Concealed vs Exposed Shower Valves: Which Is Right for Your Bathroom?

Choosing the right shower valve is crucial for creating the perfect shower experience. It's not just about controlling the flow and temperature of water; it's also about matching your bathroom's style and your personal preferences.

At Tapron UK, we offer a wide selection of both concealed and exposed shower valves, each with its own set of advantages. This guide will help you understand the key differences between these two popular options, aiding you in making an informed decision for your bathroom renovation or update.

Concealed Shower Valves: Sleek and Modern

What Are They? Concealed shower valves are installed behind the bathroom wall, leaving only the control levers and temperature dials visible. This design creates a clean, minimalist look, perfect for modern and contemporary bathrooms.

Benefits:

• Aesthetic Appeal: With most of the hardware hidden, concealed valves offer a sleek, uncluttered appearance.
• Space-Saving: By recessing into the wall, they save space in smaller bathrooms, making your shower area feel larger.
• Customizable Installation: The flexibility in the height and positioning of the controls allows for a tailored showering experience.

Considerations:

• Installation of concealed shower valves can be more complex and may require significant alterations to your bathroom wall, potentially increasing renovation costs and time.
• Future maintenance or repairs might require access to the valve through the wall, which can be inconvenient and possibly require tile or wall repairs.

Exposed Shower Valves: Classic and Convenient

What Are They? Exposed shower valves feature all components mounted on the surface of the shower wall. This traditional design adds a classic or industrial aesthetic to your bathroom, with the entire valve body visible and easily accessible.

Benefits:

• Easy Installation and Maintenance: Exposed valves can be installed and serviced without needing to access the wall cavity, making them ideal for quick updates or when simplicity is key.
• Adjustable Options: Many exposed valves come with adjustable riser rails and shower heads, allowing for easy height adjustments to suit different users.
• Characterful Design: Exposed valves offer a distinctive look that can complement a range of bathroom styles, from vintage to modern industrial.

Considerations:

• Exposed valves take up more space than their concealed counterparts and may not be the best choice for very small shower areas.
• The visible pipework requires careful cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking its best.

Making Your Choice

Consider Your Bathroom's Style: Choose a valve that complements the overall design of your bathroom. Concealed valves lean towards a modern look, while exposed valves fit well with traditional or industrial themes.

Think About Installation and Maintenance: If ease of installation and access for maintenance are priorities, exposed shower valves might be the way to go. For a sleeker look and if space allows, concealed valves offer elegance and space efficiency.

Evaluate Your Space: In smaller bathrooms, a concealed valve can help maximize space, whereas in larger bathrooms, an exposed valve can add to the decor and style of the space.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer the sleek, minimalist look of a concealed valve or the classic, accessible design of an exposed valve, Tapron UK has the perfect option for your bathroom. Explore our collections of concealed  and exposed shower valves to find the ideal match for your style, space, and showering needs. Each type offers unique benefits, ensuring that no matter your choice, you can enjoy a tailored and delightful shower experience.