Having a shower head combined with a bathtub offers the best of both worlds in bathroom design. It provides the convenience and quickness of a shower, ideal for busy mornings, while also allowing the luxury of a long, relaxing soak in the tub when time permits. This combination is especially beneficial for smaller bathrooms, where space is at a premium, as it maximizes functionality without compromising comfort or style. Moreover, it caters to varying preferences within a household, ensuring everyone’s bathing needs are met.
If your current setup doesn’t have a fixed or handheld shower head with a bath tub, don’t worry. Adding a new one isn’t too difficult. All you need is some tools, basic plumbing skills, and the right information.
2 Ways to Add a Shower Head to a Bathtub
Tub Spout With Shower Diverter
Tools Required
- Adjustable wrench
- Teflon tape
- Screwdriver
- Pipe wrench
- Drill (if necessary)
Detailed Instructions
Choosing the Right Diverter Spout
When selecting a diverter spout, it’s crucial to ensure compatibility with your existing bathtub setup. Measure the length and diameter of the current tub spout to find a matching diverter spout. The diverter’s style and finish should also complement your bathroom’s aesthetics. This step is important for a seamless installation and to prevent any potential leaks or mismatches in design.
Removing the Old Spout
Begin by shutting off the water supply to avoid any accidental spills. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the existing spout. It’s essential to be gentle to avoid damaging the underlying plumbing. Once removed, clean the area to ensure a smooth surface for installing the new diverter spout. This step is crucial for preparing the area and ensuring a tight fit for the new spout.
Installing the Diverter Spout
Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the bathtub’s pipe to ensure a watertight seal. Carefully align and screw the new diverter spout onto the pipe, using a wrench if necessary to secure it firmly. Avoid over-tightening, as this can damage the threads or the spout. Ensuring a proper fit at this stage is key to prevent leaks and ensure the longevity of the diverter.
Attaching the Shower Head
Mount the shower head onto the diverter spout, using a screwdriver or drill for any required screws. Ensure that the shower head is securely attached and positioned at a comfortable height. Test the diverter mechanism to switch between the tub spout and shower head, checking for leaks or malfunctions. This final step is crucial to confirm the functionality of the newly installed shower system.
Slip-on Attachment
The slip-on attachment method for adding a shower head to a bathtub is the most straightforward and basic approach, but it comes with a significant limitation – you cannot use the tub while the shower is in operation. This method involves a shower head that slips over the tub faucet, redirecting the water flow upwards. It’s an ideal solution for quick, temporary setups or rental properties where permanent modifications aren’t allowed.
However, due to its design, water can only be directed to either the shower head or the tub faucet, not both simultaneously. This means while the shower head is in use, the tub cannot be filled, limiting its functionality to showering purposes only.
Benefits of Installing a Shower Head/Handheld Shower Head to a Bathtub
- Versatility in Bathing Options: Adding a shower head to a bathtub provides the flexibility of choosing between a quick, refreshing shower or a relaxing bath. This versatility is particularly beneficial in households with diverse bathing preferences.
- Space Efficiency: In smaller bathrooms, combining a shower head with a bathtub saves space. It eliminates the need for a separate shower stall, making the most of the available area.
- Increased Property Value: Homes with bathtubs that also have shower capabilities tend to have a higher market appeal. This dual functionality is often seen as a valuable addition to a bathroom.
- Convenience for Different Age Groups: A shower head, especially a handheld one, is convenient for different age groups, including children and the elderly. It allows for easier, more controlled bathing, especially for those with mobility issues.
- Easier Cleaning and Maintenance: Shower heads, particularly handheld ones, make cleaning the bathtub area more convenient. They allow for direct water flow, making it easier to rinse off soap and shampoo residues.
- Water and Energy Efficiency: Shower heads often use less water than filling a bathtub for a bath, leading to reduced water and energy consumption. This can be both environmentally and economically beneficial.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Protect Tiles After Adding a Shower Head to My Bathroom?
To protect tiles after installing a shower head in your bathroom, it’s advisable to use a shower curtain. A shower curtain is a barrier, preventing water from splashing onto the tiles and causing water damage or mold growth. Ensure the curtain is of adequate length and width to cover the entire showering area.
What is a Shower Diverter?
A shower diverter is a mechanism in a bathtub-shower combination that directs the flow of water either to the bathtub faucet or to the shower head. It’s typically a lever or knob integrated into the spout or a separate component within the faucet assembly. This allows users to switch between using the shower and the bath without needing separate water outlets.
Can I Install a Handheld Shower Head with a Bathtub?
Yes, you can install a handheld shower head with a bathtub. This addition offers greater flexibility and control in directing the water flow, which is particularly useful for targeted cleaning or for users with mobility issues. Handheld shower heads can be connected to the existing plumbing and often come with a wall-mounted holder for convenient access.
