Custom showers are multiple-head showers. They consist of valves, water outlets, volume controls, shower heads, hand showers, or body sprays.
Custom showers require plumbing changes and/or major considerations before installing. You cannot just simply add more shower heads or sprays to an existing shower stall or tub enclosure. Custom showers should be installed by a contractor.
OPTIONS TO CONSIDER
Current state-of-the-art shower systems are quite elaborate, so they require a lot of up-front planning. If you want an advanced-technology shower, you must decide on this before construction begins, and it will affect much of the plumbing in your house.
The effects of an all-body spray can be quite exhilarating, which is why they're becoming extremely popular. Each sprayhead has certain characteristics that appeal to some people but not others, so you will have to choose the ones you like. Shower and volume controls should be mounted in a convenient location away from the direction of the spray.
For steam enthusiasts, an optional steam generator is available for Body Spa modules as well as custom shower applications. The Steam Generator Control Kit also contains Aroma Therapy reservoirs.
Make sure your electrician is aware of your plans so that he can rough in the electric line according to manufacturer's specifications.
WATER PRESSURE
Water pressure is a critical factor in a custom shower-GROHE recommends at least 50 psi for a system with 3 or more outlets. If water pressure is below 45 psi a water booster pump should be installed.
HOT WATER
The bigger the custom shower, the more hot water will be required. A water heater of sufficient size, dedicated to the custom shower is recommended.
A dedicated 50 gallon hot water heater will supply a four-outlet custom shower for approximately 8 minutes (assuming shower heads are restricted and all are turned on for the entire duration). For best performance, GROHE recommends a 100 gallon water heater as a minimum.
WATER SOFTENERS
Water softeners can restrict the flow of hot water needed for maximum shower performance. If you must use a water softener to control hard water conditions, choose a model designed for high water flow installation.
THE DRAIN
Drain capacity is critical. For example, two Grohtemp 34.902 valves can flow 32 gallons per minute... Enough to fill a typical 5' bathtub to the very top.
Kohler's Full Body recirculating showers systems (carwash showers) offer a water-saving alternative.
In the shower, two 2" floor drains or one 3" drain is recommended, especially when an accessible shower pan is installed. Note: A water well or cistern might not be able to service these showers, and your current septic tank might not be able to handle the additional demands. Make sure to discuss this with your plumber before deciding on a custom shower.
VENTILATION SYSTEM
Custom showers produce high levels of humidity. An adequate ventilation system must be provided in order to maintain proper household humidity.
THE VALVES
The valve can be a single handle, which controls both water temperature and water flow, or a dual handle valve - which one control for water temperature, and one for water flow.
THERMOSTATIC CONTROL VALVE
If a single valve is used, it should be a single handle thermostatic temperature control valve, and preferably a 3/4" thermostat valve.
Temperature control in a custom shower is much more than a performance consideration, it is a safety consideration.
A pressure balance valve is not a high flow valve, and cannot be expected to replace a thermostatic temperature control valve, especially in a multiple shower outlet installation.
It is not necessary to have a 3/4" supply line to use a 3/4" valve. A 1/2" supply line plumbed into a 3/4 valve will still effectively increase water flow, but a 3/4" supply line is preferred.
Given adequate water pressure, one 3/4" thermostat valve can supply enough water to simultaneously power 6 outlets... A shower head, a personal hand shower and up to four body sprays... While maintaining a specific, pre-selected water temperature.
If the number of shower outlets desired is more than one valve can accommodate, it will be necessary to use two (or more) thermostat valves. Note: When more the one valve is necessary GROHE recommends the water supply line be 1" or larger.
Each valve should be plumbed directly from the main water supply. Using a "tee" can cause inconsistency in both water flow and temperature.
VOLUME CONTROLS (water flow controls)
A volume control is a valve that turns the water on and off. Starting at the "off" position, you can steadily increase water flow through to the "full on" position.
Custom showers are generally designed with separate on/off (volume) controls for each outlet. Usually one volume control for the shower head, one for the hand shower, and one for three body sprays.
Volume controls, of course, have their own flow rates. Manufacturers recommend using 3/4" volume controls throughout the system. If cost is a concern 1/2" volume controls can be used, however, the flow rate is reduced to 8 gpm at 45 psi.
If the combined flow rates of the outlets exceeded the volume control flow rate, there will be a reduction in performance.
DIVERTER VALVES
Because diverter valves can only change the direction of water, and not turn water flow on or off, they are rarely used in custom shower systems.
