Bathroom Shower Stalls

Bathroom shower stalls are becoming increasingly popular in homes today. One reason is that we are simply too busy to take a bath! It takes some time to fill a tub, especially many modern over-size units. And they require many gallons of water to fill. This also requires copious amounts of hot water which adds to the utility bill.

Although there may be some therapeutic reasons for a good relaxing soaking, we busy people don’t take the time for such indulgences anymore. A quick shower is what we seek so we can get on with life! Plus, showers are water and energy savers. Add a water-saving shower head and you have an efficient, cost saving device.

But a quick body wash is not the only reason why shower stalls are becoming popular. Some folks, due to age or a disability, might have a difficult time maneuvering in and out of a tub. A shower stall with its easy entry can be outfitted with a grab bar and bench seat for added safety while taking a shower.

A bathroom shower stall doesn’t take up much space; definitely not as much as a tub requires. And for smaller bathrooms, a shower stall may be the only thing that will fit in a confined space.

In most cases, a bathroom shower stall is a glass enclosure creating a stand alone unit between the shower and the rest of the bathroom.

Most stalls are conveniently installed in a corner making for a nice, cozy appearance. There’s a wide variety of materials to achieve the look you desire for the bathroom. Of course, whatever shower stall material you choose, it must be waterproof and durable. You have many styles to choose from and material options include: glass, fiberglass, tempered glass, plastic, and acrylic.

Shower Stall Materials

Crystal clear glass being transparent, brings in the most light into the shower but a more frosted glass may be preferred for an added sense of privacy. If you’re still not comfortable taking a shower within a glass compartment, a prefabricated stall might better suit your preferences. These too can come in a variety of materials but for privacy, a fiberglass unit will allow you the comfort you seek.

Prefabricated stalls are one piece units that many do-it-your-selfers can managed. They come complete with all the necessary parts for installation. (Although you will require some help getting them into place as they are quite large for one person to manage.)

For a fee, most retailers that sell prefabricated shower stalls also install, or contract out installation for you. This option may be preferred if you’re unsure of your plumbing abilities. And it’s worth noting that you are bringing water into a room. Without proper installation, water leaks can cause considerable damage to your home requiring thousands of dollars in repair bills! It’s best to leave the job to the professionals if you’re not confident in your ability to do the job right.

In most cases, bathroom shower stalls don’t come with a roof. And this is good so the humidity has an outlet and can vent out from the stall. If you don’t allow some kind of venting, you’ll need an exhaust fan. It’s best to consult with the retailer for suggestions.

Speaking for professionals, you can have a shower stall custom-designed to add an extremely elegant look to your bathroom. Many going this route select high-grade tile, granite, or some other choice material and have distinctive bathroom worth showing off!

Most likely it will be your budget that determines the route you take. The more extravagant looking stall, the higher the price tag. Besides price, the selection of materials for your shower should include maintenance considerations.

Bathroom Shower Stall Maintenance

You may find that a heavily textured glass looks incredible but it may end up being difficult to clean. All those decorative cracks and crevices in the glass can readily permit mold can to build up and accumulate.

Bathroom shower stalls made of transparent glass to achieve a modern look, but they require a regular maintenance in keeping the walls and doors free from soap scum. A quick squeegee may be needed after each shower or the glass will become cloudy looking.

Regardless of the style of bathroom shower stalls you select, be sure it’s comprised of quality construction. Saving money on a cheap shower stall could ultimately end up costing you much more money in the long run. If the shower does not contain all the water within the enclosure (i.e. the shower door doesn’t shut tight), the escaping moisture can run floors and sub-floors. That will be expensive.

When purchasing a bathroom shower stall, investigate the manufacturer’s warranty and be sure to read up on the recommended maintenance plan. Done right, you can enjoy your new bathroom shower stall for many years to come.