Cast-iron bathtubs: features, sizes and selection tips

The cast-iron bathtub is a reliable plumbing fixture, the quality of which is time-tested. Despite the huge number of acrylic and steel samples available on the modern market, many consumers still prefer the good old bathtubs made of cast iron, considering them the strongest and most durable.

Cast-iron bathtubs are enameled appliances designed for domestic and hygienic purposes. For their manufacture use gray cast iron of grades СЧ10 and СЧ15, melted in accordance with GOST 1412-85.

Due to the presence of carbon in pig iron, whose share is about 2.14%, bathtubs are very strong and durable. However, despite its high strength, cast iron does not withstand shock loads and from a directed blow with a hammer can crack.

Stable customer demand and the high popularity of such bathtubs are explained a number of undeniable advantages of cast iron in front of other materials.

• Cast iron has low thermal conductivity, because of which the water in the bath remains hot for a long time.
• When filling the bath, the noise from the pouring water is practically absent.
• Long service life cast iron baths distinguishes them from products made of other materials. Such models can last 50 years or more, which can not be said about other bathtubs.
• Due to the special metal structure the enamel does not crack and lasts a very long time in the bath.
• Enamel coating and alloy do not pose a threat to human healthmaking bathtubs made of cast iron environmentally friendly products.
• The wall thickness of the cast-iron baths is 6-10 mm, which allows them to easily withstand the weight of a person’s body and water pressure, without changing the original forms. In addition, cast iron models are not afraid of boiling water and are not deformed by exposure to high temperatures.
• Due to its heavy weight the bathtub made of cast iron does not need to be additionally fixed to the wall or ceiling: the product is very firmly on the floor and it is impossible to turn it over by accident.
• Cast iron appliances are highly resistant to chemicals, therefore, you can wash them with any detergents, including abrasives.
• Pore-free bath enamel, which prevents the accumulation of dirt and the multiplication of pathogens.

Along with a lot of obvious advantages, cast iron bathtubs certainly have disadvantages. They include quite a large weight of products, often exceeding 200 kg. This greatly complicates their transportation, rise to the floor, installation and often forces the buyer to refuse to purchase them in favor of models made of lighter materials. Another significant drawback of cast-iron bathtubs is the need for their grounding, due to the high electrical conductivity of the metal.

This is mainly due to the high cost of the material, which is a weighty argument for many manufacturers not to engage in the production of such bathtubs. In addition, due to the low ductility of cast iron, it is very difficult to cast from it original molds that satisfy modern requirements. therefore most models are produced in a classic rectangular or oval shape and it is not so often to find an interesting specimen.

The main competitors of cast-iron bathtubs in the modern market are acrylic and steel models.

• Compared to steel products, cast iron retains heat longer and is not susceptible to corrosion processes. However, steel models weigh much less than cast iron and do not cause difficulties in transportation and installation. Cast iron wins in strength and durability, but in the variety of assortment - the palm of steel baths. When water is taken into the bathtub, steel models produce a loud noise; in cast iron, this process occurs almost silently. As for the cost, steel bathtubs are much cheaper than cast iron, for which they are in wide consumer demand.
• Speaking of acrylic, cast iron surpasses it in strength and resistance to deformation: low-grade acrylic does not withstand boiling water well and begins to deform over time, while it does not threaten cast iron. But in weight, cost and a variety of sizes and shapes, acrylic certainly wins. Acrylic samples are often equipped with a large number of additional options, such as hydromassage, backlight, anti-slip bottom and a built-in seat. Cast iron samples cannot boast of such a variety and are more often produced in a traditional configuration.

Cast iron bathtubs are classified according to such characteristics as the installation location, shape and size. According to the first criterion, the models are divided into wall, freestanding and angular.

• Freestanding bathtubs They have a rectangular or oval classic shape and are installed in the center of the room, away from the walls. The advantages of such samples are a stylish appearance and the ability to enter the bath from any direction.The disadvantages include the need to pull communications in the middle of the room (plumbing and drainage), the inability to install in small bathrooms and splashes flying in different directions.

• Wall baths represent the largest category of cast-iron bathtubs and are installed close to the wall or to the corner. The advantages of wall samples are ease of installation, good accessibility of communications and the ability to install in small spaces. Moreover, among wall-mounted models there are sedentary samples of 100x70 and 120x70 cm in size, which can be installed in very tiny bathrooms.

• Cast iron corner models are not found so often, and those that are present on the market cost 100 or more thousand rubles. The advantages of such samples are a stylish appearance and ease of connection to communications. The disadvantages include too much weight and dimensions, because of which they do not go into the elevator and doorways.

