A shower system can look like one product in a beautiful bathroom photo, but the photo usually hides several separate decisions behind the wall. The most common ordering mistake is choosing an attractive trim or shower head before confirming the rough-in valve, outlet configuration, and parts included in the package.
For a typical concealed shower with an overhead shower and hand shower, you may need a mixing-valve rough-in, matching trim and cartridge, a diverter or transfer valve, the shower outlets, and the connection hardware for each outlet. A tub spout, body sprays, ceiling arm, slide bar, shower drain, or accessories add more decisions.
The goal of this guide is simple: help you build a complete order before the wall is closed. Product names vary by manufacturer, so use the exact model numbers and installation documents for the system you are buying.
First, know what you are actually buying
“Shower kit,” “shower set,” “shower system,” “shower column,” “trim,” and “package” are not used consistently across the industry. A hansgrohe shower set, for example, is a hand shower, shower bar, and hose. Its Canadian shower-kit packages can add an overhead shower, arm, wall outlet, and thermostatic or pressure-balance trim—while still listing the rough-in separately.
A concealed shower system is different from a two-in-one shower head that screws onto an existing shower arm. The latter may be a quick retrofit. A concealed system is a coordinated plumbing installation that must be planned while the wall is open.
Complete shower-system component checklist
| Component | What it does | Confirm before ordering |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing-valve rough-in | Combines hot and cold water behind the wall and supplies the control. | Brand, valve platform, valve type, connection size, service stops, and rough-in depth. |
| Main trim and cartridge | Provides the visible handle, escutcheon, temperature control, and often volume control. | Exact rough-in compatibility, included cartridge, finish code, and finished-wall thickness. |
| Diverter or transfer valve | Routes water between the shower head, hand shower, body sprays, or another outlet. | Number of ports, number of usable functions, shared versus independent operation, and whether trim/cartridge is separate. |
| Overhead shower | Delivers the primary spray from a wall- or ceiling-mounted position. | Shower head, arm, flange, mounting position, flow rating, and whether the arm is included. |
| Hand shower assembly | Provides a movable spray for rinsing, cleaning, seated use, or targeted washing. | Hand shower, hose, wall outlet/elbow, holder or slide bar, hose length, and check-valve requirements. |
| Additional outlets | Includes body sprays, a second overhead shower, or other specialty sprays. | Dedicated valve ports, piping route, flow demand, spray orientation, and simultaneous-use plan. |
| Tub components, if applicable | Feeds and diverts water to a bathtub as well as the shower. | Use a tub-and-shower valve/trim designed for that application; do not assume any multi-outlet diverter can feed a tub spout. |
| Installation and finishing items | Completes the physical installation and coordinates the finished bathroom. | Rough-in supports, extensions, adapters, seals, shower drain, waterproofing, niche, grab-bar blocking, and accessories. |
Not every line is a separate purchase. Some manufacturers package the trim, shower head, hand shower, bar, and hose together. The rough-in, however, is frequently separate. Always read the scope of supply for the exact model.
Browse FaucetExpress shower kits once you know whether you need a shower-only, 2-way, 3-way, tub-and-shower, or exposed-column system.
1. Decide which outlets you want—and whether they can run together
Start with the experience, not the finish. Write down the outlets you want and how you expect to use them:
- Overhead shower only.
- Overhead shower and hand shower, used one at a time.
- Overhead shower and hand shower, with the option to run both together.
- Overhead shower, hand shower, and body sprays.
- Tub spout plus shower head, with a hand shower if desired.
- Wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted overhead shower.
This decision determines the valve and diverter arrangement. “2-way,” “3-way,” and “6-setting” are not universal descriptions of the number of physical fixtures. Delta’s integrated diverter documentation illustrates the distinction: its 3-setting option provides two individual devices plus one shared combination setting; its 6-setting option provides three individual positions plus three shared positions. That is not the same as six independent outlets.
Ask your installer—and the retailer—these two questions before ordering:
- Which outlets can operate individually?
- Which combinations, if any, can operate simultaneously?
If you want every outlet independent, confirm that the manufacturer offers the required cartridge or valve arrangement. Some systems use a shared setting by default; others offer a separate non-shared cartridge. Local requirements and available water supply may also affect the final configuration.
For a simpler renovation, a 2-way shower kit may be the right starting point. For a more elaborate primary bathroom, compare the 3-way systems and confirm their actual operating modes rather than relying on the label alone.
2. Separate the rough-in from the trim
The rough-in is the valve body installed behind the wall while the studs and plumbing are accessible. The trim is the visible handle, escutcheon, selector, and decorative components installed after the wall finish. A rough-in is not automatically included with a trim kit.
