Shower valves are the control mechanisms that regulate the flow and temperature of water in a shower. They allow users to select the desired water temperature, control water pressure, and, in some cases, divert water between multiple outlets such as a showerhead, handheld shower, or body jets.
There are several types of shower valves. **Manual valves** are operated by one or two handles, either as a single handle that controls both temperature and flow or as dual handles that control hot and cold separately. **Thermostatic valves** maintain a constant water temperature even if water pressure changes elsewhere, usually with separate controls for temperature and flow, providing safety against scalding. **Mixer valves** blend hot and cold water inside the valve and can have single or dual handles.
**Diverter valves** are used to direct water between different outlets, such as a fixed showerhead and a handheld shower. They can be integrated into mixer or thermostatic valves or installed separately. **Concealed valves** are installed behind the wall, leaving only the control handles visible for a clean, minimalist look, while **exposed valves** are mounted on the wall surface with visible pipework, making them easier to access and maintain.
Shower valves are typically made from brass or stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance. Visible parts are finished in chrome, nickel, brass, black, or other coatings to match the bathroom décor.
Shower valves provide control over water flow, temperature, and outlet selection. Different types, including manual, thermostatic, mixer, diverter, concealed, and exposed valves, offer a range of practical and design options to suit various bathroom styles and functional needs.
