Modern baths have gone far ahead along the path of evolution from their "ancestors" and no longer resemble those wretched wooden buildings with half-blinded windows and primitive furnishings. Today they are multifunctional complexes for a comfortable stay, where you can take bath procedures, relax, and spend time actively. Whether private or commercial, the vast majority of them are luxuriously designed and equipped with the latest technology.
Safety and comfort
Modern baths and saunas are, first of all, healing of the body and pleasure for the soul. In order for a bathing holiday to really bring only positive emotions, it is necessary to carefully consider all the nuances of arranging and designing such an object even at the design stage.
The first thingit is necessary to pay attention during the construction of modern baths - this is the correct selection of building materials and special equipment, because the safety and ease of operation will depend on these components.
In addition, factors such as the layout and interior decoration of bath rooms play an important role. The modern design of the bath involves the use of not only classic materials such as wood and stone, but also artificial ones, such as tiles, porcelain stoneware or clinker tiles.
And to create a unique style and comfort in every room of a bath or sauna, various interior items and well-thought-out lighting will help.
Requirements for finishing materials for baths
High temperatures and maximum humidity are those aggressive factors that will constantly affect all elements of the interior of bath rooms. In this regard, when choosing finishing materials and furniture for a bath in a modern style, it is necessary to focus not so much on their decorative properties as on practicality, reliability and safety. First of all, they must have such qualities as:
- ecological cleanliness (complete absence of toxic chemical constituents);
- fire safety;
- strength;
- durability;
- low thermal conductivity (to prevent burns);
- ability to keep warm;
- resistance to significant temperature changes;
- resistance toexposed to moisture.
Wood is an ideal material for building a sauna
It is no coincidence that our ancestors used wood of different species for the construction of Russian baths. This material is easy to process, has an aesthetic appeal, is pleasant to the touch, has excellent thermal insulation characteristics and is famous for its natural "aromatherapy".
Despite the abundance of building materials, a worthy alternative to wood has not yet been found. That is why modern baths are most often built from timber or rounded logs. Wooden structures look great both outside and inside, the process of their construction does not require significant time and financial costs, plus they meet all the requirements for bath buildings.
Selection of the project and design of the bath
Naturally, each owner should think over the layout of a bath or sauna himself, focusing on the composition of his family, the number of intended guests, general habits and preferences, and, of course, on his own financial capabilities. Numerous photos of projects of modern baths and variousversions of their design, which can be easily found in specialized literature.
The interior looks especially advantageous if its design combines natural materials of various textures and colors. At the same time, in no case should paints and varnishes be used in the decoration of the bath, since under the influence of high temperatures they will release toxic chemicals. The choice of wooden lining for the steam room should also be taken responsibly, because each breed has its own properties, which are far from always useful. The features of different types of wood will be considered below.
Linden
This tree is characterized by low thermal conductivity and high moisture resistance, which contributes to the rapid heating of the steam room. Lime lining exudes a pleasant aroma and does not emit tar when heated. It has a uniform light golden color that will create a feeling of extra space and cleanliness in the room. This type of wood is one of the best options for finishing steam rooms.
Aspen
It has an attractive whitish color, has a dense and durable structure, as well as antibacterial properties. Thanks to the latest quality, this wood perfectly resists the effects of fungi, mold and putrefactive processes. Aspen lining does not heat up much, so there is no risk of getting burned when touched. In terms of cost, this is one of the most affordable options.
It is believed thataspen is able to take away negative energy, so peace of mind after the bath will be provided.
Alder
Alder finish looks expensive and stylish with beautiful natural tones ranging from pinkish to light chocolate and a unique grain pattern. There are no resinous compounds in this wood. Alder is warm and pleasant to the touch, has a water-repellent effect and does not dry out. In an alder steam room, you can get rid of both colds and rheumatism of the joints.
Although this tree is more expensive than linden and aspen, but it is it that is most often used to decorate modern baths.
Abashi
Decoration and furniture for the steam room from this African wood have an optimal set of characteristics: Abachi wood has minimal thermal conductivity, so it remains cool even in hellish heat. It has no resinous compounds, it does not rot and is very durable. The only disadvantage of this option is the rather high cost, determined by the geography of the tree.
Canadian cedar
It is an unsurpassed antiseptic and heat resonator. Wood has a wide range of colors (from chocolate to lemon), which provides a unique look to any room. In addition, Canadian cedar has healing properties, as it is rich in essential oils that have a beneficial effect on the organs of the respiratory system.
Canadian cedar lining also belongs to the luxury category of finishing materials due to its high cost.
Types of wood that do not applyfor finishing the steam room
- Ash, beech and oak tend to get very hot, so they have a high heat transfer. Hot and damp wood can easily burn you. These materials are not suitable for a steam room, but they can be used to finish the dressing room and washing room.
- Larch has low thermal conductivity, and it tolerates humidity well. However, this wood contains a significant amount of resins, which are released under the influence of high temperatures. In this regard, larch is used as a building material for baths, as well as for finishing any bath rooms, except for a steam room.
- Spruce, pine and other conifers also emit resins when heated, the fumes of which are harmful to the body. However, if this wood is sheathed, for example, in a dressing room or a rest room, then a pleasant aroma will always be present in these rooms.
Wiring Rules
Modern baths are equipped with a variety of electrical equipment, from lighting fixtures to stoves, fireplaces, etc. Wooden buildings are classified as objects of increased fire hazard, so the closest attention should be paid to the installation of electrical communications in the bath. And if some shortcomings are permissible in the interior decoration, then even the smallest errors must be excluded in the wiring. Considering the seriousness of the issue, it is better to entrust the installation of electrical networks to a qualified specialist.
When self-layingcommunications, the following rules must be observed:
- all wires must be double insulated;
- wires should be covered with special wooden boxes;
- lighting fixtures must be sealed;
- switches should be located outside the steam room.
As for the materials of lighting fixtures, plastic products, even heat-resistant ones, are best avoided. The best option are models of fixtures with stainless steel cases and glass shades.
When choosing the location of the lamps, it should be taken into account that the light in the bath rooms should be soft and subdued, creating comfort and promoting relaxation. It should not be directed in the face, so lighting fixtures are best placed on the ceiling. Small low power fixtures can be placed under the ceiling on opposite walls.
Modern baths are often equipped with a 12-volt LED backlight with a moisture-proof insulating shell. This type of lighting can be considered the best option, as it is safe, durable and economical. In addition, with the help of multi-colored LED strips, you can create a truly fantastic atmosphere in all bath rooms.
