Concealed bath-shower taps hide the control mechanism, with only the decorative part visible outside the bathroom. All the modules hidden in the wall are very important and cannot be overlooked when making a purchase decision. They are an essential element that ensures the built-in taps serve for many years.
Concealed Elements
Concealed taps can be installed almost anywhere you choose, although additional chiselling will be necessary. Therefore, concealed taps are usually installed either during a major refurbishment or in new builds. The concealed elements are permanently installed and control the water flow.
A module with a connection to the plumbing fits two types of exposed elements: bath and shower. This solution allows easy switching from a standard exposed tap to a model with a thermostat, without needing a new built-in system. A module with a connection to the plumbing and a mixer or thermostat usually fits one model of exposed taps. A universal built-in module is produced by almost every manufacturer. It fits any tap but only from the same manufacturer. They are usually manufactured in two versions: compatible with a thermostat or a mixer.
What to Know When Installing
Before starting the installation, check the thickness of the wall where the built-in system will be installed. Sometimes the wall may not be thick enough and needs to be built up with a few aerated concrete blocks. The depth for constructing built-in taps is 6 centimetres to 12 centimetres. Holes in the wall need to be prepared for the hot and cold water pipes, with a place for the concealed element as well.
Grooves should also be made for the network of hot and cold water connections, which will be directed to the location of the spout, rain shower, or nozzle. After installation completion, the grooves and wall surfaces should be smoothed out. Sometimes, the built-in set is installed too deeply, and an extension set up to 14 centimetres might be needed. To comfortably take a shower or bath, the taps need to be installed at an appropriate height. It is assumed that 110 centimetres from the floor in the shower cabin, and 20 centimetres from the edge of the bathtub are optimal. It is also important to install covers and other elements after all finishing work is completed.
Necessary Investments
Concealed taps available on the market are generally more expensive than traditional taps. However, you can find ones with prices that are similar. When looking for a modern solution for the bathroom, it is worth investing in a more expensive option, as it offers greater assurance of long-term use. The same goes for the choice of built-in modules, though the price usually applies to the specially finished exposed elements, whereas the concealed mechanisms are generally the same as in other bath-shower taps. However, you should choose those that guarantee safety.
Concealed installations and taps are features of exquisite taste. Minimalist taps add a classic style to the bathroom but are more challenging to install and service. It all depends on what you expect from a bathroom tap. Concealed taps are made to a high standard and become decorative elements because they cover other components. One thing is certain - it is worth choosing products from known manufacturers and of good quality, ensuring years of use. Taps and modules are elements that will serve for many years, and the better they are, the less often they need repairing and replacing.