher. It looks interesting combination of 2-3 shades of mosaic, close or contrasting. Also using this material, you can lay out fantasy patterns, thematic pictures.

Wood paneling is invariably associated with a steam room. That is why in such a booth it is especially cozy and warm at home. This option is especially relevant in a private house.

An important nuance is that wooden panels should be treated with protective compounds; the crate on which the panels are fixed also needs protection.

Stone trim (natural or artificial) will appeal to connoisseurs of luxury. Naturally, as attractively and logically as possible, such a cabin looks in large rooms. The most popular is marble, granite, brick cladding, as well as a combination of several stone textures.

When organizing corner devices and structures in a niche, curtains can be used instead of doors. They can be made from various materials. The most practical and attractive are glass curtains, which are not much different from profileless glass doors. Plastic options are close to them in their execution, which have a more affordable price, but are somewhat inferior in their performance to glass options.

Fabric models are well-known variations of shower curtains. Today they are more practical, durable, made from environmentally friendly materials and delight with a variety of design designs. An innovative variety of fabric modifications are those made from polyester.

Manufacturers

The first country to launch mass production of shower cabins is Italy. It is not surprising that Italian products are considered among the best today and top the ratings in device reviews. One of the most famous brands here is Jacuzzi. The products combine the features typical of a bathroom and a cubicle. The cost of structures is above average.

By the way, those who dream of purchasing products made on equipment Jacuzzi, but at the same time seeks to save money, they can consider the products of a Chinese brand Parly. This is a budget line of a world famous company. Appollo. The main advantage is the optimal combination of high quality and affordable cost.

It is worth noting the young Spanish brand Esbano, which combines the world's leading technologies in the field of shower cabins and meets the requirements of the Russian buyer. The products are simple, elegant, but at the same time reliable and multifunctional. In the manufacturer's catalog you can find all the most popular cabin configurations, as well as individual elements (curtains in a niche, doors, fittings, mirrors).

The design is predominantly classic, minimalist.

Pallets - white acrylic, deep, medium and low. Panels - tempered glass, frosted or tinted. As for the dimensions, the most compact ones are corner models with side dimensions of 80 cm, many pentagonal designs, as well as asymmetric versions. The advantage of the brand can be called affordability. The cost of the simplest models starts from 23,000 - 25,000 rubles.

Germany is another leading manufacturer of shower devices.

German designs represent such brands:

CRW- produces high-class cabins, the supporting elements of which are made of stainless metals;
Hueppe– their pride is cabins made of durable glass, which, due to the peculiarities of production, does not get dirty;
Hyber- the choice of those who prefer simplicity and functionality;
Grossman is a worthy example of a successful combination of durability, compactness and variety of options.

Traditional German quality and durability for centuries are embodied in the shower cabins of the German brand Lagard. It is worth noting that the products belong to the luxury class, the cost ranges from 80,000 to 200,000 rubles. Externally, the devices appear as laconic glass structures, but their functionality will delight even the most sophisticated user. Bestsellers are booths with asymmetric, round, square and rectangular trays. The combination of chrome-plated silver aluminum profiles and glass is an example of noble sophistication. The smallest cabins are 90x90 in size.

Finnish companies are not inferior to the leading positions. The most authoritative is Timo, which features not only the highest quality, but also a 5-year warranty on cabs, and IDO Showerama. The latter produces expensive models, the cost of which, however, is fully justified by versatility and reliability.

The company boasts a large production line, including both expensive and affordable devices. eago. The brand belongs to the DPRK, the main part of the cabins is assembled here, the rest are made in China. The "plus" of the product is the use of reinforced sanitary acrylic pallets. This provides strength, durability of the unit while maintaining an attractive appearance. These cabins have a powerful protective system - in case of a short circuit, lack of water in the steam generator and other unforeseen cases, the system automatically turns off. The devices are distinguished by their original design and pallet capacity.

There are few standard models in the collection, but there are plenty of interesting design systems.

A shower cabin is a convenient and stylish solution for those whose bathroom sizes leave much to be desired. Introducing: a shower cabin in a small bathroom - photos of the best solutions.

Residents of Western countries have long been installing shower cubicles in their apartments and houses. What can not be said about the inhabitants of our country, where showers became widespread ten years ago. In the days of the USSR, the range of goods, like, was so narrow that there was not even a question of choice. The Soviet conveyor produced only a few models of any product. Given the small size of the apartments that we inherited from the period of the Soviet era, it is surprising that showers have not become a common occurrence in our life in such a way. The mass use of shower cabins in Russian apartments is still far away.

Taking a bath is relaxing, and there are times when a bath is not recommended for medical reasons. The shower is more likely to invigorate, which is especially important in the morning.

