Which cast iron bathtub to choose: all the nuances of the process

Cast iron is one of the traditional materials that have been used for the mass production of sanitary ware since the beginning of the last century. Therefore, on the one hand, the question of which cast-iron bathtub to choose should not cause difficulties. However, over time, manufacturing technologies have changed and new criteria for evaluating such products have emerged. To make the best choice, it is necessary to take into account not only the technical characteristics of the plumbing, but also its decorative design.

Characteristics of cast iron bathtubs

The popularity of cast iron plumbing fixtures is due to its performance properties, including:

• durability;

• strength;

• maintaining a certain water temperature for a long time;

• stability during installation;

• no noise when drawing water;

• the ability to withstand significant loads without changing the original shape.

However, in order to know how to choose a cast-iron bathtub, it is necessary to take into account its disadvantages:

• heavy weight, complicating delivery and installation;

• limited choice of forms.

Recently, models of complex shapes and interesting designs have appeared among manufacturers’ proposals, but their price is significantly higher than the cost of standard products.

Features of choosing cast iron baths

In search of plumbing fixtures that not only meet all operational requirements, but will also decorate the bathroom, you need to pay attention to several factors. When deciding which cast iron bathtub is best to choose, you should take into account both the technical parameters of the product and its design.

Choosing cast iron plumbing based on external features

The determining factors when looking for a cast iron bathtub are the style of the bathroom and its size. For a spacious room, you can choose a model that is installed on decorative legs and has an open communications line.

In small bathrooms, built-in options are appropriate, while the outer walls of the plumbing can be hidden by special screens or covered with various finishing materials.

Important criteria when purchasing cast iron bathtubs are also:

• Size. The dimensions of the product should be selected taking into account the area of ​​the room, its design features and the build of all users. In addition, when purchasing plumbing fixtures for a bathroom where communications are already installed, you should consider the possibility of combining them with the technical holes of the purchased model.
• Decorative design. Most often, manufacturers of cast iron bathtubs offer products with white enamel, but there are also products in pastel colors. The design of plumbing fixtures intended for installation without recessing is more diverse. In this case, the outer walls of the bathtubs can be brighter in color or decorated with various images.

• Form. Mass-produced cast iron products are usually produced in a standard configuration, which is an elongated bowl. Models with complex shapes are much more expensive, since cast iron is a refractory material.
• Availability of additional equipment . Whirlpool equipment increases the functionality of the bathtub, but also increases its cost.

[note] Often, many bathtub models are produced both in standard configurations and in various modifications. You should immediately decide on the necessary characteristics so as not to spend extra money.[/note]

Analysis of the quality of cast iron plumbing fixtures

The main thing you pay attention to when buying a cast iron bathtub is the condition of the internal and external surfaces. The following factors are taken into account:

• No unevenness . The presence of smooth walls and a flat surface inside and outside is evidence of compliance with production technology. And, conversely, various influxes confirm a violation of the manufacturing process.
• Quality of finishing of external surfaces . They must be free of shells, chips, depressions and other defects. Applying a layer of enamel to the outer walls improves the appearance of the bathtub and prevents corrosion.
• Characteristics of the enamel coating. The main feature by which you can determine the best baths is the quality of the enamel. It should be uniform in color, even, smooth and shiny, without peeling.

[note] The slightest defect in the enamel can cause further destruction of the layer, so when purchasing, you should carefully inspect all surfaces of the bathtub. [/note]

Comparison of cast iron bathtubs from different manufacturers

Along with general recommendations for choosing cast iron bathtubs, it is necessary to take into account the specific features inherent in specific manufacturers.

Consider the rating of manufacturers of such plumbing fixtures:

1. It is led by European companies, including the Spanish Roca and the French Odoksan and Porcher. The products of these enterprises are distinguished by their stable quality and interesting design, but they belong to the products of a high price category.

2. Products from Chinese and Turkish companies are more accessible:
   • However, products from China often have low adhesion between cast iron and enamel, which leads to peeling and cracking.
   • Models produced by Turkish companies are made from high-quality metal, but due to poorly established quality control, you can also purchase defective products.

3. Russian manufacturers of cast iron bathtubs are represented by the Kirov plant and the Universal plant. Domestic products are distinguished by the largest thickness of metal, which ensures the strength of the products. However, the quality of the enamel is sometimes inferior to Western models, and the variety of shapes is limited.

Having decided that you still need a cast iron bathtub, you can find out which manufacturer is better by comparing products from different manufacturers.

[note]All technical parameters of cast iron baths must match the data specified in the accompanying documents. Their absence may indicate both the low quality of the product and the dishonesty of the seller [/note]

When choosing a cast iron bathtub, you need to compare offers from various manufacturers and find the optimal price-quality ratio. You can also first study customer reviews of products from various companies. Consumer opinion will help weed out unscrupulous manufacturers and choose a bathtub that will fit perfectly into the interior and will retain its technical parameters and original appearance for a long time.