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Understanding Basic Tub and Shower Components


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.

    •  

    Courtesy of NRHA.org



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    If you have a question you would like answered, please visit our Community Forums.
    demfaunt
    posted Aug 24, 2008

    Got a question? Ask the experts in our DIY forums. http://forum.doityourself.com/forumdisplay.php?f=20

    report this
    flyvet68
    posted Jul 14, 2008

    Is it possible to install a tub enlosure over existing tile?

    report this

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