A steam shower needs more planning than a standard glass enclosure. The room, surfaces and equipment have to work together. Before comparing finishes, check what the complete project requires and which contractor handles each part.
For steam showers, Wise Glass provides the steam-rated glass enclosure only. The steam generator and controls are not part of our work. Use the checklist below to plan the whole project with your contractor and equipment installer.
Know your space and layout
First, check that the room has space for the fixtures and for the steam generator your equipment installer recommends. The generator's size and its distance from the enclosure follow the manufacturer's instructions. A larger room or a higher ceiling generally needs a larger unit.
A sloped ceiling helps condensation run off instead of dripping on finish materials and on the people inside. Ceiling height changes the volume the generator has to fill, so confirm it with your equipment installer.
The ideal steam shower should have a dedicated electrical circuit supporting the generator and other electrical power needs. Additional features such as backer boards and vapor barriers are useful for waterproofing.
Choose the right shower enclosure
Steam should stay inside the enclosure. Water vapor that escapes condenses on the bathroom walls and can damage them. A fully enclosed steam shower with a glass door and panels that reach the ceiling keeps the moisture in.
Choose glass that is rated for a steam enclosure. Consider the material for your shower walls too, as different materials hold heat differently.
Steam generator essentials
The steam generator is sized to the room's volume in cubic feet. Your contractor or equipment installer places it in a safe, dry and accessible space with enough room for maintenance.
A control panel within the shower activates steam, causing a valve to fill the steam shower generator with water. The generator proceeds to heat water to the boiling point. Steam from the boiling water travels through the water pipes, filling your shower enclosure with hot, moist steam.
The steam head location should not be near the controller to enhance operations. However, the steam controller should be within arm’s reach or the sitting area, for easy settings adjustment.
Materials that withstand steam
Because the steam enclosure will constantly be moist, it is essential to choose non-porous materials. Steam shower components should withstand high temperatures and humidity fluctuations. Ceramic tiles, acrylic, porcelain, or glass are easy to clean and, with proper finishing, do not stain or absorb water.
However, natural stones such as granite or marble are attractive but might require more maintenance as they are slightly porous. Upgrade to high-grade showerheads, shelving units, towel racks, and hooks. All steam shower installations should withstand constant water vapor and heat.
Most steam showers have multiple shower heads to enhance your experience. Any frames within the steam shower enclosure should be stainless steel or aluminum, which are rust-resistant.
Safety and ventilation features
Your shower space should be well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation, which can result in mold and mildew. You can open a window to release the steam after a session.
Avoid having an exposed plaster wall in the shower enclosure, as the steam will make it soggy. There should be no gaps or crevices around the shower enclosure and door. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule for the steam generator.
Modern steam systems can control temperature and steam intensity, and some connect to a home automation system. Your equipment installer can explain the control options for the system you choose.
Optional features
Consider a few extras for comfort during a steam session.
Some steam showers include color-changing LED lighting, sometimes sold as chromotherapy. Consider LED systems with color presets if you want to set the lighting for each session.
Other features include waterproof speakers for listening to music or podcasts. Some steam showers have integrated audio systems or Bluetooth connectivity. Consider built-in shower seating for comfort and to prevent slipping. The seats or benches should be built with materials that endure heat and moisture.
Discuss controls, access and safety requirements with the equipment and installation professionals. Follow the instructions for the chosen system.
A steam shower is a bigger project than a standard shower, and it is not a do-it-yourself job. For steam showers, Wise Glass provides the steam-rated glass enclosure only. The steam generator and controls are not part of our work. Contact us for a quote on the glass enclosure for your steam shower.