| er it's a luxury walk-in wet room, or an all-in-one | | | | together, maybe you'll separate showerheads for |
| tub surround, there are some things to think | | | | each of you. |
| about before you install a shower. Planning is the | | | | * How many sprays, what type of sprays, and |
| most important part of the process, because | | | | what luxury features do you want to include? |
| that's the best place to avoid problems. | | | | * Are there any local regulations regarding installing |
| * What do you want? Start out with your dream. | | | | a shower? |
| You may have to make some compromises, but | | | | * What is your existing plumbing and construction |
| get as much of what you want in your shower | | | | like, and what changes will you need to make to |
| as possible. Gather as much information as | | | | it? Will this drive up the cost? |
| possible, because new products and ideas are | | | | * Are your well, pump and water heater |
| being introduced constantly. Rough out a plan of | | | | adequate to supply the shower? |
| what you'd like to have in your shower. | | | | * If you have a septic tank, is it big enough to |
| * How much space do you have, and how much | | | | handle the shower waste water? |
| space do you need for your dream shower? If | | | | * Do you have enough ventilation and light for |
| you need more space, can you reasonably get it? | | | | your new shower? |
| If not, where will you compromise? | | | | * Do you want to install safety features, like |
| * What is your budget? Establish your budget, and | | | | chairs or stools, grab bars or electric controls? |
| then reevaluate your wants. Can you afford the | | | | * Will you want to make changes in the future? |
| shower you want, or do you need to make some | | | | Even if you can't have your dream shower right |
| compromises? If you're having to give up a lot of | | | | now, maybe you could pre-install the pipework for |
| what you want, try to find other options-maybe | | | | special options now, while you're doing other work. |
| a different design, or maybe giving up one big | | | | Thinking about these things before you get |
| item to get most of the rest of what you want. | | | | started will help make sure you are satisfied with |
| * Who will be using the shower, and what kinds | | | | your new shower. You'll get as much of what you |
| of adaptations will you make for them? If children | | | | really want and stay within your budget. At the |
| will be using the shower, perhaps you will install a | | | | same time, you can begin to lay the groundwork |
| sliding showerhead, or one that is child height. If | | | | for a future "second stage" remodel where you |
| you and your partner plan to use the shower | | | | get everything you want. |