Choosing The Right Fixtures For Your Bathroom - Expert Guide

Choosing the right fixtures for your bathroom can be challenging, especially since there are so many options available. You can splurge or save - there are lots of options to choose from no matter the budget. Whether you want to keep it simple and choose products that serve a functional purpose and nothing more, or whether you want to bring a bit of bliss into your bathroom and give yourself a spa-like experience, the choice is yours.

Here we will take a look at the options available when choosing your tub, toilet, shower and sink.

What's the first step?

We can't stress enough the importance of visiting a showroom. Nothing quite compares to actually seeing the product, getting a feel for it, using it and so on, and not only will you be able to see the product in person and get an idea of the costs, but you'll also be able to ask for professional advice and recommendations.

Bathtubs

Dreaming of the perfect bathtub to come home to and unwind in? Trying to find one big enough for the little ones to sit comfortably in? Whatever the reason, there's a tub for it and here we have listed the most common styles to help you make the right decision.

Freestanding - These can be situated anywhere in the room, creating a beautiful focal point. All sides are usually visible and accessible, and your taps are installed as either freestanding or wall mounted.

Semi freestanding - Offers the look of a freestanding tub with all the convenience of being able to clean around it easily, not needing so much surrounding space and offering potential storage too.

Drop in - These have no finished sides as they are dropped into a custom made fixed and framed structure known as a 'surround' or 'deck'. The tub has a lip or rim which is secured to the finished surround.

Alcove - Enclosed between 3 adjoining walls, you will only see one side of this bathtub. It's common to see showers incorporated with this type of tub.

Shower/bath combo - Perfect for those with limited space, these usually consist of a bathtub with a shower head attached to an end wall. You can also find these with shower doors partially enclosing the shower space to prevent water splashes.

Walk-in - These are primarily used for those who have difficulty getting in and out of a standard bath. Comprising a water-tight door and a seat for added comfort, these tubs are fairly small in comparison to your standard bath, making it easy to incorporate them into pretty much any bathroom.

Toilets

Most outdated toilets are inefficient, costly and uncomfortable. From standard toilets to high-tech self-flushing, self-cleaning, paperless options - you are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding the right loo. Here you'll find some of the most common household types you can choose from.

One piece - Where the cistern and bowl are connected as one full unit.

Two piece - You guessed it! This type of toilet is made up of two seperate units, the cistern and bowl.

Wall faced - The toilet bowl is mounted directly to the floor and the cistern is hidden behind the wall.

Wall hung - Just like the wall faced toilet except this variation is off the floor and mounted to the wall instead. Extra support is needed to support the weight it will be carrying.

Back to wall - The entire toilet (cistern and bowl) are flush against the wall.

Worth mentioning: Old toilets are notorious for wasting water (and your money, too). Various flush mechanisms make way for economical and energy efficient flushing systems. You can choose from single flush, dual flush and touchless flush.

Showers

Having a functional, effective shower is beneficial to the mind, body and soul; the perfect shower can energise you in the morning or relax you at the end of a long day.

Single or dual showerheads - You have the choice of a standard, single showerhead or a dual showerhead. The dual option is great for sharing the shower time, ease of cleaning, or needing various angles at shower time. For example, when washing kids who are much lower than the head or even pets.

Wall mounted units - Your basic showerhead which can be found in most homes. Mounted to the wall, you are able to tilt the head itself but not much else.

Hand held units - These are practical and water efficient; they serve as both an overhead and hand held shower. Available in both high pressure and low pressure with various spray functions.

Rain/waterfall showerhead - For those looking for a little bit of luxury. These offer a gentle, natural, relaxing shower experience and usually a focal point in a bathroom.

Body sprayers - Used in addition to a regular shower head of your choice, these are placed at different points on your shower wall intended to massage different parts of your body. They coat you in warm water effortlessly and are also a great way to shower without getting your hair wet. Luxury looks like this.

Worth mentioning: In order for your shower to function optimally and offer full pressure you will need to ensure you have a mains pressure hot water cylinder. Low pressure cylinder can be upgraded and this will need to be incorporated into your renovation/build design.

Sinks

Sinks are often overlooked or underestimated when it comes to renovating the bathroom. The right one can make your time spent in the bathroom easy and enjoyable. The wrong one however, can be dysfunctional and cause a hindrance to your day to day.

Double bowl - These are wonderful for families, those looking for individuality or just a bit of luxury. Obviously they take up more space so are suited for bigger bathrooms.

Wall mounted - Great for a small bathroom or creating a modern, minimalistic look. These are fixed to the wall and require no vanity or benchtop to sit in/on.

Undermounted - Perfect for wiping spills directly from counter to sink, these are stylish, easy to clean and free up more counter space.

Vanity sink - designed to fit on top of your chosen cabinetry, this is a great option for those wanting to incorporate additional storage in their bathroom design.

Pedestal - Traditional looking and space saving, the pedestal basin is a good option for those who desire a specific style or if your waste pipe has to go through the floor.

Semi-recessed - The basin is typically attached to a vanity/benchtop but sits proud on top. Ideal for those wanting easier access to their sinks without the vanity getting in the way.

Inset - These are mounted on top and usually have a lip/rim which rests on the counter/cabinet.

Vessel - Resting entirely on the bathroom counter, these are make a statement in any bathroom.

Freestanding pillar - A luxury in any bathroom, these are typically a focal point in the room. They require either wall mounted or freestanding taps and usually don't offer additional storage space.

Worth mentioning: Your taps should complement your basin and feel good to touch and manoeuvre. Your options include: single mixers, triple hole mixers, extended height, wall mounted, waterfall and freestanding. It's a good idea to try out different taps before deciding on one to allow you to get a feel for it.

Choosing your fixtures

Other things to consider when choosing the right fixtures for your bathroom are ensuring your space can accommodate your choices. For example, a freestanding feature bathtub might test the limits in a small bathroom, but would serve a big bathroom well. Measure once then measure twice to make sure you are making the most out of your space. You also want to ensure you are choosing the right materials for your fixtures. You want your chosen material to be both durable and cost-effective. Brass, copper, cast iron, stone and solid wood are expensive but are worth the investment in the long run due to their longevity. Porcelain, acrylic, fiberglass and ceramic are commonly used in many households - these usually need replacing often as they are a lot less durable. If you'd like to discuss your ideas and get your project underway then book your free consultation today.

We're looking forward to hearing from you!