Build a Private Outdoor Shower Oasis with Slatted Roof Enclosures
Outdoor showers are a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh air and natural sunlight while bathing. However, they often lack privacy from neighbors' views or aerial sight lines. Installing an outdoor shower enclosure with a slatted roof solves this issue, allowing you to soak in the surroundings without worries of overexposure.
These roofed shower shelters combine style, functionality and discretion. The adjustable wooden, plastic or bamboo slats block visibility from above while still letting light filter through. Continue reading to learn how to construct your own secluded outdoor oasis equipped with a louvred ceiling.
Why Add a Roof Structure to Outdoor Showers
Outdoor showers give you a feeling of bathing in nature. However, their open design also leaves you exposed from all angles. Adding an overhead roof creates a discreet structure that still allows sky views through the slats.
Rooftop enclosures serve several key privacy functions:
- Prevent views from nearby windows and balconies
- Shield against aerial visibility from drones, aircraft, etc.
- Let in sunlight between slats for an outdoorsy feel
- Adjustable slats control the desired level of privacy
The right overhead shelter transforms open showers into secluded sanctuaries balanced perfectly between outdoor freedom and personal modesty.
Choosing the Perfect Spot and Size
When deciding where to build your sheltered shower, consider sight lines from surrounding houses as well as sunlight exposure. Situate it out of view from neighbors whenever possible.
Make sure to factor in drainage during site selection too. You'll need either a sloped floor or small trench drain system to prevent water pooling under the enclosure.
Size the shelter appropriately for the number of intended users. More compact structures work well for single users. If a shared family shower, ensure enough interior space for people to move comfortably.
Weighing Popular Roof Materials: Wood, PVC and Bamboo
Natural wood slats like cedar and teak add beautiful yet practical overhead cover. Their stripped finish creates visibility gaps while coordinating with nature. Wood does require occasional re-sealing to maintain its water resistance.
For maximum weather-proofing, PVC roof panels offer incredible durability. Made completely of plastic, they easily shed rain, snow and UV rays. The material is also very low-maintenance for cleaning.
As a sustainable plant-based option, bamboo makes a visually warm roof shield. Bamboo slats lend privacy similar to wood but with quicker growth cycles and less upkeep over time.
Enhancing Outdoor Showers with Special Features
Today's outdoor shower enclosures integrate more than just the basics. Smart technology and mood-setting features now allow homeowners to customize their spaces.
High-Tech Upgrades for Convenience
The latest outdoor shower systems incorporate technology for both function and ambiance. Digital interfaces give users control over shower temperature, pressure and duration settings right from smartphones or wall-panels inside the enclosure.
Smart interfaces also enable monitoring shower duration and water usage. This allows conservation-focused homeowners to track flow rates and set monthly water budgets.
Adding LED rope or fairy lights along the interior roof line creates fun accent lighting to set the mood. For added safety, motion-activated LED floodlights assure entering the enclosure after dark is simple.
Audio and Eco-Additions
Transforming an outdoor shower into a spa-like sanctuary is now possible with audio and green options:
- Built-in waterproof Bluetooth speakers to play music
- Eco-heating systems using solar panels to cut energy costs
- Enclosures made of recycled plastic for sustainability
The right additions tailor outdoor showers into serene escapes perfect for starting and ending each day.
Choosing Among All-In-One Shower Kits
For those seeking quicker backyard installation, packaged slat roof shower kits offer turnkey convenience. Leading brands like Structures Unlimited, Tiki Showers and TropiShower provide different material and layout choices to suit needs.
When evaluating outdoor shower enclosure kits, consider:
- Roof slat types available - bamboo, cedar, recycled plastic etc.
- Size and shape options to fit space
- Ease of DIY assembly vs professional install
- Accessories like shelves, hooks, benches and flooring
The right all-inclusive kit takes the guesswork out of building a concealed outdoor stall. Just verify features against your own priorities before purchasing.
DIY Build vs Hiring Shower Pros
Are you handy enough to construct your own slatted roof shelter? Kits under 200 sq. ft. with clear instructions generally work for DIY. Consider hiring contractors for more complex drainage needs, masonry bases or large enclosures.
Seeking professional guidance upfront also helps identify any permits required prior to breaking ground in local areas.
Maintaining Outdoor Shower Havens
A few routine upkeeps preserve your outdoor shower's health so enjoyment lasts over time:
- Drainage: Periodically clear debris from trench drains/pipes to prevent clogs
- Sealing: Reapply protective finish to wood roof slats when wearing
- Cleaning: Use mild cleanser and stiff brush monthly to remove grime
- Winterizing: In cold climates, shut off water lines and drain pipes before first freeze
Catch minor issues early before they escalate into costly headaches down the road. Your regular attention preserves the private outdoor oasis for years of warm-weather enjoyment.
Outdoor showers give you a taste of bathing in nature, but their openness leaves you exposed. Adding an overhead slatted roof finally offers the seclusion to shed inhibitions.
With strategic spot selection, proper drainage and the right building materials, your sheltered stall merges fresh-air, sunlight and discretion.
Whether a wood, plastic or bamboo ceiling, adjustable overhead slats strike an ideal balance - blocking visibility from above while inviting filtered sunlight and sky views inside. Control the enclosure's ambiance even further with audio, lighting and eco-forward options.
Turn your shower from public spectacle into intimate oasis with the architectural power of rooftop cover. An enclosed outdoor bath blends natural splendor and personal modesty each time you bathe.