A bathroom renovation is a complex process with a number of things to consider in terms of both design and fixtures. While shopping for your basin, bath and shower may be the fun part, you can further simplify the process by getting familiar with some of the key terminologies commonly used in bathroom projects.
Here’s a quick guide to get you on your way.
Basin Basics
Above Counter: Above counter basins sit on top of the vanity unit or benchtop. They are best for creating a design focal point and maximising your under-bench storage.
Semi Recessed: Semi recessed basins have a cut-out on the side of the basin allowing them to be mounted partially on the benchtop and partially protruding beyond the benchtop.
Under Counter: Under counter basins are installed below the bathroom vanity benchtop to maximise bench space and make cleaning easier.
Inset: Inset basins are in between an above and under counter basin, with part of the basin visible above the bench and the other part below it.
Plug & Waste: A basin plug and waste allows you to fill the basin with water and then enables the water in the basin to run off safely, regardless of the sink design.
Bottle Trap: A bottle trap maintains hygiene by preventing odours and gases from contaminating your bathroom. When water goes down the drain in your basin into the sewer waste the bottle trap prevents odours by keeping a section of sealed water in your pipes. When gases waft up from your pipe system, they are blocked by the accumulated water in the trap, keeping your bathroom smelling fresh.
Overflow: An overflow is a small hole in the side of a basin or bath, used to drain excess water away before the basin or bath overflows. If your basin or bath has an overflow hole, it will require a pop-up waste with overflow. You can also customise your basin choice with a variety of shapes, colours and materials on offer. Also consider other features available in basins, such as stain resistant materials and the length of the warranty. Finally, when picking your preferred basin style, be aware that it may also impact your vanity and tapware selections.
Bath & Shower Semantics
Baths come in all shapes and sizes so it’s easy to find the right one for your new bathroom sanctuary. There are just a few key considerations:
Freestanding or inset (flange or island): if you don’t have a lot of space, or you are replacing an existing bath, an inset bath might be the right choice for you. An inset flange bath is often the best selection when your shower and bath are together. If you are after a beautiful centrepiece for your bathroom, consider a freestanding bath that creates more of a sanctuary feel. Freestanding baths also come with a back to wall option where the bath is positioned against a wall, making it easier for cleaning.
The material: There is a range to choose from including steel, which is known for its great quality, as well as acrylic, solid surface or even stone.
The shape: Oval and square baths are the most popular, but other shapes are also available.
The colour: White is still the most popular choice; however, other bath colours are becoming popular with black baths more easily accessible.
Showers have also come a long way and the different types and features available continue to grow. The first big decision about your shower is whether it will be a separate shower or over your bath. With that sorted, you can then turn your focus to the shower style itself:
Fixed Wall: A fixed wall shower is fixed to the wall and cannot be adjusted once installed.
Adjustable: With an adjustable shower, it is still fixed to a wall but will have some adjustability in terms of height with an adjustable arm.
Handheld: Handheld showers offer lots of versatility and convenience. Shower with it fixed in place or remove for custom placement – great for washing kids and pets in the shower.
Rail Shower: This shower is fixed on a rail on the wall. It allow for the height to be easily adjusted up and down the length of the rail.
Rain Shower: An absolute treat, a rain shower is generally suspended from your ceiling. With a larger showerhead, it feels like having rain fall on you.
System/Combinations: A combination system will generally include 2 showerheads (Rail and Handheld) combined on one rail. These showers will need a diverter switch with the taps to allow the water flow to switch between the two showerheads.
And once you have your style of shower, look for the spray patterns and adjustability to find the perfect shower for you and your new bathroom sanctuary.