In their form, cast-iron models are oval, rectangular and asymmetric. The latter are right-and left-handed, they are designed for corner installation and look quite presentable.

Oval and rectangular patterns can be equipped with legs, and can have a flat bottom-pedestal or put directly on the floor. Round bathtubs are found, but very rarely, due to their huge size and large displacement.

Cast iron bathtubs are available in a wide variety of sizes. The standard dimensions are 150x70, 160x70, 170x70 and 180x70 cm. Such models stand well in standard rooms and are considered the most popular. For small bathrooms, products 130x70 and 140x70 cm are suitable, and for medium-sized bathrooms you can buy a slightly wider bathtub in sizes 160x75, 170x75, 175x75 and 170x80 cm.

And finally, large solid samples with dimensions of 180x75, 180x80 and 190x80 cm are perfect for spacious and high bathrooms. However, due to too much volume and weight, they should only be installed in houses with reinforced concrete floors.

In order to accurately calculate the load on the floors, you should know not only the weight of the model, but also its volume. For example, a bathtub 170 cm long, 50 cm high and 70 cm wide can theoretically hold 595 liters. However, in fact, the bathtub is half filled, in addition, the rounded sides and the narrowing of the bowl to the bottom significantly reduce this figure. The bathing volume of such a bath will be 182 liters.

The mass of the product and the weight of the person are added to the displacement, as a result of which the maximum load on the overlap is obtained. It should be borne in mind that the weight of the lightest cast-iron bath can not be less than 70 kg, while the overall corner samples can hold up to 290 liters of water and weigh up to 220 kg.

However, these calculations are valid only for single baths, while double samples, as well as models with hydromassage and other additional equipment, weigh much more than simple specimens. In this regard, in houses with wooden floors, it is forbidden to install such models.

The modern market of sanitary equipment offers a wide selection of cast-iron bathtubs, among which there are both models of famous brands and little-known samples. Below are the best, according to the version of online stores, products that have earned a large number of positive feedback.

• The first line in the popularity ranking is occupied by the Roca Newcast model measuring 170x85 cm, made in Spain. The bath has the correct oval shape, is painted white and is equipped with an anti-slip coating. The depth of the product is 42 cm, the drain is located in the center.The volume of the bath is 222 liters, the cost is 91 529 rubles.

• The Swedish rectangular Byon model measuring 140x70 cm has a depth of 39 cm and is equipped with legs. The model is available in a wall-mounted version, made in white and equipped with an anti-slip coating. The volume of the bath is 118 l, there is an overflow device, the diameter of the drain hole is 5.2 cm. The legs can be adjusted, which makes it possible to align the product on the floor with height differences of up to 3 cm. Warranty period is 3 years, cost is 20 615 rubles.

• Italian cast iron model Castalia Prime is available in 180x80 cm dimensions and is equipped with comfortable chrome handles to make it easier to stand up. The bathtub is designed for wall mounting, has the correct rectangular shape and is equipped with beautiful legs. The product is made in a modern style, designed to accommodate one person and painted white. The depth of the bath is 46 cm, the discharge location is standard, the diameter of the drain hole is 5.2 cm. The cost of the product is 46 645 rubles.

• Oval German Model Elegansa Sabine White It is made in vintage style and has a perfectly even snow-white finish. The bath has no legs and is mounted on a flat bottom-pedestal. A distinctive feature of the model is the original form with smooth transitions, giving it a very elegant appearance. The bath is available in dimensions of 170x68 cm and belongs to the category of freestanding. The quality guarantee is 5 years, the cost is 150 000 rubles.

• American corner bath Kohler K-824 from the Mayflower collection refers to premium products and is designed for one person. The dimensions of the product are 35.6x121.9x111.8 cm, the overflow hole and drain are located on the left, and the enameled coating is very pleasant and smooth to the touch. The product is characterized by high wear resistance and a long service life. For angular construction, the model is quite compact and can be installed in small rooms.

The only minus is considered difficult transportation. The cost of the product varies depending on the supplier and averages 230,000 rubles.

• Of the Russian manufacturers, it should be noted Kirovsky Zavod OJSC, which produces high-quality cast-iron bathtubs that comply with GOST 18297-96. In 2006, a new German line was installed at the enterprise, which produces cast iron using vacuum-film molding technology. The launch of new equipment made it possible to almost completely eliminate the marriage and start the production of strong and durable bathtubs. The plant has a patent for the invention and use of vitreous enamel enriched with silver ions. Such a coating disinfects the surface of the bath and maintains a bacteriostatic effect throughout the entire life cycle.

