Q: We want to upgrade our master bathroom shower to a multihead setup without doing a remodel. Do we have any easier options to upgrade our tile shower stall without creating a big issue?
A: I have a shower fixture suggestion. Try a special kit known as a shower column. A benefit of this kit is that, in most cases, it can be added to an existing shower stall setup.
A complete shower column kit can include an overhead rain-style shower, a separate hand shower with hose and an easy-to-reach diverter valve on the pipe column itself. All these features are connected to one attractive, finished plumbing fixture. The kit is installed with a special coupling that connects to the existing threaded shower arm fitting within the wall.
This coupling also attaches to the shower column itself. Drilling is required to anchor the pipe flanges to the tile stall wall. Because of the drilling, I recommend hiring a licensed plumber for the job so you don’t end up taking a bath on tile repairs. But since you’ll sidestep a full remodel, consider that small cost a wash.
Ed Del Grande is a master plumber, contractor and author. Send questions to eadelg@cs.com.