How to build a bath from foam blocks with your own hands, some of the subtleties of this creativity

The order of construction work

By adhering to a certain procedure for the construction of a bath or sauna and following building codes, it is quite possible to build a small bath or sauna on your own.

The foundation for a bath of foam blocks

Lightweight strip foundation

If the area of \u200b\u200bthe bath is small, then a lightweight strip foundation with a depth of no more than sixty centimeters and a width of forty centimeters (according to the width of the foam concrete block) is quite suitable.

For a small bath or sauna, a foundation with a height of seventy to eighty centimeters is the most optimal solution.

Walling

The erection of walls - the first stage of work

The procedure for erecting walls from foam blocks with your own hands:

A layer of waterproofing is laid on a completely dried foundation.
As a waterproofing material, roofing material is used, laid on a layer of hot bitumen in two layers.
As a working solution for laying blocks of foam concrete, a conventional aqueous solution of cement and sand is used in a ratio of one to two.
The first row of masonry walls should be laid out evenly, for which a plumb line and a level are used.
The first row of masonry must be adjusted to the foundation, leveling all its protrusions and height differences.
It is recommended to lay the subsequent rows of masonry walls from foam concrete blocks on a specialized adhesive designed for foam concrete.
Adhesive dry mix for foam concrete will significantly reduce material consumption. It also provides a high density of masonry, smoothing joints and transitions.
The seam when laying foam concrete walls should be no wider than 0.5 centimeters.
For the strength and durability of the building, it is recommended to mount a reinforcing metal mesh with small cells every three rows of masonry.

Roofing for a bath or sauna

The choice of roof design depends only on the tastes and preferences of the developer. The main thing is that the waterproofing of the ceiling of the building should be made of built-up waterproofing materials.

Roof erection

For a steam room made of foam blocks, an ordinary roof of two slopes with a ridge in the center is well suited.

When choosing the length of the rafter legs that will be joined in the ridge using an ordinary tenon-groove connection, be guided by the width of the bath, the desired slope of the slopes, as well as the climatic features of the area. For example, for regions with a damp climate, roofs with a slope of about 50-60 degrees are better suited. The recommended overlap of the roof overhang on the walls is about 50 cm.

The design of the rafters for a gable roof

Use staples to tie the rafters. Fix the bars themselves at a distance of about 1-1.2 m

It is important to choose the right raw materials for arranging the truss system. Check that the material is of high quality, free of knots and any kind of defects.

gable roof

Roof

After installing all the rafter legs, proceed to the arrangement of the crate. Make it from high-quality smooth boards. The crate can be made solid or sparse. Choose a specific option taking into account the characteristics of the finishing roofing.

Bath roof

The crate for roofing material should be double, single for slate. If the roof will be covered with tiles, make a crate of bars. Suitable bars with a section of 5x5 or 6x6 cm.

The roof must be insulated with moisture-proof material, insulation and vapor barrier.

Finish by laying the selected finishing material. At this point, focus on your personal preferences and available budget.

Bath from foam blocks photo

Photo of a foam block bath

Assessing what a foam block bath looks like, the photo of which is presented on the Internet, you can achieve a similar result on your site. It should not be forgotten that a photo represents a more real appearance than a drawing or a three-dimensional image in 3D graphics. But the latest versions of the image show the exterior design and interior layout in more detail than the photographs, which reflect only part of the building.

People who decide to acquire a bathhouse in their suburban area often use foam blocks as a building material. Even an amateur can handle foam blocks. But, despite the ease of use, many details must be taken into account: instead of a cement mixture, it is better to use a special glue, then it is necessary to prime and insulate, otherwise the foam blocks may begin to collapse.

This follows from the physical properties of the foam blocks - the cement mixture has a different thermal insulation, and the thermal insulation of a special adhesive is comparable to foam concrete. It absorbs water well, so walls made of foam blocks need insulation from moisture.

We also advise you to make heat insulation with moisture insulation. These works are all finishing. Further, we will learn more about the internal and external decoration of the bath from blocks, foam blocks and bricks.

First of all, in a foam block bath, the interior decoration should improve the interior appearance, give it zest and originality, accuracy and completeness.

