If you are looking to remodel your bathroom or are just plain sick of your traditional shower bathtub combo, then installing a walk in shower enclosure may be right for you. Many people are converting their conventionally set up bathroom to this style and are loving it. There are so many possible designs and ideas that can be successfully applied to this type of bathroom that everyone is sure to find a style that is right for their home.
There are so many benefits, including health, appearance and safety, that it is no wonder it is a rapidly rising trend. The main health benefit that accompanies this style of shower is the fact that these enclosures are most often much larger than traditional tub or shower stall styles. This larger, and often more open and ventilated area, allows for much less moisture retention, which in turn helps to prevent the development of unhealthy molds and mildews. Smaller, cramped shower/tub combo units more often lack the ventilation necessary to eliminate the excess moisture that promotes this unhealthy growth.
Another health benefit is due to many of the contemporary walk in shower designs incorporating steam units. By creating your own steam shower enclosure, it is like going to a therapeutic spa treatment in your very own home. Beneficial effects from steam treatments are legendary and may include relaxation, detoxification, and weight loss. The steam also helps your skin to stay moisturized and refreshed. These walk in shower wet rooms are also much safer than the traditional tub enclosure because there is less chance of falling. Since you do not have to step over a high tub curb it is also advantageous to those with mobility issues or other physical restrictions.
There are many things to consider when installing a walk in shower enclosure. One thing to be aware of is that they come in many different shapes and sizes. A popular style that seems to go in nearly any bathroom configuration is a corner shower enclosure. This typically saves space and looks stylish too. Other types that are available include the pentagon shape, the curved shape, the quadrant shape, and of course the traditional square or rectangle. The pentagon shape is not used as often as others, but may add the perfect touch to the right bathroom. The curved and quadrant shapes can typically be used like the corner enclosure, and are often the style that is chosen to section off a bathing area from the rest of the bath.
Another thing to consider is the style of door that you want. There are several walk in shower enclosure door styles that are available. It is important for you to look at each and decide which one is best for your needs. Some of the different styles include slider doors, bi fold doors, pivot doors, and hinged doors. A popular choice is the slider door as this style is not only convenient, but also matches many different styles and tastes. The bi fold type consists of two panels that are connected with hinges in the middle. It slides open accordion style. The pivot door, where the door pivots into the enclosure as well as protrudes outward, is mostly used when there is a lack of space. Lastly, the hinged door is just a traditional style that opens and closes like most doors. This may be what you want if you like the traditional styles, however it is a good idea to research and decide what type would look and function best in your particular bathroom.
Everyone wants the benefits of a quality job when installing their new bathroom. It is very important to research and choose an installation company that has a good reputation before buying your shower from them. Look for walk in shower enclosure manufacturers that have received good reviews and are generally believed to provide high quality items. There are several website based evaluation services that offer ratings of not only the products needed but also of local installation companies as well. You would do well to check them out with your local business authorities to ensure their competence and good standing before entrusting them with your project. With the possibility of water damage to the rest of the house if not done properly, this is the type of project where you want your best research completed before you begin.
As there are many manufacturers available, with even more products, it is also important to shop around for a price that makes sense to you and your situation. Going with the cheapest product or service is not always the best approach to take in your own home. The saying you get what you pay for is true, so when purchasing your shower it is a good idea to do the research and find the best manufacturer with the best products available for as much as you can afford.
Installing your new bathroom shower enclosure takes a lot of time and effort. It involves a good deal of planning and research. If you take the time and plan out exactly what you want, and purchase the best products, then you are sure to be happy with your new home project. Get creative and install the walk in that you will love to use.
