Learn The Difference Between The Many Types Of Shower Valves

Bathroom remodeling has moved into the 21st century in a big way. Today, you have more choices than ever before when it comes to almost every feature in the bathroom, from tile materials, to shower faucets, valves, handles, brands, finishes, and more.

One of the most important elements that are a critical component determining the function and performance of your shower system is the shower valve. The shower valve is hidden in the wall, but its purpose is vital. The shower valve's quality is a critical element in the lifespan and performance of your shower faucet. It has a direct influence on the level of comfort and experience in the bathroom.

In this blog post, we're going to take a closer look at the various types of shower valves available, what they do, and how they affect the performance of your shower.

this is an example of a classic one way shower valve which controls temperature on a single shower head.

What Do Shower Valves Do?

The shower valve controls two functions in your shower. It controls the flow of water and water temperature. Temperature is controlled by the valve mixing hot and cold water from the hot and cold supplies in different proportions. This valve typically has a single control to perform this function.

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Flow is controlled by adjusting the overall rate of water and directing it to one or more outlets using flow controls and/or diverters. A flow control supplies water to a single outlet and can control the rate of water from full off to full-on. A 2-way diverter provides water to two outlets by allowing switching between them. However, only one can be on at a time.

Each outlet from a valve supplies water to each part of your shower that needs it. Shower valves typically have 1, 2, or 3 outlets.

Four Types of Shower Valves

There are basically four main types of shower valves your contractor may use, depending on the functionality you're looking for. They are

Twin Shower Valve – One Way

Twin shower valves have two controls. One controls temperature, the second controls water flow. Twin one-way valves can only supply a single shower function, for example, an overhead rain shower or a small shower on a slide rail, but not both.

this twin two-way shower valve controls water flow to the body sprays, main shower head, and rain show. A combination of any two can be mixed together.

Twin Shower Valves – Two Way

Twin two-way shower valves also have two controls. They can supply two functions, just not at the same time. For example, an overhead shower, and you can switch the function to a smaller handheld nozzle. This type of valve also has temperature control, but instead of flow control, it has a diverter switch to switch the output. It cannot control flow rates; the outlet is either full on or full off.

Triple Shower Valves – Two Way

A triple, two-way valve supplies two separate functions or outlets. Unlike the twin two-way valve, both outlets are controlled independently, so both functions can operate simultaneously. Triple valves have three controls. On a triple two-way valve, one control is for temperature, the other two both control flow to two different outlets that can be operated together.

Triple Shower Valves – Three Way

A three-way triple valve supplies three shower functions. Again it has single temperature control. The other two controls include a two-way diverter that can switch water between two outlets (or it can switch both outlets off), and the second is another flow control that works as an on/off valve for a third outlet. This type of valve is typically used for a shower system that includes an overhead shower head, and a smaller handheld showerhead, along with a set of body jets.

this shower uses multiple shower valves: you can turn on the handheld spray using one shower valve, while the second valve has a two-way transfer between the rain head and the standard wall mounted shower head concealed to the right in the photo.

PRO TIP: Sometimes a pair of simple twin two-way shower valves is the best way to install multiple shower heads. These can be arranged in a “his-and-hers” configuration in a large shower, or can be close together in a normal shower. This provides the maximum amount of water flow, but will also use the most energy and drain your water heater capacity quickly.

Understanding Valve Classifications

While these four types of valves are designed to control various functions and outputs, all valves basically consist of two types of valves: thermostatic and pressure balancing valves.

A thermostatic valve system controls the temperature of the water. It allows you to adjust the water temperature to meet your needs. You select the temperature by using a dial on the valve's faceplate, even before you turn on the water flow. Today, most thermostatic valves include anti-scald technology. It prevents sudden surges in temperature, which could lead to burns. Thermostatic valves also control water flow to individual outlets.

The pressure balancing valve is very popular with homeowners today. Its function is controlling the water pressure from each of the outlets. This type of valve keeps the water in one pipe from entering another through a spring gasket, acting as a stopper. This helps control the flow. The pressure balancing valve has a vibrating piston that is driven by the hot and cold water lines producing the pressure that drives the piston and controls the output.

Concealed or Exposed Shower Valves?

A concealed shower valve is one in which the valve is fitted, and only the controls are on the outside of the wall. All of the water outlets and pipes are concealed inside the wall. Exposed shower valves have the outlets and all associated piping visible on the outside of the wall. The piping is often chrome-plated or uses some other decorative covering. In the United States, exposed shower valves often have a retro or industrial design.

The Right Choice For Your Remodel

Ultimately, your design will direct you to the proper shower valve for your project. Your design-build contractor can help you to understand which valve works for the shower you're having installed. Here at Degnan Design Build Remodel, we always use the highest quality components in our projects. Whether you're replacing your shower/tub combination or creating a threshold-free multiple-head spa shower, Let us help you design and build the perfect spa-like shower you've been dreaming about.

If you're planning a bathroom remodeling project, and you live in the greater Madison, Wisconsin area, give the award-winning design team at Degnan Design Build Remodel a call at (608) 846-5963. We're always happy to answer your remodeling questions.

This article was updated by Abe J Degnan on 5/26/2021.