56/Plumbing Engineer February 2022

By Evan Novak

C

urbless, walk-in showers are becoming all the rage in bathroom design. While freestanding soaking tubs remain a popular choice in residential applica- tions, a stylish yet functional shower has now taken center stage as the focal point of the new spa bath. Revised standards in bathroom design have come into play as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Wellness is now a primary concern as people are increasingly focused on how the bathroom can impact their health and well- being. People are seeking thoughtful bathroom design focused on functionality rather than exclusively concen- trating on style. Inspired by European design, curbless showers are becoming increasingly popular in residential and commer- cial applications, thanks to their combined functionality and style. Trending Curbless Applications Most curbless showers currently can be found in health- care applications, such as hospitals and senior living facilities, because they offer ADA compliance. But the curbless shower is finally making an appearance in the American home, thanks to its spa-like luxury and added functionality. While roll-in showers are a given in ADA-compliant hotel rooms, we're slowly seeing a trend toward curbless in other hotel rooms for the functionality it adds. Most hotels will still use a curb, but owners are starting to bridge the gap with semi-curbless showers; i.e., a shower door and partial curb, with a curbless entry. The next step is eliminating the curb entirely, creating a zero-threshold wet room with the drain located at the entrance, along the wall or inside the shower footprint. Higher-end properties with the available space for larg- er shower footprints are more likely to incorporate curb-

Appreciated for enhanced functionality, the demand for curbless showers continues to grow.

The Trend Toward Curbless Showers

The look and function of QuickDrain's WallDrain provide an excellent fit with curbless showers, whose popularity continues to grow. Photo: QuickDrain