The product, called blinds or roller shutters for a toilet or bathroom, has already established itself on the market. It is distinguished by the strength and reliability of the mechanism. The simple design of the blinds has an attractive appearance and fits perfectly into the interior of any toilet room. The most popular today are roller or cassette blinds.
Roller shutters in the toilet are an excellent solution for masking utility lines
Why do you need blinds or roller shutters in the toilet?
Roller shutters will help hide unattractive pipes and valves, taps and drains in the bathroom or toilet, and also create the necessary atmosphere of homeliness and comfort even in the smallest bathrooms. With their help, it is possible to transform a bathroom from a technical one into a modern, comfortable and aesthetically attractive room.
Convenient design provides easy access to pipes and risers
Roller shutters go well with tiles in the bathroom, and the variety of colors and the presence of different patterns will help you make your choice without any problems.
With a convenient color combination, you can easily disguise blinds-cabinets in the bathroom. In such cabinets you can store household chemicals, use them as a pantry, or simply use blinds to cover pipes and other mechanisms in the toilet that spoil the appearance of the room.
Using blinds, you can hide meters and a water heater in a niche, and place discreet shelves for small items
Examples in the photo of how to close pipe blinds in the bathroom are located at the end of the article.
A big advantage of roller shutters is their quality, such as good sound insulation. Closed roller shutters help hide the noise of water in the pipes, which makes for a more comfortable stay in the toilet or bathroom.
Closed shutters will help you achieve perfection for your eyes and ears.
Roller shutters can not only carry a functional load, but also perform an aesthetic function
Design Features
The initial and main application of roller shutters was installation on door and window openings. Models of standard sizes are available for them. For curtains installed in bathrooms, this use is not the most ordinary. In addition to individual dimensions, the weight of the canvas also matters. If the height and width are small, then the weight will not be enough to activate the twisting mechanism - there will not be enough gravity.
Not every manufacturer takes this circumstance into account. Therefore, when purchasing roller curtains for the toilet, you need to take into account their width and height. If they are much smaller than the generally accepted ones, then you need to choose products with control using a ribbon or cord.
Roller shutters for the toilet are an affordable and modern solution
Of course, roller shutters have their drawbacks:
- there are companies on the market that offer low-quality products and also produce poor-quality installation;
- Roller shutters attract dust very well and are dust collectors, which in turn requires additional cleaning and cleaning.
But still, this mechanism has many more advantages:
- Possibility of installation in any bathroom, plumbing unit or toilet.
- Long service life and reliability of the mechanism.
- High resistance and high humidity (made of aluminum or plastic).
- Facilitates access to communication systems.
- Huge assortment and variety of colors.
- Easy to clean.
- Ability to fit into the interior of any bathroom.
The choice of this device will depend on the imagination and financial capabilities of the buyer. Roller shutters for the toilet are an affordable and modern solution to the problem in the bathroom interior.
Blinds will be less conspicuous if you choose a color to match the tiles
What should you consider when choosing?
The main nuances when choosing roller shutters for the bathroom are:
- Width, height of the opening. Measurements are taken in advance at several points. This will help prevent gaps from forming after installation.
- Drive unit. It is recommended to choose models with inertial springs. The spring will help fix the canvas at a certain height. The most expensive is the design with an automatic lifting system.
- Roller shutter installation method. The choice depends on the technical features of the room and the size of the niche. If it is not possible to install it yourself, it is recommended to invite a specialist.
It is important to pay attention to the material from which the structure is made. Usually this is an aluminum profile. It is coated with a specialized paint with a protective layer that prevents the formation of corrosion and prolongs the service life.
But there are plastic products: lightweight designs in a variety of colors.
Horizontal or vertical blinds
More convenient for constant active use would be roller shutters for a vertical toilet. If you plan to use it infrequently, then in this case horizontal blinds are more appropriate.
Horizontal roller shutters are made of aluminum, plastic or wood.
Wooden curtains will act as an elegant interior detail, but will require periodic renewal of the protective coating
Plastic blinds are not subject to corrosion, are moisture resistant, are not affected by temperature changes, and are convenient and easy to clean and wash. They will last a very long time if used correctly. They do not have an exclusive design, but they stand out thanks to the rich color palette and can be combined with any tones of the bathrooms. Such blinds are not demanding and are cheap.
With care and proper care, plastic models can last for quite a long time.
Metal roller shutters have a more durable design. Aluminum is not afraid of moisture and temperature changes. The most interesting design solutions are manifested in aluminum roller shutters.
Metal systems are durable and moisture resistant
Realistic aluminum photographs with images of animals, birds, flowers, and landscapes are especially popular among consumers. The prices are higher than plastic, but the quality is much higher.
