Steam provides numerous health and wellness benefits. To enjoy your steam shower worry-free, you'll want to do your due diligence before installing your new steam shower system.
To help you out, we've compiled this list of the top 10 things to consider before installing a steam shower so you can relax and fully enjoy your first steam.
For starters, you need to make sure your steam generator will have access to plumbing and electricity. Plumbing connections include a water line to the steam generator, a steam line from the generator to the steam room, and a drain line from the generator. You will need 240 volts with a dedicated circuit breaker for the electrical supply.
>> See How to Select a Steam System.
>> See What do Builders Need to Know About Steam Shower Installations?
Ideally, a steam shower's ceiling height should not exceed eight feet. You can go as high as ten feet, but that will require a higher-rated steam generator that can accommodate the larger volume of the space.
Get help with properly sizing a steam shower generator by visiting the MrSteam VirtualSpa. Simply enter the dimensions, and VirtualSpa will match the generator that's right for your size enclosure.
Make sure that your shower is fully enclosed and sealed so that water vapor doesn't escape and lessen your steam experience. The seal on the door does not have to be airtight, but the shower doors should be watertight, and any windows need to be double-paned.
>> See How to Seal Your Steam Shower Windows
The ceiling in a large steam shower enclosure should be slightly sloped to prevent dripping of condensate. The Tile Council of North America and the Marble Institute of America suggest between ½" to 2" per foot depending on the ceiling material.
Avoid using porous materials like marble, granite, or concrete for your steam shower's walls and ceiling. The higher the material's porosity, the quicker it will dissipate heat and the larger a steam generator you will need. Use nonporous materials such as ceramic or porcelain tile that will retain heat instead.
>> See Tile Steam Shower? Marble Steam Shower? What's the Difference?
A MrSteam generator can be installed anywhere within 60 feet of the steam room, such as in a closet, vanity, or heated attic. Make sure it will be in an upright position. Do not install the generator inside the actual steam room or in an unheated (or uninsulated) location where water might freeze.
>> See MrSteam How To: Steam Generator with iSteam3 Control Installation
The steam head should be located approximately six to twelve inches above the floor on a wall opposite the seating area and away from the entrance.
Our Linear SteamHead mounts flush to the wall and disperses whisper-quiet steam evenly and smoothly. The faceplate is available in 7 designer finishes, and an aroma oil reservoir completes the ultimate wellness experience.
The steam shower control has an internal thermostat and controls the temperature of the space. It should be positioned away from the steam head, near the seating area in a location that is easy for the user to reach. Ask yourself where it will be most convenient for you to control your steam experience in the shower.
As a rule, keep the control between four and five feet above the floor and away from direct steam flow. MrSteam also offers the fully automated, water-resistant AirTempo wireless remote control.
Choose your shower floor material carefully and avoid slick, potentially slippery material. You can also add anti-skid strips on your steam room floor to mitigate the chance of slipping in the steam shower.
The importance of seating in a steam shower cannot be overstated when it comes to relaxing and fully embracing the steam experience.
Built-in seating is optimal, but if space is limited, consider using fold-up seats. If you do install a built-in bench, create a slight slope for drainage and comfort.
>> Here is a teak shower seat that MrSteam offers.
Some of these tips might seem basic, but they can be easily overlooked in the excitement of installing a steam shower. It's important that you plan to avoid more costly fixes later. Taken together, these tips will allow you to make the most of your new steam shower.