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Walk-In Shower Dimensions
The average size of a walk-in shower is determined by local building standards and plumbing code requirements. They are often rectangular and some walk-in showers are built upon a slip-resistant antibacterial tray. The minimum size of a walk-in shower should be at least 900mm by 700mm (L x W). A size lower than this could cause water to splash out of the shower even if it is concealed with a screen.
The average size of a walk-in shower is 1700mm by 700mm (L x W). However, experts recommend increasing the width of your walk-in shower if possible, as it makes it more spacious and allows for a comfortable showering experience. Large and luxurious walk-in showers can be customized in a wide range of dimensions based on specific requirements of a homeowner. The International Residential Code recommends an average size of 900 square inches for a residential shower interior. Please keep in mind that these size requirements may vary from state to state so it is important to consult your bath designer or local building official to get the exact size requirements in your area.
Factors That Determine the Size of a Walk-In Shower
- Available Floor Space
- The amount of space available in your bathroom can determine how big your walk-in shower should be. You do not want a shower that is too small as it could cause water splashes to the bathroom floor. Having one that is too big can also take up extra space in your bathroom, which could have been used for other essential items or accessories. A professional contractor can help you estimate the appropriate size of your walk-in shower based on the available space in your bathroom.
- The Slope of the Floor
- A walk-in shower should have enough space and sufficient design to contain the water flow within the shower area. The depth and length of a walk-in shower are essential in controlling the water flow. This means that if a shower is too small, then the floor cannot slope well enough for adequate drainage, which can lead to water splashes out of the shower. A larger shower can simplify the sloping process to help contain the water within the shower area.
- Accessibility
- If you are building your shower for accessibility then your walk-in shower needs to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. ADA compliant walk-in showers make it easier for people with mobility challenges, as they can move about safely and effectively. A walk-in shower with a size of 5 feet by 5 feet can allow enough space for a wheelchair user and a personal assistant. Most national codes permit walk-in showers with a minimum depth of 36 inches.
How Much Freedom Can I Have with Design?
Although the available floor space in your bathroom determines the size of your walk-in shower, you can implement several ways to spruce up your custom design. You can choose from a variety of shapes such as rectangles, squares, or hexagonal lines. If you have adequate floor space, then you can opt for any wall shape including a curved wall. According to standard building code, there should be a minimum walking space of 30 inches between bathroom fixtures.
Therefore, it is important to leave enough room to walk between your new shower and vanity. If you are building a walk-in shower for people with mobility issues then it is important to install a shower that meets the ADA recommendations. The ADA suggests that a walk-in shower for an accessible bathroom should measure at least 36 inches by 36 inches. Alternatively, it can have a minimum size of 30 inches by 60 inches if it will accommodate a roll-in shower chair to allow easy in-and-out access.
Walk-in showers provide a perfect combination of modern-day functionality and contemporary showering design. All walk-in showers can always be custom designed to meet the needs of the user. When estimating the size of your walk-in shower, it is also important to consider the placement of showerheads, base material, and placement of accessories to ensure everything fits perfectly to the needs of people who will be using the shower.