Too Short? Learn How to Make Your Shower Head the Perfect Height
Do you find yourself crouching down or slouching during your daily shower? Are you constantly repositioning the showerhead trying to find that perfect spot? If you answered yes, you're not alone. Many people struggle with shower heads that are mounted too low, causing discomfort and an unsatisfactory shower experience.
The standard shower head height is between 48 to 72 inches. But for taller individuals, children, and those with mobility issues, this height range may prove too low. The good news is there are several easy and affordable ways to increase your existing shower head height for a more enjoyable shower.
Why You Might Want to Raise Your Shower Head
Here are some of the top reasons you may want to consider adjusting your shower fixture to a taller height:
- If you are tall, bending down to use a low shower head can quickly become uncomfortable.
- Hunching over or crouching during showers can lead to neck, shoulder and back pain over time.
- Standard shower head mounting heights were designed based on average height individuals. If you are taller than average, the standard range may be too low.
- Raising the shower head height allows the water to hit you at chest level rather than your lower body for optimal coverage.
- Higher mounted shower heads offer better water pressure since there is less interference from your body.
- Adjustable height shower heads are great for families with varying heights like adults, teenagers and small children.
The benefits clearly demonstrate why increasing shower head height can vastly improve your bathing experience. But before you make any adjustments, there are a few considerations.
Things to Consider Before Modifying Shower Height
Here are a few factors to think through before taking on a shower head height modification project:
- Assess your existing plumbing and shower setup to determine if you can simply adjust the current equipment or need to replace pieces.
- Consider your budget and how much you are willing/able to spend on new plumbing parts or hiring a professional.
- Decide on your aesthetic preferences like fixed vs adjustable height, minimalist look, matching existing decor, etc.
- Evaluate your skill level and whether you feel comfortable doing it yourself or would rather have an expert handle it.
- Research safety issues like potential leaks from connections, electrical if adding lighting, and slip/fall risks from standing on makeshift platforms.
Doing a bit of planning upfront will ensure the project goes smoothly and the end result is safe and aesthetically pleasing. Now let's look at how to actually increase the height of your shower head.
Step-by-Step Guide to Extend Your Current Shower Arm
One of the easiest and most affordable ways to raise a fixed shower head height is to install an extension piece onto your existing shower arm. Follow these steps:
- Turn off the water supply to your shower then release any residual pressure in the lines.
- Use a wrench or pliers to detach the shower head from the end of the shower arm.
- Unscrew the shower arm from the wall mount and remove it.
- Carefully clean off any mineral deposits or buildup from the threads on the shower arm.
- Measure the existing arm to determine the needed length for the extension piece.
- Apply Teflon tape around the threads of both the shower arm and extension to create a tight seal.
- Screw on the extension piece to the end of the shower arm securely.
- Reattach the shower head onto the new extension arm.
- Turn your water supply back on and check around all connections for any leaks.
- Test your shower head height and enjoy your new elevated shower!
This straightforward project can add several extra inches of height. Extensions come in varying sizes to get your shower head height just right.
Tips for Extending Your Shower Arm
- Use pipe wrenches and proper threading tape to ensure a tight, leak-proof seal.
- Check that the finish and style of the extension matches your existing hardware.
- Consider a flexible extension for even more adjustability in directing your shower spray.
- Make sure to hold pipes securely when screwing pieces together to avoid stripping threads.
Installing a New Adjustable Shower Riser
If you want the flexibility to raise and lower your shower head height, installing an adjustable shower riser is a great option.
Shower risers come in a sleek, integrated design for a seamless look. Models with handheld shower heads also allow for easy maneuverability.
Replacing Your Shower Fixture Entirely
In some cases, your best option may be to replace your entire shower fixture with a new model. Reasons could include:
- You need to increase the shower head height significantly beyond just a few inches.
- Your existing plumbing is too outdated or damaged to simply modify.
- You want to renovate and change the aesthetic of your shower.
- You need more shower features like body sprays or rainfall shower heads.
Here are general steps for replacing a shower fixture:
- Select a new shower unit with your preferred style and height settings.
- Turn off your home's water supply and open the shower valves to release pressure.
- Detach the existing plumbing connections and remove old shower unit.
- Install new mounting brackets and plumbing for the replacement fixture.
- Attach the new shower unit to the wall mount and plumbing.
- Seal all connections with Teflon tape and check for leaks after turning water back on.
- Apply caulk around edges of fixture to seal it to the wall.
This project has added complexity so consider hiring a professional if you lack plumbing skills. The result is a shower designed for your needs.
Tips for Replacing a Shower Fixture
- Have all replacement parts and new plumbing ready before removing the old shower.
- Take photos of plumbing connections before disassembling to use as a reference.
- Thoroughly read the installation manual for your new shower unit.
- Watch online tutorials for tips on common shower replacement challenges.
Building a Custom Standing Platform
If you want to significantly increase your shower height, one option is to construct a standing platform or step inside your shower:
- Fully customize the height to meet your exact needs.
- Provides a stable, permanent standing surface.
- Allows you to keep your existing plumbing and shower head.
- Made from tile, fiberglass, wood or other waterproof materials.
Consider the following for safe platform construction:
- Choose a slip-resistant surface material.
- Waterproof and seal all materials to prevent leaks and damage.
- Reinforce structure for durability and stability when standing on it.
- Redirect shower spray if needed to avoid excessive dripping onto platform.
- Match style of platform to existing shower decor - tiling, wood finish, etc.
Hire a professional for complex custom platforms requiring tiling, plumbing work or reinforced construction. But simpler platforms can be DIYed with the right waterproof building materials and skills.
Additional Shower Modifications for Improved Experience
Beyond just increasing shower head height, consider these enhancements for a more enjoyable shower:
Luxury Shower Heads
Upgrade to rainfall, multi-function or handheld shower heads for relaxation and easy adjustability.
Water Filtration
Install shower head filters to remove contaminants and improve hair/skin health.
Grab Bars and Benches
Improve accessibility and safety with sturdy grab bars and built-in benches.
Heated Floors
Warm floors are wonderful for tall individuals who may have more lower body exposure.
Built-In Shelves and Lighting
Incorporate conveniently located shelves and tranquil lighting for a spa-like experience.
With some thoughtful planning and effort, you can modify your shower to the perfect specifications so you can finally enjoy your ideal water pressure, positioning and immersive shower experience regardless of your height.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are signs my shower head is too low?
Indications your shower head is too low include needing to crouch or slouch to get under the spray, water hitting your body below chest level, and finding it difficult to completely wet your hair or upper body.
Will adjusting my shower height affect water pressure?
It's possible. Raising a shower head can sometimes slightly decrease water pressure. Make sure your plumbing can handle the height change. Install a booster if needed.
How difficult is it to raise a shower head?
It ranges from very simple using a shower arm extension to more complex for new plumbing or platforms. Assess your skills and choose an approach that fits your DIY abilities.
Can I raise a shower head without replacing plumbing?
Yes, using solutions like shower risers, arm extensions and standing platforms allows height adjustments without altering existing plumbing.
Is it safe for me to DIY raising my shower head?
Adjustments like shower arms and risers are likely safe for DIY. But extensive plumbing changes and complex platforms may require hiring pros to ensure safety.
Adjusting your shower fixture to a comfortable height doesn't have to be a difficult or expensive process. From simple shower arm extensions to luxurious rainfall showerhead upgrades, there are many options to fit your needs and budget. Just remember to thoroughly plan your project, watch instructional videos as needed, and take safety precautions. With your new elevated shower head, you can finally enjoy a relaxing and pain-free shower tailored exactly for your height.