In this article, we’ll highlight some of the most common types of walk-in showers and what factors to consider before you decide on a specific design.
No matter what home improvement project you take on, you’ll always be bombarded with choices. In bathroom remodeling, one of the biggest challenges is deciding what type of shower or tub to install. Homeowners looking for better accessibility typically lean towards walk-in showers, but even with walk-in showers, there are still so many options to choose from!
For some homeowners, having those options can be exciting, but to others, it’s exhausting. If you’re in that second group, we’re here to help.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the most common types of walk-in showers and what factors to consider before you decide on a specific design.
In this design, the shower is made with thick, tempered glass that doesn’t require the support of metal frames. It’s not only visually appealing but also minimizes potential spaces where mold and mildew might grow, making them easier to clean.
A curbless design might be the better option if you or someone in your household has limited mobility. This type of walk-in shower doesn’t have the raised threshold (curb) that most showers and tubs have. The entryway is perfectly flat, allowing for easier wheelchair access.
A corner shower can be a great option for bathrooms with limited space. These showers are typically triangular or neo-angled so that they can fit snugly into a corner.
Tiled showers can be designed in various colors, patterns, and materials, making it one of the better options for homeowners who want more personalized or customization options.
As the name suggests, this shower is fully enclosed, with glass panels on two or three sides and a door that swings or slides open. If you like hot, steamy showers but don’t want the rest of the bathroom to get humid, you might like this option.
Size can be a pretty subjective term, but realistically…what type of space are you working with? If you have a larger space (200-ish square feet or more), most designs will work within your space, but smaller spaces (40 square feet or less) benefit more from corner showers. Enclosed showers can also work, but having a sliding door rather than a swing door will help save space.
The material you choose will impact the durability, maintenance requirements, and appearance of your shower. Most walk-in showers are made from glass, acrylic, or tiles.
Glass
Glass showers are generally the more popular choice for showers because they help create a sense of space and openness. They’re also easier to clean and maintain, especially if they’re treated with anti-lime coatings, which improves glass’s resistance to water spots and soap scum. The downside is that glass is typically more expensive and requires careful handling during installation to prevent chips and/or cracks.
Acrylic
Acrylic is a more budget-friendly option. It’s also lightweight, so it’s easier to install, and comes in a variety of pre-formed shapes and sizes. Although acrylic is resistant to staining and will generally retain its color and brightness over time, it will scratch easily, especially compared to glass.
Tiles
As we mentioned earlier, tiles offer the highest degree of customization because they’re available in so many colors, textures, and sizes. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are durable and relatively easy to maintain, though grout lines may require regular cleaning to prevent mold and mildew. Comparatively, natural stone tiles need more maintenance and periodic sealing to prevent damage, so we don’t really recommend them for bathrooms.
Choosing features is by far the most challenging part of a walk-in shower design. There are several common types of features, including anti-slip floors, built-in seating, grab bars, and shower heads. Deciding on which features to select ultimately comes down to your lifestyle and considering who will frequently use the shower.
Do you find it challenging to stand for a long time? If so, a built-in bench will help make your showers more comfortable.
On the other hand, if you’re afraid of falling in the shower, anti-slip floors and grab bars will be crucial for you.
Other standard features for walk-in showers include:
The elephant in the room is always budget, but sometimes it can’t be your only deciding factor. When you’re choosing a walk-in shower, your primary factors should be comfort and functionality. Still, if budget is a genuine concern, you should know these things going ahead:
Woodson Home Services specializes in kitchen, basement, and bathroom remodeling. Our experts can help you design and install the perfect walk-in shower for your space. We provide a variety of color options and features like fold-down padded benches and grab bars. Our walk-in shower prices start at $8,999. This base price includes installation, a wall, a shower pan, two shelves, a wet wall, and a shower head.
No matter how complex the project is, you can count on us for exceptional workmanship, fast installations (as fast as one day), no hidden fees, and a mess-free process. Please contact us today to learn more about our different packages or to request a free project quote—don’t forget to ask us about our financing options!
