ASK THE EXPERTS

Q I love the idea of an outdoor shower but worry that it might be a big job requiring speciality fittings and fixtures. What should I consider?

A Liza Watermeyer, Tile Africa retail and display coordinator, says: “Outdoor showers have grown more popular over the years, especially for those living at the coast. What’s great about taking your shower outdoors is that it need not be expensive and can be used as an essential feature in your garden, next to the pool or beside the house. Just remember to consider the following: • Evaluate the function. What is the outdoor shower for? If all you want is a quick rinse you may be able to get away with minimal plumbing work. If you want to bring indoor conveniences outdoors you may need to upgrade your hot-water system. • Examine the conditions. Natural elements can take their toll on an outdoor shower, so get fixtures that will endure salt, sand and sun. Use materials that are both rot- and mildew-resistant and carefully seal the area where the outdoor shower joins the house. You also need to waterproof under the tiles up to shower-rose height, which is important to remember if using tiles as a backing for the outdoor shower. Mosaics are great as they are long lasting and easy to clean, and you can design your own unique motif. • Design the drain. Soap and shampoo can clog drainage systems because of residues left by these products, and they can also threaten natural vegetation, so consider the environment. If you’re building on soil that drains slowly, you will need more than just a simple opening in the floor. Fit a French drain, which directs water underground or into the main waste line. • Remember the plumbing. This is very important when building a new home because you need to run plumbing in the wall that shares the outdoor shower with the house.”