If you are buying a new one or considering changing your existing shower, perhaps to something with more style and gadgetry, you have likely already carried out an online search using various words, terms, and phrases.
Within the world of bathrooms and showers, there is quite a plethora of words and terms used by the industry and, indeed, the searching public when it comes to marketing and searching on the internet.
Such is the case with the terms Shower Cabin and Shower Enclosure. Then to confuse matters further, there is also the shower word followed by the terms cubicles, cabinets, pods, closets, and stools!
All-In-One & Self-Contained Showers
For this article, I will define both the terms Shower Cabin and Shower Enclosure to be describing the off-the-shelf, all-in-one, self-contained, and free-standing style of shower. These are the models supplied flat-packed for home assembly and, once connected and installed, are positioned in the room very similar to a dishwasher or washing machine.
It is different when contemplating fitting a traditional shower, where separate items are purchased and installed, with the final shower area walls tiled. In these circumstances, the likely search terms would be shower tray, shower screens, shower doors, shower valve, etc.
I digress, so returning to the all-in-one variety, I would describe the Shower Cabin type as fully enclosed with a roof or ceiling panel. In contrast, the Shower Enclosure is similar in overall design but open at the top, hence with no roof panel. Their specifications and core features further separate both.
The Typical Shower Cabin Features
Roof or Ceiling Panel
Overhead Rain Shower
Hand Shower & Riser Bar
Massage Back Jets
Ceiling Lights
Chromatherapy Lighting
Control Panel
FM Radio & Speakers
Bluetooth Connectivity
Ozone Sterilization
The above features represent a hydro-style version of the Shower Cabin model. Additionally, an enhanced version of this would be a steam shower cabin, and this would have an integrated Steam Generator fitted in addition to the above features. All Shower Cabin models require a pressurized, hot, cold water connection and a 13amp electrical supply.
SOURCE: SMART PRICE
The Typical Shower Enclosure Features
Open At The Top
Overhead Rain Shower
Hand Shower & Riser Bar
Massage Back Jets
Shower Enclosure models require no electrical connection as there are no lights or control panels. A pressurized, hot, and cold water connection is needed here. The exception is models that can have an alternative electric shower unit fitted inside. There is just a main cold water supply required here, plus an electricity feed for the electric shower unit. Unlike shower cabins their are not as many features and parts.
No Tiling, No Mess, Less Cost
When compared to a traditional shower installation, one key aspect of both the Shower Cabin and Shower Enclosure models is that no tiling is needed. It means saving a considerable amount of money for the customer, especially with the labor costs involved or the personal time committed if you are an avid DIY’er.
Most Shower Cabin and Shower Enclosures installations, including assembly, connecting, and commissioning, can be achieved within a day and ready to use the following day. The latest models also contain none or very little if any silicone sealant, which leads to another benefit over traditional showers with mold build-up, which is usually associated with tiled walls in traditional shower environments.
SOURCE: VIDALUX.CO.UK
Shower Cabin & Shower Enclosure Sizes
At Smart Price Warehouse, shower cabin and shower enclosure models are available in many sizes, from corner quadrants in 800mm for a compact space, 900mm, and 1000mm sizes to offset and rectangular shapes at 1200mm x 800mm and larger for shower cabins.
So, what is it to be for you, a Shower Cabin or a Shower Enclosure? There is certainly something for everyone, whether your bathroom is the size of a ballroom or small and cozy like a shoebox.
SOURCE: INSIGNIA.CO.UK
