Top Factors That Determine Shower Installation Cost

The shower is one of the most critical features of the bathroom — few people can live with malfunctioning showers. Thus, you may need to replace a defective or malfunctioning shower as soon as possible, even if you hadn't prepared for the project financially. If you understand the factors that affect shower installation cost, you can use them for affordable installation.

Below are some of these factors.

Major Components

A shower system consists of three major components: the shower enclosure, showerhead, and plumbing (drainage and water) connections. Each of these components affects the shower installation cost. Below is an overview of these components and their effects on the installation cost.

Shower Enclosure

The shower enclosure's size, type, and material determine its price. For example:

• A walk-in shower enclosure typically costs more than a stand-up enclosure
• Prefabricated enclosures (prefabs) are relatively less expensive than customized enclosures
• Shower enclosure cost increases with size
• Premium enclosure materials, such as marbles, cost more than others, such as fiberglass

Discuss your budget and taste with the plumber to help you choose the best enclosure.

Showerhead

Standard showerheads are relatively inexpensive. However, the fixture comes in different styles and functions, some of which attract premium pricing. For example, a dual showerhead with a fixed and a handled part costs more than a single-piece component.

Required Plumbing

The plumbing connections that your shower requires depend on the type of installation. For example, the plumber will rough in a shower drain and pipe for a new installation. Thus, a new installation will likely cost more than a replacement or an upgrade.

Additional Accessories

You may need some additional plumbing work or installations alongside shower installation. Your needs will determine their cost. For example, you may need additional features such as:

• Grab bars
• Accessibility installations and designs for seniors and people living with handicaps
• Shower pans
• Bath fans
• Faucets
• Shower doors

The accessories you need depend on the existing space's condition, your budget, and your taste and preference. The plumber might also spot hidden damage, such as pest damage, rot, or corrosion. Such damages might cost you more to fix later — as a standalone service. Discuss the repairs with your plumber, and let them handle the repairs alongside shower installation.

Property Age

Your property's age matters for two main reasons. First, building codes change with time. You must update your structure to match the latest codes whenever you remodel or renovate your home. You might have to update multiple parts of your bathroom if your house is relatively aged. For example, the plumber might have to update the pipe sizes, which plumbing codes specify.

Secondly, building materials and design also change with time. Some materials and designs that were conventional 50 years ago are no longer in vogue. For example, the plumber will need to replace pipes that contain lead, common years ago but dangerous and not used today. Such changes increase the project's overall cost.