Walk-in Showers |
Once considered a luxury feature in high-end bathrooms, walk-in showers are quickly becoming a popular choice for bathroom designers and homeowners. There are many types of walk-in showers in the market, and choosing the right one is important for keeping your bathroom safe, efficient, and functional. Walk-in showers come in many shapes, sizes, and finishes to suit specific needs and bathroom styles. Like most bathroom fixtures, walk-in showers have been designed for beauty and functionality alike. They have also become cheaper, thanks to innovative methods that help lower production costs. Today's walk-in showers are designed for the average homeowner looking for a quick, affordable upgrade for their bathroom. Contemporary design Walk-in showers fit well into the minimalist style favored by modern bathroom designers. Frameless showers are particularly attractive. These showers are made entirely of glass panels, without the usual metal frames holding them together. The panels are joined instead by a strong waterproof glue, creating a delicate seamless look with a surprisingly solid structure. They also make your wall tiles visible, unlike most showers which cover up the wall and waste expensive tile work. If you want something more traditional, you can always go for a framed model. These have a bulkier appearance and higher maintenance costs, but they are more sturdy and will take more abuse over the years than frameless ones. A good compromise is the semi-frameless walk-in shower, which you can also place in a combined tub and shower system. More flexibility You can place a walk-in shower anywhere you like, as long as there is available drainage and, if you are getting a plug-in shower, a power source. You can also choose from straight wall and corner models. Corner showers, which have two perpendicular walls for fitting into a wall corner, are especially popular for small bathrooms because they save space by occupying space that is otherwise left unused. Wall showers are usually larger and more advanced units with multiple heads, massage jets, steam generators, and other add-ons. They are seldom sold freestanding, because they take up too much floor space and will be impractical even in large bathrooms. Better lighting Older shower enclosures tend to darken the bathroom because they block out incoming light. Walk-in showers do the opposite – their clear glass walls and doors actually reflect light and spread it around the room. This makes them a great choice for secluded bathrooms with small windows, which rely heavily on artificial lighting. A walk-in shower can help maximize available light and sae energy costs. Safer and easier use Walk-in showers are ideal for homes with elderly people, who may have trouble getting in and out of bath tubs. Sliding doors allow easier entry in tight spaces, and larger floor areas provide room for two people. This is great for users who are disabled or have reduced mobility and need assistance in the shower. |