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The When, Why, and How of the Use of Copper in Baths and Sinks
A Little Bit of History
Use of copper in water systems started around 3300 B.C. during the time of the Indus River Valley civilization in India. Further, proper usage was found at the Isle of Crete by using hardened pottery. Standard sanitary fittings came into existence after many years of civilization. The manufacturing of copper fittings was first started by Koehler Company Handicap Bathtub Ipswich SD by using cast-iron for bathtubs.
Why Copper?
It is a good metal which can withstand adverse weather conditions. It has a long lasting durability and undergoes limited corrosion. Copper tubes are generally used for distributing portable water.
It has a very long shelf life even if used roughly. Thus, it becomes useful for the daily routine activities. In such cases, it is very helpful when used in kitchen sinks and bathtubs.
If the water is soft, the corrosion Ipswich SD rate goes to 125 1/4m per year. This would even make it more durable and thus, can last more than a thousand years. Thus, it becomes a good investment as far as industrial usage is concerned. Such kitchen sinks and bathtubs become highly profitable for industries like the hotel industry since frequent replacements are not required. Since the corrosion rate is very slow, it can be even used when there is more hard-water than Handicap Bathtub Ipswich SD soft-water.
Any damage, if at all, is caused, due to the copper pitting. This happens due to turbulence created by the water in an installation where the water speed is high. The initial corrosion is worn off and the second layer is formed. If the water velocity is high and it also has a constant hot and cold water running system, then the corrosion – erosion rate is high. Turbulence pressures can be reduced by Ipswich SD socket and tube fittings. It is recommended for different temperature uses which are as follows:
10°C 50°C 70°C 90°C
For pipes that can be replaced: 4.0 3.0 2.5 2.0
For pipes that cannot be replaced: 2.0 1.5 1.3 1.0
For short connections to taps, etc§: 16.0 12.0 10.0 8.0
Water Temperature °C Maximum Water Velocity (m/s)
10 3.0
50 3.0
70 2.5
90 2.0
Thus, we can use kitchen sink and bathtubs with varying water temperatures from Ipswich SD 10-90 °C. This gives wide flexible ranges of temperatures of water to be used according to climatic changes experienced from time to time. Thus, even in minus temperatures, the system remains intact without any damage for a long period of time.
There are different types of copper bathtubs. The tubs are of five different styles.
1. Classic Roll Rim/Roll Top/Flat Rim tubs
2. Slipper tubs – with one side head seat high
3. Double Slipper tubs Ipswich SD – with two side head seat high
4. Double Ended tubs
5. Pedestal tubs and Walk-in tubs – especially for elders.
Another specific type is the baby bathtubs.
Looking at the kitchen sink, these are of four types:
1. Self-rimming sink – they are placed in appropriate shaped pits and are cut with jigsaw shaped material.
2. Bottom-mount or Under-mount sink – here the sink is clamped to the bottom side using clamps. The under-mount mode gives Ipswich SD a contemporary look to the kitchen and makes it more stylish.
3. Belfast mode – this sink is made of ceramic material engraved with traditional designs.
4. The farmer’s sink – it is a deep-seated sink with a finished front set onto the counter top. This makes it more reachable and handy.
Thus, using this material one can design various types of copper kitchen sink and bathtubs for a long lasting period.
Governments make sure that facilities intended for handicapped people are checked for correct specifications. For instance, the Americans with Disabilities Act compels that basic shower stalls for disabled people should be barrier free. These kinds of handicapped showers allow users with mobility problems to bathe themselves independently. Disabled people or those with mobility restriction would surely want to feel a sense Handicap Bathtub Ipswich SD of independence even just when doing such a mundane task, like bathing.
Generally, a shower for handicapped users must be of the correct type; should adhere by ADA requirements; and should have the correct dimensions. In terms of shower type, the recommended is a barrier-free model that has a low threshold. This can either be classified as a roll-in shower or a Ipswich SD transfer shower stall. A roll-in shower stall must have a threshold not exceeding ½ inch in height and should be beveled or rounded. This specification allows a wheelchair to be brought inside the shower stall in lieu of a shower chair. On the other hand, a transfer shower should allow a wheelchair-bound person to be moved onto the shower chair or Easy Entry Tubs Ipswich SD handicap bathtub inside the stall without any form of difficulty. The specification is that the area in front of the stall should be 48 inches at a minimum.
