Are Rain Showers Worth It?

When it comes to Calgary bathroom renovations, homeowners are always looking for ways to elevate their space—and rain showers have become an increasingly popular upgrade. But are rain showers actually worth it? Let’s dive in.

What Are Rain Showers and How Are They Different from Regular Showerheads?

A rain shower, often called a rainfall showerhead, is designed to mimic the feeling of standing in a gentle downpour. Unlike standard showerheads that spray water at an angle, rain showers are typically larger and mounted directly overhead (on the ceiling or high up on the wall), allowing water to fall straight down in a wide, even flow.

The difference lies in both function and feel:

• Coverage: Rain showers have a broader surface area, covering more of your body.

• Water pressure: The flow is softer and more relaxing, but not always as forceful as a standard showerhead.

• Aesthetic appeal: Sleek, modern, and often a key feature in spa-like bathroom designs.

Ceiling or Wall-Mounted Rain Showers?

When installing a rain shower, you have two main options:

• Ceiling-mounted: Ideal for new builds or full renovations where plumbing can be rerouted. Offers the most authentic “rainfall” experience.

• Wall-mounted with an overhead arm: A great option for retrofit projects. Uses an extension arm to position the rain showerhead directly above.

Advantages of Rain Showerheads

• Luxurious experience: Simulates a spa-like environment with a calming, even flow.

• Stylish design: Instantly modernizes any bathroom.

• Wide coverage: No more turning or adjusting to get the water where you want it.

• Custom options: Available in a range of sizes, finishes, and pressure levels to suit your preferences.

Common Pitfalls

We once installed a rain showerhead as specified in the instructions, only to find that it ended up just 1 inch above the client’s head—not nearly high enough for a comfortable experience. Fortunately, we were able to solve the problem by adding an extension bar to raise the height. The result? A perfectly positioned showerhead and a very happy homeowner. The lesson of the story is to always check the height with the homeowner prior to installing.

Things to Consider When Choosing or Installing a Rain Shower

1. Ceiling Height: Ensure there’s enough clearance so the showerhead isn’t too close to your head.

2. Water Pressure: Large rain showerheads often require good water pressure to perform well.

3. Shower Enclosure Size: The wide spray pattern can lead to oversplash in small enclosures.

4. Plumbing Access: Ceiling-mounted units may require extra plumbing work—something to plan for during a renovation.

Conclusion

So, are rain showers worth it? If you're aiming for a modern, spa-like bathroom renovation in Calgary, a rain shower can be a fantastic upgrade. Just make sure to consider the technical details to get the full benefit. With the right planning and installation, you’ll end up with a stylish and relaxing addition to your bathroom.

Thinking about a bathroom renovation in Calgary? Reach out to explore your options and get a quote!