On the market, today baths can be found a wide variety of bathtub models, from cutting-edge designs to classical style to modern versions with traditional bases. The standard measurement for a conventional bathtub is 1.60 cm or 1.70 cm long x 70 cm wide. Smaller models (1.40 cm or 1.20 cm long x 70 cm wide) are designed for more limited spaces. Even models smaller than this are manufactured and can be situated just about anywhere. Most bathtubs are made of acrylic and methacrylate materials, as these substances are resistant, maintain temperature very well and permit a wide array of designs.
Other materials used are cast iron, which is highly resistant, and steel sheets, which are lighter in structure. Hydrotherapy bathtubs measure the same as conventional models but differ with respect to the features they offer. The interior of a hydrotherapy tub contains a series of jets (usually manipulable) that produce different types of massages. The water massage consists of the release of pressure in the form of a water jet, with a variable proportion of air The water-air massage combines the propulsion of these two elements. The system of ultrasound massage, the most innovative, involves an integral massage through sound waves. The most innovative designs allow the user to program the desired massage through digital screens that regulate temperature and duration and incorporate self-cleaning mechanisms. Water massage bathtubs are increasingly silent and innovative. Many companies offer combined bath- tub-shower models with a steam bath option.
Showers
While showers are a practical alternative in bathrooms with limited space, it also is appropriate for large spaces. The shower base should have a minimum measurement of 60 x 60 cm, though the larger it is the more comfortable space will be. There are many designs, adaptable to any space: square bases, rectangular bases, angled bases (for corners), bases with raised borders to keep water from overflowing. The materials used are also quite diverse: tropical wood, marble, acrylics, porcelain, and glass fibre. Some are equipped with specially designed protective surfaces to avoid slips. There are also models with small stools integrated into the structure, allowing the user to sit down while taking a shower.
Like the bathtub, the shower requires a partition in order to avoid splashing and to isolate the bath-shower area from the rest of the bathroom. Glass (transparent or acid- treated) is the most commonly used material for effecting this separation. There exist multiple designs for each model of the shower: sliding doors or panels, folding leaves, magnetic shutters, etc. Some prefabricated shower stalls with base and partition included-are equipped with a water massage shower and a sauna, among other functions. For smaller bathrooms, columns are a good alternative to stalls. They consist of small panels of stainless steel, methacrylate, wood, or glass with a water fixture and several jets. This alternative permits equal enjoyment of a water massage and can be integrated within a normal shower base or a bathtub.
