One of the most common things homeowners ask bathroom contractors is how big they should make the enclosure for their new shower. Designing a shower enclosure can be somewhat confusing. You want it to be large enough that you can easily enter and exit the shower, but not so large as to overtake the bathroom. Ask yourself these questions to help you decide how large your shower enclosure should be.
‘Who’s Going to Use the Shower?’
You should consider who will be using the bathroom now and in the future. Are you renovating a shared or ensuite bathroom? If someone in the house is using a wheelchair, you need to take special note of that. A 36-inch door opening is recommended for wheelchair and walker users.
‘Do I Walk Straight In or Step in Sideways?’
While some may think that this is an odd thing to ask, this question actually helps in the design and decision-making process. People who walk straight into a shower need more space than those who step in sideways. Likewise, if more than one person will use the shower at a time, the enclosure needs to be larger.
Keep in mind that if you’re remodeling a shower for a wheelchair or walker user, you don’t need to need to follow the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines for public spaces, which requires a 36-inch wide door opening. Simply get a measurement of your family member in their wheelchair or walker and leave enough allowance for their hands.
‘Doorless Walk-in Shower or a Glass Shower Door?’
More and more homeowners are choosing walk-in showers because of their cost-effectiveness and low-maintenance qualities. However, walk-in showers are not always the best option, especially for those who are working with a smaller space.
When choosing a shower door, in addition to the rough opening, you also need to consider the finished opening. You can get a larger enclosure from a frameless door than a door with a surrounding frame system.
Design Your Dream Bathroom With DreamMaker
You can count on DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen of Hollywood for any interior or bathroom remodeling project. We are committed to providing you with economical solutions to your residential and commercial remodeling needs. Give us a call at (305) 925-5999 or fill out our contact form to start a conversation with our design experts! We work with clients in Hallandale Beach, Aventura, Golden Beach, North Miami Beach and surrounding communities.
