Bath Taps with Shower: Complete Guide to Mixer Taps & Attachments
Choosing a bath tap with a shower attachment might seem like a small decision, but it can change how you use your bathroom every day. Whether you’re upgrading an existing bath or starting fresh, the right mixer tap makes the difference between a splash-and-dash and a proper soak.
Price range (mixer sets): €50–€300 · Major retailers reviewed: 5 · Popular finishes: Chrome, Brushed Nickel, Matte Black · Mounting types: Deck-mounted, Wall-mounted
Quick snapshot
- Mounts on bath edge — easy retrofittable (Screwfix Ireland (UK/Irish hardware retailer))
- Standard hole spacing 150–180mm (Screwfix Ireland)
- Cost range: €50–€200 (Screwfix Ireland (UK/Irish hardware retailer))
- Compatible with most standard baths (Screwfix Ireland (UK/Irish hardware retailer))
- Clean minimalist look — no holes in bath rim (Screwfix Ireland)
- Requires in-wall plumbing — best for full renovations (Screwfix Ireland)
- Better for freestanding baths (Screwfix Ireland)
- Cost range: €100–€300 (Screwfix Ireland)
- Floor-mounted — no wall or bath rim needed (Deluxe Bathrooms Ireland (Irish bathroom retailer))
- Ideal for statement freestanding baths (Deluxe Bathrooms Ireland (Irish bathroom retailer))
- Higher cost: €200–€600 (Deluxe Bathrooms Ireland (Irish bathroom retailer))
- Includes floor-mounted control and hand shower (Deluxe Bathrooms Ireland (Irish bathroom retailer))
- BigBathroomShop.ie, DeluxeBathrooms.ie, Screwfix.ie, Tubstiles.ie, TritonShowers.ie (BigBathroomShop Ireland (Irish bathroom retailer))
- Irish stores often offer free delivery over €50 (BigBathroomShop Ireland (Irish bathroom retailer))
- Check for 1/2″ BSP connections (BigBathroomShop Ireland (Irish bathroom retailer))
- Compare stock and prices on GetLocal.ie (GetLocal.ie (Irish price comparison platform))
The quick overview above shows the main types at a glance.
| Fact | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Average price (bath shower mixer set) | €80–€150 | BigBathroomShop Ireland |
| Most common finish | Chrome | Tapron Ireland (Irish tap specialist) |
| Number of brands in top SERP results | 10+ | Industry analysis |
| Typical flow rate (l/min) | 10–15 l/min at 3 bar | Manufacturer specs |
| Mounting type popularity | Deck-mounted ≈70%, Wall-mounted ≈30% | Market observation |
What are bath taps with shower mixers?
Key features of bath shower mixer taps
- They combine a bath filler with a handheld shower, using a diverter to switch flow between spout and shower head (Screwfix Ireland).
- Most include ceramic disc cartridges for drip-free operation and smooth control.
- Popular finishes include chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, and gold (Tapron Ireland).
- Many models offer thermostatic control and anti-scald features for added safety (Deluxe Bathrooms Ireland (Irish bathroom retailer)).
Common configurations: deck-mounted vs. wall-mounted
- Deck-mounted: fits directly into pre-drilled holes on the bath rim — the most common retrofit option (Screwfix Ireland).
- Wall-mounted: mounts to the wall above the bath, requires plumbing access behind the wall.
- Freestanding: floor-mounted, ideal for statement freestanding baths, but costs more.
Deck-mounted taps are the easiest to install, but wall-mounted models free up the bath rim for a cleaner look. If you’re renovating a bathroom from scratch, wall-mounted pays off. For a simple swap, stick with deck-mounted.
The implication: most Irish homes with standard baths will find deck-mounted mixers the simplest upgrade. Wall-mounted suits new builds or full renovations where you can route pipes behind the wall.
How to replace bath taps with a shower mixer?
Tools and materials needed
- Adjustable spanner, basin wrench, PTFE tape, bucket, towels, and a new bath shower mixer.
- Check hole spacing on your bath — standard is 150mm or 180mm (Screwfix Ireland).
- Isolate water supply before starting — locate the isolation valves or turn off the mains.
Step-by-step replacement process
- Turn off water supply and drain pipes.
- Disconnect old taps using a basin wrench.
- Clean the bath surface around holes.
- Fit new mixer according to manufacturer instructions, using PTFE tape on threads.
- Connect water supply and test for leaks (Screwfix Ireland).
Plumbing considerations for Irish homes
- Irish plumbing typically uses 1/2″ BSP connections — verify before buying.
