What is the significance of a shower in our daily routine? For many individuals, a shower is the ideal way to kickstart their day and get energized. It also serves as a perfect method to unwind after a strenuous day’s work or exercise. With proper hardware installation and functionality, your shower can be the most convenient means of maintaining personal hygiene.
Living in a developed area like Traverse City, MI, amplifies the importance of having a top-notch shower. Consider this – you’re residing in a city that preserves its small-town charm while offering all the amenities of a big city. In your leisure time, you may head to the beach for relaxation, or explore numerous recreational options such as resorts, spas, and natural areas. To feel refreshed and presentable for these activities and wash off the sand after a beach visit, having a reliable shower is imperative. Given that the majority of Traverse City residents are homeowners rather than renters, upgrading their showers is generally hassle-free.
Whether you’re contemplating a full walk-in shower or just replacing the showerhead, conducting some preliminary research is a wise choice. Unsure about selecting the right shower for your bathroom? Here are some tips to assist you:
1. Hire a Professional Service
When it comes to any plumbing work, it’s best to entrust the job to a professional. Search for the top Traverse City shower replacement company and enlist their services for your bathroom upgrade. While you might have to invest more in an external service compared to a DIY approach, there are undeniable advantages to choosing the former. Here are some of them:
- Professional and dependable services possess the expertise and experience required for the job.
- In the long run, a professional job can save you money as the results are likely to be more durable and perform better than an inexperienced hand’s work.
- Such services typically offer warranties so that you won’t incur extra costs for any potential issues.
- The risk of future damage is minimized.
- Having a professional on the job provides peace of mind.
- With a pro handling the new shower installation, you can relax and focus on more engaging tasks, like selecting matching hardware and deciding on the best low-light plants for decoration.
2. Explore Different Types of Walk-In Showers
A walk-in shower can add a touch of luxury to your bathroom, even if it’s a small one. However, the right type of walk-in shower can vary depending on your specific needs. Let’s take a look at some of the main options available:
– Conventional Open Walk-In Shower:
This is the most common and popular type of walk-in shower. It features a single open unit without a door, but there is a glass side panel to prevent water from splashing all over the bathroom.
– Walk-In Shower with Enclosures:
If you want better splash control, you can opt for a walk-in shower with two enclosures: one long panel and one short. The rest of the shower area is enclosed by two bathroom walls, preferably tiled.
– Walk-In Shower Wet Room:
Installing a wet room means the shower area has no enclosure. Everything in the room must be waterproof, including the sink, floor, toilet, counter, and walls. Wet room designs work well in both very large and very small bathrooms.
– Barrier-Free Walk-In Showers:
These showers are ideal for elderly individuals or those with limited mobility. They are typically less expensive than custom walk-in showers and have enclosures made from fiberglass with a very low curb or none at all.
3. Evaluate the Advantages and Disadvantages of Walk-In Showers
If you’re considering a walk-in shower, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons:
Pros of walk-in showers:
- Maximizes space with an open layout and a sense of spaciousness.
- Adds a luxurious feel to your bathroom.
- Provides accessibility without the need for a curb.
- Easier to clean and less prone to mold or mildew growth due to materials like tile and glass.
- Allows more natural light into the bathroom with fewer enclosures.
Cons of walk-in showers:
- Can be expensive, especially when compared to traditional step-in showers.
- Requires skilled contractors and high material costs.
- May not retain heat well, potentially feeling colder on winter days.
- Sloped floors may increase the risk of slipping.
- Privacy concerns if the bathroom is shared with others.
4. Consider the Cost
The choice of shower depends on your budget. The average cost of a walk-in shower is $6,641. Factors influencing the cost include installation, maintenance, materials, labor, pre-sloping of the shower pan, cement board for the walls, and additional features like grab bars and benches. Calculate all the expected costs to make an informed decision.
5. Explore Additional Features
When finalizing your ideal shower, don’t forget to consider the extra features that can enhance your experience. A shower space offers more than just a showerhead and toiletries. Here are some examples:
- Skylight installation for natural airflow and sunlight.
- Built-in shelves, nooks, and cabinets for storing personal care products.
- Tiled shower benches for those who need to sit while showering.
- Benches or ledges for convenient leg shaving.
Wrapping Up…
In conclusion, selecting the right shower for your bathroom is a decision that goes far beyond mere aesthetics. It’s about enhancing your daily routine, optimizing your space, and ensuring functionality meets your specific needs. By considering factors like the type of shower, its pros and cons, your budget, and the additional features that can elevate your shower experience, you can make a well-informed choice that transforms your bathroom into a haven of comfort and relaxation.
Remember, your shower isn’t just a useful fixture; it’s a sanctuary where you start and end your day. With the insights and tips provided in this guide, you’re now well-equipped to embark on your journey to find the perfect shower that not only complements your bathroom’s style but also caters to your comfort and convenience. So, whether it’s a spacious walk-in shower or an efficient enclosure, your ideal shower is out there, waiting to transform your bathroom into a refreshing oasis.
