by Kyle | 20th Feb, 2024 | Blog, Walk-in showers
It’s time for a shower upgrade, but what should you choose? It seems there are endless options – power showers, electric, digital, and that’s not to mention the type of shower enclosure. Do you choose a quadrant enclosure, stable door shower or wet room? And, most importantly, do they suit your mobility needs?
In this article, we take you through the different types of showers and shower enclosures, including key features and benefits. You’ll walk away informed and knowledgeable about the best shower to buy for yourself and your loved ones.
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Different types of shower enclosures
A shower enclosure (also known as a shower cubicle) is the space you stand inside while you shower.
When looking into shower enclosures, a solid starting point is the space in your bathroom and accessibility needs. And let’s not forget the style. You want to like your shower and enjoy using it. Read on for the top shower enclosures.
Quadrant shower enclosure
A quadrant shower has two straight edges and a curved screen that slots neatly into corners. They are ideal for small areas or a bathroom with an odd layout.
A quadrant shower is a walk-in shower, which means you don’t have to step into a bathtub or encounter the barrier of a high shower tray. It’s an excellent option if you have limited mobility and need some elbow room to move around.
The Richmond Quadrant Enclosure is designed to fit seamlessly into corners and awkward areas of the bathroom.
Its sliding screen door has a low-entry, slip-resistant shower tray. Magnetic seals ensure there’s no leaky sealant or shower spray on your bathroom floor. With a minimal and sleek aluminium frame and a chrome finish, you can appreciate the pleasure of accessibility and style all in one.
Benefits of a quadrant shower enclosure
- Space-saving corner design
- Excellent access
- Stylish and simple
- Comes with integrated grab rails and a shower seat
- Ideal for small areas or awkward-shaped bathrooms
Offset quadrant shower
An offset quadrant shower is similar to a standard quadrant shower, except it has one extended side and fits best into wider corners. The longer side creates additional space, which is excellent if you need more room to move. It’s another type of walk-in shower, making showering safe and easy.
Our Richmond Offset Quadrant Shower Enclosure comes in custom sizes to fit perfectly into your bathroom. The seamlessly sliding, curved doors open and close on rollers, so there is no need to tug or struggle to get in and out. The low, slip-proof shower tray eliminates the worry of tripping and is easy on the joints.
The Mobility Plus Offset Quadrant Shower Enclosure also has a comfortable folding seat and grab rails to increase independent showering.
Benefits of an offset shower
Space-saving corner design
- Slip-resistant shower tray and trip-free access
- Sleek and stylish
- Accessibility-friendly
- Extra space for manoeuvring
Wet rooms
Wet rooms don’t have a self-contained shower. Instead, the shower is flush to the floor rather than inside a cubicle with a shower tray. The entire room is water-proof, with a sloping floor for effective draining. They are helpful for people with limited mobility or wheelchair users.
Our stylish wetrooms are suitable for almost any bathroom space and don’t have the barrier of a shower tray. They are ideal for a sleek, contemporary look and appropriate for everyone, whether you have mobility issues or not.
Benefits of a wet room
- Perfect for wheelchair users
- Suitable for most bathrooms
- Adaptable for all mobility types
- Stylish and modern
Stable door shower enclosure
A stable door shower has a split screen so the top half can open. The feature makes it convenient for a carer to provide support when showering, which is perfect for assisted living. The screen can also be returned to its full height to accommodate others who shower independently.
Stable door showers are best for larger bathrooms as they have a straight-edged, cube design. This generally requires more space than curved doors on quadrant showers.
Our walk-in Coniston Stable Door Shower Enclosure has a stylish brushed satin finish and comes in full and half-height panels. You can choose from clear or frosted glazing and add shower curtains for privacy, and it has the benefit of a low-level shower tray.
Benefits of a stable door shower enclosure
- Customisable for your accessibility needs
- Perfect for assisted showering
- Long-lasting with a thick frame
- Modern and stylish
Types of showers
Once you’ve chosen your shower enclosure, it’s essential to pick a shower that suits you. When choosing, consider your boiler, water pressure and the installation process. But ultimately, the best shower to buy is one that suits you and your accessibility needs.
Digital shower
Digital showers use innovative technology to control the start, stop and temperature of the shower. It combines hot and cold water in the shower valve for the ultimate showering experience.
Digital showers allow you to control your shower with just the touch of a button. The cutting-edge technology uses an optional wireless remote to start and stop the shower, change the water temperature and adjust the shower spray. Digital showers work well with any type of shower enclosure as they enhance accessibility needs.
