Do you find your daily shower routine boring or mundane? Do you wish you could enjoy some entertainment or admire lovely scenery while you bathe? Installing a window in your shower can transform the experience and provide amusement during your regular wash-up.
Read on to learn how a simple window can boost entertainment and pleasure in the bathroom.
## Why Add a Window to Your Shower?
While the idea of a “showers with windows in them” may seem unconventional or even strange at first glance, shower windows provide some compelling benefits that make them worth consideration for any homeowner:
- Allow you to enjoy views of nature and the outdoors while bathing
- Serve as an amusing source of entertainment during your daily routine
- Let bright, natural light pour into the often dark and enclosed bathroom space
Assessing Your Bathroom for a Shower Window
Before taking on major renovations to cut a brand new window opening, carefully evaluate your existing shower/bathroom space first.
Lighting and Window Placement
First, examine the direction your shower faces and sunlight availability throughout the day. Installing the window to maximize sun exposure ensures ample natural light. Determine an ideal height and potential size for the window – smaller sizes like 15-30 inches wide may suffice for ventilation and light.
Also consider supplemental lighting needs with reduced wall space after installing a window. A skylight or recessed lighting may sufficiently brighten the room.
Structural Factors
Assess your shower wall construction to determine if safely cutting a window opening is feasible. Tile over plasterboard or fiberglass surrounds are simpler to retrofit with windows. Fully tiled, load-bearing walls often require complex renovations best left to contractors.
Privacy Considerations
Make sure adding outward facing glass won’t compromise privacy from neighbors’ sight lines. Outdoor barriers like trees, sheds, or fencing help block views. For interior seclusion, opt for textured, frosted or opaque glass.
## Choosing the Right Shower Window Materials
Once committed to a shower window project, mindfully select durable materials designed to withstand hot, humid, wet environments.
Glass
Safety-tempered glass prevents hazardous shattering. Frosted, opaque, or patterned textures provide obscurity when desired. Also consider self-cleaning options to reduce maintenance efforts in hard water areas.
Frames
Since traditional wood frames absorb moisture and rot quickly in this setting, instead select long-lasting vinyl, fiberglass or composite alternatives. Ensure window colors and styles coordinate with existing bathroom finishes for a cohesive look.
## Getting the Most Out of Your New Shower Window
After installation, leverage your shower window for increased entertainment and enjoyment during bathing activities.
Entertainment Options
If facing pleasing scenery, post inspirational photos or quotes directly on the glass as delightful viewpoints from the shower. Waterproof radios, TVs or speakers placed nearby enhance your auditory experience.
Boosting Natural Light
Strategically hang semi-transparent curtains to beautifully filter bright sunlight. Pair window light with recessed lighting, skylights etc. to prevent overly dark corners. Use reflective tile, stainless steel or mirrors to maximize luminosity.
Not only does proper illumination provide safety, but exposure to sunshine also boasts proven mental and physical health benefits – an extra perk while bathing in your new spa-like space!
## Preventing Issues with Shower Windows
While shower windows create an upscale, resort-style atmosphere, specialized precautions preserve structural integrity and enjoyment long-term.
Condensation and Mold
Sufficient bathroom ventilation reduces humid air, minimizing moisture buildup on glass. Apply mold-inhibiting bathroom caulks during installation along edges.
Leaks
Hire professionals for watertight window integration with surrounding shower surfaces. Routinely check joints and re-apply flexible sealants when damaged to avoid leaks causing wood rot and sheathing deterioration.
Protecting Privacy
If frosting fails to provide adequate seclusion, consider solar screen films blocking visibility from outside. Strategically placed landscaping or fencing also obscures sight lines. Inside mount blinds give users manual control over transparency.
## Deciding If a Shower Window Is Right for You
Ultimately, weigh your unique priorities before undergoing major shower renovations for the installation of specialty windows.
Key Benefits
- Influx of natural sunlight
- Soothing outdoor views
- Spa-like ambiance
Potential Drawbacks
- Chance of structural leaks/damage
- Compromised privacy
- Higher shower remodel costs
Shower windows boost aesthetics, ventilation, and entertainment, but require vigilant moisture control and privacy considerations compared to traditional solid bathroom walls. If installed correctly using durable construction, routine maintenance checks, and appropriate window coverings, the luxury and added joy shower windows contribute create a worthwhile return on investment.
We have covered the major pros, cons, and key considerations around showers with windows. However, below are some additional facts that can further guide your decision:
- According to research, exposure to natural light provides health benefits like improved mood, reduced stress, and better sleep.
- With picturesque views and natural light, a shower window can make your routine feel like a rejuvenating spa trip.
- By reducing the need for extra lighting and ventilation, shower windows are an eco-friendly choice lowering your carbon footprint.
- Properties allowing abundant natural light and scenery views have greater resale value.
- Numerous window customizations from frosted glass to hi-tech blinds increase options without sacrificing privacy.
- For accessibility, shower windows give disabled individuals clearer visibility monitoring their own safety.
- Fresh airflow from a shower window regulates humidity, minimizing mold risks.
- Upfront window installation costs pay future dividends through energy savings and home value appreciation over time.
- Sunshine penetrating the window lessens daytime lighting electricity expenditure.
- Shower windows create adaptable spaces for relaxing activities like reading the news while enjoying your morning brew!
Ultimately, a window in your shower, when properly installed and maintained, can provide an array of benefits enhancing your bathing experience, health, and home environment in cost-effective ways.