There are also technical indicators of finishing, which should not only not spoil the properties of the main building material, but only improve them. The finish must be highly vapor-tight so that heat loss does not occur. And also it should absorb moisture to a minimum in order to prevent rapid damage to the finishing material.

Features of foam concrete

Foam concrete is a cellular material that appeared on the construction market several decades ago, but continues to be in great demand and is widely used in the construction of premises. For its production, a simple technology is used, which reduces the cost of the final product and allows you to make building materials at home.

Pros and cons of the material

The popularity of the foam block is due to its operational properties and advantages. First of all, it is increased thermal insulation and resistance to temperature fluctuations. Experts say that even with constant exposure to high temperatures, the material does not begin to deform and retains its initial strength. It also meets all the requirements of environmental safety, is not afraid of corrosive or putrefactive processes, and also does not become an object of attack by rodents.

The foam block is lightweight, which reduces the complexity of construction work and simplifies installation. Baths based on this material are characterized by resistance to ignition, and this is an important point in compliance with safety standards.

But, in addition to the mass of pluses, the foam block also has disadvantages. Before use, they must be treated with special compounds that provide the desired degree of moisture resistance. If you miss this moment, the material will deform and quickly lose its presentability.

Despite the affordable cost of raw materials, the installation process can be accompanied by high costs. They are associated with the acquisition of a special adhesive composition, as well as carrying out insulation work.

Finishing technology

Instructions for the interior decoration of the bath:

Acclimatization of the material - all the material intended for finishing is brought inside the bath, and is there for at least a day.
To fasten the lining, a crate is mounted, consisting of bars, with a section of 5x5 centimeters. The distance between the bars is 50 cm.
Steam and thermal insulation is being fixed.
The lining is mounted, depending on the room: hardwood for the steam room, coniferous for the washing and rest room.
The lining can be mounted both horizontally, vertically and even diagonally.

The floors are either wooden or laid out with ceramics on a concrete base. Many rest rooms and dressing rooms are equipped with a "warm floor" system. But such a system is not suitable for a steam room, where the humidity is very high.

Ready-made projects of baths from foam blocks

Considering the finished project of the bath, you need to make sure that it has a competent layout of the steam room, sink and rest room. Depending on personal preferences, each zone is allocated the required area, while the distribution is different: a large-sized steam room and a small sink, or a large lounge and compact functional areas. The choice is up to the owners. The main thing is that the room is comfortable and properly organized.

The dimensions of the furnace structure are determined by the volume of the steam room, but it is better to take a few centimeters of stock. This rule is mandatory when placing the furnace in another zone, because of which part of the thermal energy will be spent on heating the building itself.

With swimming pool

When a bathhouse is built with their own hands, people prefer options with a pool. But such a tank can only be installed in a spacious building. Otherwise, it will be bulky and impair the comfort of using the bath. If you plan to build a 2-story bath, the pool can be placed on the second tier. A prerequisite for this element is the presence of at least one ventilation window.

There are various types of bath pools available for sale, differing both in shape and purpose. Choosing the appropriate option, you must be guided by the features of the layout of the building and financial capabilities, because. the acquisition of such a design is not a cheap pleasure.

with terrace

Projects of baths from foam blocks with a terrace are quite common. This is due to the stylish appearance of the building and the ability to use every centimeter of area as efficiently as possible. The porch of the bath from the blocks is combined with any type of design, regardless of the parameters of the room.

As a material for creating a terrace, you can use a foam block, and any other alternative, including:

wood.
Metal.
Plastic.
Decorative rock.

On a well-equipped terrace, you can place useful furniture items (tables, chairs, sofas, armchairs). The main thing is that there are not many of them, because. an overloaded area will look unpresentable. When erecting a bunk bath, the veranda is located on the second floor.

Bath with shower and toilet

The size of the bath with a shower and a bathroom is 5x9 m with a total area of 45 m². The structure has one floor and several separate zones:

Shower.
Toilet.
Restroom.

Such a layout is especially convenient for the construction of a country bath.