In relation to vertical ones, the horizontal type of construction is used much more often. This type of slats used in toilet cabinets are assembled and secured at the top. As practice has shown, horizontal blinds have proven themselves to be both easy to use and reliable, and the durability of the mechanism.
Horizontal slats are assembled into a box when the sash is opened
The latest developments of engineers are improved electronic blinds, which, when you press a button, fold and secure themselves.
Vertical roller shutters are more suitable for a simple bath or toilet, since a small bathroom using this type of blinds will visually appear even smaller. The slats in this model are located vertically - this is not entirely customary, but it looks quite stylish. The parameters of the slats vary depending on the width (from narrow to wide).
Vertical blinds are usually made of fabric
Varieties
The variety of sanitary cabinets allows you to apply them to any room, and the range of their facades will help you choose the doors that best suit the design of the room. This piece of furniture is distinguished according to various criteria.
By type of door
Plumbing cabinets can vary in type of door. They may be the following:
- louvered doors - can be of two types: roller shutters and so-called pseudo blinds. Roller doors are very convenient because they do not take up space in the open position; they are easier to use in hard-to-reach places where regular doors simply cannot open. Pseudo blinds are an ordinary door made in the form of blinds, but without moving parts, which is very convenient in terms of ventilation of a space with pipes;
- a plumbing hatch covering a niche can be of absolutely any size thanks to the existing range from many manufacturers. This is an ordinary frame made from a corner, to which a metal door with a lock is attached with hinges. Such a hatch looks simple and uncomplicated, which may not always be combined with the design of the bathroom. A cheap and common product is also not particularly durable;
- Hinged doors are an individual product, often created to order. When assembling a cabinet with hinged doors, you should take into account the space in front of them to fully open them. Considering the materials used, this can be an expensive proposition.
Swing
Inspection hatch
Roller shutters
Folding
According to the material of manufacture
Also, designs are divided into a number of types, depending on the materials of manufacture:
- metal doors are used in the manufacture of hatches when equipping niches. Metal is also used to develop frames and fittings. Do not forget that we are talking about the toilet and bathroom, where condensation can collect on iron pipes, increasing air humidity. Thus, it is better to use parts made of aluminum or other stainless metals;
- wood is often used to create the facade and base of the cabinet. Hinged wooden doors can close a built-in closet from floor to ceiling, or separate communications with a small neat door;
- Parts of roller shutters or small hatches are usually made of plastic. This is a lightweight and inexpensive material;
- In addition to wood, for swing doors you can use tiles attached to a special frame. This solution is very useful for preserving the design concept of the room when invisible hatches are used;
- mirror surfaces can visually enlarge the space and will also fulfill their intended purpose.
Tree
Mirror
Metal
Plastic
Tile
Types and advantages of roller shutters in bathrooms
Roller blinds for the toilet are the optimal solution, the durability of the design even with the most active use. Their mechanism consists of the following elements:
- canvas profile;
- guide rails;
- box;
- spring-inertial mechanism.
Installation of roller shutters with manual drive
Fabric blinds are made of cotton and silk, which are treated with special antiseptics and use moisture-resistant coatings.
Installation of vertical fabric blinds
Many consumers are afraid to use curtains of this type in toilets due to deformation of the slats and the appearance of fungal infections due to high humidity, as well as the presence of unpleasant odors. But the developers took into account all factors, and such a model meets all standards, which accordingly affects its cost.
Roller or cassette curtains in the toilet behind the toilet are by far the most commonly used in homes. The simple design, easy to use, fits perfectly into the interior of the bathroom and saves space.
Open roller blinds are the most budget-friendly way to disguise pipes
Roller blinds in the toilet behind the toilet are retracted using a chain. The curtain fabric is rolled into a roll, which fits into a box mounted on the ceiling of the bathroom.
Spring operated models are available. More expensive models are controlled remotely and operate thanks to the use of an electric drive in their design.
Adaptive decor in the form of a print or pattern is popular for roller blinds. They use roller shutters for the toilet with photo printing. For greater aesthetics of the product and individuality of the interior style, roller blinds are also decorated with various images using a special airbrush.
Material for production
Since its appearance in the 18th century. all blinds were made of wood. With the advent of light metals and synthetic fabrics, the situation has changed.
A variety of shapes, sizes and designs are possible thanks to the following types of raw materials for the manufacture of roller shutters:
- Fabric curtains are sold in two versions - rolled onto roller blinds or folded like an accordion. Vertical fabric blinds are often installed in bathrooms. This is how a small room is visually enlarged. At first, natural fabrics were used, and later more durable synthetic ones, impregnated with special substances, appeared. A variety of colors, the ability to cover a large space, low price and ease of installation have become the main advantages of such curtains.
