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Whether it's for convenience, style, or to accommodate guests, adding a shower to a bath can be a great improvement to your bathroom. A popular choice for many homeowners, a shower in the bath increases convenience and functionality making it ideal for all members of the home. 
Better still, this is one bathroom addition that can be done as a DIY task. Though it may initially seem like a daunting project, with the right knowledge and guidance, adding a shower to an existing bath can actually be a relatively straightforward process. 
Here, The Bathroom Showroom guides you through the process, providing you with expert tips and advice along the way.

What to Consider Before Adding a Shower to a Bath

  • Assess Your Bathroom Space
The first step in adding a shower to an existing bath is to assess your bathroom space, particularly the area around the bath. This will help determine whether your bath can accommodate a shower while ensuring you get the right type and size of shower in the process.
Factors to consider here include the layout, plumbing connections, and any structural limitations. Consulting with a professional may help you determine the feasibility of adding a shower and provide you with further practical suggestions if space is limited.
  • Choose the Right Shower Type
Once you've assessed your bathroom space, it's important to choose the right shower type that will work best for your needs.
Various options of showers work well in baths, including digital shower systems, traditional mixers shower systems, and rainfall showers. And, each option comes with its advantages and considerations.
So, take a bit of time beforehand to ensure you select the best fit for your bathroom and all those members of the home who will be using this shower.
  • Plan for Plumbing and Drainage
Adding a shower to an existing bath will require some plumbing and drainage work. It’s therefore important to plan for this aspect of the project to ensure that everything is properly connected and functions efficiently.
Adding a shower requires proper plumbing connections. Ensure that your existing plumbing system can support the additional water supply and drainage requirements. In some cases, you may need to hire a plumber to make the necessary modifications and ensure everything is up to code.
  • Consider Waterproofing The Area
Waterproofing is also a crucial step when adding a shower to an existing bath. Ensure that the walls and floor surrounding the shower area are properly waterproofed to prevent any water damage.
Tiling the immediate area around the shower above the bath is one way of keeping this space dry. Yet, you can also add a bathroom wall panel or two here for ease. These hassle-free additions can be cut to the required size to offer waterproofing membranes or coatings that promote a barrier of protection from moisture.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Adjustable spanner or pipe wrench: For tightening connections on the taps and shower mixer.
  • Screwdriver set: For securing brackets and other components.
  • Drill: To drill holes for the shower rail, screen, and head holder. Use the appropriate drill bits for your wall type (e.g. masonry for tiles).
  • Tape measure and pencil: For accurately marking the position of the shower head and screen.
  • Level: To ensure the shower rail or screen is installed straight.
  • Silicone sealant and sealant gun: For waterproofing the shower screen and any other gaps.
  • Pipe cutter (if required): For cutting pipes to size, particularly if you are altering the plumbing.

Step-By-Step Guide

1. Choose your shower type The most common and easiest option is a bath shower mixer tap. This replaces your existing bath taps and has a diverter valve to switch the water flow from the bath spout to a shower hose and head.
  • Thermostatic mixer showers: These are more advanced and maintain a constant water temperature, preventing sudden changes.
  • Electric showers: These are independent of your main heating system and require a separate electrical supply. They are more complex to install and may require a qualified electrician.
2. Turn off the water supply Before you begin any work, turn off the water supply to your bathroom. This is usually done by turning off the stopcock, which is often under the sink or near the water meter. Open your bath taps to drain any remaining water from the pipes.
3. Remove the old taps
  • Use your adjustable spanner or wrench to loosen the nuts securing the existing bath taps from underneath the bath.
  • Carefully disconnect the hot and cold water pipes and remove the old taps.
4. Install the new bath shower mixer tap
  • Fit the new mixer tap onto the bath, ensuring the washers are in place to create a watertight seal.
  • Reconnect the hot and cold water pipes, tightening the connections securely with your spanner. Be careful not to overtighten and damage the fittings.
5. Install the shower head and hose
  • Connect the shower hose to the outlet on your new mixer tap.
  • Mark the desired position for the shower head holder on the wall. The ideal height is usually a few inches above the tallest person who will use the shower.
  • Drill the required holes, insert wall plugs, and screw the holder into place.
6. Install a shower screen or curtain
  • Shower Curtain: The simplest option. Install a tension rod or a screw-in shower curtain rail at a suitable height and hang your curtain.
  • Shower Screen: A more permanent and watertight solution.
- Measure and mark the position of the wall profile, ensuring it is level.
- Drill holes and screw the wall profile into place.
- Fit the shower screen panel into the wall profile and attach any brackets.
- Seal all edges where the screen meets the wall and the bath with a generous bead of silicone sealant to prevent leaks. Allow the sealant to fully cure according to the manufacturer's instructions before using the shower.
7. Turn the water back on
  • Slowly turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks around the new tap fittings.
  • Test the shower mixer to ensure the water flows correctly through the bath spout and the shower head.

