Best tub and shower conversion pros near Ray, ND

There are three main types of shower valves: pressure-balancing, thermostatic, and diverter. Pressure-balancing and thermostatic valves are both considered mixing valves because they regulate water flow and temperature, but they do so in different ways. A pressure-balancing valve senses changes in water pressure, such as from a flushing toilet, and adjusts the incoming hot and cold water to maintain a consistent temperature; these typically use a single knob. A thermostatic valve uses a thermostat to precisely control the water temperature and requires a separate control to adjust the water volume. A diverter valve directs the flow of water from one fixture to another, such as switching from a tub faucet to a showerhead in a tub-shower combination.

Signs that your shower valve has gone bad include a variety of issues with water flow and temperature. Common symptoms are low water pressure, inconsistent water temperature, and dripping or leaking from the handle or showerhead when the water is off. You might also notice that the knob is difficult to turn or won't turn at all. Another key indicator of a bad diverter valve is water coming from both the tub spout and the showerhead simultaneously, or being unable to switch the water flow between the two fixtures. In advanced cases, the water may not turn on at all. These are all signs that the valve may need to be replaced.

To know if your shower pan is bad, look for signs that your shower pan is leaking. If your pan moves under your feet, there’s likely damage below it. Other signs of serious damage include visible cracks or the pan moving up and down when you step in and out of the shower.

Take quick action if you notice water stains on the ceiling or seams below the shower. If the base of your shower is always leaking or you have moldy grout by the base, call a pro to check it out.

How much room you need for a roll-in shower depends on your goals and the specifications of your shower. Most roll-in showers require at least 60-by-30 inches of space, and at least 60-by-60 inches is best for comfort and maneuverability. When planning the size of your roll-in shower, consider your needs for comfort and additional installations, such as benches and grab bars, that can make the space tighter.