In addition, blood microcirculation is activated and the functioning of the sebaceous glands improves. Bathtubs are completely safe from an environmental point of view and have a guarantee of 25 years. As an example, we can consider the Silver Prestige-1.5 model with dimensions of 150x70 cm and a depth of 40 cm. The swimming volume of the product reaches 164 liters, weight - 90 kg. The bathtub is equipped with comfortable handles and a headrest, the cost of the product is 18 750 rubles.

When choosing a cast-iron bath, a number of important points should be taken into account.

• When buying a bath, you should consider the area of ​​the room and access to communications. So, if the bathroom is combined with the toilet and has an area of ​​not more than 3.7 m2, then the only possible option is a wall model with a length of 160 to 180 cm (depending on the length of the room) and a width of 65-70 cm.As for large areas, the type of installation, size and shape of the cast-iron bathtub are selected taking into account the preferences of the buyer and are not dependent on external factors.
• The following selection criteria are the composition and quality of the enamel layer. The best option would be a coating enriched with silver ions. The use of such a bath in the best way affects the human skin and positively affects his well-being. You should pay attention to the thickness of the enamel, which should vary from 1 to 1.2 mm, as well as the absence of chips and scratches.
• Thanks to modern developments, manufacturers managed to significantly reduce the thickness of the cast-iron layer from 10 mm to 5 mm. This made it possible to significantly reduce the weight of products and slightly simplify their transportation. Baths with thinner walls are made, most likely, with a violation of technology, so you should not buy them.
• Before buying, you need to measure the doors of the freight elevator and apartment openings. And make a choice solely on the basis of the numbers received.
• Pay attention to the depth of the product.. The most convenient for use are bathtubs with an indicator of 40-46 cm.
• Cast iron bathtubs are an expensive treat therefore, they should be bought only from trusted manufacturers who value their reputation. In addition, each product must have supporting documentation and a warranty card.
• If a person with impaired musculoskeletal function lives in the apartment, then the best option would be to purchase a model with handles and anti-slip coating.
• Preferably so that the drain and the connection of the sewer pipes coincide. This will greatly simplify installation and eliminate unnecessary connections.
• The bath is often a central element of the bathroom, so its design and style should be harmoniously combined. In addition, the bathtub should be suitable for other plumbing fixtures: a washbasin and a toilet.
• When buying, you must check the equipment declared by the manufacturer and make sure there are handles, legs, head restraints, and other parts.

With proper and timely care, the life of cast-iron bathtubs is measured for decades. To do this, you only need to follow a number of simple rules for operating the product and treat enamel carefully.

• Do not overload the product. The accompanying documentation clearly spells out what maximum permissible load the model is designed for. Overloading poorly affects the condition of the legs and their mounts and can lead to damage.
• When cleaning enamel, one should refrain from using products based on acids and chlorine. The best option is to use the manufacturer's recommended formulations, a list of which is usually indicated in the documentation.
• If the bath has an anti-slip coating, then after each use it needs to be washed thoroughly. Otherwise, the dirt will quickly clog the pores and cause darkening of the enamel.
• After use, it is advisable to dry the cast-iron bath with a soft cloth and prevent dripping taps. Otherwise, yellow spots may appear on the enamel coating, which will be difficult to wash off.
• When performing repairs in the bathroom the cast-iron bath should be covered with a soft blanket and protected from accidental falling of heavy objects: a hammer, sinks and furniture for bathrooms. Even a small blow can crack brittle cast iron and it will be impossible to repair the bath.
• Unlike cast iron, the enamel coating is quite maintainable. and when chips and cracks appear, it is easily restored by bulk using acrylic or by applying 2-3 new layers of enamel. In case of severe damage to the enamel layer, an acrylic liner is installed in the cast-iron bathtubs.

In general, consumers respond well to cast iron bathtubs. Good quality enamel coatings and a long product life are noted.

Among the minuses are called lean model range and rustic appearance most wall samples. Also noted high price, which is several times higher than the cost of steel models. However, the most significant disadvantages that most consumers point to are complete maintainability of cast iron and too much weight.

Most of the inexpensive cast-iron bathtubs look rather ordinary in the interior, however, expensive premium samples look very impressive and are in no way inferior to acrylic and steel models.

A freestanding model on elegant legs will be a worthy decoration of the bathroom, made in the style of Japanese minimalism.

The model with a gold-plated mixer fits perfectly into any interior and looks very rich.

Cast iron corner bath takes up little space and allows more ergonomic use of the bathroom space.

Retro-style cast-iron bathtub, - the central element of the interior of the bathroom.

Wall model with handles and headrest Looks very stylish and modern.

On how to choose the right bath, see below.