Post by Wetroom Materials
Naturally, one of the standout features in a wetroom is the shower, and in some cases, this is the central focal point of the room. When deciding on the shower type to integrate into a wet room, there is a range of factors to consider, from functionality to aesthetics and the space available. Below, we’ve explained the different shower types that are out there, and the different benefits and which wet room each would be best suited to.
A power shower draws water from both hot and cold water supplies, with the temperature of the water generally being thermostatically controlled. One of the key benefits to users of powers showers is that unlike other shower types available, they offer low-pressure systems the option of a glorious high flow rate shower. In order to fulfil this functionality, power showers generally have a pump inside a box on the wall (this helps to boost the water flow and pressure), and this is what allows a stronger, thermostatically controlled shower, for optimum temperature and pressure. It’s worth mentioning, that having a power shower means a greater volume of water is being used, and therefore a larger drainage system is required to manage this. View our range of wet rooms drains for the options available.
However, it is worth noting that this type of shower generally comes with an added element of expense. Both running and maintenance costs can be high; running a power shower can cost users twice as much per year vs an electric shower, so this should be made aware. Furthermore, in order to ensure the correct level of performance from the shower, the pump could require maintenance which again occurs further cost.
An electric shower is common-place in bathrooms and wetrooms, and it’s easy to see why with ease of installation, energy efficiency and the range of different styles and finishes that are available. Electric showers work by drawing on the cold water supply, and then as the water passes through the electric shower is it heated to the required temperate. Unlike some power showers, electric showers are generally simple to fit and don’t usually require any additional plumbing work to be done to a bathroom or wetroom.
One of the key benefits to the user of an electric shower is how energy efficient they are. Some are reported to be 99.7% energy efficient, with no hot water wastage being occurred; amazing for those who are looking for an eco option in their wet room. Because of this, it means we’re not only doing our bit for the planet but also for our wallets! Electric showers can also easily fit a range of wetroom styles; coming in a variety of finishes from white to chrome.
Whilst flow rates are generally lower, there is the option to choose a higher kilowatt rating for better flow performance if you so desire without having to switch to a different shower type.
Digital showers embrace everything a user could want in a shower; state of the art technology, stylish choices and ease of installation. Both the temperature and flow of the shower is controlled by a panel that communicates with the shower’s power unit. In many cases, the power unit is installed in either an airing cupboard or loft.
The control unit that is used to change the temperate and flow of their shower can either be located in a user’s shower or elsewhere within the bathroom if they so please. This then communicates with the shower via a cable or wireless technology. Digital showers are available in either mixer or electric variations, so there are plenty of choices out there!
The water inside the shower, much like the electric shower, is controlled by a thermostat which mixes hold and cold water to get the perfect temperature. This means no nasty changes in water temperature when other appliances in the home are being used!
This high-tech shower option can come with both touchscreen and colour coded displays, creating a perfect futuristic user experience. One of the best thing about a digital shower? You can turn the shower on without actually getting in, so need to experience that uncomfortable cold blast of water before it gets up to temperature.
Mixer showers are generally dependant on a hot water system, so it’s important to make sure the style and model are compatible with a users’ system. Alike other shower types, mixer showers use both hot and cold water supplies and can deliver higher flow rates than some electric showers. This makes mixer showers ideal for homes that have a combi boiler, or large capacity hot water cylinder (where hot water is readily available).
This type of shower is highly versatile, with various options out there to suit any aesthetic. There’s fixed heads, adjustable heads, exposed variables or styles that are built into the wall (BIR). You’ll find a fit for any wetroom.
However, it is worth noting that one of the drawbacks with mixer units is that they are affected by water use in other parts of the house. So if someone flushes the toilet, you might experience a bit of shock from temperature change!
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The Importance Of Tanking A Wet Room Correctly
8th July 2019
My client bought a range of Wet Room Unislope Systems from our local retailer, Bathworks. We struggled to find anyone to come to site and take responsibility for the waterproofing until we came across WM | Wetroom Materials. They were willing to stand over their tanking system and more than helpful throughout all stages of the installation from site survey and room preparation to installation. A 10 Year no leak fully insured warranty gave me the confidence that we were dealing with a professional organisation. I would highly recommend these guys and will certainly be using them going forward.
Steven Quinlan | Director | Citius Limited
I have honestly found, WM | Wetroom Materials to be an easy and reliable company to work with. Whether it be a one wet room residential project, apartment block or a gym; they ensure there are no installation problems and we don’t have to worry about leaks. They take care of the specification and advising us on correct build ups and preparation. On a recent project we were able to buy their Unislope System from our bathroom show room retailer and they subsequently came to site to tank out the bathrooms. It was a time sensitive job and The Wet Room lads worked through the evening and into the weekend to ensure we completed the project on time. I have no hesitation in recommending WM, they are a pleasure to deal with.
Noel Geraghty | Director/Founder | NGS Mechanical Services
In Bright Designs, we understand the importance of specifying a reliable waterproofing system for bathrooms. We have worked on a number of projects with WM | Wetroom Materials over the years and I can honestly say that their waterproofing installation service offers complete peace of mind for us and our clients. The WM Team are there throughout all stages of the project from site survey and specification to installation. More importantly they also give us a 10 year no leak guarantee. I also like the fact that they will handle communication with the client and contractors in terms of delivering a high-quality installation which allows me the head space to focus on other aspects of the build."
Alan Burns | Director/Co-founder | Bright Designs. B Arch, B Sc Arch, MRIAI.
