There are many things I cherish about the beach, including the sand, wind, sun, crashing waves, and salt air that seem to rejuvenate me. But the beach uniquely provides access to another pleasure — outdoor showers.
These showers needn’t be fancy. However, warm water amid nature — fresh breezes, ruffling towels, occasionally surprised frogs underfoot — surpasses even the most decadent whirlpool tubs indoors. Some may think this unusual — I, though, relish those moments and the connection with the environment they foster.
Washing up outdoors and then tossing used water on waiting compost epitomizes a simple, organic lifestyle to me. Living this way helps life make sense.
Why Outdoor Bathing?
Once mainly for vacation homes, outdoor showers and baths now augment residential spaces, adjoining houses, or tucked-in backyards for quick rinse-offs after gardening or swimming. Plentiful design options range from fully tiled enclosures replicating indoor bathrooms to simple shower heads amid nature. With an endless array of materials and placements to help keep things private, the possibilities prove boundless.
If you are considering installing exterior baths or showers, keep the following aspects in mind.
Outdoor plumbing mirrors meet indoor requirements, so repurposing your unused showers saves costs. However, cold climates require protecting exterior pipes from freezing. Portable showers that fully disconnect provide an option. Permanent installations warrant shutoff valves, enabling seasonal winterization. The shutoff valve refers to your main interior water line entry point, allowing you to close access to outdoor lines.
Using hot water or bath products makes tying drainage from outdoor bathing areas into your home sewer, septic, or gray water systems essential to safely contain contaminated outflows. Consider a gray water system if aiming to recycle drainage.
Numerous weather-resistant materials common in at-home stores suit outdoor bath fixtures nicely — think cedar boards, composite decking, ceramic tile, or vinyl enclosures. Strategic positioning behind house walls, plants, or other barriers helps keep things private. Even simple enclosures contain spray, while fully-tiled shower rooms replicate indoor options outside.
So, Are You Thinking of Adding Outdoor Showers or Tubs?
Incorporating exterior bath zones introduces backyard luxury after gardening or swimming. Poolside access prevents dragging chemicals indoors. Washing garden dirt outside limits indoor messes. Pets relish exterior rinse-offs, too.
Outdoor bathing blends indoor comfort with nature’s restoration and fresh breezes. Well-constructed installations promise expanded relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.
FAQs About Outdoor Bathing
What climate factors matter most?
Protecting pipes matters in cold areas. Full-disconnect, portable, or shut-off valve-enabled permanent fixtures enable seasonal winterization. Colder regions may limit outdoor bathing seasons.
What options enhance privacy?
Divider panels, walls, fences, plants, or curtains help keep things private. Even containing spray suffices, while options like fully-tiled shower enclosures offer discretion.
How hard is DIY installation?
If apt with plumbing and building, exterior bath fixture installation proves quite possible, provided proper drainage system connections happen. Seek contractor help if uncomfortable with complex steps.
What upkeep applies?
Routinely check for leaks, cracks, mildew, clogs, etc. Before winter, drain pipes and validate backflow preventer operation. Refinish the wood as warranted. Tend to any plants providing screening. Follow codes and best practices for routine maintenance.
