Shower Systems: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Showering S

Whether you're renovating your home or helping a client with their bathroom project, choosing the right shower system is essential. The right shower can transform your bathroom into a luxurious retreat, but with so many options available, it can be a little overwhelming. Don’t worry, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about different shower systems, helping you make an informed decision that suits your needs and style. Let’s dive into the world of shower systems and discover the options that will help create your dream bathroom. 1. Exposed vs Concealed Shower Systems2. Features to Consider When Choosing a Shower System3. The Importance of Water Pressure4. Colour Choices: Elevate Your Bathroom Aesthetic5. Building Your Own Shower System: Customisation Options6. Final Thoughts 1. Exposed vs Concealed Shower Systems One of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether you want an exposed or concealed shower system. These two setups offer distinct aesthetic and functional differences, so it's important to understand how each one works and what they bring to your bathroom design. Exposed Shower Systems An exposed shower system features all the visible components such as the pipes, valves, and showerhead on the outside of the wall. There are a number of reasons why you might want to consider this popular setup: Easy installation and maintenance - since the pipes and valves are above the wall, it’s much easier to install and repair if needed. This makes an exposed shower a cheaper option for installation than a concealed shower in most cases. Aesthetic appeal: Exposed showers often feature decorative elements like metal pipes and fittings, adding a touch of character to your bathroom. Great for retro or industrial themes: If you're after a traditional or industrial look, exposed systems are perfect for creating that vintage charm. Concealed Shower Systems A concealed shower system, on the other hand, hides all the pipes and valves behind the wall. Only the showerhead, valve, and hand shower (if used) are visible. This offers a sleeker, more minimalist appearance that works well in contemporary bathrooms. Streamlined appearance: Concealed systems provide a clean, minimalist look that works well with modern, sleek designs. Space-saving: Concealed systems can make a bathroom feel more spacious since fewer elements are on display. Customisable layout: You can position the shower controls and head in various configurations to suit your space and preferences. Bath Shower Systems A bath shower system allows you to combine bath filling functionality with a shower, all controlled from the same valve so you don’t have to have separate units above the bath. Concealed bath shower systems: these combine a bath filler waste (that fills the bath from the overflow) with a separate shower such as a rail kit. Both the bath filler and the shower are controlled by a single concealed valve mounted on the wall. Exposed bath shower systems: these combine an exposed shower system with a bath spout and are a great way to easily incorporate a shower over a bath. 2. Features to Consider When Choosing a Shower System Shower systems aren’t just about style; there are many practical features to consider that can enhance your showering experience. Let’s explore some key features that will help you choose the right setup for your bathroom. Thermostatic vs Manual Controls Thermostatic controls: These keep your water temperature consistent, preventing sudden changes if someone turns on a tap elsewhere in the house. This is ideal for families or homes with fluctuating water usage. Manual controls: More basic than thermostatic systems, manual controls allow you to adjust the water temperature manually but don’t offer the same level of protection from sudden temperature changes. Single vs Dual Outlets Single outlet systems: These feature one water outlet, typically a showerhead. They’re ideal for those who prefer simplicity and a more straightforward shower experience. Dual outlet systems: These include both a fixed showerhead and a handheld shower, giving you more flexibility. Dual outlet systems are great for family bathrooms, as the handheld option can make washing kids and cleaning the shower much easier. Showerheads Showerheads come in various styles and functions: Rainfall overhead showers: Wide, flat showerheads that provide a soft, gentle flow of water that feels like a natural downpour. They’re perfect for those who love a relaxing, spa-like experience. Handheld showerheads: A versatile addition that can be used on its own or as part of a dual outlet system. Handheld showerheads make it easier to rinse off, clean the shower, or wash pets and can come as a simple handset kit or a height adjustable rail kit that is ideal for baths. Multi-function showerheads: These offer multiple spray options, from a soft mist to a powerful jet, allowing you to customize your shower depending on your mood or needs. Water Saving Features Many modern shower systems come equipped with water-saving technology. Look for eco-friendly models that reduce water usage without compromising on pressure, helping to save water and lower utility bills. 3. The Importance of Water Pressure Your home’s water pressure is a crucial factor when selecting a shower system. Choosing the wrong system for your pressure level can result in a disappointing shower experience. Low water pressure: If your home has low water pressure, you’ll need a shower system that can work efficiently at these levels. Options like power showers or systems with integrated pumps can help boost pressure. High water pressure: Homes with high pressure have more flexibility when it comes to choosing a shower system. You can opt for anything from standard mixer showers to luxurious rainfall systems. For more information, see our guide to water pressure Types of Shower Systems for Different Water Pressures Electric showers: Perfect for homes with low water pressure or homes without a stored hot water supply. Electric showers heat water instantly as it passes through the system. Mixer showers: These blend hot and cold water from your home's supply, offering a strong, steady flow if you have good water pressure. Power showers: These have built-in pumps that increase water flow, making them ideal for homes with low pressure. 4. Colour Choices: Elevate Your Bathroom Aesthetic Your shower system can be more than just functional; it can also be a key design feature in your bathroom. The right finish can tie your bathroom’s overall look together, so it’s worth considering your colour options carefully and matching to other brassware in the room. Here are some popular finishes to consider: Chrome: A classic choice that works well in both modern and traditional bathrooms. Chrome is versatile, easy to clean, and adds a polished look to any space. Black: For a bold, contemporary aesthetic, matt black is perfect. It creates a striking contrast, especially in lighter-coloured bathrooms, and is ideal for those looking to make a statement. Brushed brass: For a touch of warmth and elegance, brushed brass is a beautiful option. It works particularly well in more traditional or vintage-style bathrooms, but can also add a luxurious feel to modern designs. 5. Building Your Own Shower System: Customisation Options If you want a truly personalised shower experience, why not build your own shower system? Customising your system allows you to choose every element, from the showerhead to the controls and finishes, ensuring everything suits your needs and style. Step 1: Choose Your Shower Valve The valve is the heart of your shower system, controlling both the water temperature and flow. Decide between manual or thermostatic options based on your preference for ease of use and temperature control. You will need to ensure the valve has the right number of outlets for the elements it will control. Step 2: Pick Your Showerhead(s) Consider the type of showerhead you want. Fixed rainfall showerheads provide a spa-like experience, while rail kits offer more versatility. If you want flexibility, include a handheld showerhead in your system. Step 3: Select Additional Features Want extra functionality? Consider adding body jets for a more immersive shower experience, or a bath filler waste so you can fill the bath from the overflow. 6. Final Thoughts Choosing the right shower system for your bathroom is a key decision that can greatly impact both the style and functionality of your space. Whether you opt for an exposed or concealed system, pick a luxurious rainfall showerhead, or build your own custom system, it's important to consider your water pressure, design preferences, and features that suit your lifestyle. At BathLab.co.uk, we offer a wide range of shower systems to help you create the perfect showering experience.