If your goal is to keep your walk in shower cost low, you may find that a basic showerhead is the way to go. The most standard option is the fixed showerhead, which is probably what your mind conjures up when you picture a shower.
A fixed showerhead has a short wall mount that is immovable, although you may be able to tilt the showerhead itself up, down, and to the side. The absolute cheapest option will offer a single pressure level, while fixed showerheads at a slightly higher price point may offer a few different pressure settings.
Average cost of materials and labor: $100-$350.
Walk-in showers and walk-in tubs are both great options for homeowners with disabilities looking for accessible bathroom upgrades. A low threshold entry and built-in seat are both standard features of the walk-in tub and premium add-ons of the walk-in shower. To get the full shower experience from a seated position, you’re probably going to need a handheld showerhead.
Handheld showerheads are typically attached to what’s called a bar mount, which can be installed at waist height for easy access. With a long and flexible waterline, handheld showerheads can be removed from the bar mount. That way, you can direct the showerhead and flow of water by hand, rather than having to move your body under the running water.
Average cost of materials and labor: $150-$900.
What if you have multiple people using the same shower who are looking for different showering experiences? A dual showerhead combines the height and functionality of a fixed showerhead with the mobility of a handheld showerhead by offering both features in one.
Typically, your dual showerhead will have a bar mount with a standard showerhead on the top and a smaller handheld showerhead clipped below or beside the standard showerhead. However, a dual showerhead can also refer to two separate showerheads on opposite walls, used in larger showers fit for two or luxury showers. Make sure to specify which one you’re looking for when working with your tub or shower design consultant.
Average cost of materials and labor: $300-$1,200.
Low water pressure can be the result of fixable problems, like leaks in your plumbing lines or sediment buildup in your pipes. If it’s not the result of an easy-to-fix plumbing issue, what can you do to improve your shower’s water pressure, at least to the point that you can actually rinse out your shampoo and conditioner? The answer may lie in an adjustable massage showerhead.
Massage showerheads come in both fixed and handheld options. What makes them stand out is the adjustable nozzle that allows you to change the stream of water, either distributing it evenly for a softer flow or concentrating it for more pressure. This is a great option for anyone with chronic knots they want to work out, but it can also help to slightly increase water pressure in low-pressure households.
Average cost of materials and labor: $150-$900.
If your goal is to create a relaxing, spa-like experience at home, you may find yourself drawn to the rainfall showerhead options. These tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum, and they have a few surprising drawbacks worth mentioning, but they are a great choice if you want that luxury effect.
Rainfall showerheads have large, square nozzles with more spray holes than your typical showerhead, creating a gentle rain-like flow. The drawback? Because of the way the water is distributed, these can actually reduce your water pressure and your shower’s water efficiency. That said, many homeowners still love the look and feel of a rainfall showerhead.
Average cost of materials and labor: $500-$2,000.
Hard water contains a high mineral count and can leave your skin and hair feeling dry no matter the bath products you use. Overhauling your entire plumbing system can cost quite a bit of money, and many homeowners opt to filter individual water sources instead, including by installing filtered showerheads.
As you might expect, filtered showerheads contain filters that can reduce or remove minerals, heavy metals, chlorine, and other unwanted substances. Some homeowners find that introducing these showerheads is beneficial for both skin and hair health. You can find filtered showerheads at varying price points because they can also come with additional features, like a pressure changing nozzle or detachable showerhead. Keep in mind that you will need to change the filter according to manufacturer standards, typically every six months.
Average cost of materials and labor: $300-$1,000.
Planning your new tub or shower remodel isn’t just about the shower wall materials, although that tends to be where the focus lies. Your hardware and accessories will also play an integral role in the cost of your remodel and the functionality of your finished product. With this guide, you can determine which showerhead is most likely to help you meet your goals, whether you’re aiming to keep costs low, accommodate a disability, or filter your hard water.
What else do you need to know to complete your tub or shower design? It’s time to think about water containment. Take a look at the ZINTEX guide to shower doors.
Article
What Does ZINTEX Remodeling's Warranty Cover?
Ready for a bathroom remodel but worried about long-term protection? Find out more about our warranty coverage at ZINTEX Remodeling Group.
Article
Five Common Problems with Acrylic Shower Walls (and How to Avoid Them)
Acrylic shower walls aren’t immune to a few basic problems. Find out what they are and how to avoid them.
.jpg)
Article
How Much Does a Walk-In Shower Cost at ZINTEX?
What does a walk-in shower cost at ZINTEX? Get a full breakdown of prices from $11K to $22K and discover what will influence the cost of your remodel.
-1.png){kind=logo}