Best for:
- Combi boilers
- Anyone who struggles with bending down or reaching up
- Technology lovers
- Carers to assist with showering
- Setting the water to a precise temperature
- All types of shower enclosures
Power showers
Power showers mix hot and cold water for the optimal temperature. They use a shower pump to increase water pressure, ensuring a pleasant showering experience. They are great if you have low water pressure and complement the modern design of a quadrant shower enclosure. Wet rooms also work wonderfully with power showers for a lavish experience.
Best for:
- Combi boiler
- Low water pressure
- Levelling up your showering experience
- Quadrant enclosures and wet rooms
Electric shower
Electric showers use electricity to heat water with a hot water cylinder. Instead of relying on a hot water tank, it uses cold water, which is good news if you frequently find your hot water running out. Electric showers work well with stable door shower enclosures as the pressure isn’t too high.
Best for: Gentle water pressure
- Hot water tanks that quickly run out
- Modern houses or new builds
- Lowering water wastage
- Stable door shower enclosures
Electric vs power shower
Whether you choose an electric shower or power shower depends on your personal preference. Electric showers use less water and have an independent heating element to warm your water supply, but they can be low-pressure.
Power showers increase water pressure for better water flow, creating a spa-like showering experience. However, they use more water and may feel too harsh on sensitive skin.
Mixer shower
Mixer showers combine hot and cold water and can be used with most boilers. However, they won’t increase pressure, so they may be unsuitable if you have low water pressure. An electric shower or shower mixer is generally good for homes with decent water pressure and a budget-friendly option. Mixer showers are great for quadrant and stable-door shower enclosures.
Best for:
Already good water pressure
- Combi boilers
- Quadrant and stable door shower enclosures
Choose the perfect type of shower with Mobility Plus
Our extensive range of showers is sure to accommodate your accessibility needs. Choose a contemporary chrome finish, elegantly curved door or accessible half-height screen. With low-level, slip-resistant shower trays, integrated grab rails and shower seats for safety and comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect shower with Mobility Plus.
by Jon Pearce | 12th Dec, 2023 | Blog, Walk-in showers
There’s no average cost for a walk-in shower. The price can differ based on several things, and it’s worthwhile being aware of these before you begin choosing the right walk-in shower for you. These features include:
- The style of the walk-in shower
- Features and extras that you want your walk-in shower to have
- How to integrate the walk-in shower with your current bathroom environment
Each of these factors can affect the overall price of the unit and the installation fees too. To clarify this subject, we’ve created a price guide to explain the different types of walk-in showers and how various factors can alter the price. This way, you can head into your decision knowing all the facts so you can make a choice that suits your needs best.
- What is a walk-in Shower?
- Do you need a walk-in shower?
- What are the benefits of a walk-in shower?
- Cost of disabled walk-in showers
- Additional options for disability-friendly mobility showers
- Walk-in shower installation costs
- Are you eligible for VAT exemptions?
- Disability facilities grant
- Are you ready to choose your walk-in shower?
What is a walk-in shower?
A walk-in shower refers to any type of shower that you can walk into. Although average cubicle showers are technically walk-ins, a walk-in shower generally refers to larger shower spaces.
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These are regularly designed for those with mobility issues who want more independence and safety features or for those who simply want a larger and more luxurious showering space to enjoy.
There are a few different types of walk-in showers, and it’s worthwhile becoming aware of each one before making your decision. Wet rooms are very similar to walk-in showers for example, but are level to the floor so that there is no lip that one needs to step over. This illustrates that pricing for walk-in showers can be varied, since there is quite a big range of options out there.
Do you need a walk-in shower?
Before looking into styles and prices, it’s important to understand why you need a walk-in shower. Maybe you prefer a deluxe-style shower? Or are you struggling to shower in a traditional type of shower? With high sides and slippery floors, many hazards can make your showering experience unsafe, particularly for those with limited mobility.
Fortunately, many bathroom adaptations can be implemented to create a safe and comfortable bathroom environment. Choosing a walk-in shower designed for your specific requirements will provide a solution, such as direct wheelchair access.
What are the benefits of a walk-in shower?
You’re not just paying for your everyday showering experience when you pay for a walk-in shower. Walk-in showers bring several benefits, whether you have limited mobility or not.
First and foremost, the low threshold makes it easy for users to enter and exit the shower in a much easier and safer fashion. Walk-in showers with no threshold at all or without a partition or door are effectively wet rooms. These allow for straightforward wheelchair access, making it even easier to use.
Alongside this, there are other top benefits which include:
- Increased independence
- Safer showering experience
- Safety features such as handrails, non-slip flooring, and easy temperature control
- In-shower seating
- Soothes aches and pains
- Allows those with limited mobility to shower in comfort
Cost of disabled walk-in showers
So, how much does a walk-in shower cost? The price of your walk-in shower depends on the type of shower you want. How big will your shower be? Do you need a doorless shower? Or one with foldaway seats? Do you want a full-scale wet room? Are there any luxury features you would like to include? When working with a company that specialises in walk-in showers, there are many different options to consider.