A diverter valve can channel water to the shower head OR the hands shower OR the body sprays... But not all the same time. If a hot supply and cold supply were plumbed into a diverter valve, the water would run constantly with no way to stop it.
HOW MANY SHOWER OUTLETS?
The sum total flow rate of all shower outlets (shower heads, hand showers or body sprays) combined cannot exceed the maximum flow rate of the valve at the given water pressure.
Exceeding the capacity of the valve will only lower the overall performance of the shower system.
SHOWER SPRAYS
SHOWER HEADS, BODY SPRAYS, HAND HELD SHOWERS
There are so many choices available, that deciding on the outlets for the custom shower can be very confusing.
First, decide what is more important to you... Function or appearance.
FUNCTION - TYPICAL SPRAY TYPES
SHOWER HEADS - Fixed position, usually above shoulder level (on wall or ceiling). Water direction may be adjustable depending on product usually has 2 or more adjustable spray styles.
HAND HELD - Movable, has hose connection. Can be mounted to shower wall with bracket or sliding bar usually has 2 or more adjustable spray styles.
BODY SPRAY - Fixed positions, usually at and/or below shoulder level. Usually in groups of 2 or more. Water direction may be adjustable depending on the product. Usually has 2 or more adjustable spray styles.
APPEARANCE
Shower sprays come in almost as many finishes as faucets: Polished, brushed, pearl or a combination in chrome, nickel, brass, bronze, gold, white, etc. And like faucets, the final finish or coating will determine how long the appearance lasts.
WARRANTY
Most manufacturers of shower sprays offer a limited warranty on their products. Some warranties cover only the working parts, others include the exterior finish. The length of the manufacturer's warranty can range from one year, to life. Most manufacturers have warranty information posted on their websites.
KOHLER
Create Your Personal Retreat using Kohler custom shower components. Seated hydro-massage? Do you want room for two? Do you seek versatility and small-room solutions?
Kohler's wide variety of showering options allow you need to create a luxurious showering experience, designed specifically for your own personal needs and desires.
In addition to the standard Hi-Flow body sprays, Kohler's Ultra Low Flow Bodysprays use less water to provide exceptional water coverage for warmth and massage.Both the spray pattern and the power are adjustable. Flexible spray nozzles prohibit calcium build-up and are easy to clean. Hand showers can also be mounted on an adjustable height slide bar.
Available custom shower options include:
Electronic control panel to let you select the desired water action
Sheetflow spout which delivers a cascade of water
Oscillating/pulsating adjustable body sprays for massage action
and choices of wide soft, slow pulse, or soft aerated spray.
MOEN
Moen offers three distinct control and transfer valve options: the ExactTemp, with 5 function transfer valve, and the Moentrol with either a 3-function or 5-function transfer valve. These valves control pressure and flow rate, and allow flow to switch from one component to another, often running two components simultaneously. All valves are pressure-balanced. Moen has designed their half-inch valve to provide adequate spray force at standard flow rates to conserve water.
Moen's new RevolutionTM massaging showerhead delivers a unique showering experience. Based on extensive research, it offers several features not available elsewhere. Revolution technology spins and twirls the water stream, delivering full-body coverage and creating the illusion that more water is flowing with greater pressure than with traditional showerheads.
FreedomDialTM offers a range of showering sensations, controlling force, frequency, and coverage. It eliminates confining pre-set showerhead functions, and can be set from a gentle rain like shower to a deep, therapeutic massage. Innovative shape allows the control to be positioned out of the water stream, and allows shower users to adjust functions with just one hand and their eyes shut. Rubber spray tips allow easy cleaning.
All components are built on M-PACT, a system that permits a change or upgrade to a new faucet style without changing the valve. Moen body sprays can be placed on multiple walls and at various heights. Pivoting heads direct water over a wide area. They come in large or small sizes to accommodate different shower spaces.
DELTA JETTED SHOWER SYSTEM
This enhancement easily retrofits to existing shower fixtures with minimal plumbing and comes with a Scald-Guard® valve that helps keep water temperatures consistent (+/-3° F) when the water inlet temp. is set correctly even when hot or cold water is being used elsewhere in the house.
Delta's Monitor 1800 Jetted Shower System is designed with two adjustable spray jets that spray 40% more water for a more relaxing shower experience.
Delta produces dozens of models of shower valves in various styles and finishes, but most operate in similar fashion.
The N1824, 1848, and 1855 models offer twin adjustable jets with chrome, single lever handles, pressure-balanced valves and Touch-Clean® showerheads.
