Understanding Basic Tub and Shower Components

by DoItYourself Staff

Tubs & Showers Safety Tips

Old cast iron bathtubs are heavy. Use at least two people to remove it and make sure to protect all of the floor surfaces as you carry it out.

Consider adding grab bars next to the tub or toilet, a slip-resistant bottom to the tub, shower seats or transfer seats, toilet guardrails, night lights and rounded edges on vanities and doors

Bathtub

The standard Drop-In tub installs within a tile or solid-surface surround within three walls of the bathroom, while the old-fashioned Clawfoot tubs are freestanding.

Standard size for tubs is 60" wide, 30" deep and 14" high.

Whirlpool and deep tubs are designed for soaking and relaxation. These tubs can be separate or incorporate a shower combination.

Cast iron tubs are the most durable and do not stain or scratch easily.

Acrylic is a better insulating material so the water takes longer to cool, and its light weight and flexibility makes it a better choice for larger tubs.

Fiberglass tubs are easy to install, but are more apt to fade and scratch.

Tub and shower combinations are typically made of reinforced fiberglass with a polyester finish.

Tub Surround

Attaches to drywall, plaster or most any solid surface.

Comes in three or more pieces that snap or caulk together for a leak-free fit.

Inexpensive alternative to tile and good solution for keeping bathroom walls around the shower easy to clean.

Sell color-coordinated caulk with this product.

Shower Stall

Some units come in one piece, mainly for new construction or major remodels.

Some units come in multiple pieces that snap or caulk together to be a leak free.

Sell color-coordinated caulk with this product.

Easy to clean and some manufacturers claim they will not chip, crack or peel.

Towel Bar/Towel Ring

Often sold in a style that matches other bathroom accessories, and some manufacturers will match them to light fixtures.

Mount on the wall or shower door.

Fancier models are stand alone and heated.

Sold in a variety of finishes.

Grab Bar

Installed for safety around tubs to help prevent falls.

Also used as a handrail to help anyone who may have trouble sitting down or standing up.

Never use a towel rod in place of a grab bar.

Never install diagonally, as a personís hand might slide if footing isnít secure.

Tub/Shower Door

An attractive alternative to shower curtains.

Usually easy to install and require few tools.

Door mounts on a frame that is adjustable to all standard bathtubs.

Sell caulk with this product.

Standard Showerhead

Usually has full-range, adjustable sprays and features self-cleaning rims and swivel ball joints.

Is typically made of chrome-plated brass or plastic. Plastic models are less expensive but also less durable.

All new models must meet the federal standard flow rate of 2.5 gallons per minute, although some deliver a more satisfying shower than others.

Massaging Showerhead

Uses water pressure forced through a diverting valve to create one or more pulsating water actions.

In most cases, users can vary the amount of pulsing pressure or force to their liking.

Available in hand-held or permanently mounted models. While all offer massaging action of one or more kinds, they can all be easily converted to conventional shower action.

Continental Shower

A versatile wall and hand shower combined.

Some brands feature on-off flow control built into the handle, which is a brass push-button diverter valve that permits instant switch from showerhead to hand shower and a 6' flexible hose and hang-up bracket.

It can be easily attached to existing shower arms.