In terms of dimensions, a transfer shower stall must measure at least 36 by 36 inches. A clearance of 36 inches in front of the shower should be made if it is a roll-in Ipswich SD shower, which typically has the dimensions of 36 by 60 inches. The chair for a roll-in shower stall should be of a folding type so that it can conveniently accommodate a wheelchair, while for all models of shower stalls; chairs must be located as close as 3 inches from the edge of the wall. They should be 17 to 19 inches Ipswich SD off the floor, and must be able to support 250 pounds of weight.
Additional ADA requirement that you should take note of include the installation of a hand-held shower head and anti-slip flooring inside the shower stall. Also, there should be built-in seating, a power seat or swivel chair that lifts the person in and out of the stall. Strict compliance is Ipswich SD given to the presence of horizontal and vertical grab bars, which can depend on the position of the shower chair. For safer movement to and from the shower, grab bars mounted outside should also be present.
Are you searching for a safe way to take a bath? Bathtub transfer bench, a leveled platform made for sitting, allows any person to bathe comfortably, safely, and easily.
Not just for elders and immobilized
There was a time when bathtub benches are only used by old people and individuals with physical disability.
As people age, effortless daily routines like taking a shower begin to get more Mobility Baths Ipswich SD difficult. Often, showers turn into nightmares. Going to the bathroom either means the disabled or elderly needs someone to help him cleanse himself, or go to the bathroom alone but face the possibility of a fall.
Because of mobility aids like bath seats, commode chairs, and shower benches, elders and handicapped can wash themselves independently. Family members no longer have to worry about bathroom-related accidents Ipswich SD because shower benches provide the stability required by immobilized individuals while taking a shower.
How does it work? You just have to place it in a way that one side is sitting on your tub and the other side sits outside of it. Then the person who will use the bench has to sit on the bench and slide across the side inside the tub.
Since Easy Access Baths Ipswich SD the world is constantly evolving, even individuals with no special needs are using bathtub transfer benches while taking a shower.
Some people do not want to be on their feet throughout the whole cleansing ritual. Because a bathtub transfer bench usually comes with padded nylon contoured seat and soft support for the back, it offers any individual the comfort needed while bathing. Those who value Ipswich SD aesthetics place teak bath chairs on their showers for a spa-like ambience. It is a safe choice for a shower bench since teak can withstand humidity, does not grow moldy, and is very sturdy.
Others find bath benches useful when they are shaving their legs or doing certain cleansing rituals that require them to sit for a long time while in the shower.
For parents who Ipswich SD have trouble with their kids while bathing, bath seats are also very useful since they allow kids to sit down and sit still while the parent is scrubbing their bodies.
Safety is still of utmost priority
Whether it is purchased for physically challenged individuals or for comfort purposes, bathtub transfer bench is safe for everyone to use. The legs of a transfer bench are covered with Ipswich SD rubber caps to prevent the bench from moving during a shower. The height is also adjustable, which allows the user to raise or lower the seat depending on the height and needs.
Usually, a transfer bath chair has a handle on one side to support the user when getting up from the chair. The other end is open so that the person can easily slide Ipswich SD himself in and out of the chair. This is useful to those who are on wheelchair and those who have trouble standing and sitting.
Most bath benches have aluminum frame, making them very sturdy. Assembly and installation can be as short as a two-step process. Some transfer benches have been previously assembled when delivered to your house.
Which bathtub transfer bench suits you best?
Different models of Ipswich SD shower benches are available for everyone to use. If you have a small shower, consider buying a folding shower bench. It allows you to store it in the cabinet after bathing. Some bathtub transfer benches can be installed on the wall. Users have to pull it down when needed.
If you are searching for bathtub benches for your bathroom, try searching for online suppliers like Ipswich SD Medame.com. Various styles are available depending on your needs and resources.