In this section, we will be sharing information on the most common types of walk-in showers. But remember, the final cost will depend on your specific requirements. Here are some of the most common:
1. Traditional walk-in showers
These upright showering enclosures usually have a door or glass screen separating the shower space from the rest of the bathroom. Depending on the size and style you opt for, doors may be single or double and will be able to open out into the bathroom or slide for easy access.
Traditional walk-in showers can vary greatly by design. You may want something large and spacious, able to contain seating, shelving, and other luxury accessories or, you may want something more compact that’s easier to manage. The choice is your own based on your individual needs.
2. Corner showers
Walk-in corner showers are ideal for small bathrooms. Thanks to their compact design, they are smaller than most other types of walk-in showers but still provide the space and safety features to shower with ease.
More often than not, these types of walk-in showers are surrounded by three walls and one glass door. Or, in some cases, two walls and two glass doors. They can also vary in size, so you can choose the option that best suits your space.
3. Wet rooms
A wet room is a type of walk-in shower without any door or partition separating it from the rest of the bathroom. You may be worried that the floor of your bathroom will become slippery and unsafe but wet rooms are designed to drain water efficiently and effectively while providing easy access. Some wet rooms are as big as the full bathroom!
In some cases, users choose to place a single glass panel to prevent water from leaving the shower area, while tiled walls are a must-have to waterproof your space. However, if you want the roomiest – and some believe the most luxurious – showering experience, a doorless wet room is your best option.
If you want to find out whether a wet room is more suited to your specifications than a walk-in shower, read our recent blog on the topic: wet rooms vs walk-in showers: how are they different?
4. Shower pod
The shower pod is designed with safety at the forefront. This all-in-one showering solution maximises your independence offering one of the lowest thresholds and many other safety features. With toughened safety glass, grab rails, low access tray, easy-to-clean walls, folding seats, and split doors fitted as standard, you can rest easy knowing your showering experience is as safe as can be.
Alongside this, the compact nature of this walk-in shower design means it can be installed with minimal fuss and disruption in your home. Ideal for those who want a quick and cost-effective solution.
Additional options for disability-friendly mobility showers
How much does a walk-in shower cost with all the added extras? Again, this comes down to the size and type of walk-in shower you choose. While these features will add to the overall cost of your walk-in shower, they will also add to the comfort and, in many cases, the safety too.
Examples of additional options that it’s worthwhile being aware of include:
- Digital showers
- Handrails
- Non-slip flooring
- Easy temperature control
- Folding seat
- Ultra-low threshold
- Easy to clean showering area
- A stylish and modern design
Walk-in shower installation costs
When giving your bathroom a makeover, it will cost you extra to pay for installation alongside any extra work such as plumbing, plastering, and electrics. As such, it can be hard to estimate an accurate price due to multiple tradespeople working on the project, which is when unwanted costs can emerge.
That’s why we offer a service from start to finish – design through to installation. From a free no-obligation design and quote, technical survey, and a project-managed installation, all you must do is follow these three easy steps and let us do the rest:
- Decide if you want a shower tray, level access tray, or a wet room floor
- Choose your preferred colour and style of glass screens or doors
- Pick your wall and floor finishes, bathroom furniture, and finishing touches
Are you eligible for VAT exemptions?
If you’re living with a disability, lack of mobility, or a chronic illness that affects mobility, you could be eligible for VAT exemption. In other words, you could save up to 20 percent on your budget when purchasing and installing your walk-in shower. This could be a great help when budgeting for your new walk-in shower and what you can afford.
Disability facilities grant
Similarly, if you have a disability, you could also be eligible to receive Disabled Facilities Grants. In these cases, the council helps you make bathroom improvements, such as adapting bathroom features to make them easier to use or installing stairlifts for safer access. The size of the grant you could receive depends on the income of your household.
(We do not offer grants or help with the process)
Are you ready to choose your walk-in shower?
As you’ll be able to tell, the prices of walk-in showers vary greatly depending on many interlinked factors. Here at Mobility Plus, we offer a wide range of easy access, walk-in showers, and wet rooms specifically designed for those with mobility issues, the elderly, or those wanting a more luxurious showering experience. Order your free brochure and design consultation by contacting us today.
by Jon Pearce | 27th Sep, 2023 | Walk-in showers
Everyone deserves to feel safe when showering. But the fear of slipping, pain, or mobility issues can make showers an ordeal rather than a time to relax. That doesn’t have to be the case.