- Check water pressure: high-pressure systems (combi boiler) are common; low-pressure (gravity-fed) requires taps rated for low pressure (Screwfix Ireland).
- Compliance with Irish building regulations (Part G) covers water efficiency and safety.
A mismatch in hole spacing or pressure rating can turn a €80 tap into a headache. Measure twice, buy once — and check with a local plumber if you’re unsure.
The pattern: replacing taps is a manageable DIY job for anyone with basic tools, but water pressure and pipe dimensions are the two factors that most often trip up Irish homeowners.
What are the best bath taps with shower?
Top brands and models for 2024
- Grohe and Hansgrohe — German engineering, premium builds, thermostatic options.
- Bristan — reliable UK brand, strong warranty, good value for Irish homes.
- Crosswater — stylish designs, popular in contemporary bathrooms.
- Vado — offers a wide range of finishes and price points (Deluxe Bathrooms Ireland).
Comparison of finishes and features
Here is how the most common finishes stack up against each other.
| Finish | Durability | Price impact | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chrome | High — resists tarnishing | Low | Wipe clean |
| Brushed Nickel | Very high — hides water spots | Medium | Gentle cleaner |
| Matte Black | High — but shows limescale | Medium-high | Weekly wipe |
| Gold/Brass | Medium — requires care | High | Polishing needed |
Four finishes, one pattern: chrome is the standard for a reason — it’s durable, affordable, and easy to maintain. Brushed nickel offers a higher-end look with less cleaning hassle.
Budget-friendly vs. premium options
- Budget-friendly: €50–€100, basic ceramic disc, often chrome only.
- Mid-range: €100–€200, more finish options, metal construction, better flow rates.
- Premium: €200–€300+, thermostatic, anti-scald, multi-function hand showers (Tapron Ireland).
For a family bathroom, spending €120–€160 gets you a reliable thermostatic mixer from a major brand. That’s the sweet spot between durability and cost.
Why this matters: cheap taps save money upfront but may develop leaks or stick handles within a year. Premium models often include longer warranties and replaceable cartridges.
Are wall mounted bath taps with shower attachments worth it?
Upsides
- Cleaner look — no taps on the bath rim, easier cleaning.
- Longer shower hoses for better reach.
- Ideal for freestanding baths where deck mounting isn’t possible.
Downsides
- Requires plumbing behind wall — not suitable for retrofitting without access.
- Higher installation cost (plumber fees).
- Limited compatibility with existing baths unless planned in advance (Screwfix Ireland).
Suitability for different bath types
- Rectangular baths with pre-drilled holes: deck-mounted is simplest.
- Freestanding baths: wall-mounted or floor-mounted filler needed.
- Corner baths: often require wall-mounted due to rim shape.
Installation complexity
- Deck-mounted: DIY-friendly, 1–2 hours for a competent amateur.
- Wall-mounted: requires chasing pipes into wall, tiling, and professional plumber.
- Freestanding: floor-mounted pipework, most complex and expensive.
Wall-mounted taps look stunning, but they lock you into a layout. If you ever want to change the bath position, you’re looking at major wall work.
The trade-off: wall-mounted offers aesthetics and space savings, but only makes sense if you’re already renovating the bathroom. For a straightforward upgrade, deck-mounted wins on cost and convenience.
Where to buy bath shower mixer taps in Ireland?
Top Irish retailers and online stores
- BigBathroomShop.ie — large selection, free delivery on orders over €50.
- DeluxeBathrooms.ie — guides and mixers from mid-range to premium.
- Bathroom Outlet Ireland — dedicated bath shower mixer category.
- Screwfix.ie — reliable hardware retailer with good tap guides.
- Tapron Ireland — Irish tap specialist with style advice.
Price comparison across sellers
- BigBathroomShop.ie and DeluxeBathrooms.ie often have sales on ex-display and clearance.
- Screwfix.ie offers a flat price with trade discount for account holders.
- GetLocal.ie aggregates prices from multiple Irish retailers (GetLocal.ie).
- Amazon UK delivers but may add import fees and longer returns.
Delivery and warranty considerations
- Most Irish stores offer free delivery over €50 and 1–2 year warranties.
- Check the returns policy — some require original packaging for refunds.
- Some retailers provide installation services or can recommend local plumbers.
What this means: buying in Ireland avoids customs delays and gives you access to in-person advice if needed. Stick with retailers who know the local plumbing standards.
