Deciding on the look of a shower typically involves a few decisions, and the type of shower fixtures used is part of this. Fixtures such as faucets, pipe work, and shower heads, come manufactured in a variety of styles and materials. This allows property owners the opportunity to choose the best style to suit the layout and décor of their bathroom.
While the fixtures in a shower are generally manufactured to be sturdy and last for a reasonable period of time, they can succumb to damage, as well as wearing out over time. However, most are typically designed such that replacing shower fixtures is possible. This ensures that if a fixture is damaged it can be removed and replaced, and also enables a homeowner to freshen up the look of their shower enclosure simply by installing new fixtures. There are a number of manufacturers to choose from when looking for replacement fixtures, with some of those to consider including Moen, Kohler, and Delta.
While many people like to have the pipe work running from handle to shower head hidden from view, an alternative style involves using exposed shower fixtures. In this style the pipe work and fittings are put on show, rather than being hidden away. Typically the exposed fixtures are made of different types of metal, such as chrome, stainless steel, and brass, and these have an attractive appearance which enhances the look of the kitchen.
Exposed fixtures have the advantage that they are quicker and easier to install, since they are simply attached to the wall, rather than a section of wall having to be removed and replaced to create a space for the pipes. This can also make them easier to repair, although the fact that they are exposed can make them more prone to damage.
The look of bronze has a classic, old style appeal and this has made bronze shower fixtures a popular choice over the years. Bronze is also a durable material that should stay in good condition and remain attractive for a reasonable period of time and this adds to its appeal. The dark appearance of bronze also provides a different look to the more usual silver color of shower fixtures, and bronze fixtures can fit in well with a variety of bathroom décor styles. Common styles include oil rubbed bronze, which has the surface chemically darkened and provides color options from grey to dark brown in appearance.
The benefits of choosing brass shower fixtures include that brass is a relatively durable, hard wearing metal that should stand up to the rigors of daily use without suffering damage. Brass also comes in a few different colors depending on the proportions of the materials used to produce the metal. The options available can vary from a shiny, yellowish look to a darker, more reddish appearance. This provides a range of choice to select brass shower fixtures that best match the décor of a bathroom. For these reasons brass fixtures make a good choice when considering the design of a bathroom.
While many properties will have an interior shower in a bathroom, there are also situations where outdoor shower fixtures can be a sensible choice. For those that have a swimming pool, an outside shower provides a way to cleanse before swimming as well as have a shower when finished. In some cases a shower can be directly installed in a wall, while in others a shower enclosure can be built to provide a little more privacy.
When installing outside shower fixtures, they will be exposed to the elements and consideration should be given to the climate. In colder areas exposed water pipes will likely require protection from frost damage and this is something to consider. Stainless steel makes a suitable choice for outdoor fixtures, since it resists rusting well, although most metals appropriate for indoor showers should prove suitable for outdoor fixtures.
When choosing the shower for a property, giving due consideration to the type of shower fixtures should ensure that they fit in with the interior design of the bathroom. There are various options to choose from, with companies such as Moen, Kohler and others producing a range of fixtures in different materials to choose from.
Moen Shower Fixtures
Kohler Shower Stalls
Delta Shower Fixtures