Sauna with a font and a summer kitchen

Drawings of baths with a summer kitchen and a font allow you to build a functional room for a cozy pastime with friends and relatives.

In such projects, the summer kitchen serves as a dressing room, and the kitchen stove structure is installed in the bath itself. Both buildings are equipped with the same roof.

Bath with attic floor

The project of a bath with an attic expands the functionality of the room and allows you to effectively use all the available space. The attic floor can be used as:

Full rest room.
Sports hall equipped with exercise equipment.
Rooms with a billiard or tennis table.
Rooms for storage of bath accessories.

In most cases, the area under the roof structure acts as an attic, where various accessories are located. But the designers decided to get rid of this stereotype and find a more competent use of the area - to equip the attic.

Such a project has the following advantages:

The owner of the bath receives additional space and rationally distributes the useful space.
The project of a 6x4 bath from foam blocks with an attic floor is often used to equip a guest house.
A bath with an attic has a more presentable appearance than a simple one-story building.

Two-story bath

To build a comfortable bath from foam blocks with two floors, you need to choose or create your own project with a detailed layout of each zone. Like a single-tier version, a two-story bath should be created taking into account the following requirements:

The project of a two-story bath from foam blocks provides for places for the installation of ventilation holes.
If a fireplace is installed on the second floor, a separate chimney must be made from it.
With special care should be approached the issue of making engineering communications.
In addition to the furnace design, it will be necessary to provide an independent heating system.

Do-it-yourself foam block bath

A house or a bathhouse made of foam blocks is second only to wooden buildings in terms of environmental friendliness and far exceeds brick and concrete structures. Unlike brick or ordinary concrete, a foam block bath makes it easy to carry out interior decoration, since this material easily includes nails and other fastening methods. Given the reviews, a foam block bath is one of the best solutions in terms of construction.

The fastest way to build is a turnkey foam block bath, in which you do not need to intervene in construction and solve many issues. For baths made of foam blocks, prices depend on many factors, primarily the size, complexity of the project, conditions and construction time. You can build a bath from foam blocks on your own, without resorting to the help of hired construction teams.

The process of building a bath from foam blocks

It is possible to build not only a one-story structure from foam concrete, the presence of a second floor will not make the structure too heavy. If openings of more than 2.5 meters are provided, then the structure is reinforced with reinforced foam concrete lintels. For such construction, a set of building tools for processing blocks is needed.

Since the shape and size of the blocks are standard, they almost do not need additional work. Where the standard block does not fit, it is easy to reduce it in any direction with a regular hacksaw. Foam block masonry is simpler than brick masonry, due to the larger size and lighter weight of the blocks.

Compliance with construction technology is the key to a durable bath

In order for the construction of a bath to be effective, it is necessary to follow the instructions and adhere to the technology.

Marking and earthworks

There are different methods of marking the area in compliance with the scale of the building. But the principle remains the same: it is necessary to correctly determine the installation site

It is important to consider that you will need to install formwork, and then finish on the foundation

Earthworks begin with the arrangement of a trench under the base. Its depth is determined by the approximate weight and height of the pillow.

Foundation pouring

At the stage of drafting the project, you need to determine the height of the base. Experts recommend raising it at least 30 cm.

Further actions will be performed according to the following algorithm:

The bottom of the trench is compacted with greasy clay and compacted.
Next comes the arrangement of a cushion of coarse sand, gravel or fine gravel.
Arrangement of the frame with reinforced elements.
Pouring cement-sand mixture.

Base waterproofing for masonry walls

In order for the walls of the bath to remain resistant to moisture, it is necessary to provide for good waterproofing of the foundation. It will prevent the rapid wear of load-bearing structures and protect the room from all kinds of decay.Do-it-yourself polyethylene, roofing material or aluminum foil are used as a waterproofing material for a bath.

Construction of walls from foam blocks. Lintels over window and door openings

The process of building walls is not complicated, but its effectiveness is determined by several nuances.

First of all, builders need to inspect the material. Any external defects should be alarming, because. over time, they will lead to the destruction of the supporting structure.

