How Big Does a Walk-in Shower need to be to Not Have A Door

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By Blake Lockwood | Curated by Blake Lockwood | Reviewed by Blake Lockwood

Blake Lockwood, the seasoned interior designer behind Decor Snob, has made a name for himself with over 30 years of industry experience. As a member of esteemed associations such as the NCIDQ, CIDA, NAAB, and CCIDC, he upholds high standards in his work.  His content is always people-first, reliable, and engaging.

Minimalist Single Panel Doorless Shower

Walk-in showers are extremely useful for people who want to save space. A walk-in shower does not have to be big. It only has to be big enough for a single person.

A residential shower interior must be at least 900 square inches as required by the International Residential Code. The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends an interior that is at least 36 inches by 36 inches. Local building and plumbing code requirements govern size requirements for a doorless shower in a private home. The building codes differ from state to state, so contact your bath designer or local building official before starting your project.

ADA specifications for a walk-in shower without doors

It would be best if you created a shower that meets the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recommendations to accommodate persons with mobility issues. The ADA suggests that a minimum size for a walk-in shower should be 36 inches by 36 inches, this includes a sitting bench attached to one wall. Even if you avoid the bench, for ease of showering 36 inches by 36 inches is a good minimum size. The ADA recommends a shower opening to be 36” minimum opening at the entry of the shower from the top to floor to permit easy in-and-out access if the shower in order to accommodate a roll-in shower chair.

The idea of a doorless shower is for anyone to get into it without needing to grab a door. Design is crucial for these kinds of showers because their opening should not face the main part of the bathroom, or else water can get on the toiletries, towels, and cabinets.

A Walk-in shower provides a comfortable washing area that you can simply walk into. They are available in different sizes and designs that can fit in the bathroom and compliment the room’s design. It is possible to install one in any size of bathroom. Doorless walk in showers play a big part in transforming an old bathroom into a more stylish and modern one.

See also: 36 Doorless Walk-In Shower Ideas and Designs for a Stunning Bathroom

Considerations before adding a Doorless Shower

  • The proper placement of the shower with respect to the bathroom is significant for enhancing the efficiency and making more use of the space available.
  • The size of the walk-in shower is crucial from a comfort point of view, as well as its accessibility. You wish your walk-in shower to do the job effectively, but you do not want it to be so large that cleaning becomes difficult.
  • Make sure that the floor of the bathroom has a little slope to avoid the accumulation of water on the floor. If the flowing angle of water is not appropriate, the water will go to places where you do not want it to be.

When it comes to the styles of the walk-in showers, there are quite a few varieties available.

Installing a walk-in shower has many advantages. Aside from the beauty, it adds to the bathroom, it makes it look more spacious by saving space rather than having huge bathtubs that eat up too much space. This is especially applicable to small bathrooms to create an ample washing space without making the bathroom look cramped.

Walk-in shower unique features

Walk-in shower enclosures may also come with additional features. These are designed to meet different individual’s shower needs. You can also customize it by adding some additional features that you like. There are types of enclosures designed for the convenience of the elderly and children to provide them with independence and safety when using the shower area. It is also possible to install railings to prevent yourself from slipping on the wet floor.

In looking for a shower enclosure, consider the size and style of the bathroom. Choose an enclosure that is right for the size and style of the room. It must be designated with enough space in the bathroom where the enclosure is to be installed. An enclosure style that is designed for the corners is popular because it saves a lot of space by utilizing the usually wasted spaces in the room. It helps to save space, especially in small bathrooms.

Conclusion

No doubt, walk-in shower enclosures are a practical solution to improving most bathrooms. With the benefits and advantages they bring, walk-in showers have become a necessity in making a bathroom more convenient to use and enhance its appearance. Many have also opted into having one in their bathroom because they require less maintenance. This is thanks to the new trends of bathroom accessories that make our bathing experience a more comfortable and convenient experience.

References:

Read more about Doorless Showers:

Photo: EMR Architecture

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