A steam shower environment is a closed environment, insulated and sealed. Steam can escape and damage the bathroom walls and cabinetry without these features.
Consider a vapor-proof swing (hinged) door and one or two side panels for flexibility and easy bathing access. Additionally, consider a hinged top panel for adequate post-steam bath ventilation.
Size
When considering a steam shower, it is vital to consider the size of the space. To maximize bathing comfort, a steam shower should be at least 3′ x 4′. A minimum of 8′ ceiling height is optimal, as steam rises and can be trapped by a low ceiling.
A well-insulated shower environment is also essential, as water condensation can cause mildew and mold. In addition, proper vapor sealing prevents air infiltration, which can cause other problems, such as fungal growth or water damage.
Walls should be constructed of a waterproof material such as cement backer board, fiberglass reinforced walls, or concrete wall-board with a waterproof membrane. The best option is ceramic tile, which offers a durable surface and superior insulating qualities. Other wall materials that should be avoided include natural stone, which is porous and will trap moisture. It will also dissipate heat quickly and require a more powerful steam generator to warm the shower properly.
Materials
A well-designed and built steam shower is a beautiful, relaxing addition to any bathing environment. However, a slew of plumbing and electrical logistics must be addressed to ensure safety and performance.
Unlike traditional showers, a steam room requires an utterly separate enclosure and a powerful steam generator that fills the room with hot water. To determine the size of your steam generator, consider the volume of the enclosure, the materials used (i.e., a brick surround), and the room’s ceiling height.
Porcelain tile is ideal for steam bathrooms, offering optimal function and beauty. Its non-porous surface makes it resistant to mold and mildew, common in damp environments. With the aid of Striking Remodels, it is also simple to include your style into your bathroom decor because it comes in various colors and finishes. To avoid uncomfortable seating on grout lines, we advise using a solid or composite stone bench top that is gently inclined.
Lighting
There’s nothing like a soothing steam shower for total relaxation. But you’ll need more than a complete enclosure, shower heads, and controls to make it truly transformative. Add chroma (light), aroma, and sound to your steam bathing sanctuary for a complete mood-altering experience.
Lighting is crucial to your steam shower environment because it allows you to control visual ambiance. Using low voltage LED fixtures UL listed for wet locations will ensure safe operation.
Ventilation is also essential. Like a standard shower, a steam shower environment releases humidity into the bathing room and adjacent rooms. A point-of-use traditional bath fan installed close to the steam head(s) helps evacuate that moisture, preventing condensation from damaging walls and ceilings.
Ventilation
As bathing areas grow more significant, ventilation becomes a key to controlling odors and humidity. Traditionally, mechanical vent fans have a limited range, require large ceiling cut-outs, and use obtrusive grilles, which reduce bathroom design appeal. Our inline premium bath fan system provides a highly efficient solution to control odors and moisture with multiple locations for maximum effect.
Non-porous porcelain tiles provide the optimal function for steam showers, requiring minimal maintenance and lasting for years. Porcelain tile is available in various hues, designs, and textures to complement any bathroom aesthetic.
Lighting enhances the visual ambiance and provides a beautiful, soothing mood within your steam shower environment. Glass is also a critical component of a successful steam shower design, not only because it is visually appealing but it allows for outside light, aids in heat loss and provides a clear view of the steam/airborne vapor particles creating the rolling mist.
