Easy Ways to Get More Height From Your Shower Head

Having a shower head that's too low can really detract from your showering experience. Whether you're tall or just want more spray coverage, increasing the height of your shower head is an easy way to upgrade your bathroom.

Adjusting the position of your shower head bracket, replacing plumbing parts with longer ones, and even making changes to your ceiling are all options covered here.

Adjust the Shower Head Position

One of the easiest ways to raise a shower head is to simply adjust the bracket it's attached to. Here are a few methods for doing just that:

• Raise the existing bracket up. Many shower head brackets allow some vertical adjustment. Loosen the screw anchoring it, slide it up a few inches, then tighten it back down.
• Replace with an adjustable bracket. Swapping out a fixed bracket for one that extends, tilts, or slides can provide greater flexibility in positioning the shower head higher.
• Install a taller bracket. Specialized shower head mounting brackets are available that position the shower head 6 inches or more above standard ones.
• Use an extension arm. Adding a short arm between the shower head and the bracket lets you lower the bracket itself but keep the head elevated.

These simple, screw-based adjustments make raising the shower head a quick DIY job. The only tool you'll need is a screwdriver. Just be sure not to raise the shower head so high that it bumps the ceiling.

Choosing the Right Adjustable Bracket

When shopping for an adjustable shower head bracket, you'll find several design options to provide height and flexibility:

• Slide bar brackets allow you to raise and lower the shower head along a vertical bar.
• Articulating arms feature pivot joints to let you tilt and turn the shower head.
• Overhead rigs use a double-arm design to hang the shower head from the ceiling.
• Wall mounts with long extension arms rigidly hold the shower head up high.

Consider your ceiling height, desired range of motion, and decor style when selecting a adjustable bracket. Installation is a breeze with threaded or clamp connections and adjustable screws.

Using Shower Head Extension Arms

A shower head extension arm provides an easy way to get more height without replacing the mounting bracket. Here are some tips on using extenders:

• Measure carefully for the needed added length when ordering.
• Ensure the connections match your existing shower head and arm.
• Apply plumber's tape to prevent leakage at the joints.
• Check that the extender provides sufficient overhead clearance.
• Support the added weight of the shower head on ceiling mounts.

Extension arms come in different styles and finishes like brushed nickel or chrome to match your existing hardware.

Adjust the Plumbing

If your current shower arm (the pipe that connects the shower head to the wall) is limiting your height, replacing it with a longer one can provide a fast solution:

• Install a longer replacement shower arm. Standard lengths are 6, 8, 10, or 12 inches long. Choose a longer option to gain a few more inches of height.
• Use a pipe extender fitting. These adders fit between the existing arm and shower head to lengthen the pipe by up to 6 inches.
• Raise the shower arm connection point. The shower arm may connect too low on the wall. Moving it up higher can dramatically improve height.

This plumbing upgrade will require removing your old shower arm, applying plumber's tape, and installing the new arm or extender. Adjustable wrenches, a rag, and plumber's tape are generally all you'll need. If moving the arm connection point, you may need to patch drywall.

Choosing a Longer Shower Arm

When picking a new shower arm, keep these tips in mind:

• Measure from the wall connection to your desired shower head height.
• Add 2-3 extra inches to provide flexibility.
• Match the threading and diameter of your existing connections.
• Consider a right-angle shape for even greater height.
• Choose metal construction for durability and bent styles for accenting.

Many shower arms feature smooth swivel ball joints on the ends to make positioning the shower head easy.

Using Shower Arm Extenders

For a few extra inches without replacing the whole arm, use an extender fitting:

• Check that it's compatible with standard half-inch shower arms.
• Hand tighten carefully, then add 1/4 turn with pliers.
• Apply plumber's tape to thethreads for a watertight seal.
• Consider a model with an integrated swivel ball fitting.
• Choose metal or plastic construction.

Extenders come in lengths ranging from 1 inch to 6 inches for incremental height adjustments.

Easy Ceiling Modifications

While less common, making changes to your ceiling is another way to gain shower head height:

• Install a ceiling-mount shower head. A rain shower head connects directly to the ceiling instead of the wall for maximum height.
• Add a secondary adjustable shower head. A flexible ceiling-mounted model can supplement your main shower head.
• Replace ceiling tiles with taller ones. In a drop ceiling, swapping 12-inch tiles for 24-inch ones creates extra overhead space.

These ceiling alterations allow for dramatic increases in shower head height. The tradeoff is that they require more complex installation. Consulting a professional may be wise to ensure proper plumbing and waterproofing.

Choosing a Ceiling-Mount Shower Head

When installing an overhead shower head, consider these tips:

• Pick a location central to the shower area for optimal spray coverage.
• Factor in the shower head's reach and pivot range for best positioning.
• Choose an adjustable model to angle the spray where needed.
• Opt for a large 8 to 12 inch rain shower head for a deluxe soaking experience.
• Ensure the ceiling structure provides robust support for the shower head weight.

New plumbing and potentially electrical connections may be required for wiring LED lighting features.

Adding a Secondary Shower Head

Supplementing your main shower head with an overhead model can offer advantages like:

• More flexible spray positioning for washing hair or your whole body.
• Dual spray patterns from different shower head styles.
• Shutting off only one shower head to conserve water.
• Angling one shower head for a focused massage spray.

Consider an adjustable slide bar system to allow positioning two shower heads anywhere along the rail. Use a diverter valve to control flow between the shower heads.

No matter your height, an invigorating shower is vital for starting the day right. Don't settle for a shower head that's aimed too low. With some simple adjustments, you can increase the height and improve your whole shower's performance.

The easiest options like raising the bracket only take about 15 minutes. Even installing a new plumbing arm or ceiling-mount head can be accomplished in an afternoon. Give one of these methods a try for a more satisfying shower!