How much weight can an acrylic bathtub support?

Is an acrylic bathtub durable enough? Will she withstand all the “hardships of life” placed on her? Read about this and much more in our article.

Acrylic bathtub weight

An important advantage of an acrylic bathtub is its lightness compared to cast iron and metal ones. It is easy to transport, install and dismantle.

Here are the standard data for typical dimensions:

• 120 × 70 cm – 15 kg;
• 150 × 70 cm – 18 kg;
• 170 × 70 cm – no more than 25 kg;
• 180 × 80 cm – about 30 kg;
• complex configuration – up to 50 kg;
• with additional equipment, the typical weight increases by an average of 25 kg.

You can find out the exact data in the accompanying set of documents.

It is not difficult even for an ordinary person to cope with such weight. But will thin plastic withstand a fairly overweight person, will it be at risk of deformation, or even cracks?

We hasten to reassure the skeptics, these baths are made from technical acrylic with antimicrobial additives in two ways:

• one-piece casting (more expensive, but also more durable);
• made of moisture-resistant ABS plastic with acrylic coating.

The technology requires mandatory reinforcement by applying a fiberglass-based polymer.

How long does an acrylic bathtub last?

This question worries all potential buyers of plumbing fixtures. Moreover, if the future user is, to put it mildly, not skinny.

We dare to assure you that your worries are absolutely groundless.

Experts assure that a bathtub made of good quality acrylic can withstand half a ton of water within half an hour.

But in order to avoid troubles in everyday life, it is recommended to take it as a rule:

• “Punchettes” should not lean too much on the side of the product;
• you need to enter the bathtub, leaning on your entire foot and holding its edge or wall with your hand;
• do not jump under any circumstances;
• the water should be moderately hot, otherwise, especially if the base is made of ordinary plastic, the bath gradually loses its shape (ideally, the material can withstand up to 160 ⁰WITH).

What affects the strength and service life of an acrylic bathtub?

Please note:

• The number of support “legs” bearing the main load. The more there are (usually from 6 to 12 pieces), the stronger it is.
• Features of the configuration of the models (it is best to buy corner ones).
• The maximum temperature threshold of the reinforcing layer, after which its destruction begins. On average, acrylic plumbing retains its structural properties at temperatures up to 80 ⁰C, but best of all – no more than 60⁰ WITH.

In short, a small ladle of hot water will not damage the surface layer, but boiling water in large quantities can make it “bubble.”

How to strengthen an acrylic bathtub?

Several additional conditions contribute to the strengthening, strengthening and safety of baths:

• double reinforcement;
• bottom treatment with foam;
• adding several legs or replacing existing ones with stronger ones;
• reinforcement with frame frame.

Various combinations of strengthening methods are acceptable.

Install on frame

The purpose of the frame is to distribute loads evenly over the entire surface of the bathtub, making it safer and preventing breakage and sagging.

Which frame to choose, whether it is needed at all - think about it in advance before you start installing a new product.

Important! The frame is required only for the corner model.

There are several types of frames:

1. Frame - the structure is made in the factory from a square profile in the form of a pipe, for a specific modification. All parts have anti-corrosion coating. Assemble according to instructions. It's better if a professional does this.
2. Brick - you can do it yourself, but a specialist will perform this complex work with skill. The bowl is placed on the finished base, and foam is passed along the bottom for installation.
3. Wooden - use plywood and beams with a waterproof texture. It’s not difficult to handle this matter yourself, the main thing is to have some skills and tools. With a little effort, you won’t have to spend money on a factory model or pay a technician. A little creativity - and your bathroom will delight everyone at home with its unique design.

In any case, the choice is yours. By strengthening the bathtub in one of the ways, the risk of damage to it is reduced to zero. And the service life of the product increases significantly.

Factory frame frame

Consists of the following components:

• corner supports (according to the number of those in the bath);
• intermediate support columns;
• longitudinal ribs to strengthen the sides;
• height-adjustable “legs” made of high-quality profile.

When choosing a suitable product, carefully examine the proposed frame. Its excessive massiveness indicates that the quality of the product offered is not very good.

Advantages and disadvantages

The acrylic option is inexpensive, there is always a choice of several shapes and sizes, and a wide range of colors.Such bathtubs retain heat well, are easy to clean and disinfect, and are not susceptible to rust. Due to their low weight, they do not create excessive load on wooden floors and are suitable for summer cottages.

Using frame stands and podiums, you can create a variety of interior solutions that promote a cozy and comfortable stay. High-quality products last a long time and reliably.

When choosing an acrylic bathtub, read the product data sheet. To ensure that your plumbing fixtures serve you for a long time, buy the product only from a trusted manufacturer and follow the rules of its operation. Proper use is a guarantee of long service life of the bathtub.