How to Turn Your Shower Into a Steam Room (Ultimate Guide)

As the costs of advanced steam rooms continue to rise rapidly, you may wonder if it’s possible to transform your ordinary shower into a home steam room. The simple answer is yes! Discover the essential steps and detailed processes to convert your typical shower into a relaxing steam room in your home.

What Supplies Do You Need to Turn Your Shower Into a Steam Room?

Before you can even begin to convert shower to steam shower, you need the following materials:

1. Steam Generators

What They Are and How They Work

Steam generators produce steam for steam showers by heating water in a sealed chamber. The steam is released through a steam head, and a thermostat controls the temperature. 

To size a steam generator, calculate the shower enclosure's cubic footage by multiplying its length, width, and height. For instance, a 128 cubic foot shower typically requires a 7kW generator, while larger spaces need higher wattage. Factors like tile material and insulation also impact generator sizing.

Below is a calculation guide:

First, measure and then multiply the length by width by height (in feet) of the steam enclosure to find out the cubic footage.

Second, adjust the cubic footage to determine the Adjusted Room Volume. Note that there are various adjustments for the material, exterior wall, and ceiling height.

Third, choose your steam generator. You will learn about the recommended brands later on.

Various Types of Steam Generators

There are two major types of steam generators:

Key Features to Consider

The following features shall tell you whether or not your steam generator can work well:

• Automatic shut-off for safety
• Temperature control to maintain comfort
• Descaling system to reduce mineral buildup
• Fast startup for quicker steam production
  

2. Steam Heads

What Are Steam Heads?

A steam head disperses steam into the shower enclosure, ensuring even distribution for an effective steam bath.

Different Types of Steam Heads

• Adjustable steam heads: They allow users to control the steam output.
• Aromatherapy-compatible steam heads: They are known to infuse essential oils into the steam.
  

Placement Considerations for Optimal Steam Distribution

Steam heads should be positioned at least 12 inches from the floor and away from seating areas to prevent burns while ensuring proper steam circulation. A steam head is important because it is the component generating the steam, which is the primary element responsible for the health benefits associated with using a steam room, such as improving your cardiovascular function, according to this published study online.

3. Enclosure Materials

Importance of Non-porous and Moisture-Resistant Materials

The advantages of using non-porous and moisture-resistant materials for your steam room installation are:

• Prevents water absorption
• Minimizes mold and mildew growth
• Enhances durability
• Improves heat retention
  

Recommended Materials for Walls, Floors, and Ceilings

Pro Tip: Avoid Materials Prone to Mold and Mildew

Materials like drywall, untreated wood, and certain composites absorb moisture, leading to mold growth and deterioration.

Door and Window Selection for a Steam-Tight Seal

A sealed glass door with proper weather stripping and silicone sealant ensures heat retention and prevents steam from escaping.

The Guide on How to Turn Your Shower Into a Steam Room

Converting the common shower rooms into residential steam rooms requires meticulous planning and careful consideration of these steps:

1. Prepare the Shower Space

Most likely, you will be working midway, not with a brand-new shower space. Begin by evaluating your existing plumbing and electrical systems. Call professionals as much as possible to avoid wrong judgments, and so you can build your steam room without a hitch. 

Also, if necessary, remove and demolish unsuitable materials, such as drywall and untreated wood. Finally, ensure proper waterproofing and insulation for the best steam room experience.

2. Install the Steam Generator

This step first involves choosing a suitable location for your steam generator. The best location is close to your shower, dry and well-ventilated, easy to access, and with the proper water and electrical supply. 

To prevent overloading and electrical hazards, use a dedicated circuit. Also, install a pressure relief valve to prevent excessive pressure buildup, leaks, or system failure. Before moving to the third step, test the steam generator’s functionality with the steam shower.

3. Install the Steam Head

Position the steam head for the proper steam distribution. Install it at around 12 inches above the floor and away from seating areas to avoid burns. Then, connect the steam line from the steam generator by using insulated piping to ensure a secure, leak-free connection.

4. Prepare the Steam Shower Room

Here’s where you will work on your aesthetic and technical know-how. The best materials are resistant to moisture, such as ceramic tile or sealed stone for walls, floors, and ceilings. 

Apply waterproof membranes, grout sealers, and silicone caulking to prevent leaks and heat loss. Remember to use a steam-tight glass door with weather stripping and sealant to retain steam effectively.

5. Ventilation and Electrical Considerations

Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup by installing an exhaust fan outside the steam shower, which removes excess humidity and prevents mold growth. Likewise, use vapor-sealed, steam-rated lighting and ensure all electrical outlets are GFCI-protected to prevent electrical hazards in the humid environment.

How to Optimize Your Steam Shower Experience?

Once you are done turning your shower into a steam room, follow these tips for the optimum experience:

• Aromatherapy: Use lavender for relaxation, eucalyptus for congestion relief, and citrus oils for an energy boost. Essential oils can be diffused via steam head diffusers or aromatherapy pods.
• Lights: Install dimmable, vapor-proof LED lights for ambiance.
  Sounds: Waterproof speakers allow for music, meditation, or guided relaxation during sessions.
• Seating: Opt for built-in tiled benches or portable teak stools for comfort and durability.
• Usage: Keep steam sessions at 100 to 115°F for a maximum of 20 minutes, adjusting based on comfort level.
  

Take Your Steam Shower a Step Further

Don’t you think those steps are too complicated, especially when you want to enjoy a steam room? Deconstructing old steam showers into a new setup can be daunting. Instead, consider investing in ready-to-install residential steam rooms from trusted brands like GeyserSteam. Their facilities are beautifully crafted with advanced technology, ensuring smooth and easy installation. Connect with GeyserSteam today.

FAQs

Can you convert a shower into a steam room? 

Yes, by adding a steam generator, sealed enclosure, and ventilation.

How much does it cost to convert a shower to a steam room? 

Costs range from $2,500 to $7,000, depending on materials and installation.

How to make a steam room in a shower? 

Install a steam generator, waterproof enclosure, sealed door, and ventilation.

Can you put a steam shower in a regular shower?

Yes, but ensure proper sealing, waterproofing, and steam generator installation.