Installing or upgrading to a luxurious walk-in shower? One of the most important steps is properly positioning the shower head for maximum comfort and enjoyment. Read on as I walk you through how to find the optimal location for your shower head based on expert recommendations and real-world experience.
Why Shower Head Placement Matters
Placing your shower head in the wrong spot can really put a damper on your showering experience (pun intended!). Improperly angled water streams might leave parts of your body with poor coverage. And a shower head that sits too low could cause you to bump your head.
Trust me, I‘ve seen it happen countless times during my 10 years as a home renovation contractor. Taking the time to carefully consider the shower head placement will pay off every time you step into your new walk-in shower.
Choose the Best Height for Problem-Free Showers
One of the first considerations is mounting the shower head high enough for comfortable use by all household members. Here are some tips to guide your height selection:
- For a household with adults, a good standard height is 6 feet 3 inches from the floor to the shower head‘s underside.
- If there are particularly tall users, go up to 6 feet 6 inches for maximum comfort.
- For households with children, installing the shower head at 4 to 5 feet above the floor is ideal.
- Always take into account the tallest person who will regularly use the shower.
- Adjustable shower heads allow you to fine-tune the angle as needed.
Getting the height right avoids issues like crouching to shower or feeling spray mainly on your legs. Use a measuring tape and mark the wall with painters tape to map out the shower head position before installation.
Centered Above the Drain Is Best
Now that you have the ideal height in mind, it‘s crucial to center the shower head directly over the drain. A centered position allows for even water distribution across your shoulders as you shower.
If the shower head sits too far to one side, the other shoulder and arm will wind up out of the main spray zone. And if it‘s placed too far forward or back, your head and torso will block some of the stream.
Refer to your shower pan dimensions and measure an equal distance from the short side walls to find the midpoint. Double-check your measurements and marking before drilling any holes!
Pick the Right Wall for Optimal Use
Generally, it works best to install the shower head along the wall opposite the shower entry point. This avoids excessive water spraying outside the shower as you enter or exit.
I also recommend placing the shower head on the longest wall in the available space. The added length allows more room to move around within the cascade.
For neo-angle or corner showers, position it on the angled wall facing outward into the bathroom. Avoid the inward-facing wall or you‘ll mainly end up watering the corner.
Securely Mounted Brackets Prevent Sagging
Nothing can ruin your perfect shower head placement faster than a loose, sagging arm! Choose a sturdy mounting bracket designed specifically for shower heads. Follow all manufacturer instructions for proper installation.
Attach any provided washers or gaskets to prevent moisture seepage into the wall around brackets. Be sure to secure the bracket directly to wall stud framing for maximum support. Tightening onto drywall alone won‘t cut it.
Applying plumber‘s tape around shower arm joints prevents leaks and keeps things watertight. Regularly check brackets for any loosening over time and tighten as needed.
Measure Twice for the Right Shower Arm Length
Having the correct length shower arm helps position the shower head at your pre-planned height. Measure from the center of the planned bracket location to the pipe outlet in the wall.
Add the measurement of the shower head depth to determine the total arm length needed. Standard shower arms range from 6 to 12 inches long.
Arms longer than needed make the shower head sit too far off the wall. Too short results in the head protruding awkwardly. Opt for a 45 degree angle on the arm for ideal downward water flow.
Rain Shower Heads Require Different Placement
If installing a large rain shower head, the placement approach differs. To get full coverage, position this type of shower head directly overhead in the center.
Most rain shower heads need to hang at least 8 inches from the ceiling. Check your model specs to verify the recommended clearance.
Avoid cramming a rain shower head in the corner. This leads to uneven streams that mainly hit the walls. Extendable arms allow perfect positioning for rain shower heads.
Unique Showers Call for Creative Solutions
For neo-angle, corner, or unusually shaped showers you may need to improvise on the shower head placement. Focus on identifying the optimal spot for water to reach the entire shower floor.
In extra large stalls, you might need multiple shower heads for full coverage across the space. There are also custom systems with horizontal water outlets along two or more walls.
Do a test by standing in various spots within the shaped stall to find the ideal position for uniform water flow.
6 Critical Precautions for Safer Showers
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Never mount the shower head near electrical fixtures. Water + electricity = danger!
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Position away from doors to keep water inside the stall.
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Adjust the shower head height high enough for all users to stand comfortably.
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Locate grab bars thoughtfully, independent of the shower head position.
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Avoid slipping hazards by using textured shower floors.
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Maintain a minimum clearance of 3 feet between the shower head and tub.
Getting the Most from Your New Shower Head
Once installed in the optimal spot, be sure to enter the walk-in shower on the same side as the shower head. This allows water to flow evenly down your body from top to bottom.
I hope these tips help you install your shower head properly on the first try. Just remember to double-check all measurements and mounting. With careful planning and placement, you‘ll enjoy a refreshing, spa-like shower experience for years to come. Let me know if you have any other questions!