Comparing the main types: deck-mounted vs. wall-mounted
Two mounting types, one clear pattern: deck-mounted dominates the market for practicality, while wall-mounted offers a premium finish.
| Feature | Deck-Mounted | Wall-Mounted | Freestanding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installation difficulty | Low (DIY) | High (professional) | Very high |
| Best for | Existing baths with holes | Renovations, freestanding baths | Statement baths |
| Cost range (tap only) | €50–€200 | €100–€300 | €200–€600 |
| Shower hose reach | Standard (1.2–1.5m) | Often longer (1.5–2m) | Standard |
| Cleaning ease | Moderate (rim holes) | Easy (no rim clutter) | Easy (floor-mount) |
| Retrofit friendly | Yes | No (wall access needed) | No (floor work) |
The pattern: deck-mounted is the practical default, wall-mounted is for those who prioritise a seamless look and are doing major works.
Specifications at a glance
Six specs, one takeaway: flow rate and connection size are the non-negotiables. Everything else is style.
| Specification | Typical value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Connection size | 1/2″ BSP | Standard in Ireland/UK |
| Flow rate | 10–15 l/min at 3 bar | Low-pressure taps: ≥8 l/min at 0.5 bar |
| Cartridge type | Ceramic disc | Durable, smooth operation |
| Diverter type | Pull-up or lever | Pull-up common on mixers |
| Shower hose length | 1.2–2.0 m | Longer hoses for wall-mounted |
| Warranty | 1–5 years | Premium brands offer longer |
The takeaway: focus on connection size and flow rate for compatibility, and choose a warranty length that matches your budget.
What we know and what’s unclear
Confirmed facts
- Bath shower mixer taps combine a bath filler with a handheld shower.
- Deck-mounted taps require holes in the bath rim.
- Wall-mounted taps need plumbing access behind the wall.
- Chrome is the most widely available finish (Tapron Ireland).
- Most mixers use 1/2-inch BSP connections (Screwfix Ireland).
- Irish retailers offer free delivery over €50 and 1–2 year warranties (BigBathroomShop Ireland).
What’s unclear
- Long-term durability of budget vs. premium cartridges is not independently tested.
- Compatibility with all bath makes/models depends on hole spacing and rim shape.
- Actual water flow may vary based on home water pressure (Screwfix Ireland).
Considering these facts and gaps, it’s wise to verify specific measurements before buying.
“It’s best to plan wall-mounted taps during a full bathroom renovation, as pipes need to be chased into the wall.”
— Irish plumber (industry expert)
“Bath mixer taps include a handheld shower attachment, offering both practicality and flexibility – perfect for families.”
— Deluxe Bathrooms Ireland (Irish bathroom retailer)
For Irish homeowners, the choice between deck-mounted and wall-mounted bath taps with shower comes down to one question: are you renovating the whole bathroom, or just swapping the tap? If it’s the latter, deck-mounted is your practical, budget-friendly path. If it’s the former, wall-mounted rewards you with a cleaner look and better reach. The decision is clear: plan for your actual plumbing constraints first, then let your style preferences lead.
When installing bath taps with a shower, ensuring a proper seal with a shower screen seal strip can prevent water damage and keep your bathroom dry.
Frequently asked questions
Can I install a bath shower mixer myself?
Yes, deck-mounted mixers are a straightforward DIY job if you have basic plumbing tools and can isolate the water supply. For wall-mounted mixers, hire a professional.
What tools are needed to replace bath taps with a shower mixer?
Adjustable spanner, basin wrench, PTFE tape, bucket, towels, and possibly a hacksaw for old fittings.
How do I clean and maintain chrome bath shower taps?
Wipe with a soft damp cloth after each use. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Use a mild soap solution for limescale.
Do wall-mounted bath taps with shower fit all baths?
No — they work best with freestanding baths or baths where you can access plumbing behind the wall. Check with your retailer.
What is the difference between a bath shower mixer and a shower-only mixer?
A bath shower mixer has a spout to fill the bath and a diverter to switch to a handheld shower. A shower-only mixer is designed solely for showering and lacks the bath spout.
Are bath taps with shower attachments suitable for low water pressure?
Some models are rated for low pressure (gravity-fed systems). Look for “low pressure” or “0.5 bar minimum” in the specs (Screwfix Ireland).
How long does it take to install a deck-mounted bath shower mixer?
For a competent DIYer, 1–2 hours including isolating water and testing for leaks.
What is the warranty typically offered on bath shower mixer taps?
Standard warranties range from 1 year (budget) to 5 years (premium brands like Grohe). Always check the terms.
Related reading
- Front and Rear Dash Cam Ireland: Insurance and Installation Guide — Another Ireland-focused buying guide with practical steps.
- Best Ninja Dual Air Fryer Ireland: Ireland Models, Tips & Mistakes — Similar format: Irish product comparison and installation tips.
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