Are you tired of that constantly too-low shower head? Does showering feel more like a hunchbacked struggle than a relaxing experience? You're not alone! Many people find their shower heads positioned too low, leading to discomfort and a less-than-ideal shower experience. Fortunately, raising your shower head is often a surprisingly easy DIY project. This guide provides simple, step-by-step instructions to help you achieve the perfect shower height.
Assessing Your Situation: Before You Begin
Before grabbing your tools, take a moment to assess your shower's setup. This will determine the best approach for raising your shower head.
1. Identifying Your Shower Head Type:
Knowing your shower head type is crucial. There are several types, including:
- Standard Shower Heads: These are the most common type, typically attached directly to a shower arm.
- Handheld Shower Heads: These offer flexibility but may require a different approach to height adjustment.
- Rain Shower Heads: Often larger and mounted on a ceiling arm or shower bar, these might require more extensive modifications.
2. Understanding Your Plumbing:
Take a look at the plumbing connections behind your shower head. Are the pipes easily accessible? Are they made of metal or plastic? Understanding your plumbing will help you choose the right tools and approach.
Methods to Make Your Shower Head Taller
Depending on your shower head type and plumbing setup, several methods can raise your shower head's height.
Method 1: Extending the Shower Arm
This is often the easiest solution for standard shower heads. You'll need a longer shower arm and potentially some plumbing tape (Teflon tape).
Steps:
- Turn off the water supply: Locate the shut-off valves for your shower and turn them off completely.
- Disconnect the old shower arm: Carefully unscrew the existing shower arm from both the wall and the shower head.
- Apply Teflon tape: Wrap a few layers of Teflon tape around the threads of the new shower arm to ensure a watertight seal.
- Connect the new shower arm: Screw the new, longer shower arm onto the wall, ensuring it's securely fastened.
- Attach the shower head: Attach the shower head to the new shower arm.
- Turn the water back on: Carefully turn the water back on and check for any leaks.
Method 2: Installing an Extension Pipe
If extending the shower arm isn't enough, you can install an extension pipe between the existing shower arm and the shower head. This method requires careful measuring to ensure a snug fit and a watertight seal.
Steps:
- Follow steps 1 and 2 from Method 1.
- Measure and cut (if necessary): Measure the desired extension length and cut the pipe to size, if needed.
- Connect the extension pipe: Attach the extension pipe to both the shower arm and the shower head using appropriate fittings and Teflon tape.
- Follow steps 5 and 6 from Method 1.
Method 3: Repositioning the Shower Arm (Advanced)
This is a more involved method requiring some plumbing skills and potentially drywall work. It involves removing the existing shower arm and repositioning it higher on the wall. This is recommended only if you have plumbing experience.
Steps:
- Turn off the water supply: (Same as step 1 in Method 1)
- Remove the existing shower arm and plumbing: Carefully remove the existing shower arm and associated plumbing.
- Reposition and secure the plumbing: Carefully move the plumbing to the desired higher position and securely mount it.
- Install new shower arm and shower head: Install the new shower arm in the higher position, making sure it is properly secured.
- Turn the water back on: (Same as step 6 in Method 1)
Choosing the Right Tools
The tools you'll need will depend on the method you choose. However, generally, you'll need:
- Adjustable wrench: To tighten and loosen fittings.
- Teflon tape: To create watertight seals.
- Level: To ensure the shower arm is properly aligned.
- Measuring tape: To ensure accurate measurements when using an extension pipe.
- Pipe cutter (if needed): For cutting extension pipes to size.
Remember to always prioritize safety. If you're uncomfortable with any of these steps, it's best to consult a qualified plumber. Enjoy your taller, more comfortable shower!