- Plastic slats have become the most suitable option for installation in a bathroom niche. They are not afraid of condensation that forms on water and sewer pipes, are easy to clean with non-abrasive detergents, and are durable. They have one drawback - sensitivity to external influences. Plastic quickly develops cracks and dents from impacts, and scratches from sharp objects.
- Wooden blinds are called Venetian blinds. Their parts are wooden slats with small pulleys through which ropes are threaded. The size of the lamellas varies from 2.5 to 5 cm. For budget options, they are made of chipboard; luxury versions involve the use of valuable wood. Such models have good sound insulation and hide the sounds of flowing water. Specialized for installation in the bathroom, slats are impregnated with an antiseptic and coated with water-repellent compounds.
- Among metal products, the most popular are aluminum. A special bend - a stiffening rib - allows the lamellas to maintain their shape during deformations and impacts. If the bar breaks, it is easy to replace. The special paint does not fade and repels moisture. Such blinds are resistant to temperature fluctuations, do not burn, are durable and easy to maintain. The image printed on them is stable, which allows many designers’ ideas to be realized.
Types of roller shutters for the toilet according to installation method
There are three ways to install roller shutters.
The first type is with a box inside the opening. This method is the most optimal. The main condition is the possibility of mounting the box. Before taking measurements, it is necessary to make sure the walls are leveled, which will allow you to fix the roller shutters to the wall without much effort.
Built-in installation of roller shutters - frame inside
Second view with the box outside the opening. This method is used in a situation where the box does not fit into the opening. Measurements are taken after the tile laying is completed, fasteners are made directly to the tile. In this design, it is very important to take into account the height of the opening, since in tall structures, when the roller shutter is opened, there will be a large number of turns of lamellas on the shaft, which reduces the opening.
Built-in installation – box outside
The third method is overlay. This method is used in the presence of plasterboard walls. In this design, the box is placed outside and equipped with a lower guide. When using this method, the height of the opening does not change and there is no need to attach the structure to the ceiling. Despite all the above points, the mechanism is quite simple and reliable in operation.
Surface mounting – box facing out
Roller shutter with manual spring-inertia control mechanism (PIM)
According to the control mechanism, roller shutters are divided into mechanical and automatic. For home use, the best option is mechanically controlled roller shutters, which have the following elements:
- Belt and cord drive.
Cheap and easy to use device. The mechanism includes a cord attached to the shaft. This option is used in structures up to 520 mm wide. The disadvantage is that it cannot be fixed in an intermediate position. The cord mechanism is the simplest and most inexpensive way to control - Spring-inertial drive (PIM).
A fairly convenient mechanism that allows you to fix the roller shutter even in an intermediate position. The roller shutter can be easily lowered and raised without much effort. But this device is not compatible with narrow structures. Roller shutters with a spring-inertial mechanism are more expensive, but more convenient to use
Choosing blinds for the toilet: tips and tricks
To create a comfortable psychological climate in a bathroom or toilet, you need to select blinds based on the following factors:
- you need to take into account the color and texture of the furniture;
- models and colors of plumbing fixtures;
- color and pattern on the walls of the bathroom;
- selection of fittings (the durability of the mechanism depends on such little things);
- special requirements for wooden and fabric blinds.
The most important thing is accurate calculations, measurements and the correct location for installing the blinds.
Roller shutters in a contrasting color will stand out against the background of the walls and make the interior more interesting.
How to hide pipes with your own hands
When considering step by step how and with what to cover the pipes so that they can be accessed, you should focus on camouflage methods.
Box made of PVC panels
The box can be made of either plastic or plasterboard. However, in the first case, a ready-made design is obtained immediately. This option is especially relevant if PVC panels are used as decoration for the bathroom.
Mount the box as follows:
- Check the pipes for quality of connections.
- Treat the walls and ceiling at the site where the structure is installed with antiseptics.
- Attach the sheathing.
- Install plastic panels.
To allow access to pipes, meters or locking mechanisms, a ready-made plumbing hatch is installed.
You can learn more about making the box from the video.
Drywall box
For work you will need the following tools and materials:
- wood hacksaw;
- jigsaw;
- electric drill and drills;
- metal scissors;
- self-tapping screws;
- drywall.
The tool is selected based on the material that will be used for the frame. If wooden elements are used in the design, they are pre-treated with protective agents against moisture. The rest of the frame installation process consists of the following steps:
- Using a laser level, a pencil and a square, markings are made on the floor and walls for attaching the guides.
