Our day begins and ends with a shower. We jump in the shower in the morning to get an invigorating start to our day or relax in the shower in the evening to wash away the stressors of the day. There is a huge variety of showers, showerheads, and shower systems for you to choose from when renovating your home. When choosing the perfect shower or bathtub faucet, there are few factors to take into consideration including shower valves, the configuration and type, water pressure, and accessories.
1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT VALVE
Let's begin our discussion with the technical issues.
The valve is the plumbing part that controls the water flow. You don't see it because it is covered by the control plate and wall plate. The valve controls the pressure and temperature of the water in your bath or shower.
The valve is often called to as a rough in valve because it's roughed into the wall frame during construction and welded into the hot and cold water supplies. In new construction or a complete renovation the valve goes into the wall and the faucet set or trim kit is installed with the handle/control panel covering the valve.
Are you wondering if you can just install a fresh new trim kit for a quick update?
If you purchase a trim kit, you need to make sure that you have the proper valve installed in the wall to receive it. These are the basics to know:
- Most trim kits require a specific model valve from the manufacturer who makes the kit.
- Over the past five years or so, a number of companies including Delta, Grohe, Hansgrohe, Riobel and others have begun making universal valves that can take different trim kits—still from that brand only.
What is a pressure balance valve?
A pressure balance valve is designed to supply water to your shower at a constant temperature, even with pressure fluctuations in the hot or cold supply lines. This means, if someone flushes the toilet or using washing machine or dishwasher while you’re showering, the shower water temperature should not suddenly become scalding hot.
What is a thermostatic valve?
A thermostatic valve is designed to regulate water temperature for your shower. This is achieved by using a wax thermostatic unit that maintains a constant water temperature even after turning off the shower. The pre-selected shower temperature helps reduce the risk of accidental scalding.
2. Choose the right configuration
You can still see the standard tub/shower combo in the full bath in a majority of houses and condo.
Depending on your choice of shower fixtures these are your options
Tub-only faucets
Depending on your choice of tub, here are your faucet mounting options:
Deck mount:This is a faucet mounted on the rim of the tub itself or in a surrounding deck made of marble, tile, etc. This category of the faucets is a very popular style which may require a separate valve/rough in.
Floor mount: (also called free standing): This type of the faucet is a perfect option for a tub without pre-drilled holes, freestanding tub or vintage-look clawfoot tub. This category of the faucet requires a separate valve/rough in.
Wall mount: This type of the faucet is an alternative for a freestanding tub that is close to a wall.
Whether you are renovating your bathroom or building new house, installing a shower system is a big job.
