So you have refurbished (or are almost done with renovating) your bathroom for the coming 2022 new year. Now, it’s time to get a good shower system to give your dream bathroom a complete upgrade. With so many different types of shower systems to choose from, of course it is never easy to decide between them. Just like how it is very often that most people will struggle to choose between the concealed and exposed showers (one of the hottest debated options in the bathroom) for their bathrooms. If you are one of them who still don’t know which type of shower system to choose for your bathroom, here’s our comprehensive guide into the characteristics of concealed showers and exposed showers and their pros and cons, which will probably help you in that.
What is a Concealed Shower? Are Concealed Showers Better?
A concealed shower is a shower system in which the valves and pipeworks are concealed within the wall, leaving only the showerhead and shower mixer visible and accessible from the outside. It is quite a popular option for those with a smaller bathroom or who wish to add simplicity and contemporary elements to their shower spaces. One of the major reasons contributing to its popularity in this context is that the concealed shower is more visually appealing and is clutter-free since all its pipeworks and fittings - the relatively “unaesthetic” parts - are “hidden” behind the tiling. This makes it a perfect fit for those modern and minimalistic bathrooms, with which it can instantly bring a luxurious and sophisticated touch to the spaces.
Besides, with the relatively tiny space it occupies, the concealed shower also appears to be a perfect option for those looking to make the most of the limited bathroom space. The space-saving concealed shower means you can enjoy more flexibility while showering without having to worry about accidentally knocking the valves and affecting the water pressure. Furthermore, you may also get to have much more convenience when it comes to cleaning the concealed shower, given the fact that most of its parts are not entirely exposed to the air and are thus less prone to dirt and dust, as well as external wear.
However, on the downside, a concealed shower is typically harder to maintain and repair, given that all its pipeworks and valves are built-in directly beneath the wall and not accessible for maintenance. It requires you to tear out the wall to replace the pipes or system - which can potentially lead to damage in tiling. Plus, the cost of installing a concealed shower is much higher as complicated plumbing work and wall excavation are needed throughout the installation process. Hence, it is not a recommended option for those seeking low-priced and easy-to-install shower systems.
What is an Exposed Shower? Are Exposed Showers Better?
Finding the concealed shower set too complicated to install and too costly for you? How about going for an exposed shower, then? Trust us - you will definitely love it for some reason! Like what? Like the first one - which is also the biggest benefit - the exposed shower system - with all its valves and fittings installed on top of the tiles - is better in terms of the ease of installation. The installation process of this shower is typically shorter and quicker since no complicated works like ripping off are needed along the process. And thanks to its ease of installation, the exposed shower generally costs you cheaper in terms of installation - which is another huge reason people choose it over the concealed shower.
On top of that, unlike the concealed shower, the exposed shower is generally easier and cheaper to repair should there be a malfunction in plumbing or electrical parts. You don’t need to rip off the wall for repair or replacement of parts as its entire body is exposed above the wall and hence easy to access. However, since the exposed components are more susceptible to external wear and stains, it is definitely not easy to keep the exposed shower looking like a new one all the time if less effort is made for cleaning and maintaining it. Also, as its pipeworks may take up a certain amount of space, the exposed shower may not fit well for a bathroom with limited space available.
What is better - concealed or exposed shower?
Both of these shower systems have their own pros and cons but the same functionality and efficiency at the same time. But if you really have to choose between them, go for the concealed shower if you want to have one that is space-saving and aesthetic-looking. Meanwhile, if you are looking to have a more affordable and easier-to-install shower set that can give your bathroom a classic style look at the same time, an exposed shower set may be a good fit.
Concealed Shower
Pros:
- Modern, minimalist aesthetic, and visually appealing - a perfect fit for the contemporary designed bathroom
- Takes up significantly lesser space, maximizing the room for shower space
- Easier to clean
Cons:
- Harder to replace and repair as all its pipeworks and valves are hidden inside the wall
- More complicated and expensive to install (wall excavation is needed)
Exposed Shower
Pros:
- Easier and cheaper to install (wall excavation is not needed)
- All components are exposed above the wall and hence is easier to repair
Cons:
- Takes up much more space and is hence not suitable for the smaller bathrooms
- Harder to clean as it is more prone to external wear and stains
Looking for the best quality concealed or exposed shower in Malaysia for your dream bathroom? Our bathroom makeover specialist is always happy to help! To learn more about how both these shower systems work (and also to experience it before you buy), feel free to visit our NINE outlets nationwide or contact us at https://wa.me/+60193368366.