Saving. When you take a bath, you use much more water than when you use a shower. According to experts, when taking a bath, you spend 3-4 times more water than when taking a shower.
Rapidity. To take a bath, you will need to spend time filling it with water. The very process of bathing will stretch to splashing, lying, dreaming. To take a shower: stand under running water, wash and run. A clear time saver.
Compactness. Even the smallest bath will take up more square meters than a built-in shower in the bathroom.
Hygiene. Dirt, germs and bacteria are less likely to accumulate and multiply in the shower cubicle, since the water is running in it.

Choosing the type of shower

There are several types of showers. First, there are open and closed.

open

This is a simple shower cabin with no bells and whistles, consisting of a tray and two partitions. The pallet is installed in the corner of the bathroom, and the partitions run from one wall to another.

The advantages of these cabins are that they are compact and inexpensive.

When buying an open shower cubicle, opt for higher baffles to protect yourself from spilling water.

Closed

The second category is the sealed capsule. In addition to the pallet and walls, it also has a roof. This design is completely sealed. It not only prevents water from entering the shower stall, but also protects the bathroom from condensation and moisture. and bathroom items will not be subject to temperature extremes and high humidity.

It does not have to be installed in the corner of the bathroom.

The undoubted advantage of such booths is the use of advanced technologies in them. For example, the presence of a hydromassage or a radio.

The main models of shower cabins

Consider the main types of showers.

Open shower corner

It is characterized by the absence of rear walls and the presence of side screens-partitions.

partitions are held on hinges or installation profiles, which visually increase the space in small bathrooms;
the walls are fixed along the perimeter of the frame, this model is often equipped with sliding doors, which allows you to compactly place the shower corner;
internal partitions are attached to a frame structure, whose strength and stability make such a shower enclosure attractive to the buyer.

According to their external shape, shower corners are classified into semicircular, rectangular and square. When choosing one or another form of construction, it is important to focus on the dimensions of the bathrooms. Rectangular shower enclosures are more appropriate in spacious bathrooms.

Most of the space in the bathroom is occupied by square and rectangular corners.

If you need to save space, opt for semicircular partitions. Due to the smoothing of sharp corners, several centimeters of space are freed up, which, for example, allows you to install a sink for washing hands closer to the shower corner or provide space for free movement.

Without top baffle

A shower cabin in a bathroom without a top cover has its pros and cons.

democratic price (in comparison with closed capsules);
the cabin can be easily installed in a room with low ceilings (no higher than 2.1 meters);
the design will allow all family members whose height exceeds 1.95 m to comfortably take a shower;
rear partitions partially protect the walls from water ingress.

incomplete waterproofing, as a result of which evaporation settles on the ceiling and walls outside the cabin; therefore, it is worth additionally taking care of the moisture resistance of the material of the walls, ceiling and furniture, otherwise you will have to wipe them dry every time after taking a shower;
often water and steam get into the cracks between the walls and partitions, because of this the walls become moldy; the problem is eliminated with the help of special drains;
it is useless to put a steam generator in open showers, so this option will not work for those who like to take a steam bath in a mini-sauna;
open cabins are not designed for rain and cascade showers.

Sealed capsule

High price, large dimensions, reduction of internal space due to the top coating are just a few of the disadvantages that are offset by a host of advantages.

placement of the cabin anywhere in the bathroom and even outside it;
installation of a deep tray, which is convenient in the presence of small children and pets (the tray can be used as a bath);
wide additional functionality (various kinds of lighting, hydromassage, Charcot shower, cascade and tropical shower, Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, foot massage, etc.);

Full tightness of the cabin will protect the walls, ceiling and bathroom furniture from dampness and temperature fluctuations in the room, reliable sound insulation and independence from the external microclimate.

Hydrobox

It is a combination of shower and bath. This design is preferred by couples with children and lovers of swimming in the supine state.

A shower box has the same advantages as a sealed capsule. You can also install a landline telephone, radio and even a compact TV in it, or additionally equip the walls with shelves and cabinets for bathroom accessories.

Choosing pallet materials

When choosing a material, think about how long it will last you. Pay attention to noise levels and heat conduction. Find out if the surface is too slippery.

Acrylic

Popular material, heats up quickly and keeps warm for a long time. Quiet and safe - not slippery and does not make noise under jets of water.

Acrylic is easy to work with. Due to which you can give any shape and attach additional details.
It is easy to clean and keeps a fresh look for a long time.
Serves 15-20 years, and minor damage is corrected with a special paste.

Acrylic has only one minus: without reinforcement with plates, it bends, and then breaks. When buying, you should pay attention to this. If the manufacturer has not strengthened the pallet, it is better to buy a metal frame additionally.

Cast iron

To "kill" a cast-iron pan, you need to work hard.

Lasts for decades
Holds heat well, but warms up for a long time;
It is inexpensive compared to other materials.