We want you to feel comfortable, which is why we’ve collated a list of walk-in showers with seats or benches. Read on for the advantages and disadvantages of different shower seats and find the best one to suit your showering needs.
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- Standard Shower Stool
- Standard Shower Chair
- Folding or Hanging Shower Chair
- Rolling Shower Chair
- Transfer Bench
- The Best Walk-in Shower or Bench for You
- Enjoy Your Shower With a Walk-in Shower Seat or Bench
1. Standard Shower Stool
A shower stool is a free-standing stool you place in the shower. They come in different sizes and allow you to rest while washing.
Benefits of a Shower Stool
- Free-standing – A shower stool is not fixed on the shower wall, so you can shift it according to your preferences.
- Suitable for balance issues – They keep you stable if you struggle to balance in the shower or are conscious of slipping.
- Budget-friendly – Stools are ideal if you’re on a budget or don’t want to invest too much into a shower seat.
- Ideal for mobility restrictions – They reduce the distance you need to move, minimising pain when washing.
- Gives you a resting place – Perhaps you enjoy standing to shower but get tired after a few minutes. A shower stool allows you to take breaks as regularly as you want.
Disadvantages of a Shower Stool
- Less stable than fixed shower seats – It may shift because a stool is not attached to the wall or floor. However, they do have rubber soles to increase stability.
- Lack of adjustments – Shower stools are typically set at a certain height and don’t always have adjustment settings. Therefore, you may struggle to sit comfortably if the stool is too low or high.
- Not suitable for everyone – A standard shower stool is usually one-size-fits-all, so they don’t cater to every body type, mobility issues or age.
- No back support – Unlike shower chairs, a stool has no back. So there are better options than stools if you need comfort and stability for your spine.
2. Standard Shower Chair
A standard shower chair is similar to a stool but with a back. Some come with armrests or stability support, and others do not.
Benefits of a Shower Chair
- Moveable – You can move shower chairs to different positions and take them out of your walk-in shower to use in another area of your bathroom.
- Back support – If sitting upright on a stool is too difficult, a chair will ease the strain on your spine.
- Provides stability – A shower chair supports your posture and balance, so you don’t need to worry about falling.
- Helps reduce pain from mobility restrictions – Standing to shower or maintaining your posture on a stool may cause pain. However, a shower chair gives you the independence to sit in comfort.
- Armrest support – The armrests on shower chairs are helpful to lean on when lowering or lifting yourself from the chair.
Disadvantages of a Shower Chair
- Restricted movement – A fixed shower chair’s back and arms may limit your movements and ability to shower in your preferred position.
- Not always suitable if you struggle to sit from standing – If you have mobility issues that make it painful or challenging to sit down or stand up, you may prefer a seat that caters to your height and movement restrictions. However, some shower chairs offer adjustable seating.
- Less stable than fixed seating – Because shower chairs are free-standing, they may tip if you lean on them too heavily.
- Take up space – Shower chairs can be bulky and take up more surface area than a shower stool.
3. Folding or Hanging Shower Chair
A folding or hanging shower chair fixes onto the shower wall or is hooked over a grab rail. They come in many different shapes and designs, providing rest and stability when showering.
Benefits of a Folding or Hanging Shower Chair
- Stable – Because a folding or hanging chair uses a permanent fixture, they do not tip or move when in use.
- Space-saving – Folding shower chairs are a good option if you have a small walk-in shower or you don’t like the look of bulky shower chairs.
- Useful if you don’t want to sit directly under the shower – A folding or hanging chair allows you to sit and wash body parts without being under running water.
- Can place to your ideal height – During installation, you can place a folding or hanging chair at the best height for you.
Disadvantages of a Folding or Hanging Shower Chair
- Permanent – A hanging or folding shower chair requires a fixture on your shower wall. Therefore, they may not be suitable if you rent or plan to sell your house.
- No armrests – The lack of armrests can make the chair difficult for anyone who needs support getting up and down.
4. Rolling Shower Chair
A rolling shower chair has wheels on the bottom so you can roll the chair in and out of a walk-in shower. Some rolling shower chairs have adjustable seats and armrests.
Benefits of a Rolling Shower Chair
- Ideal for low mobility – Rolling chairs for the shower for the disabled work well if the individual has little to no mobility.
- Provides independence – For people who use wheelchairs, rolling shower chairs allow them to go in and out of a walk-in shower independently.
- Easy transition – There is no need to get up from one place and move into the shower. Instead, the chair can roll straight in.
Disadvantages of a Rolling Shower Chair
- Less stable than a fixture – Although the wheels provide easy transition, it is less stable than a fixed shower seat.
- May have limited adjustments – Depending on the quality of the rolling shower chair, it may have few adjustments for comfort and practicality.