Essentially bathtub caulk is used to keep water from leaking under or around the seams of your tub which, if allowed to remain, can really damage your floor and walls. If you find that your bathtub caulking is leaking then it is important that you have it replaced instead of ignoring it. If you think about it, the repairs necessary due to the water damage will far Bathtub For Elderly Ipswich SD exceed the small cost and bother of taking care of it now before there is a problem. Bathtub caulk is an interesting substance as it is both a glue and a sealant so it is the perfect product for the job.
Before you begin applying, it is necessary to remove any old bathtub caulk. This can be achieved by using simple tools such as a putty knife or Ipswich SD a screwdriver. Just make sure while doing this that you are careful not to accidentally scratch your tub. Now you should clean off the area where you will be applying your bead of bathtub caulking. It is good to use a bathroom cleanser that is designed for removing soap scum.
You will quickly find out that there are several different products for caulking bathtub fixtures and they are Handicapped Tubs And Showers Ipswich SD made from different substances. The two most common types are those that are made from silicone and those made from acrylic latex. In general, it is best to choose the silicone products because it can act as a natural barrier against the formation of mold and mildew. The only downfall about choosing this one is that it can be very difficult to remove completely, so when it Ipswich SD comes time for replacing it it will be a hassle. Just make sure that you do not use an exterior caulk even though it may seem like a better choice.
Now that you are finished with these preliminary steps you can go ahead and apply the bathtub caulking. One thing that some plumbers recommend is that you fill the tub with water first, the idea being that the Ipswich SD weight will force the tub downwards so you can achieve a tighter seal. It can be difficult to apply a bead of caulk in a manner that gives it a professional look so it does take some practice. Just do your best to apply the bead in one smooth motion. You can even stick a couple pieces of masking tape to the beginning and end of the Ipswich SD line to prevent you from getting caulk everywhere.
Once you have finished applying your line of bathtub caulk you should give it about a day before you use the tub again, just to make sure that you do not get it wet. If there are any spots that are not even then put on a pair of latex gloves and smooth them out with your finger.
Creating a safe bathroom is a big job requiring plenty of good old fashioned labor, but for technical references there are dozens of great how-to books out there to guide you through the rougher parts of the process. However, even those who are hiring a contractor for the job still need to be able to come up with a design they can feel Bath Step Ipswich SD confident about. What you won’t find in some of those how-to books is more about the personalized aspect of a safe bathroom, the things the homeowner often cares a lot about.
1. Start with a Solid Installation
Some of the grab bars on the market have suction cups on the end – avoid these if you can, and opt for permanent grab bars that are Ipswich SD properly anchored directly to the wall studs. Suction cups can slip. A professional installation of real grab bars is the most desirable. Factors like position also matter, as a bathroom grab bar should be comfortable to hold and use while sitting or standing and while moving in or out of the tub or toilet area.
Multiple grab bars are often necessary and need to Disabled Bath Ipswich SD be in every high traffic part of the bathroom. Remember to plan for the floor to become slippery in unusual places, just in case anyone walks into the bathroom to find a plumbing leak and has to deal with a slippery floor on the way out.
2. Make Sure the Bar Fits the Hand
Although it’s always preferable to go with a grab bar design Ipswich SD approved by your local regulating authority for commercial buildings (because those laws often do not, but can, apply to residential buildings) but you do have room for customization while actually improving safety. Some grab bars are thinner than others are, and using a thin bar may be painful for somebody with large or arthritic hands. Larger bars are available. Similarly, somebody with a Ipswich SD small hand may not find wider bars very safe to use.
3. Think about Texture
Many manufacturers will spray a layer of textured paint onto your new grab bars for a small additional fee. This little fee is worth it! If not, a professional bathroom contractor may be able to give you some advice about which brand to use so you can give your existing Ipswich SD grab bars a textural makeover. Ask about different colors of textural finish they offer because you might be able to upgrade to a nice design that matches your bathroom. Almost every brand offers custom designs for this purpose, however.
The transition to a safer bathroom is an important process and it’s never too early to start planning. Everybody, regardless of age or physical ability, Ipswich SD is at risk for a fall in the bathroom – and with so many hard porcelain objects around it’s easy to see how injuries often follow falls. You’re already on the right track and we hope these tips have helped you along your way.
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