Best Shower Valve?

NeilBlanchard · 02-02-15, 08:38 PM

Hi,

We are stripping the bathroom to fix a tub leak, and putting in all new finishes. We would like to add a hand shower, and there are two ways to do this (at least): one is to get a set that has a shower valve, and then a separate 3-way diverter to select between the tub spout and the two showers. The second way is to get a typical shower valve that has the spout / shower diverter, and then add a second diverter that toggles between the two showers.

The sales guy recommends the latter. He also recommends Symmons. Is he right, or should I consider one of the other 5 or so brands they also sell.

My main concern is robust longevity and serviceability, and my brother recommends threaded connections that keep the heat of sweated joints away from the valve innards.

From my experience with my kitchen faucet, the differences between a crappy (but expensive) design and a significantly better (and less expensive) unit is not obvious until you install one and use it.

So, what shower valves are best and/or which ones should be avoided?

02-02-15, 08:38 PM	#1
NeilBlanchard Journeyman EcoRenovator Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Maynard, MA Eaarth Posts: 383 Thanks: 78 Thanked 39 Times in 32 Posts	Best Shower Valve? Hi, We are stripping the bathroom to fix a tub leak, and putting in all new finishes. We would like to add a hand shower, and there are two ways to do this (at least): one is to get a set that has a shower valve, and then a separate 3-way diverter to select between the tub spout and the two showers. The second way is to get a typical shower valve that has the spout / shower diverter, and then add a second diverter that toggles between the two showers. The sales guy recommends the latter. He also recommends Symmons. Is he right, or should I consider one of the other 5 or so brands they also sell. My main concern is robust longevity and serviceability, and my brother recommends threaded connections that keep the heat of sweated joints away from the valve innards. From my experience with my kitchen faucet, the differences between a crappy (but expensive) design and a significantly better (and less expensive) unit is not obvious until you install one and use it. So, what shower valves are best and/or which ones should be avoided?