GROHE
Grohe's Freehander combines shower head and body spray functionality into one easy to install and use unit. Its unique design joins two shower heads on a sturdy tubular arm which pivots 180° to convert shower heads (up position) to body sprays (down position). Both shower heads can be rotated a full 360° to satisfy individual needs and tastes. A unique tension system allows it to be set at any height simply by moving the arm up or down. Freehander offers 18 choices of shower spray combinations.
Freehander is available in two different models; one for installation directly to a mixed water source behind the mounting bracket, or the other for installation via a hand shower hose to an existing shower arm or tub spout. Either installation system may be retrofitted to an existing system without cutting into a wall.
Grohe Custom Shower offers a selection of showerheads, body sprays and interchangeable personal hand showers, as well as thermostatic mixing valves.
Choices include spray patterns (hard or soft jet, champagne, pulse); the number of sprays on at a given time; or a choice of hand sprays. Relexa Plus features SpeedClean®, a patented anti-lime system which maintains "like-new" shower performance indefinitely.
Grohe sprayheads can be controlled individually, in combination, or all at the same time. All components of a GROHE Custom Shower can be purchased separately to create any size or shape shower environment. Unique features include a snap coupling which eliminates kinking of the hose and allows interchangeability of sprayheads; an ergonomically curved handle; and double wall construction which insulates the handle from hot water temperatures.
Grohe Relexa Plus showerheads and hand showers are available in four standard configurations each of which offers multiple spray options. The Plus line includes eight shower heads, six hand showers, three body sprays (all with the Speed Clean system), and hand shower accessories such as adjustable height shower bars, unions, soap dishes, etc. with matching designs and accents.
SHOWER TOWERS
INTEGRATED ONE-PIECE CUSTOM SHOWERS
The easiest way to design a custom shower is to use manufactured units that combine valves, body sprays, handheld sprays, and water jets using a single water line connection.
Multiple units can be used create a unique and luxurious custom shower, without complicated plumbing design considerations.
Water Haven by KOHLER
This custom shower integrates several showering components with a single connection
Customize with the wall materials of your choice, and decide where you want to put the water from two showerheads, four bodysprays and a handshower with the touch of your hand
The WaterHaven features two dual-direction telescopic shower arms, four height-adjustable body sprays and a personal hand shower, all centered on a tower with seven adjustable water ports. Each port is individually adjustable.
A simple turn adjusts both the direction and intensity of the spray. The dual telescoping showerheads can move both up/down and left/right, and offer a choice of wide soft coverage spray, slow pulse spray or soft-aerated sprays.
A removable personal hand shower with 60" hose is ideal for hydro-massage on specific areas of the body, rinsing long hair and spraying the unit to keep it clean.
The system can be installed wherever there is room. It may be installed as a custom shower, in a corner, or in an alcove. It can be plumbed through the wall or the floor. Showerheads may be placed wherever the homeowner's chooses. They are easy to install with one easy plumbing connection.
The waterHaven is a high performance water flow product. It requires 3/4" dedicated water supply lines.
The MasterShower Tower by Kohler also offers a personal shower in a slender multi-functional unit. Three water sources allow the precise water action one desires. It's controlled with just the touch of a finger. These sprays can be configured for a seated hydro-massage or room for two.
Showers may be personalized by selectively arranging and locating components, and by choosing any of a variety of sprayheads that can be soothing or invigorating. Each head has three settings that are adjustable with the simple turn of the easy-grip ring.
MasterShower Ultra Low Flow Bodysprays use less water to provide exceptional water coverage for warmth and massage. Indulge in the comfort of medium and full-sprays that envelop your body in tranquil warmth. Relax and soothe your muscles with a strong, massaging pulse spray. And further customize your shower by temporarily shutting off individual bodysprays.
GROHE AQUA TOWER
This unit can be used for a bathroom upgrade or retrofit, since it requires little more than connecting the unit to the hot and cold water supplies and attaching it to the shower wall using two screw-in anchor points.
The Aquatower includes a shower head, hand shower, four body sprays, a 3/4" thermostat valve, and a shampoo/accessory tray ... all in one easy-to-install unit.
Aquatower shower outlets are controlled by two specialized valves. The GROHE Aquadimmer turns the water flow on and diverts the flow to either the shower head or hand shower.A separate volume control allows the body sprays to be used on their own or in combination with the shower head or hand shower.
BODY SPAS
CUSTOM SHOWERS
The Kohler BodySpa System uses a concept similar to whirlpool bathing. It arranges a series of whirlpool jets vertically in a shower-like enclosure, except that the drain is closed while the pump is running and the water is recirculated, creating a stand-up massage effect.
