BATHROOM SHOWER INSTALLATION

Press, 30 August 1977, Page 22

BATHROOM SHOWER INSTALLATION

One of the most popular trends today is the addition of a shower unit to the existing bath. However, the big question is how to produce a smart efficient unit without practically wrecking the bathroom.

This is not as complicated as it may seem. Manufacturers have recognised the need for this type of conversion and produced several simple face-mounted units designed for the purpose. If the present has a centre bath faucet with separate hot and cold taps, the popular diverter spout is ideal. Simply replace the faucet spout (after first turning off the water) with a plunger operated diverter unit. Then connect the attractive plastic hose to the special outlet.

A vertical rail is then mounted on the wall above the assembly and a clamp block snaps into place on it. This block carries the hand-piece which is often equipped with a small on-off button to enable starting or stopping the flow without bending down to the diverter connection on the tap assembly. The clamp can be moved up or down down the rail to suit the height of the user.

This simple unit, known as the H.M.C. diverter with Carribean shower hose, needs no complicated plumbing. Selection of the correct water temperature is simple and if a bath is desired instead of a shower, depress the control button on the diverter and the taps will operate normally.

Another variation of the same principle is the Feltonmix face-mounted unit which is used where there are two separate taps.

These are simply replaced by centre socket taps which include an additional outlet on the top and are available with several options of colour and design. Chromed or plain copper tubes are then run from the centre outlet to the Feltonmix face mounted shower mixing valve. In this unit, temperature control is effected by a simple single-lever control operated while the taps are in the off position. To revert to bath use, simply shift the shower control lever to full “off” position and operate the

bath taps in the usual way.

The unit is simply mounted on the wall with suitable screws, giving a fully operational shower.

An additional bonus with this system is that the Feltonmix is designed to be self compensating where water pressures vary between hot and cold. If someone turns on the garden hose or washing machine, the pressure may still fall but the temperature will remain unaffected.

For those budgeting for a conversion of this type, it will pay to remember that it will need two more things: Waterproofed walls on the one end and side of the bath (usually accomplished with a sheet or two of water — and steam-resistant wallboard such as Riotone or Seratone; some form of screening to prevent splashing water all over the room. The most popular systems in . use for this purpose are such screens as Showermaster or Showerite, which are readily assembled and mounted by the home handyman. These sliding doors are light and easily operated, trouble free and self draining. All these units may be seen at the Building Centre and brochures, helpful hints and advice are there for the asking.