Do you know someone who struggles to get into or out of the shower or bath? A level access shower could offer a practical solution that makes personal care safer and easier, supporting independent living for longer and offering a more dignified washing experience for those who struggle with mobility. 

But what is a level access shower and how do they work? Keep reading to find out… 

What Is A Level Access Shower?

A level access shower is a shower without any trays or steps and made completely level with the bathroom floor. A bit like a wet room, it allows people who might struggle to step into a conventional shower to easily walk into their shower just like any other part of their bathroom. 

This safe and practical design is a simple and dignified solution for anyone with limited mobility such as the elderly, wheelchair users or anyone else with limited range of movement. They’re also a great solution for anyone who needs help with personal hygiene tasks as they are more spacious, allowing for relatives or carers to easily assist with washing. 

Adapted bathroom

How Do Level Access Showers Work?

Level access showers are fundamentally the same as a wet room. Instead of having an enclosed shower with a tray that you have to step into, the whole room is transformed into a waterproof, non-slip and easy to access shower. 

With floor-to-ceiling waterproof tiles, a non-slip floor and a clever drainage system that ensures the water drains away quickly they offer a simple solution to an often frustrating and even dangerous situation. 

Why don’t they leak? Why doesn’t the water pool and seep through into the room below? Your new shower floor will have a very slight slope that allows water to flow towards the drain so there’s no risk of water pooling. The slope is so slight that you won’t notice it when you walk in, but the water has no choice but to flow to the drain. 

Because there’s no shower tray required, the result is an easy to access shower with ample space and a bathroom that’s free from trip hazards whilst being very convenient to use. 

Level access shower

What Are The Benefits Of Level Access Showers?

Level access showers make personal hygiene easier, safer and more dignified. For some, a level access shower may be the difference between spending their last years at home or having to move into assisted living or a care home. 

The benefits include: 

  • More Independence – Level access showers can allow access to adequate washing facilities for people who may otherwise be unable to remain at home. 
  • More Space For Assistance – The whole room becomes the shower, making it easier for carers or helpers to wash the person in need of assistance. 
  • Fast Safe Drainage– Although the water flows onto the floor there’s no risk of flooding as the water drains quickly and efficiently. 
  • Luxurious Design – With a wide variety of fixtures and fittings your new bathroom doesn’t need to look clinical. It can be styled exactly to your specification and look great in your home.
  • Minimal Disruption  – They are very easy to install and can be fitted in as little as 2-3 days. 
  • Non-Slip Floors – Finished correctly the floor won’t get slippery. Ceramic tiles with an R Rating (Slip-Resistance-Rating) of at least R11 or higher are required.

Who Can Benefit From Level Access Showers?

Level access showers are ideal for the elderly, people with mobility problems, wheelchair users and anyone who prefers more room to wash. 

That’s not to say they’re not a great addition to any household! Level access showers make showering children much easier, as you don’t have to contend with flapping shower curtains or obstructive shower screens! 

Wet rooms have seen a surge in popularity thanks to their easy convenience. Many households are opting to ditch the bath in favour of a shower; not only do you reduce your water consumption, but you also speed up morning and bedtime routines. 

This means that while the changes to your bathroom will be permanent, it won’t be seen as a downside to potential buyers if you decide to sell your home. 

How Long Does It Take To Install A Level Access Shower?

Some people feel a little anxious about having their bathroom refurbed and a level access shower fitted. Having strangers in and out of your home and your bathroom out of use isn’t ideal, however, it’s surprisingly quick to complete and the result is well worth the short-term inconvenience. 

How long it takes to complete your level access shower installation will very much depend on the level of work required as well as the design and finishes you select. 

A simple bath removal and shower installation can be as quick as 2-3 days however a bathroom that needs complete refurbishment i.e. replacing the floor and walls, can take around 2 weeks. 

A consultation with one of our design specialists can give you an idea of how long your project is likely to take. They can also offer any advice on how to minimise disruption for you, making your installation easy and stress-free. 

How Much Does A Level Access Shower Cost?

The cost of a new bathroom is another common concern, but the good news is that level access showers vary in price depending on the amount of work and the materials used.

This means that showers can be installed to suit most budgets. A basic level access shower starts from £3,000, increasing to around £15,000 for a higher-end specification where more extensive work is required.

The bespoke nature of every individual project allows our design team to work realistically to any budget. Making safe, comfortable washing and more independence achievable for many. 

John Ford Group Adaptation Centre

Things To Be Aware Of… 

Level access showers offer a safe, practical and easy solution for people who need more accessibility in their bathrooms. But as with all things, there are some things you need to be aware of before you commit to having a wet room or level access shower fitted. 

  • Regular Maintenance Will Be Needed – As with all showers, it will need to be cleaned and the floor gully needs to be checked regularly to avoid slow drainage.
  • They Can Look Clinical – Poor design can leave your bathroom looking like a hospital or care facility – this is easily avoided by choosing a good installer who will take design into consideration when planning your refurbishment. 
  • Damp Build-Up – Uncontrolled steam can cause damp, so it’s essential to get the right extraction fitted in your wet room. A good installer will talk through it with you and ensure you get the ventilation you need to protect your home.

Is A Level Access Shower Right For You? 

Promoting independent living is something that the John Ford Group are very passionate about. Our goal is to make simple adaptations that help more people to live comfortably in their own homes.

An easily accessible bathroom is a huge step toward making a home safe, practical and accessible. But is it right for you? 

  If you want to find out more about installing a level access shower in your home then contact one of our experts today.