5. Transfer Bench
A transfer bench is long and usually has an inbuilt chair on one end. Half of the bench stands outside the walk-in shower, while the other side extends into the shower.
Benefits of a Transfer Bench
- Less risk of slipping – You will not have to step onto the shower floor but can sit outside and slide into the shower.
- Easy transition – A person can sit on the outside and move across into the shower without having to get up or down.
- Simple to use – You can place transfer benches directly into the walk-in shower without fixing them to the shower wall.
Disadvantages of a Transfer Bench
- No grab rails – Although some transfer benches have a grab rail at one end, they do not have them all the way across.
- Needs some mobility – A person will need to hold themselves and move across the bench into the walk-in shower.
- Takes up space – Transfer benches take up more space than stools and folding chairs, so they are unsuitable for small bathrooms.
The Best Walk-in Shower or Bench for You
Choosing a shower seat or bench that fits your criteria and independent needs is essential. Below is the complete list of walk-in shower seats that suit different mobility, pain or disability challenges.
Shower Stool
Best if you have mild mobility or balance issues and want a non-permanent resting place while showering.
Shower Chair
Best if you require back support and armrests to help you sit or stand. You can also use a shower chair for the elderly if the person still has mobility but gets tired easily.
Folding or Hanging Shower Chair
Best if you have a small shower or don’t want a shower chair to take up space. They’re good if you struggle with mild pain and mobility or have balance restrictions.
Rolling Shower Chair
Best for little to no mobility or for anyone who finds it painful to get up and down. A rolling shower chair is also handy for carers to easily transfer you in and out of the shower.
Transfer Bench
Best for someone who struggles with balance and would prefer not to step onto the shower floor. Also useful if you have restricted mobility going from standing to sitting and vice versa.
Enjoy Your Shower With a Walk-in Shower Seat or Bench
Showers don’t have to be painful or difficult to manage with the right walk-in shower seat or bench. Select one that suits your needs so you can comfortably enjoy every shower.
by Jon Pearce | 22nd Jun, 2023 | Walk-in showers
As one of the activities we take part in daily, one of the most important things to consider when bathing is safety. If you currently have a bath or shower that is not quite meeting your individual needs and requirements, it might be time to consider a disability-friendly wet room.
Many bathrooms simply are not accessible for disabled or elderly people. You may find that the sink or toilet is too low, that you require more assistance when stepping in and out of your bath or shower, or maybe the flooring has started to exacerbate the risks of trips and falls.
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Bathing can start to become more challenging with mobility issues and a struggle when it comes to embracing complete independence and being able to feel safe, as well as comfortable when bathing. Due to this, disabled wet rooms are becoming a more popular choice to assist with all sorts of issues.
Unsure as to whether a wet room is the right choice for you and your home? We understand it can be daunting. So, to help you make the right decision, we have put together a helpful guide.
- What is a disabled wet room?
- How can a disabled wet room make bathing easier?
- They provide inclusive access
- Adds a modern touch
- Spacious and low maintenance
- No size is off limits
- You can create a unique space
- Additions that could make your disabled wet room feel bespoke
What is a disabled wet room?
It is important to identify the definition of a wet room to help you understand if it would best suit your needs when it comes to bathing.
Similar to disabled walk-in baths and walk-in showers, wet rooms for elderly people and disabled users are designed to meet the individual’s specific wants and needs. This includes both the size and shape of the wet room as well as the layout – depending on your existing bathroom space.
Wet rooms are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a wholly unique experience for bathing, which makes them a popular choice for both elderly users and those with mobility issues.
How can a disabled wet room make bathing easier?
There are a variety of different ways in which the installation of a disabled wet room can enhance your current bathing situation. To help explore the option, we have highlighted the main advantages as follows:
They provide inclusive access
If one of the reasons you are seeking to upgrade your bathroom from a shower cubicle or bath is due to issues with getting in and out safely, this is where a disabled wet room can really help.
Not only does it eliminate the potential hazard of a shower tray or bath panel, but it can also eliminate the need for shower doors. This makes it the ideal choice for wheelchair users and those who require a carer or helper when bathing.
You can also choose to install further safety features and accessories to assist in the overall comfort and safety of your bathing time.
Adds a modern touch
Wet rooms have advanced over time, and typical wet rooms for elderly and disabled people are now much more contemporary in their design. Offering up a whole host of different designs to suit both your taste and your individual bathroom needs. In the same way that your bedroom and kitchen are designed to accommodate modern living, so should your bathroom area.
Wet rooms can provide a spacious-looking bathing area that introduces both safety and a little luxury into your living space. This is another reason modern disabled wet rooms are becoming a more popular choice.