It weighs a lot, there is no variety in the choice of forms: several standard models are sold;
Cast iron reflects the blows of a jet of water loudly. If this is important to you, please note: the thicker the pan, the less noise it makes;
Enamelled cast iron can become chipped and the coating layer will have to be changed.

Steel

It is durable and much stronger than acrylic, but the pallets are enameled. The service life depends on the quality of the coating. Light weight and cost is a plus, but there are downsides.

Steel pallets are slippery, it is better to take a corrugated bottom or lay a rubber mat;
They heat up slowly and hold heat poorly;
Soundproofing is worse than cast iron.

Ceramics

Aesthetically beautiful, long service life;
Ceramics are easy to care for;
High level of sound insulation;
Ceramics heat up slowly, but retain heat much better than steel and cast iron.

The disadvantages include a lot of weight, high price and fragility: dropped the shower head - a crack started.

A rock

The main material is marble, but there are other options.

Durable, stylish and beautiful looking;
They heat up quickly and do not cool down for a long time;
The roughness of the stone is pleasant to the skin.

Natural is expensive. But you can choose a pallet made of artificial materials: porcelain stoneware is durable, similar to real stone, but not so expensive.

Wood

More suitable for a summer residence. Requires proper processing, without which it will not last long. As an option: make not completely out of wood, but only the bottom. Standing and lying on a wooden floor is very pleasant.

From my own experience I can say:
looks stylish;
nice to stand;
does not cool the legs;

but harder to clean.

Choosing the material for the partition

Water repellent curtain

It is impossible to wash in an open shower, because the spray is flying in all directions. A waterproof curtain is a reliable barrier that saves the room from flooding.

This accessory is often made of colored polyethylene film, rubberized fabric or oilcloth.

If the cab has low sides, choose a curtain with a weighting agent along the lower edge. It better protects against water, ensuring complete tightness.

Polymer partitions

Acrylic, PMMA and Plexiglas - these polymer composites are used for shower renovations. They have earned great popularity due to ease of maintenance and high aesthetic qualities. The ability to apply different finishing methods allows the use of polymer partitions in various interiors.

They look very much like glass partitions, but they weigh less and are easily scratched. So be careful with aggressive detergents and hard brushes when cleaning.

Plastic screens

Budget material for partitions in the bathroom. It lends itself to any type of processing, it is easy to assemble a shower cabin from it with your own hands. Plastic is an inexpensive finishing material that is used to decorate sanitary areas in hospitals and other public institutions. Therefore, before installing plastic screens, think about whether you will be comfortable in such a room.

Inexpensive, but requires a frame, as plastic bends easily.

Strained glass

Shower doors made of tempered glass are hard to damage. Heat treatment gives strength to the surface. This quality allows you to safely operate the structure in rooms with high humidity, where it is so easy to slip and fall.

Tempered glass looks expensive, making the bathroom spectacular and stylish. Its only disadvantage is a predisposition to the formation of limescale. To avoid this trouble, wipe the glass doors dry every time after taking a shower.

Choose a package

Faucets

The right choice of a faucet for a shower cabin with a tap (the other one is probably not produced anymore) is reliability and functionality. Washing and showering becomes a pleasure. The faucet will not fall off, the shower hose will not leak, and there will be no rust.

Shower device. Here your requests are solved - simple water procedures or a massage shower.
Manufacturer. There are well-known quality brands.
Material resistant to aggressive additives and hard water.
Mixer design. Lever or with cranes. Despite the popularity of lever faucets, faucets with separate taps have their advantages:

Faucets are more durable.
Adjusting the water temperature is easier.
A slight turn of the tap to open the water (for some models).
The special material of the valves (on some models) eliminates heating.

It is possible to have a shower cabin with a separate faucet for washing, but this is more of an exotic category with a very minimal bathroom area.

shower head

Shower head attachment. It can be done on the side wall of a small shower cabin, on the ceiling or on the wall of the room. With a rigid attachment of the watering can, water flows from above. It is optimal - depending on the desire - to wash partially or completely. A special mount with a non-rigid fixation of the watering can is suitable for taking a shower, and for partial water procedures. Picking up a watering can, adjust the direction and height of the jet.
shower hose material Rubber and silicone last longer and are stronger in bends than metal hose.
Watering can throughput. Depends on the number of holes - the more, the stronger the pressure and spray.

An interesting aspect is the choice of a shower head from a medical point of view:

And the last thing - a knowledgeable consultant in the store will select the complete set of the faucet for the model of the shower cabin, the needs and possibilities of the buyer.

Additional functions

Pleasant trifles

a radio receiver that allows you to wash and listen to the latest news at the same time;
TV, thanks to which you can also see a visual picture of the news;
a video player that allows you to turn on movies or clips during water procedures.

Perhaps once the presence of a radio or TV in the shower was considered a special chic, now wireless waterproof speakers with Wi-Fi control will help to relax.