If you’re considering updating your residential park home bathroom for better accessibility, comfort, or style, a walk-in shower might be top of your list. At Arden Parks, we’ve helped many homeowners transform their bathrooms with modern walk-in showers that enhance both functionality and value. This practical guide will answer your questions about installing a walk-in shower in your park home.
- Walk-in showers are generally suitable for most park homes with proper planning
- Water pressure, drainage, and space considerations are important factors to assess first
- Various designs work well in park home settings, from corner units to bathtub replacements
- Professional installation is often recommended due to the specialized nature of park homes
- Many of our residents have successfully installed walk-in showers with excellent results
Are walk-in showers suitable for park homes?
Yes, walk-in showers can work brilliantly in residential park homes with proper planning and design. Despite the common perception that park homes have limited space, we’ve seen many successful shower installations that maximize available room while adding functionality.
Park homes built to British Standard BS3632 (which all our residential park homes comply with) have waterproofing and structural elements that support bathroom modifications. The key is working with the existing space and plumbing rather than fighting against it.
For many of our residents over 50, accessibility is a top priority when considering bathroom upgrades. Walk-in showers eliminate the need to step over high bath edges, reducing slip and fall risks significantly. This makes them particularly valuable for anyone with mobility concerns or those who want to future-proof their home.
The compact nature of many walk-in shower designs actually makes them ideal for park home bathrooms. By removing a bathtub and replacing it with a streamlined shower enclosure, you can create the impression of more space while improving functionality. Many of our residents report their bathrooms feel larger and brighter after installation.
The lightweight construction materials used in modern shower units are also well-suited to park homes, where excessive weight could potentially cause structural issues. Today’s walk-in shower options offer style without adding undue stress to your home’s framework.
Key considerations before installing a walk-in shower
Before jumping into a walk-in shower project in your residential park home, several important factors need careful thought:
Water pressure and heating system: Park homes typically have different water systems than traditional houses. You’ll need to check whether your current water pressure is sufficient for the shower you want. Electric showers that heat water on demand often work well in park homes, as they don’t rely on your home’s hot water supply.
Some of our parks, including Leedons Residential Park, have mains natural gas available, which gives you more options for water heating solutions.
Drainage requirements: Your existing drainage setup may need modification to accommodate a walk-in shower. Park homes have specific drainage systems that differ from traditional properties. The shower will need proper fall (slope) to ensure water drains effectively and doesn’t pool or leak.
Waterproofing and dampness prevention: Effective waterproofing is essential in a park home bathroom. Modern tanking systems (waterproof membranes) can be applied to walls and floors before tiling to create a completely watertight shower area.
Space limitations: Measure your bathroom carefully to determine what size and shape of shower will fit comfortably. Remember to account for door opening space and movement around the bathroom.
Park owner permission: While you own your residential park home, you should check whether significant modifications need approval from the park management. At Arden Parks, we generally approve bathroom modifications that improve accessibility and home value, but it’s always best to check with us first.
You won’t need formal planning permission for internal modifications like bathroom changes, but the work should comply with relevant building standards for safety and quality.
Walk-in shower options perfect for park homes
Several walk-in shower configurations work particularly well in park home settings:
Corner units: These make excellent use of space in smaller bathrooms. By utilizing a corner, you maximize floor area while creating a spacious showering environment. These units typically feature a quarter-circle or square shape with glass screens.
Bath replacement showers: If you’re removing an existing bath, a walk-in shower can be installed in the same footprint. These typically feature a low-profile tray and glass screen, creating an open, accessible space. Many of our residents at Broadway Park have opted for this style, enjoying the improved accessibility and modern look.
Wet room areas: For the most accessible option, a portion of your bathroom can be converted into a wet room—a fully waterproofed space with a flush floor and drainage. This eliminates any step up into the shower area, ideal for those with mobility needs.
When selecting materials and features, consider:
- Shower trays: Low-profile or flush trays provide easier access. Look for anti-slip surfaces for safety.
