When undergoing a bathroom upgrade, you must consider all options. But when it comes to a free-standing shower, as opposed to an over-the-bath alternative, it’s important to highlight that there are actually more options available to you than you might have otherwise thought. While it’s easy to opt for a traditional shower cubicle, walk-in showers are fast becoming a stylish, modern and popular choice for those implementing home upgrades. In this article, we’re going to be comparing walk-in showers and shower cubicles so that you can make an informed decision about your upcoming bathroom installation. So, what’s the difference between a walk-in shower and a shower cubicle? Let’s find out.
What is a walk-in shower?
A walk-in shower has an open-style design with, typically, minimal barriers. They’re usually open on one end and have large glass screens to prevent water from splashing around the rest of the bathroom. On the contrary, there may not be any form of water containment at all, depending on your preferences and the size of the bathroom space. The bottom of a walk-in shower is usually level with the rest of the bathroom floor to maintain a seamless look. They’re often chosen by those who require easy access.
What is a shower cubicle?
A shower cubicle, also known as a shower enclosure, is a fully enclosed shower unit with doors that slide open and closed, open outwards, or have bi-folds that concertina open and shut. There are either walls or screens on all sides and are designed to fit in compact spaces. They’re popular in en-suites as space is somewhat limited. They’re designed to ensure maximum water containment and are available in square, quadrant or curricular styles.
What are the key differences between walk-in showers and shower cubicles?
Choosing between a shower cubicle and a walk-in shower might seem simple, mainly because the common misconception is that they’re one and the same. However, they’re actually two very different shower solutions. While a walk-in shower might suit one homeowner, it might not suit another. That’s why it’s important to highlight the differences between the two. Let’s dive deeper into how shower cubicles and walk-in showers differ, and why either one could be the right bathroom installation solution for you.
Design & astehtics
Walk-in showers are high-end and minimalist. They often incorporate large tiles, frameless, large glass partitions and screens and have clean, straight lines to emulate that of an at-home spa experience. It’s also a popular choice to opt for a monsoon shower head so as to fully utilise the space.
On the contrary, shower ucbicles are designed to be more practical and functional. While they can still look sleek and stylish, they focus more on water containment. With doors that either open outwards or slide open, shower cubicles are ideal for those with waterproof laminate, vinyl or lino flooring.
Space requirements
Walk-in showers typically require more space to function as needed. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to sacrifice a bath in order to acquire the space needed for a walk-in shower. This is largely down to the fact that their design is open, and so enough space is needed to prevent water from splashing around the rest of the bathroom. This is where they’re different from wet rooms, and why most people find the walk-in shower solution an attractive one.
Shower cubicles, however, can often be slotted into smaller, more compact spaces. This is why they’re often installed in en-suites. They’re easily accessible, but are designed to keep water inside a fully enclosed space (apart from the very top of the cubicle), even in the tightest of spaces. They’re often installed in corners and are available in both square and round designs.
Accessibility
Walk-in showers offer all of the accessibility benefits that a wet room does, just without the complete commitment to one. Walk-in showers often do not require a step up into them, as is the case with over-the-bath showers and even shower cubicles. They’re ideal for those who have accessibility needs or even for people who simply do not want to step into a bath or shower tray, rather than it being a specific need that they have.
Shower cubicles, on the other hand, are still suitable for those with some accessibility issues, such as problems with hip or joint pain, but there is still a shower tray that you would need to step into. In modern times, shower trays can be installed closer to the ground; however, there are some cases where shower trays need to be stepped up into. This is one of the biggest differences between walk-in showers and shower cubicles.
Water containment
Walk-in showers are installed in bathrooms that are usually tiled from floor to ceiling. It means that, should any excess water spray out from the walk-in shower, despite the screen, then it can be easily dealt with and will not cause water damage to floors or walls. It’s a relaxed way of containing as much water as possible, as the end of the walk-in shower is typically open.
Shower cubicles, on the other hand, are available in both square and round shapes and are fitted in the corners of the bathroom. Unlike most walk-in showers, shower cubicles have doors that either open outwards or that slide round in order to ensure optimum water containment. This prevents excess water from exiting the cubicle and pooling on the floor. It’s a great solution for those without completely waterproof flooring.
Cost & installation
Generally, walk-in showers are more expensive to install. This is because they often require levelling, wet-room preparation, an advanced drainage system and custom glass panels, which aren’t needed for shower cubicle installation. This is what can make shower cubicle installation more affordable for homeowners. In addition, shower cubicles are often prefabricated, so no custom designs or installation are needed.
Cleaning & maintenance
Walk-in showers are quicker and easier to clean and maintain. This is because they have clean lines and fewer moving parts, like door mechanisms or hinges, for instance. This is why you’ll find that shower cubicles require more care and attention, as grime can accumulate in nooks and crannies that simply aren’t present with walk-in showers.
Heat retention
Walk-in showers are typically open, with space at the end and out the top. As such, you’ll find that heat retention is worse than that which a shower cubicle can give you. While it could make the user feel colder the longer it’s used, a monsoon shower head is a great way to get continuous warm water for the duration of use. However, this isn’t necessary with shower cubicles as they can trap heat and moisture to ensure better heat retention.
Which one should you choose?
Before you make a decision about whether to have a walk-in shower or a shower cubicle installed, there are a few things that you need to consider. Each option has its benefits for different people, so what circumstances are ideal for a walk-in shower installation and a shower cubicle installation? Let’s take a closer look:
When should you choose a walk-in shower?
Walk-in shower installation is ideal for those who want a modern, luxurious look, which is why it’s a perfect choice for homeowners with the space to accommodate one.
It’s also a good option for those who require easy access but who don’t want to commit fully to a wet room.
In summary, choose a walk-in shower if you:
- Need easy access
- Want a sleek and modern aesthetic
- Have the space to accommodate one
- Like the idea of a wet room, but don’t want to commit fully
When should you choose a shower cubicle?
Shower cubicles are a popular choice for en-suites as they can fit seamlessly into compact spaces.
They also allow for maximum water containment, and installation is often quicker and more straightforward. This makes shower cubicle installation ideal if you want to ensure bathroom fitting is completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Finally, a shower cubicle can be more cost-effective when compared to other shower options.
In summary, choose a shower cubicle if you:
- Have a small space
- Want to ensure effective water containment
- Need efficient shower installation
- Require a cost-effective solution compared to other types of shower installation
Kudos Kitchens & Bathrooms is pleased to provide bathroom installation services to customers throughout the area.
Whether you want a walk-in shower with all of the modern conveniences or a simple shower cubicle installation for practicality and tradition, our team of qualified and trained experts will be on hand to deliver exceptional results every time.
If you’d like further information about our bathroom installation and bathroom design services, get in touch with a member of our friendly and knowledgeable team today.
Alternatively, visit our showroom and browse our wide selection of bathroom products.