It is imperative to monitor the thickness of the solution

Features of the construction of floors and roofs. Roof device

When arranging the roof structure and overlapping the bath, it is important to monitor the quality of the material. It should be lightweight and have low thermal conductivity.

As additional thermal insulation, a layer of expanded clay, sawdust or shavings is used. But, in order to prevent the rapid decay of such raw materials, it is necessary to responsibly approach the issues of waterproofing.

Installation of water pipes and sewerage

Work on the arrangement of the water supply and sewerage system depends on the purpose and time of use of the building. If there is a desire to visit the bathhouse in winter, it is necessary to provide for the protection of these nodes from freezing. Otherwise, the water will freeze and lead to failure of the entire system.

A complete water supply consists of the following elements:

Connection pipes for hot and cold water.
Water heating device.
Pump with filter elements.
Emergency drain system.
Water supply line to the tank.
All kinds of additional details: valves, taps, pressure gauges.

Floor device

The floor structure in the bath is created from high-strength materials that can withstand moisture. In addition, they should have a comfortable surface and retain heat well. In most cases, the floor in a two-story bath is made of wood.

Waterproofing and vapor barrier of walls

For the arrangement of hydro and vapor barrier, polyethylene film, roofing felt, aluminum foil or other modern materials are used.

Furnace masonry

The stove in the bath can be brick or metal, but the first option retains all the traditions of the classic Russian steam room, so it is in great demand. Laying a furnace is not a difficult process, but in the absence of experience, it is better to entrust the task to a specialist.

Exterior and interior wall decoration

With the independent construction of a bath, it is necessary to pay due attention to the external and internal decoration of the walls. This is necessary to improve thermal and waterproofing.

The use of plastic for finishing the bath

How to build a bath from foam blocks with your own hands, some of the subtleties of this creativity

The interior of the foam block bath can be made in various materials.

Not so long ago, plastic trim was not common - except that the ceilings of the kitchen areas were sheathed with such material, or something in the bathroom. That is, plastic was chosen for those rooms where the level of humidity is very high.

Today, this finishing material is very popular. In general, plastic finishing of foam block baths is a durable, practical solution. However, you will be able to use such material, perhaps, in the dressing room, which is usually arranged in front of the washing room.

What are the benefits of plastic?

Why is it worth using plastic, what are its advantages?

Let's consider in detail:

Nowadays, plastic can be of several types.

It is known that plastic is a very moisture resistant material, while it is very durable. However, it is not difficult to damage it - any sharp object will cope with such a task;
The installation of this finishing material is not so difficult - you will definitely cope with the work, even if you get down to business with your own hands without special training;
Another important factor: the cost of plastic is available to almost any family - this also affected its popularity in modern applications.

The material is used today not only to perform various interior finishing works - it is also often chosen for exterior cladding;
Climatic phenomena, various weather whims - all this does not pose a threat to plastic products;
Experts recommend paying attention only to the fact that there are certain types of plastic (we are talking about cheap products) that can fade due to exposure to direct sunlight. However, this can not be feared if the material is used only indoors.

Inside some bath rooms, the use of plastic is allowed.

How to mount plastic

Fastening plastic is not difficult - this can be said about both wall material and plastic lining. For this, a crate should be made on the surface of the wall.

In order for the interior decoration of the foam block with plastic in the bath to be perfect, you need the following elements:

Construction level;
Self-tapping screws for wood;
Wooden bars, planks;
Electric jigsaw;
sealant;
Plastic;
A construction stapler will not interfere.

In general, this is not recommended, since it will take much more time to work. It is much easier to create a crate directly where you are going to attach the plastic.

And the installation is done in this way:

The design of the crate (frame) has auxiliary, as well as load-bearing guides. All elements are fastened together with self-tapping screws - to make it easier to work, also use a screwdriver;
Carrier guides are mounted to the surface using dowels. They will significantly strengthen your entire structure, make it as strong as possible - finishing a foam block bath will only benefit from this;
A similar crate should be made around the entire perimeter of your finish. It will be necessary to attach sheets or strips of plastic to it with a construction stapler;
To connect the elements of the plastic lining to each other, special locks are used - they are at the end of the material. And if we talk about sheet plastic, then its installation is carried out on the frame using a construction stapler, and here you can also use self-tapping screws, the diameter of which is not too large.