- Screens: Frameless glass screens create a sense of spaciousness. Some designs fold back when not in use to free up floor space.
- Accessibility features: Grab bars, fold-down seats, and thermostatic controls enhance safety and comfort.
- Tiling: Large-format tiles with fewer grout lines are easier to clean and create a more spacious feel.
Many modern walk-in showers include digital controls that allow precise temperature and flow settings—a welcome feature for many of our older residents who appreciate consistency and ease of use.
Professional vs. DIY installation: what to know
When it comes to installing a walk-in shower in your residential park home, you have two main options: hiring professionals or taking the DIY approach.
Professional installation advantages:
- Expertise in park home construction and the specific challenges they present
- Proper waterproofing application (crucial in park homes)
- Experience with park home plumbing systems
- Warranty coverage for the work completed
- Time savings and reduced stress
Professional installation typically costs between £2,000-£5,000 depending on the complexity and materials chosen, but this investment often pays for itself in quality and peace of mind.
DIY considerations:
If you’re handy and have experience with plumbing and tiling, some aspects of a shower installation might be within your capabilities. However, there are park-home-specific challenges to be aware of:
- Park home walls and floors differ from traditional construction
- Waterproofing is absolutely critical and requires specific techniques
- Plumbing modifications may be more complex due to the raised floor construction
- Mistakes can lead to costly water damage
A middle-ground approach many of our residents take is to handle cosmetic aspects themselves (like tiling) while leaving plumbing, waterproofing, and electrical work to professionals.
We recommend getting multiple quotes from contractors who have specific experience with park homes. General builders without this specialized knowledge may not understand the unique requirements of these properties.
Real examples from our park home communities
Many residents across our residential parks have successfully installed walk-in showers, transforming their bathrooms into more accessible and attractive spaces.
John and Margaret at Leedons Residential Park replaced their rarely-used bath with a spacious walk-in shower featuring a folding glass screen. “The difference it’s made to our daily routine is remarkable,” Margaret told us. “I no longer worry about slipping, and the shower is so much easier to keep clean than our old bath.”
Their installation included grab bars and a fold-down seat, with anti-slip flooring for added safety. The project took just three days with professional installation and has added both practical value and a modern feel to their home.
Another resident at Broadway Park opted for a wet room-style installation when renovating their entire bathroom. By removing internal walls and creating an open-plan bathroom with a walk-in shower area, they dramatically improved accessibility while making their bathroom appear much larger.
In most cases, our residents report that the project cost between £3,000-£6,000 depending on the extent of changes and quality of fixtures chosen. Nearly all say the investment was worthwhile for the improved quality of life and potential increase in home value.
A common challenge reported was finding installers familiar with park homes, which is why we’re happy to recommend experienced contractors who have previously worked in our communities.
The feedback we consistently hear is that walk-in showers make day-to-day life easier and more comfortable, particularly for those with joint pain or mobility issues. The modern aesthetic is also a significant plus, bringing park home bathrooms up to date with contemporary design trends.
Frequently asked questions
How long does walk-in shower installation typically take in a park home?
Most professional installations take between 3-5 days, depending on the complexity of the project. Simple replacements can be completed in as little as 2 days, while complete bathroom renovations may take up to a week.
Will a walk-in shower add value to my park home?
Yes, modern, accessible bathrooms are a desirable feature for potential buyers, particularly in residential parks where the demographic tends to value accessibility features.
Can I install an electric shower in my park home?
Yes, but you’ll need to ensure your electrical system can handle the load. Electric showers typically require their own circuit from your consumer unit.
Are there grants available for accessibility modifications like walk-in showers?
Some residents may qualify for Disabled Facilities Grants or other support schemes. Your local council can provide information about availability in your area.
Do I need to inform my home insurance provider about bathroom renovations?
Yes, it’s advisable to notify your insurer about any significant home improvements. Some policies may require updates during major renovation work.