Spacious and low maintenance
The style of a disability wet room is to make the space feel large and inviting. Those that have a smaller bathroom space need not worry, as there are designs and features available to help make the space appear larger than it is. And as wet rooms tend to come with fewer features, you can move about more freely and comfortably.
Another great advantage of a wet room is how little work is required when it comes to their maintenance. Because there are fewer features – from shower trays and screens to wall-hung accessories, there is simply less to clean. This is another reason wet rooms are a great choice for the elderly and people who have mobility issues.
No size is off limits
One of the great things about a disabled wet room is that any bathroom can accommodate such a choice, depending on your plans for a refurbishment. For example, if you wanted to completely remove an existing bath, you can do so and install a disabled wet room in its place. Not only will this open up your bathing space but it can also provide more room.
There will be various factors to consider with a smaller space. If your other bathroom features are close together, you can choose to install a shower screen to ensure a completely shower-proof area. This means that your other bathroom features stay dry as well as further eradicating the chance of any slips and falls.
They can be designed in such a way as to provide a modern disabled wet room, so you need not worry about the overall aesthetic if a shower screen needs to be installed.
You can create a unique space
If you look forward to your daily bathing routine, the installation of a disabled wet room can enhance the experience, as you can create your bespoke bathing area.
Not only can you choose from a selection of different flooring and tiling options, but there are various accessories to assist you with any bathing needs you may have.
From grab rails to fold-up seats, a disabled wet room can be made to completely accommodate your requirements, as well as an aesthetically pleasing space so you can focus on that all-important relaxation time.
Additions that could make your disabled wet room feel bespoke
As mentioned in the previous point, there are various extras you can add to create a unique bathing space. Showers for disabled users can be tricky, as it can be difficult to get in and out of the dedicated bathing space if you have mobility issues.
In these cases, there are additional features which can help to make your showering experience easier, safer, and more accessible:
Grab Rails
Grab bars can be installed in disabled wet rooms to help provide stability when standing. Designed in various ways to assist the user, you can choose from horizontal rails to help lower you into a seated position, as well as vertical rails to help provide that extra support when showering.
Modern disabled wet rooms usually offer neutral tones and minimalist tiles and flooring options. For a particularly contemporary feel, you can install sleek grab bars that also function as towel rails or modern toilet roll holders that double up as grab bars.
With these particular types of disabled wet room layouts, you ensure additional support without the extra clutter, as well as maintaining accessibility.
Shower Seats
Also known as a shower bench, this type of seating can come in a range of styles and is an excellent additional safety feature if you require a little extra seated support when showering.
Whether you choose to have yours fixed to the wall or built into the unit itself, these types of seats can assist the user with various mobility issues. Either static or mobile, shower seats usually come with rubber cups at the bottom of the legs to prevent any slipping.
There are various designs to choose from to suit both your requirements and your aesthetics. From padded shower seats and curved edge seats to straight shower benches and drop-down options, you will need to shop around and work out which one is best suited to your needs and personal style.
Flooring options
Wet rooms are installed with non-slip flooring, but that does not make them all equal. The most suitable flooring materials are porcelain or mosaic tiles, but you can opt for a little luxury should you so require.
To enhance a contemporary feel in your wet room, you can choose to use a marble effect or stone slab flooring. As one of the more luxurious non-slip flooring materials, they can help to create a truly bespoke look in a modern disabled wet room as well helping to mitigate against any slips and falls.
To ensure maximum water drainage, you can also opt for sloping floors. These can be particularly useful for completely open, walk-in disabled wet rooms.
Bespoke lighting
An often overlooked aspect but an important one to consider when installing a disability wet room is the lighting you choose.
There are two options to consider – cool or warm bathroom lighting. The right choice can help to improve the look and feel of your mobility bathroom and help to accentuate the features and additional fittings you choose to install.
Cool bathroom lighting is usually chosen in white suites for a bright finish, whereas warm tones are often selected to create a softer and cosier feel. With modern disabled wet rooms, you can choose to have dimmed bulbs installed or use simple, natural lighting to create your unique atmosphere.
by Jon Pearce | 17th May, 2023 | Walk-in showers
Are you ready to reform your bathroom? Updating your shower to a digital option provides a host of new functions to make showering more pleasurable and can even save you money in the long run. Here’s everything you need to know about digital showers and some considerations to make if you decide to purchase a digital shower.
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- What is a digital shower?
- How does a digital shower work?
- Features of a digital shower
- Advantages of a digital shower
- The difference between digital and smart showers
What is a digital shower?
A digital electric shower works similarly to mixer showers by mixing both cold and hot water to reach the user’s ideal temperature, providing much more accuracy.
