Bathroom Design Ideas

Shower heads are often a secondary consideration, coming in second place to the function or the design of the shower unit. The choice of shower head is important, because it will be the point which delivers the water, so you want one which will suit your particular style and needs.

Generally, the larger the shower head, the more water it will deliver, so look for a good sized item. It can also be very handy to have a second hand-held unit, which is great if you want to wash a particular area and gives you more directional control of the water as required.

Overhead shower heads are also becoming very popular, particularly with power showers. This is mainly because the shower cascades down from the above, rather than being directional, although this really is a matter of individual choice.

If you like a gentle and relaxing shower, but your partner likes a shower that really invigorates, then why not think about having a shower which does both, with the shower head being capable of delivering a low pressure shower or a really powerful jet. This is the perfect multi-functional device.

The choice of the shower head should not be made on aesthetics alone, but, instead, should take into account the type of shower you like; the amount of water to use (this is vital if you are on a meter) and what your needs are for now and for the future.  Once you have decided on these issues then you only need to choose the most appropriate shower head, which will fit your needs perfectly.

When you decide to install a shower, you need to carefully consider two issues.  First of all there is the issue of whether the water pressure will cope with the addition of a shower. Secondly, you need to think about drainage for the unit and its associated piping. It is always worth checking these points out before you buy the shower and if you have any doubts consult a professional.

If your water pressure is low and your water supply is often quite weak in terms of flow, then you need to think about how things can be improved. First of all you could lift the cold water cistern at least 150mm to see if this makes any difference, (it usually does).

If this does not help, you may have to fit a pump, which acts as a booster. This usually does the trick and you will find that your new shower will work perfectly.

Once you have addressed any water pressure concerns, you need to think about pipes and drainage. There is one golden rule when thinking about drains and pipes, ‘the shorter and straighter, the better’. Basically, you do not want unnecessarily long pipes and drains fitted, so always try to make sure that you can link into nearby existing services, which will also minimise the cost. Short and straight pipes will also give you the maximum water pressure available, so it is worth making sure that you carefully plan the route they will take.