Custom 6,8, or 10-jet systems may be built from components into an alcove or corner. The modular 6-jet system is sold as a single unit. It can be retrofitted in a 5' or 6' alcove, which is ideal for upgrading an existing bath or whirlpool.
A handy electronic touch pad allows the user to adjust the water flow for the desired massaging action. An integral heater is standard and helps maintain the original water temperature. The system recirculates water up to twice a minute.
BodySpa jets, made exclusively by Kohler, are strategically placed on either side of the spine at key massage accupressure points.
Instead of a sharp stream from a narrow opening, each BodySpa jet propels a wide cylinder of water that is dispersed across the shoulders and down the center of the back in the style of a Swedish massage.
The K-1000 is a ten-jet system with lighted waterfall electronic jet selection control, and variable water flow control. One tower, footbath, drain, faucet and enclosure is required for each complete installation.The K-1015 includes an alcove footbath with integral heater and 2 hp pump. It is built of high-gloss Acrylic and backed with a solid layer of fiberglass to ensure durability. One tower, footbath, drain, faucet and enclosure are required for each complete installation
CAR WASH SHOWERS
FULL BODY SPAS
Clearly, the focal point of the bathroom of the future will be the shower. While basic tub & shower combinations are fine for guest rooms, most homeowners expect a lot more in their master baths.
STYLES AND TYPES
Full body showers consist of a dual array of vertically mounted spray nozzles, designed to spray the body from head to toe under adjustable volume and pressure. 'His-and-her' temperature-control valves and arrays of as many as 6 or more water sources are common.
You may choose a Body Spa, which is a re-circulating stand up whirlpool with a waterfall, or you may prefer a Master Shower, which is an electronically controlled shower system consisting of pulsating and pivoting body sprays to which you can add a sheetflow or a showerhead.
These are all custom-designed units, however. They are engineered to match your shower space and the effect you want to create. The complex layout of sprayheads and valves generally prevent these units from being installed in prefab enclosures. They are typically installed in custom-built shower stalls, which are usually oversized, so they're not for every bath.
Keidel Bath and Plumbing will work with your builder and plumbing contractor to make sure your shower is installed properly and will work as it is designed to do. There are a great many choices as to showerheads and controls. The best way to learn about these units is to come to our showroom and see them in person.
MATERIALS
Shower valves and sprayheads are available in a variety of finishes, and you will probably want them to match your other hardware. Make sure you know what manufacturer and model you're trying to match, because colors are not always consistent between vendors.
The valve controls of some high-end models include electronic panels that offer a limited choice of color options. You'll need to consider their placement and how they will blend with the rest of your decor.
HOW THEY WORK
Kohler's Body Spa System recirculates water up to two times per minute. The result is about 80 gallons per minute of hydro-powered cylinders of water, more than the combined delivery of 25 average showerheads, directed at all the right places to work away tension and stress.
When the Custom BodySpa unit is turned on, the bodyjets are initially preset to low. This safety feature allows the user to adjust the water flow from a gentle stream to an ultra-rush of water for just the right degree of massaging action. Due to the volume and power of the water, it is recommended that the control pad be installed and operated in an area where the user can be out of the water stream. To use, simply fill the basin with water and activate the pump to start the flow of water. BodySpa systems, unlike whirlpool baths, propel water through the air to maximize the invigorating effect of hydro-massage. After enjoying the BodySpa experience, simply turn off the pump and open the drain. Also with the drain open, use the shower head for a conventional shower using soap and shampoo. Note: A water well or cistern might not be able to service these showers, and your current septic tank might not be able to handle the additional demands. Make sure to discuss this with your plumber before purchasing.
We will work with your plumbing contractor to make sure the unit is installed properly, but there will be more costs beyond the sprays and valves. For example:
These units require an ample hot water supply, sufficient to supply upwards of 15 gpm, which may require a water heater upgrade.
You must have a minimum of a ¾" water supply line to the shower.
Standard lines are ½".
Your system must provide at least 50-psi water pressure.
You must provide a properly sized drain, often 3 inches as opposed to 2 in.
Walls containing supply lines must be thicker to accommodate the plumbing.
The units will require additional labor costs to install.
The K-1015 includes an alcove footbath with integral heater and 2 hp pump. It is built of high-gloss Acrylic and backed with a solid layer of fiberglass to ensure durability. One tower, footbath, drain, faucet and enclosure are required for each complete installation