If you’re in the midst of a bathroom renovation — or considering one — a major decision you’ll face is choosing the type of shower: traditional or steam. While traditional showers have long been a staple in homes, steam showers are becoming increasingly popular due to their luxury and health benefits.
So, how do you decide which shower is right for you? As bathroom renovation contractors, we’re experts in both types of showers. In this blog, we’ll look at steam showers and traditional showers to help you make an informed decision.
The Classic Traditional Shower
A classic for a reason, the traditional bathroom offers many benefits.
Simplicity and Convenience
Traditional showers are straightforward and easy to use. They consist of a showerhead, control knobs or a mixer tap, and a shower enclosure or curtain. This simplicity makes them a convenient choice for everyday use. Turning on the water and adjusting the temperature is intuitive and takes only a few seconds.
Cost-Effectiveness
One of the biggest benefits of traditional showers is how affordable they are. They are generally more cost-effective than steam showers. The initial installation is less complex, and the materials required are typically more affordable. Maintenance costs are also lower, as traditional showers have fewer components that can malfunction or require regular servicing.
Variety and Customization
Despite their simplicity, traditional showers offer a wide range of customization options. From different types of showerheads (rainfall, handheld, massaging) to various enclosure designs (glass doors, shower curtains), you can tailor your shower experience to suit your preferences and bathroom decor.
Water Efficiency
Modern traditional showers can be highly water-efficient, with many models featuring low-flow showerheads that reduce water consumption without compromising on pressure. This makes them an eco-friendly option that can help lower your utility bills.
The Luxury of Steam Showers
Steam showers bring a touch of class to any space along with many other benefits.
Health and Wellness Benefits
Steam showers aren’t just fancy — they’re also healthy. Steam showers generate steam by boiling water, creating a warm, humid environment that can help open pores, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. Regular use of steam showers can also aid in respiratory health, helping to clear nasal passages and relieve congestion.
Spa-Like Experience
Steam showers bring the luxury of a spa into your home, often coming with additional features such as aromatherapy, chromotherapy (colour therapy), and built-in seating that provides a comprehensive wellness experience. This makes them an excellent choice for those looking to create a personal sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Enhanced Value
Installing a steam shower can significantly enhance the value of your home. Potential buyers often view steam showers as a luxurious upgrade, which can make your property more attractive in a competitive market. This investment can pay off when it comes time to sell your home.
Customization and Control
Modern steam showers offer advanced customization and control options. Digital panels allow you to set the exact temperature and duration of your steam session, and some models even let you save your preferences for future use. This level of control ensures a consistent and personalized experience every time you use your steam shower.
Steam or Traditional Shower: Key Considerations
We’ve gone over the benefits of steam and traditional showers, but which is right for you? Below, there are a few key considerations to take into account.
Space Requirements
One of the first things to consider is the space available in your bathroom. Steam showers generally require more space than traditional showers due to the need for a fully enclosed area to contain the steam. If your bathroom is on the smaller side, a traditional shower might be more practical.
Installation and Maintenance
Steam showers require a more complex installation process, including a steam generator, proper ventilation, and a sealed enclosure to prevent steam from escaping. This complexity can lead to higher installation costs compared to traditional showers. Additionally, steam showers may require more frequent maintenance to keep the steam generator and other components in good working condition.
Budget
Budget is a significant factor in any renovation project. Traditional showers are typically less expensive to install and maintain. However, if you have the budget for it, a steam shower can be a worthwhile investment, offering long-term health benefits and potentially increasing your home’s value.
Usage and Lifestyle
Consider how you plan to use your shower. If you prefer quick, efficient showers as part of your daily routine, a traditional shower might be the best choice. However, if you enjoy long, relaxing showers and are looking for a spa-like experience at home, a steam shower could be a perfect fit.
Steam or Traditional Shower — Opal Baths & Design Have You Covered
As bathroom renovation contractors and designers, we have the knowledge, skills and personnel to tackle just about any shower project. Our large range of options ensures we can install the shower you’ve always wanted. From luxury master bathrooms to family-shared spaces, you can trust us to get the job done.
At Opal Baths & Design, we’ve been helping customers build their dream bathrooms since 1983. We proudly serve Ancaster, Hamilton, Oakville, Burlington and nearby areas. Our team specializes in bringing our client’s visions to life with meticulous attention to detail and using only the finest materials.
If you’re ready to make your bathroom dreams a reality, contact us today.