Digital showers include a digital thermostat to offer the user precise temperature control within a single degree. Using technology, the water temperature is consistently monitored during use to maintain the set warmth or cold level.
How does a digital shower work?
Digital showers are connected to both a cold and hot water supply and can be installed in any wet room or walk-in shower. When you switch the shower on and set your temperature, a wireless or wired signal is sent to the built-in thermostat, where it makes an immediate adjustment.
The water supply then blends appropriately to release the requested temperature through the shower head. This means you don’t need to make any adjustments while you’re showering.
The good news is that you don’t need to connect a digital shower to a Wi-Fi network, as they use an independent connection. This typically makes installation much easier and achievable in all households.
Features of a digital shower
Digital showers come with an array of functions, depending on the model you choose and your budget. Below are the most common features you can expect.
1. Thermostat
Every digital shower will have this, and it allows you to control the temperature via the panel, remote control or on some occasions, smartphone app. The built-in thermostat allows you to choose the exact temperature, so the water warmth doesn’t fluctuate.
2. LED display
Digital showers aim to simplify and customise your shower experience, so you’ll find them without bulky buttons and streamlined with a stylish LED display that’s easy to operate at the touch of a button.
3. Profile settings
If multiple people regularly use the shower in your home, a digital shower with multiple user profiles allows you to set the desired shower length and water temperature for each person. Then, when it’s your turn to shower, you select your profile and don’t have to modify all the settings every time.
4. Multiple outlets
For some people, showering is more than just a chore; it’s a spa-like experience at home. Many digital showers include more than one shower head outlet to offer a variety of settings based on power and water direction.
Advantages of a digital shower
Here are some of the main reasons to consider upgrading to a digital shower.
Set your ideal preferences
Showering will become more enjoyable, as you can personalise the temperature, flow and duration pre-sets to suit your preferences. Plus, these showers are easy to operate.
Just select the settings, and the shower will notify you when it’s ready, so you won’t have to make any temperature adjustments while you’re washing. This is great for time-restricted days and for injecting more ease into your daily routine.
Some more advanced digital showers allow you to set up multiple profiles for everyone in the house. This way, everyone gets to enjoy their ideal shower every time without having to modify settings each time they want to shower. So you won’t have any nasty temperature surprises when you first step in the shower.
Save water
Digital showers can be an environmentally friendly choice, as they can save you water and, thus, money on your energy bills.
You can conveniently pause a digital shower mixer while you’re shampooing your hair to avoid water waste without having to manually power off and on the water. When you continue the water flow, the temperature and power will be the same, so you won’t have to fine-tune the settings again.
Some high-end digital showers have a timer function, so you can set the duration of your shower, and it’ll switch off after this time. This is great for eliminating water waste if you’re prone to showering for too long.
They’re safer
Most digital showers feature a safety mode to consistently monitor the water temperature to prevent scalding. Many are designed to switch off after a certain amount of time to prevent the chances of flooding. This feature is perfect for forgetful minds, especially if you reside alone.
The difference between digital and smart showers
Digital showers aren’t the top of the showering chain; smart showers offer more credible features (which aren’t always beneficial to every user), but here are the core differences between these two shower types to help you decipher between the two.
Voice activation
You can control many devices in your home via voice, and now you can activate your shower with just your voice. This function can add convenience to showering, as you don’t need to have such close proximity to the panel to switch on and off the water. Voice activation can be beneficial if you have reduced mobility, as it eliminates the need for physical touch and movement.
An integrated phone app
You can control a smart shower via an app on your phone. This won’t necessarily add convenience to your life, but it can create a new world of customisation. For example, create profiles to set each user’s shower flow rate, temperature and duration to monitor how much water each person uses.
The app’s dashboard will also display core information relating to water usage and energy costs to help you keep track and make cuts, if necessary.
The future is digital, and that includes all aspects of life, not excluding the bathroom. If you want to step up your shower experience to a digital shower, consider the simplicity of the panel, the must-have features you want and whether you need to make any adjustments to your current shower layout.
We offer a range of digital showers on our website with a range of features that feature a five-year guarantee.
by Jon Pearce | 31st Jan, 2023 | Walk-in showers
Are you keen to maximise the space you have in your bathroom? Do you have mobility issues making it difficult to get in and out of the bath safely? Well, have you ever thought about replacing the bath with a walk-in shower instead?
Many homeowners of all ages and abilities choose to transform their bathroom space. This improves their comfort and ease by swapping their baths for walk-in showers.
While, of course, it can feel great to have a long soak and relax in the bath. But in reality, how many of us find the time to do it? If your mobility has declined in recent years, or as you’re getting older, you expect it might, then opting for a hassle-free walk-in shower is the most obvious option. Not to mention that showers are a much quicker and more efficient way to wash.