Frequently Asked Questions About Adding a Shower to a Bath

Can I Add a Shower to Any Bath?
In most cases, yes, you can. However, the suitability depends on:
  • Your existing plumbing system: This dictates the type of shower you can install (e.g. electric, mixer, power shower).
  • Water pressure: Low pressure might require a pump.
  • Bathroom layout and space: To accommodate a shower screen or curtain.
  • Wall condition: Walls will need to be waterproofed in the shower area.
Do I Need Planning Permission to Add a Shower over a Bath in the UK?
Generally, no. Adding a shower to an existing bathroom doesn't usually require planning permission. However, it does need to comply with building regulations. This is particularly true for:
  • Electrical work (Part P): Any new electrical circuits or modifications in a bathroom must meet safety standards.
  • Ventilation (Part F): Adequate ventilation (e.g. an extractor fan) is required to prevent mould and dampness.
  • Drainage (Part H): Waste pipes must be correctly installed and connected to the foul drainage system.
  • Structural safety (Part A): Ensure the floor can support the weight of the bath and water.
Will Adding a Shower Affect My Home’s Value?
Typically, adding a shower over a bath is seen as a positive upgrade, increasing functionality and appeal, especially for families. It's usually more beneficial than removing the bath entirely, as many buyers (especially those with young children) still prefer to have a bath.
What Types of Showers Can I Add to My Bath?
The most common types of showers are: :
  • Mixer Shower: These draw hot and cold water from your existing plumbing (e.g. hot water cylinder and cold water tank or combi boiler) and mix them to the desired temperature. They are popular for good flow rates if your water pressure is adequate.
  • Electric Shower: These only require a cold water mains supply. They heat the water instantly as it passes through an internal heating element. Great for homes with low hot water pressure or small hot water cylinders, as they don't draw from your stored hot water. They require a dedicated electrical circuit.
  • Power Shower: These are mixer showers with an integrated pump to boost water pressure significantly. They are suitable for gravity-fed systems with low pressure, but they use a lot of water and require both hot and cold water supplies.
  • Digital Shower: Offers precise temperature control and often come with remote operation. They can be either mixer or electric-based but with advanced technology.
My Water Pressure Is Low. What Are My Options?
  • Electric Shower: This is often the best solution for low-pressure hot water, as it only needs a cold mains feed.
  • Power Shower: If you have a gravity-fed system (cold tank in the loft, hot cylinder in the airing cupboard), a power shower can significantly boost the flow from both hot and cold supplies.
  • Shower Pump: If you want a mixer shower but have low pressure, a separate shower pump can be installed to boost the hot and/or cold water flow to the shower. Ensure you choose the correct type (positive or negative head) based on your tank's position relative to the shower head.
Can I Install a Shower over a Bath If I Have a Combi Boiler?
Yes, a mixer shower is the most suitable type for a combi boiler. Combi boilers provide instant hot water at mains pressure, so you typically won't need an electric shower, power shower, or separate pump.
Do I Need a Professional to Install a Shower over a Bath?
While some DIY enthusiasts might attempt it, it's highly recommended to use qualified professionals.
  • Electric showers and any new electrical work: Must be installed by a Part P-certified electrician. This is a legal requirement for safety.
  • Plumbing: A qualified plumber or heating engineer (e.g. OFTEC registered for oil systems, Gas Safe for gas boilers if relevant) will ensure correct pipework, drainage, and compliance with water regulations.
  • Waterproofing: Correct waterproofing is crucial to prevent leaks and damage to your home. Professionals have the expertise to do this properly.
What About Waterproofing? Do I Need to Re-Tile My Whole Bathroom?
No, you typically don't need to re-tile the whole bathroom. However, the walls directly surrounding the shower area must be waterproofed. This usually means:
  • Tiling: Extending tiles up the wall to at least the height of the shower head and ideally higher, ensuring proper waterproofing behind the tiles.
  • Shower Wall Panels: These are large, waterproof sheets (e.g. made of laminate, acrylic, or composite materials) that can be fitted over existing walls or new plasterboard. They offer a grout-free, easy-to-clean alternative to tiles.
  • Proper sealing: Ensure all joints, especially where the bath meets the wall, are properly sealed with silicone sealant.
What Are Common Problems to Watch Out for After Installation?
  • Leaks: Around the bath rim, shower screen, or pipe connections. Often due to poor sealing or installation.
  • Low Pressure/Flow: If the wrong shower type was chosen for your water system, or if there are blockages.
  • Temperature fluctuations: Especially with mixer showers, if hot and cold pressures are imbalanced or if other taps are used elsewhere in the house.
  • Noise: Shower pumps can be noisy if not properly installed (e.g. on an anti-vibration mat).
  • Mould/Damp: If ventilation is inadequate.
  • Drainage issues: Slow drainage can be due to hair/soap build-up or an incorrectly sloped waste pipe.

Adding a Shower To An Existing Bath Can Instantly Transform This Space 

Adding a shower to an existing bath can transform your bathroom into a more versatile and functional space. By creating this fantastic combination, you'll be able to successfully promote the use of both bath and a shower in this room all the while creating a convenient and stylish oasis for both yourself and your guests. 
Remember to consult with bathroom professionals when needed and prioritise proper planning and execution to ensure the best results for this task. 
For guidance on tackling further DIY bathroom tasks, check out our Help & Advice section.