But, if possible, wood remains the preferred material for cladding.

This work should include:

Styrofoam;
polyurethane foam;
Mineral solid insulation;
Mineral wool.

Insulation can be inserted into the cells of the crate immediately. That is, you will save not only the insulation material itself, but also the time that you have to spend on insulation, because there is practically no need to break away from the finishing work inside the bath.

Preparing the construction of a bath from foam blocks

The specifics of the preparatory stage in the construction of a bath is determined by different conditions. First of all, the size of the plot and the properties of the soil are taken into account. Further personal preferences of the owners and financial condition.

But regardless of these factors, preparation consists of the following stages:

Choice of location.
Study of soil characteristics.

These actions allow you to quickly determine the type of foundation and calculate the cost of upcoming work.

Project development and site selection for construction

When drawing up a project, problems often arise with the choice of foundation. Some sources, referring to the light weight of the foam blocks, argue that there are no high requirements for the quality of the foundation. But this is an erroneous opinion, because. This material is porous and brittle.

If the soil on the site belongs to the problematic group, and the location of groundwater is high enough, it is better to give preference to the slab version of the foundation. But it can be difficult to equip such a structure on your own, due to complex technology.

On sufficiently dense soil, a shallow-depth monolithic tape can be used as a base.

Coordination of the project of the future bath in the administrative bodies

When erecting capital buildings with a foundation on a private site, it is necessary to coordinate the project with the relevant authorities. A building permit is issued for owners of the following types of plots:

Land for private construction.
Territories with subsidiary farming.
Summer cottages.

Foam concrete building insulation

As a heater for the walls of the bath, it is usually recommended to use natural materials, because of their environmental characteristics. With interior decoration, this requirement is justified. But for exterior decoration and insulation of the bath, synthetic heaters are also suitable. What materials are used for insulation most often?

Mineral wool is a popular material with good thermal insulation properties. Resistant to high temperatures, can withstand heating up to 1000 degrees, which allows it to be used not only for outdoor, but also for interior decoration. Mineral wool is durable, resistant to biological influences, is not subject to decay and the formation of fungus.
Glass wool - has a slightly lower thermal conductivity than mineral wool. For such a purpose, how to insulate a bath from blocks from the inside, it will not work due to a poor response to high temperatures. When worn, glass wool emits an unpleasant odor, which also makes it unsuitable for interior decoration.
Jute felt is a natural insulation of organic origin. Ideal for insulating the walls of a bath from blocks inside and out. It perfectly retains heat, is resistant to mold and fungus, has high strength and the ability to remove excess moisture from the room.
Expanded clay is a dry bulk substance consisting of small balls of baked clay. It is used for warming horizontal surfaces - the floor, the ceiling of the bath.
Styrofoam - usually used to insulate the bath from the outside. They cover the facade, fixing it with glue or fasteners, and on top of it they finish with any chosen material - plaster, siding, panels.

Advantages and disadvantages of baths from foam blocks

The advantage of foam concrete blocks is excellent thermal insulation and low weight. For comparison, a 30 cm thick brick structure corresponds in terms of thermal insulation properties to a 30 cm foam block wall. This allows you to reduce costs and time for the arrangement of insulation. Only the steam room will need isolation, and inside.

The material is characterized by low weight (from 10 to 14 kg), so it can be carried and laid by one person. For processing blocks, a hand saw with a foam concrete blade is used.

Also, the blocks must be installed in the correct geometry with a tolerance of no more than 1 mm. If you do not comply with this requirement, the bath will not retain heat well.

The low density of the material can be considered as a plus and a minus. The useful side implies a small weight of the final structure, which eliminates the need for the construction of heavy foundations.

The negative point is the difficulty of nailing any elements to such a wall. Fasteners are carried out using special dowels, which are not cheap.

The next disadvantage is vulnerability to moisture. Because of this, the project of a bath with a pool of foam blocks needs intensive hydro and vapor barrier. At the same time, builders claim that gas blocks are subjected to this disadvantage more intensively than other types.