Barrier-free showers are one of the most popular changes homeowners make to their bathrooms when remodeling their forever home. In this blog, the bathroom contractors at DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Hollywood share reasons for the popularity of barrier-free showers, and why you should consider having one in your bathroom.
What Are Barrier-Free Showers?
A typical shower enclosure has a threshold or change in floor elevation that separates it from the rest of the bathroom. It defines the shower footprint and keeps water within the enclosure. Many bathrooms feature a combination bathtub and shower, where one has to step into the tub to take a shower.
Barrier-free or curbless showers do not have a threshold. It’s either flush with or is part of the bathroom floor. In addition to creating a seamless transition between the bathroom and shower enclosure, it also eliminates the need to step over a threshold. Since it does not have a tray to prevent overflowing water, it requires a floor that’s slightly sloped towards the drain.
Things to Love About a Barrier-Free Shower
Converting to a barrier-free shower is one of today’s most popular bathroom remodeling trends. Homeowners love them for the following reasons:
1. It Makes the Bathroom Look Bigger — Barrier-free showers create an unobstructed look from wall to wall. It makes the bathroom look bigger, which makes it perfect for small bathrooms. It complements space-saving elements such as wall-mounted toilets and cabinetry, and allows light from the windows to permeate all corners.
2. It’s Easier to Clean — Fewer corners and surface joints make barrier-free showers easier to clean, even if you’ve had a glass partition installed. Bathroom tiles are also less prone to water spots and soap scum, which helps cut down your bathroom cleaning time.
3. It’s Easier to Access — A barrier-free shower is a textbook example of universal design. It allows access for many people, from children to the elderly, as well as those who have accessibility limitations. In fact, the curbless design makes it possible for people who use a wheelchair to bathe themselves without aid.
4. It’s Safer — Shower designs with high thresholds can be a tripping hazard which can lead to accidents in the bathroom. You also have more latitude with your choice of tile, which means you have the option to choose tile with slip-resistant surfaces without affecting the overall bathroom design.
5. It Works With All Bathroom Styles — Homeowners who own traditional-style homes hesitate to choose barrier-free showers because most examples feature contemporary designs, but barrier-free showers will fit just about any bathroom style. A skilled interior designer or contractor can help you find a good balance between a barrier-free shower and the bathroom design that your home style calls for.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Hollywood offers a wide range of professional remodeling services, including shower remodeling. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (305) 925-5999 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve homeowners in Hollywood, FL, as well as the surrounding communities of Golden Beach and Pembroke Pines.
