Choosing a new shower seems like a no-brainer until you're faced with all the options out there. From the classic wall-mounted shower to big rainfall heads and super-modern digital systems, the choices can be overwhelming.
But a shower isn't just about how it looks - you've also got to think about your water pressure, the space you have to play with, who's going to be using the bathroom and how easy you want the shower to be to use.
At A - Z Home Improvements, we design and install bathrooms all over Barnsley. When our customers are planning a new bathroom, here are 12 different shower styles to consider.
1. Wall-Mounted Shower
A wall-mounted shower is one of the simplest and most popular options around. The shower head is stuck straight to the wall - and that's about it. No fuss, no clutter.
They work a treat in modern bathrooms where you want to keep things really simple. Don't get the idea that a basic wall-mounted shower can't look stylish, though - there are loads of different sizes and styles of shower head out there to choose from.
Best for: Simple, stylish bathrooms and walk-in showers with a minimalist vibe.
2. Handheld Shower
A handheld shower head is connected to a flexible hose and can usually be popped out of its holder.
This makes it a real practical find. As well as showering, the handheld head makes rinsing down the shower enclosure loads easier.
Some people find them super useful in bathrooms designed for people with mobility issues, too, because the handheld shower head can be positioned just where it's needed.
Best for: Family bathrooms, easy cleaning and households with special needs.
3. Rain Shower
Luxury bathrooms are all about the rainfall shower - and it's easy to see why.
A big shower head delivers water right across the shower area from above, creating that wonderful feeling of rain on your skin. They look especially fabulous in big walk-in showers.
We've fitted plenty of rainfall showers in Barnsley over the years, and they can completely transform the feel of a bathroom.
Best for: Luxury bathrooms and big walk-in showers that need a bit of wow factor.
4. Handheld & Fixed Shower
Why choose between a handheld and a fixed shower?
A combination shower gives you the best of both worlds. You can enjoy the fixed shower for everyday use while having the flexibility of the handheld attachment when you need it. Plus, it makes the shower a lot easier to clean.
Best for: Family bathrooms and people who like having options.
5. Body Jet Shower
For something a bit different, you could try a body jet shower - where water is directed horizontally at you from jets in the shower wall.
Combine that with an overhead shower, and you get a seriously spa-like showering experience at home.
But be warned - installation is a bit of a challenge, because the pipework usually has to be hidden in the wall.
Best for: High-end bathroom renovations and bathrooms that want to go that little bit extra.
6. Slide Bar Shower
A slide bar lets you quickly adjust the height of the shower head.
It might seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference in a family bathroom where lots of people use the shower.
And as an added bonus, the shower head can usually be removed and used by hand.
Best for: Families and bathrooms that get a lot of use.
8. Digital Shower
Technology has invaded the bathroom - and digital showers are one of the coolest examples.
These showers use electronic controls to sort out the temperature and, depending on the system, the water pressure too.
Some systems even come with extra features and controls that can give your bathroom a proper cutting-edge feel.
Best for: Contemporary bathrooms and tech-heads who love smart home gadgets.
9. Exposed Shower
An exposed shower is all about showing off the pipework and controls, rather than hiding them away inside the wall.
Some people reckon the exposed look can be really striking - especially in traditional-style bathrooms with a period feel.
And if you like the look of polished metal, brushed brass or matt black, there are plenty of modern finishes to choose from.
Best for: Traditional bathrooms and people who like a bit of statement design
10. Concealed or Built-In Shower
A concealed shower takes the opposite approach.
Most of the working components and pipework are hidden behind the finished wall, leaving only the controls and the shower head visible.
It creates a super clean and minimalist look that works a treat with large tiles, bathroom panels or fancy finishes like Venetian plaster.
Just be aware that the planning needs to be careful because the plumbing has to go in before the walls get their final finish.
Best for: Minimalist and modern bathroom designs.
11. Corner Shower
You don't need loads of space to have a great shower.
A corner shower is perfect for smaller bathrooms where you can't fit a huge walk-in shower.
We've fitted plenty of corner showers in Barnsley over the years, and they're a great option for anyone with limited space.
Best for: Small bathrooms where space is at a premium.Corner showers really make the most of a area that's often left underused in the bathroom and they can be a cracking solution for smaller bathrooms and en-suites.
As long as you've got a good enclosure, some smart fittings and a decent finish around the edges you can end up with a corner shower that looks just as stylish as a big one.
Ideal for: Small bathrooms, en-suites and weird spaces that don't really lend themselves to anything else
12. Outdoor Shower
Outdoor showers aren't that common in Yorkshire, to be honest. Its a bit obvious really but they do have their uses.
They can be useful if you've got a pool or a hot tub and you need a place to rinse off afterwards. Or if you live in a house where people are always getting muddy from the garden
With the right materials and a bit of careful plumbing an outdoor shower can be a great addition to the right property.
Ideal for: Gardens, swimming pools, hot tubs and a few specialist properties
What Shower Is Right For You?
Ultimately there is no shower that's right for every bathroom.
Before you make your mind up, it's worth thinking about a few things:
· Just how good is the water pressure in your home?
· What kind of hot water system do you have?
· What does your bathroom look like and how much space have you got to play with?
· Who is going to be using the shower regularly?
· Do you have any special needs or requirements that need to be met?
· How much hassle do you want the shower to be to clean?
· What does your ideal bathroom look like?
· What is your budget for the whole project?
You should also think a bit ahead. A low-level walk in shower for example can look great in a modern bathroom and will make getting in and out a lot easier as the years go by.
Low-Level Showers & Assisted Bathing
At A-Z Home Improvements we've got loads of experience creating bathrooms that are accessible for people who need it.
We've designed bathrooms for people who struggle to get in and out of the bath or raised shower tray so install low level showers and walk-in showers that make it a whole lot easier.
We can combine these with all sorts of other features like shower benches, grab rails, handheld shower heads and easy to use controls.
And don't worry, an accessible bathroom doesn't have to be clinical - we can work that in with a modern design so you still end up with a bathroom you're proud to call your own.
Shower & Bathroom Installation in Barnsley
Whatever shower you choose, getting the design right and getting it put in properly is just as important as choosing the shower in the first place.
A-Z Home Improvements can put in a complete bathroom system in Barnsley, Mark has been in the trade for more than 15 years so you know you're in good hands
We can sort out all the little bits and bobs that go into a bathroom renovation like plumbing, electrics, tiling, flooring, joinery and alterations. That means you don't have to mess around trying to find lots of different trades people
From a new shower to a complete bathroom renovation, we'll help you choose some fittings that are just right for your home and your budget.
Thinking about a new bathroom or walk-in shower in Barnsley? Just give Mark at A-Z Home Improvements a ring and he'll be happy to give you some advice and pop round to give you a free quote.