Steam showers may be expensive, but they can bring tremendous value if they are taken care of properly. Great benefits of steam include alleviation of respiratory illness symptoms, relaxation, promotion of quick recovery for injured muscles. The installation, integration in the existing bathroom, and maintenance should be done correctly for you to enjoy all these benefits. The steam shower checklist and tips below can ease the way you use and take care of it.
Having double-paned windows
A steam shower bathroom needs to retain the hot moist air within.
A double-pane window will trap in the vapor and reduce heat transfer to unwanted areas. Insulation around the steam generator and doors can
serve the same purpose. However, leave a little space on the door for air circulation.
Installing the right steam generator size and shower surface
Always use water-resistant materials like tiles and natural stone on
the shower surface. It should also be resistant to corrosion and non-porous. The right generator size is also the prolonged life of the shower.
A smaller generator will not produce enough heat for the mist, and a big one will use too much energy. Some of the factors to consider when choosing the generator size are materials on the shower surface and ceiling height.
Dissipating steam
Before you will open the steam shower bathroom door, allow cold water into the shower to run for a moment. Cool air from the water will cancel out the remaining steam to keep it from escaping the bathroom.
Investing in an exhaust fan and vent in the shower
An exhaust fan right outside your shower will serve the opposite purpose as cold water inside. Turning it on ensures warm air escapes the enclosure safely. Just remember not to install any HVAC unit inside the steam shower. A vent is also essential in getting warm air to the exhaust. Louvers and window transom can also do the trick.
Steamhead and control placement
For better use and longevity, the steam head should be at the same location as the faucets and not more than 12 feet from the bathroom floor. The control
should be easily accessible when users are seated; so not more than 5 feet from the floor. For more visual effect, you can match the steam head and control with other bathroom features. For example, you can have oil-rubbed bronze or polished nickel faucets with white glass or matte black surfaces.
Cables and electrical outlets
Instead of damaging the bathroom surface to install a different steam shower cable, have a mountable control system without damaging or removing the existing ones. Such devices work on all surfaces, including glass walls. Steam showers use electrical and plumbing fixtures that only professionals can handle. It’s never a good idea to install one as a DIY project.