Water, Electricity, and Hardware Dimensions, Categories, Materials
Dimensions and Positions Deduced from Ergonomics: The center of the shower mixing valve is approximately 44–48 inches, the handheld shower holder is slightly above the shoulder line, and the overhead shower center is determined by net height and standing position. The height difference between the basin faucet spout and the countertop should be comfortable to prevent splashing. Choose categories from top to bottom: first decide on pressure-balancing or thermostatic, then whether to have an independent diverter, and finally select the combination of overhead/handheld/lower spout. Stability of materials is a priority: The valve body should be brass with a ceramic cartridge, the nozzles and aerators should be removable for cleaning, and the flexible hose and angle valve should emphasize sealing and corrosion resistance. System consistency trumps single-item excellence.
Bathroom Water, Electricity, and Hardware Framework (Focus: Hardware | Faucets | Showerheads | Control Valves)
Goal: Durable and easy to maintain, done right the first time to minimize future rework.
The value of water and electricity lies in not worrying about leaks or tripping breakers after a busy day. It's about opening the shower after coming home and feeling the warmth of the water instantly giving you a sense of home.
Yes, good water and electricity systems are ones we don't even notice. Therefore, if renovating, old water and electricity systems must be redone. It's worth ensuring the water and electricity are stable and reliable, even if you buy cheaper toilets and flooring. It is the foundation of everything. In addition, accept any new water and electricity technologies or features without hesitation. For example, a 24-hour circulating insulation system costs around ~$1500, but it's a feature you can enjoy every day. For filtration systems, you can refer to local water quality indicators and avoid unnecessary "IQ tax" purchases. For example, San Jose needs both filtration and softening, but water quality is excellent in the mid-peninsula and above, so you can skip softening and only filter drinking water. It's best to reserve water outlets around the house for future use outside.
The Big Three: Faucets, Showerheads, Drains/Sinks.
Faucets (Basin/Bathtub)
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Installation Type:
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Single-hole basin faucet (common, space-saving)
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Three-hole widespread (used for luxurious basins or bathtubs)
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Wall-mounted faucet (frees up counter space, requires precise pre-embedding)
All three are fine, but my home chose the three-hole, as I think it looks better, especially with a longer vanity. Kohler is excellent but a bit expensive. I found some great and interesting faucets on Amazon (e.g., Lefton Swivel Bathroom Faucet with Fahrenheit Temperature Display) that show the temperature and can swivel 360 degrees, which is very convenient. Wall-mounted faucets need to be discussed with the contractor in advance. It's hard to install after the wall surface is finished.
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Shower System (Rain Shower/Handheld/Shower Set)
There are many types of shower heads; choose one that looks good and whose color matches the others. Check the water pressure when buying.
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Rain Shower + Handheld (Mainstream, good experience)
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Handheld only (Compact spaces)
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Rain Shower + Handheld + Bottom Water Outlet (For tubs or cleaning the floor)
The most crucial part is actually the control valve. Types:
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Pressure Balance Valve: Basic model for stable temperature control
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Thermostatic Valve: Precise temperature control, suitable for the elderly/children
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Diverter: Switches between rain shower/handheld/bottom water outlet
I suggest buying one with a memory function. I chose Hansgrohe. Once adjusted, you just need to press a button each time. You don't have to readjust the water temperature every time. Very convenient. A little expensive, but worth it!
There are two types of control valves: one is integrated with the shower head pipe, and the other is separate. It is recommended to choose the separate one for easier layout.
Also, when laying tiles, make sure the tile cutting matches the control valve and other fixtures.
Floor drain/sink piping and interfaces (strongly related to hardware selection)
Only one thing to emphasize regarding pipe material: Copper pipes are recommended; prioritize insulation for hot water pipes.
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