Showers

Despite the fact that many of us would consider a shower a daily necessity, buying and installing one (whether as an upgrade or a complete refurb) can leave us scratching our heads on where to start.  

This brief step by step guide has been designed as a handrail, to help you along your way and make the purchase of your new shower exciting rather than daunting. For more specific advice on your exact project or situation, please get in touch with our awarding winning customer service team online.

The water pressure in your home will have a direct impact on how powerful your shower can be and as such may narrow down which types of showers (and shower heads) are suitable for your bathroom.  

You can hire a professional to check your water pressure, but there is a simple method for determining your water flow. Simply fill a jug with water for six seconds and then multiple the amount of water in the jug by ten. For example, if your jug filled 0.5 litres after six seconds your water flow rate would be 5 litters per minute. It’s important to note that there is a difference between water pressure and flow rate but often it can provide a good indication of your overall pressure. 

A lower water pressure will mean that you won’t be able to see the full effect of more powerful shower systems and designs. For example, a rainfall shower head may be wasted if your water pressure is too low. 

As with your water pressure, the type of water and heating system in your home may alter what kind of shower you want. Typically, these will be one of three different systems: 

Gravity Fed 

Common in older properties, gravity fed systems feature a large cold-water tank in the loft space or attic. These systems tend to have lower water pressures, which can prevent the installation of some of the more powerful shower systems. However, they are beneficial when combined with a shower pump which will enable two to three showers to be used simultaneously - ideal for family homes. 

Combi Boiler 

These systems are designed to heat water as and when it is needed, because of this they also provide the highest possible water pressure. When combined with a shower mixer it can provide hot water on demand. 

Unvented 

An unvented shower system features a water cylinder which is heated by an immersion heater or boiler. This system allows for large amounts of hot water to be supplied – great for those who like long showers. 

After you’ve determined your pressure and water systems you will be well equipped to pick out the best shower system for your bathroom. We offer a range of different shower systems to help you further personalise your bathrooms to meet whatever needs your project requires. 

We have a fantastic buying guide for these different systems, which will not only tell you a little bit more about them, but help you decide which one is best suited to you. Alternatively, you can contact us using our online chat feature for more immediate answers. 

Picking out the system is just the first step in am creating the perfect shower. Next comes, all the additions that can make it far more comfortable and enjoyable to use. These can include the shower doors, enclosures but chief among them is the shower head. 

The head of your shower is the most important component as it can vastly alter you experience even with the same systems. Typically, you will have the option of a fixed head, riser kit or some combination of the two. Fixed heads are typically better when one or two people will be using the shower, for example in en-suites. Whereas the adjustable riser kits are better for family bathrooms. 

Shower doors, enclosures and trays will largely depend on the shape and size of your bathroom and should be picked to meet your space requirements whilst also matching the style and colour's themes you have chosen.