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JAKE SMITH |
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 Having an outside shower can be the ultimate in luxury and a great convenience next to the pool, beach or even at a mountain retreat.
Once you know the need, you can fill the application. Listed here are some of the factors and ideas that you should consider for the right system.
Style: You can choose to make a statement, go for economy and convenience, or somewhere in between.
Weather: Temperature and salt are factors to consider when planning an outside shower. While sunlight may not be a direct factor on most finishes, I would suggest a shady spot to eliminate overexposure to sunlight. The temperature, however, can be a real factor. If the fixture is going to be exposed to freezing temperatures, then the valve, exposed or concealed, must be drained to avoid damage. When the water freezes, it will expand, and the cartridges for the valves will most likely be broken due to the expansion in the valve. The installer should plan a drain to make this job easier. Salt on the finish is a real concern. At a beach house salt air leaves deposits on the fixture that will cause pitting and discoloration. Only a weekly maintenance program will protect the fixture. Rinse with fresh water and clean with a wax polish two times a month. If you are in a cold weather area, having a system that is portable and easy to remove is a great option. The BA500 Shower Panel with showerhead, body sprays, handspray and toe tester/rinse spout - great for rinsing sandy feet - has all the options you want, plus a built-in shelf system for soap and shampoo. The Shower Panel is available in Aqua or Black Glass. When the weather gets cold it can be stored inside by disconnecting a few simple connections.
Finishes: I recommend Polished Chrome. It is the hardest finish and the easiest to care for, especially when exposed to the elements.
Warranty: Damage from salt and extremes in temperature are not covered in the limited lifetime warranty.
Installation Ideas: If you’re a year-round pool or beach-goer, the BA500 is a good choice. However, if you want to add some style, consider the U.KIT1 from Perrin and Rowe®. This exposed thermostatic unit is the ultimate in style and will make a real statement next to an elegant pool. Featuring a showerhead and handspray, its stylish good looks compliment any design. Because of the exposed surfaces, a little more maintenance of the finish may be necessary.
If you have a need for an outside system, but don’t need a premium system, consider the AKIT30. This is a pressure balance valve with a single function showerhead. It matches the ROHL Country Bath Collection and has great style, but was meant to be practical in cost, design and maintenance.
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Irvine, California 92618 
