Shower faucets come in one-handle or two-handle designs. One handle (single lever models) are the most popular. A one-handle design allows the user to quickly adjust the temperature and volume of the shower to a comfortable level. The two-handle style tends to be used for a more traditional look and/or when replacing an existing two-handle unit without disturbing or replacing the tile and/or shower stall.
Three major differences in shower faucets are:
- Type of handle
- Type of showerhead
- Regular faucet vs. Pressure balanced vs. Thermostatic
Handle styles are usually selected to match the other faucets being used in the rest of the bathroom. Consider both the desired style and the ease of use when selecting handle options.
Regular valves are the least expensive, but they do not regulate changes in pressure and temperature. The result is – if someone flushes the toilet, you can get a burst of hot water and if someone runs the hot cycle on the washing machine you’ll get a burst of cold water.
To avoid these dangerous situations, most towns/states require pressure balancedshower valves. These valves automatically adjust for changes in the hot/cold water pressure. The result is that you will not get scalded. They are sometimes referred to as anti-scald valves.
Thermostatic valves actually measure and regulate the water temperature. So once you set these valves they will maintain that exact temperature. These valves have two controls; one for temperature and a separate control for volume.
Shower valves can also be customized to include accessories such as: Body sprays or Hand-held showers. These are sold both individually and as whole systems.
If purchasing a custom shower system and/or adding additional accessories – please ask our Product Specialists about the proper configuration and the required diverter valves & volume control valves.
Shower valves are commonly sold either two ways:
- Complete trim and valve (sometimes handles are separate).
- In two component pieces the Trim (the things you see) and then the valve (the part behind the wall).
Remember the faucets shown on our site are configured as complete sets with everything you need for installation and the price reflects the complete cost. Our Product Specialists will let you know what components you’ll need.
The valve portion of the faucet usually in comes in three variations that relate to how the faucet is connected to the pipes in the wall:
- CxC or sweat connections - most common
- IPS or iron pipe thread standard – do not require a torch
- With ¼ turn stops (these are generally used on commercial fixtures)
Your contractor will be able to install any of these variations, so you need not be concerned with the specifics unless your contractor states a preference.
All shower faucets are also available in tub/shower faucet models. This is simply the same shower faucet with a tub spout added. These tub/shower faucets are commonly used in bathrooms where the tub serves as a stand up shower as well.
Tub/shower valves have a showerhead, a tub spout and a diverter. The diverter is the device that switches the water flow from the showerhead to the tub spout. The diverter can come several ways:
- On the tub spout – most common
- On the valve body
- As a separate valve (1 handle tub/shower faucets)