- Prepare the guides and connecting strips. To do this, cut the metal profile into pieces of the required length.
- The guides are fastened along the riser using dowels and self-tapping screws.
- Mount the embedded elements into the profile. This is done so that it is possible to fix the hatch, drywall and plywood.
- Install the hatch. To do this, cross members with mortgages are secured to the vertical posts. Then the hatch itself is mounted on self-tapping screws to the mortgages.
- They fasten the plywood. It is used to increase the rigidity of drywall if you plan to hang shelves on the box.
- The end side of the box is sheathed with plasterboard.
- GKL is attached to the front of the box.
Further work is aimed at preparing the plasterboard surface for finishing, i.e. padding. Moreover, primer treatment is necessary regardless of the type of finish - for tiles or painting. If all the work is done efficiently, the design will be reliable, and the hatch will be almost invisible.
Pipes in a bathroom or toilet can be covered with plasterboard, but still remain accessible by making one of the sections removable with magnets or hinges.
Built-in sanitary cabinet
Installation of sanitary cabinet doors is carried out by analogy with any doors: hinges are hung on the base (frame). Conventional doors can be used for a spacious bathroom. For a small room, compact accordion doors are suitable.
Roller shutters
Unlike inspection hatches, roller shutters are more practical. Thanks to this design, you can quickly access hidden space. To install roller shutters you will need:
- electric drill;
- tape measure and level;
- fasteners;
- kit for roller shutters.
The surface of the walls is pre-prepared so that the distance between them in height is the same. Then the roller shutters are mounted in a frame made of metal profiles, which is similar to the design for plastic panels. In general, installation is performed in the following sequence:
- Install the guides and the top box.
- The lamellas are attached to the drum shaft.
- When the last lamella is installed, check the structure for closing/opening.
Having considered the most common ways to hide pipes in a toilet with access to them with your own hands, with photo examples and step-by-step instructions, you can significantly transform the interior of the bathroom, making it modern and attractive. When choosing a method to camouflage pipes, you should proceed from the overall design, budget and personal preferences.
When is the best time to install roller shutters in a bathroom?
It is best to install these mechanisms after renovating the bathroom or any other room. The main condition is smooth walls, otherwise the blinds will not look entirely aesthetically pleasing. If the room has smooth walls, floors and ceilings, you can safely install roller shutters.
Roller shutters with an overhead installation method are installed after completion of the repair
This article will help you find all the questions you need regarding construction, technical, design and price aspects before making a decision about which blinds are right for the buyer for a bathroom or toilet.
Invisibility hatch trim
An invisible structure without finishing does not look aesthetically pleasing enough. It can be painted:
- The surface is coated with primer and putty.
- Use wet putty to make a cut around the perimeter of the door.
- The dry putty is sanded with emery cloth and finally covered with paint along with the walls of the bathroom or toilet.
If it is decided to tile the hatch, then proceed as follows:
- The walls and hatch doors are coated with primer.
- A load is hung on the back side of the door, which will be equal in weight to the weight of the cladding. This will prevent the product from sagging in the future.
- The opening mechanism must be closed (blocked) with a special clip during installation of the tiles.
- The tiles are glued using regular tile adhesive or liquid nails.
- The edges of the tiles should protrude beyond the contours of the door. The projection on the hinge side is from 5 to 50 mm.
- The glue is not applied to the entire surface, but only to the part that will be adjacent to the door.
- Excess glue is removed after a day.
Then fill the seams with silicone sealant, including around the opening perimeter, selecting the composition according to color:
- The edges of the tiles along the seam are protected with masking tape on both sides. However, the sealant may also stick to the tape, making it difficult to remove without damaging the seam. To avoid this situation, the tape is coated with vegetable oil and removed as soon as the seam is closed with sealant.
- Excess composition is removed with a finger dipped in soapy water or a soft plastic spatula. After this, the hatch is left for two days. During this time, the sealant will dry completely.
- After opening the hatch, trim the sealant where necessary if the door sticks.
The aesthetic side does not lag behind the technical side. Sometimes the hatch is not masked, but rather highlighted. For example, an interesting option looks when the hatch is finished with mirror tiles, then it also performs the function of a mirror.
Exquisite hatch models are created not only from plastic and metal, but also from glass and wood. Wooden structures are covered with stain, varnish or wax. Glass doors to a sanitary cabinet in a toilet do the following:
- made of brown glass;
- made of glass with a pattern;
- made of textured glass;
- with a matte pattern;
- tinted to match the color of the tiles;
- translucent.
A unique version of an inspection hatch is a roller shutter. Often they cover the entire wall without making a separate hole, and thus create a false wall. Any drawing or photo can be applied to the roller shutters.