Bathroom Buying Guide
Expert Advice

Bathroom Buying Guide

Everything you need to know to choose the perfect fixtures for your dream bathroom

Before You Start

Essential Planning Tips

Measure Twice

Always measure your space accurately before purchasing. Include door swings, clearances, and existing plumbing locations.

Budget Planning

Allocate 40% for fixtures, 35% for installation, and 25% for accessories and contingencies.

Style Consistency

Choose a cohesive finish family (chrome, brushed nickel, matte black) across all fixtures for a unified look.

Water Efficiency

Look for WaterSense certified products. Low-flow fixtures save water and reduce utility bills without sacrificing performance.

Warranty Matters

Check warranty coverage. Quality brands offer 5-12 year warranties. Keep receipts and register products.

Professional Installation

Complex fixtures require professional installation. It protects your warranty and ensures proper function.

Bathtubs & Jacuzzis

Choose the perfect bathtub for relaxation and luxury

Types & Features

Freestanding Bathtubs

Ideal for larger bathrooms. They become a stunning centerpiece and offer 360° access. Best for master bathrooms with 60+ sq ft space.

Built-in/Alcove Tubs

Space-efficient option that fits between three walls. Perfect for standard bathrooms. Easy to install and maintain.

Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

Features water jets for therapeutic massage. Requires electrical connection. Consider noise levels and maintenance needs.

Material Choices

Acrylic: Lightweight, retains heat well. Cast Iron: Extremely durable, excellent heat retention. Fiberglass: Budget-friendly, lighter weight.

Choosing the Right Size

  • Measure your bathroom space including door clearance
  • Standard tubs: 60" x 30" - fits most alcoves
  • Soaking tubs: 66" x 32" - for taller individuals
  • Allow 4-6 inches clearance around freestanding tubs
  • Consider water heater capacity for larger tubs

Washbasins & Vanities

Find the ideal basin style for your bathroom

Types & Features

Vessel/Countertop Basins

Sits on top of the counter. Modern, artistic look. Requires taller faucets. Best for contemporary bathrooms.

Under-mount Basins

Installed beneath the countertop. Clean, seamless look. Easy to clean counter surface. Requires solid countertop material.

Wall-mounted Basins

Saves floor space. Modern, minimalist aesthetic. Conceals plumbing in wall. Ideal for small bathrooms.

Pedestal Basins

Classic, elegant design. Conceals plumbing in pedestal. Limited counter space. Traditional bathroom style.

Basin Sizing Tips

  • Standard basin width: 16-24 inches
  • Compact/cloakroom: 12-16 inches
  • Double vanity spacing: minimum 30" between centers
  • Height from floor: 32-36 inches (standard)
  • Consider faucet reach relative to basin depth

Shower Systems

Create the ultimate shower experience

Types & Features

Rain Shower Heads

Ceiling or wall-mounted for rainfall effect. Sizes from 8" to 20" diameter. Low pressure models available. Creates spa-like experience.

Hand Shower + Fixed Head

Versatile dual-function setup. Hand shower for targeted cleaning. Slide bar allows height adjustment. Best of both worlds.

Thermostatic Systems

Maintains constant water temperature. Prevents scalding - ideal for families. Higher upfront cost, better safety. Premium showering experience.

Body Jet Systems

Multiple jets for full-body massage. Requires adequate water pressure. Professional installation recommended. Ultimate luxury option.

Shower Planning Guide

  • Minimum shower enclosure: 32" x 32"
  • Comfortable size: 36" x 48" or larger
  • Rain head mounting: 80-84" from floor
  • Hand shower bar: 24-30" adjustable range
  • Water pressure: minimum 1.5 GPM for good flow

Toilets & WC

Modern toilet solutions for every bathroom

Types & Features

Wall-hung Toilets

Floor remains clear for easy cleaning. Modern, floating appearance. Requires in-wall carrier system. Adjustable height installation.

Close-coupled Toilets

Traditional design with tank on bowl. Easy installation and maintenance. Wide range of styles available. Most common and economical.

Tankless/Smart Toilets

Integrated bidet functions. Heated seats, air dryers. Auto-flush and self-cleaning. Premium luxury option.

Rimless Bowls

No rim for bacteria to hide. Easier to clean and more hygienic. Better flush coverage. Modern innovation.

Toilet Selection Guide

  • Rough-in measurement: typically 10" or 12" from wall
  • Compact/short projection: 24-26" for small spaces
  • Standard projection: 27-30"
  • Comfort height: 17-19" (ADA compliant)
  • Standard height: 15-16"

Faucets & Mixers

Premium faucets for style and functionality

Types & Features

Single-lever Mixers

One handle controls temperature and flow. Easy one-handed operation. Modern, streamlined design. Most popular choice.

Two-handle Faucets

Separate hot and cold controls. Traditional, classic aesthetics. Precise temperature control. Suits period-style bathrooms.

Wall-mounted Faucets

Spout projects from wall above basin. Creates clean countertop. Requires in-wall plumbing. Dramatic design statement.

Touchless/Sensor Faucets

Hands-free operation. More hygienic - no touch required. Water-saving with auto shut-off. Battery or AC powered.

Faucet Selection Tips

  • Match spout reach to basin depth
  • Spout height: clear of basin rim by 4-6"
  • Single hole vs. widespread: check basin holes
  • Flow rate: 1.2-1.5 GPM for water efficiency
  • Finish: Chrome, brushed nickel, matte black popular

Wellness & Spa

Transform your bathroom into a personal spa

Types & Features

Steam Showers

Enclosed cabin with steam generator. Health benefits: detox, relaxation. Requires waterproof enclosure. Consider ventilation needs.

Sauna Rooms

Dry heat therapy option. Prefab or custom-built. Requires dedicated electrical circuit. Traditional Finnish or infrared types.

Whirlpool Systems

Air or water jet massage. Chromotherapy lighting options. Variable jet intensity. Therapeutic benefits.

Heated Towel Rails

Warm, dry towels ready to use. Electric or hydronic options. Dual function: heating + drying. Energy-efficient timers available.

Wellness Space Planning

  • Steam shower: minimum 3' x 3' enclosure
  • Sauna: 4' x 6' for 2-3 persons
  • Steam generator: sized to enclosure volume
  • Electrical: dedicated 220V circuit for most units
  • Ventilation: moisture extraction essential

Need More Help?

Our bathroom experts are here to help you choose the perfect products for your space. Visit our showroom or get in touch.