Not sure if changing your bath to a walk-in shower will work for your home and your lifestyle? Check out these seven reasons why you should swap to a walk-in shower and revolutionise your bathroom.
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- They allow you to reclaim space in your bathroom
- Showers offer increased accessibility for everyone
- It’s a modern and stylish addition to your home
- They can add to your home’s value
- Showers are more water and cost-efficient
- They’re suitable for bathrooms of all sizes
- Showers are much easier to clean
1. They allow you to reclaim space in your bathroom
One of the most popular reasons people decide to replace their bath with a walk-in shower is the space that it can free up. In many cases, the bathroom may be the smallest room in your home. Therefore, you must make the most of the space you have. If you have a bath in your bathroom, then it is likely taking up a lot of space that could be used in other ways. Having a walk-in shower makes your bathroom feel more open and spacious.
This is an even better use of the space in your bathroom if you don’t use your bath often and prefer to shower instead.
2. Showers offer increased accessibility for everyone
Whether you’re struggling with mobility issues or not, showers are a much simpler and more straightforward way to wash than a bath. Therefore, if you are considering changing your bath with a walk-in shower, then you should consider how much easier they are to use.
Not only are showers a lot more accessible and easier to get in and out of, but there are fewer risks attached than when climbing into the bath. There are so many more options regarding sizes and designs. You can choose any kind of shower you like with walk-in showers and wet rooms.
You can even add accessories such as handrails and shower chairs to make them even easier for you to navigate. They’re an especially great option if you are keen to continue living independently as you get older. Replacing the bath with a walk-in shower is a small change to your home that can make a considerable difference.
3. It’s a modern and stylish addition to your home
It is always advisable to keep making changes and additions to your home in order to improve it. From maintenance and DIY projects to modernisations such as getting a new bath or shower. The great thing about wet rooms and walk-in showers is that they are available in a range of bathroom designs. So whatever your taste, you will find the right style for your home.
Many people make the mistake of assuming that wet rooms can only come with tiled floors. While this isn’t always the case, you can still introduce a modern look to tiles with a bright colour or stylish pattern. Swapping your bath with a walk-in shower is a great way to add something new to your home while maintaining a touch of your own taste and personality.
4. They can add to your home’s value
When making adjustments and improvements to your home, you will likely be keen to know what impact it has on your home’s value. While some people worry that installing a wet room may devalue a home, adding a walk-in shower to your bathroom can add value.
Generally, wet rooms are considered to be found in most high-end homes and so is a desirable feature that many people look for when searching for a new home.
For many people that are searching for their forever home, they are keen to find somewhere that can offer longevity. And a walk-in shower is a great way to future-proof a home for the years to come.
5. Showers are more water and cost-efficient
Another great advantage to replacing your bath with a walk-in shower is that showers are better for the environment and use less water. By being able to jump straight into the shower, you won’t have to waste time waiting for the bath to fill up with water.
Instead, a shower means that you will use less water and less electricity and, as a result, cost you less money. So not only does a walk-in shower make it a lot quicker and easier to wash, but it also improves your carbon footprint. And it’s kinder on your bank balance!
6. They’re suitable for bathrooms of all sizes
Keen to replace your bath with a walk-in shower but worried that your bathroom is too small? Many people make the mistake of assuming that they don’t have the space required to make this kind of adjustment. But in reality, showers are a much better option if you have less space to work with.
If you only have a small bathroom, then your bathtub likely takes up a considerable amount of space. Therefore, by swapping it for a walk-in shower you can minimise the amount of space that it takes up. With a walk-in shower, there is no need for any bulky shower doors or shower trays that may take up more space. Instead, you can simply install a shower screen that prevents everything from getting wet. If you have a small bathroom and would like to have more space to enjoy, then a walk-in shower is the best way to achieve it.
7. Showers are much easier to clean
Nobody enjoys cleaning the bathroom but believe us when we tell you that cleaning your shower is a whole lot easier than cleaning your bath. This is in fact, one of the biggest advantages of installing a walk-in shower, especially if you’re keen to enjoy independent living for as many years as possible.
Without the hassle of shower trays and screens, walk-in showers take a lot less work to clean and you can still use the same bathroom cleaning products that you usually would. If you choose to get a shower seat installed, then you can even have a sit down while you’re cleaning. Sounds good, right?
Getting a brand new walk-in shower may seem like a big step to take when it comes to improving your bathroom. But you may be surprised at the huge difference such a small change can make. Whether you want to make life at home a little easier now or you’re thinking about maintaining your independence for as long as possible in the future, replacing your bath with a walk-in shower has a range of benefits.