Delta’s R11000 diverter rough is explicitly sold as the rough-in body only; the trim is required separately and the cartridge ships with the trim. Delta’s specification for an integrated trim also identifies the compatible MultiChoice rough valve and publishes a separate thick-wall kit. These are model-specific rules, not a universal industry package.
Brand platforms matter. A “universal” valve normally means interchangeable within that manufacturer’s compatible platform—not compatible with every brand. Delta’s MultiChoice documentation lists the Delta trim families that fit its rough-in. Riobel’s current product information likewise identifies the specific R23/R93 rough-in family required for its trim.
If the shower already exists, identify the rough-in before buying replacement trim. Look for a visible brand mark, model number, service documentation, or a photo of the valve while the wall is open. If the rough-in cannot be identified or does not support the new function, plan for a rough-in replacement rather than assuming a new trim will fit.
3. Choose pressure-balance, thermostatic, and volume controls deliberately
These terms describe different parts of the control experience:
- Pressure balance: adjusts the hot and cold mix when supply pressure changes, helping reduce sudden temperature changes.
- Thermostatic: monitors the outlet temperature and adjusts the mix to maintain the selected temperature more precisely.
- Volume control: changes how much water flows without necessarily changing the selected temperature.
Pressure balance and thermostatic describe temperature-control technology; they do not tell you how many outlets the shower can operate. A single handle may control temperature only, while a dual-function control may separate temperature and volume. Read the control description and specification sheet together.
For a primary or luxury shower, many buyers prefer a thermostatic control with separate volume and diverter controls because it makes repeatable temperature and outlet selection easier. For a simpler shower or guest bathroom, a pressure-balance system may provide the needed protection and control with fewer components. That is a design choice, not a substitute for the installer’s product and code review.
Riobel’s current Equinox TEQ23N specification is a useful example of why model numbers matter: it combines thermostatic and pressure-balance technologies, provides two dedicated functions plus one shared function, and calls for the R23 rough-in separately. Do not infer the same arrangement from another Riobel model—or from another brand’s “3-way” label.
4. Build the visible outlet components
Overhead shower, arm, and flange
Choose whether the overhead shower is wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted, then verify the arm length and outlet position against the finished shower dimensions. A large rain head may need a longer arm or a ceiling connection so the spray lands where intended. The head size alone does not establish its flow rate or coverage.
Some kits include the head and arm. Others provide only trim or the shower head, leaving the shower arm and flange as separate selections. Check the package contents before adding a duplicate.
Hand shower, hose, outlet, and holder
A hand shower is not complete just because the handheld spray is pictured. A concealed installation commonly needs the hand shower, a hose, a wall outlet or elbow, and either a fixed holder or a slide bar. Some packages include all four; others include only the hand shower and require the connection pieces separately.
Choose a slide bar if the height needs to be adjusted for different users or seated showering. A decorative slide bar is not automatically a grab bar. If someone will rely on the bar for support, specify a product rated for that purpose and have the installer provide the required wall blocking.
Review the hose length and finish, then confirm whether the wall outlet includes a check valve. FaucetExpress carries hand showers, shower hoses, and wall elbows/outlets as separate component categories.
Body sprays and other outlets
Body sprays look small, but they are not an afterthought. Each outlet needs a planned supply route, mounting position, and compatible diverter or volume-control arrangement. Confirm the spray direction, cleaning access, and total flow demand before the wall is closed. Review the body-jet collection only after the valve configuration is settled.
Tub spout
If the shower is over a tub, use a tub-and-shower valve and trim designed for that application. Do not route a tub spout through an arbitrary multi-outlet diverter. Delta specifically states that its MultiChoice integrated shower diverter is not recommended for a tub spout, which is a good reminder to follow the exact product instructions.
Start with the tub-and-shower collection when the tub outlet is part of the plan.
Exposed shower columns
An exposed shower column or showerpipe can be a practical alternative when you want an overhead shower and hand shower without opening the wall for a concealed custom system. Package contents vary. hansgrohe’s Canadian product information, for example, lists exposed systems with an overhead shower, hand shower, thermostat, hose, slider, and wall connections, while separately noting the product’s operating limitations.
That makes an exposed column different from a concealed valve-and-trim system. Compare the existing connection location, finished height, wall strength, and whether the system can run more than one outlet at once.
5. Check flow, pressure, and simultaneous-use capacity
Do not judge performance by the size of the shower head or the number of spray holes. Check the manufacturer’s rated flow at its stated pressure. The EPA’s WaterSense program treats flow, spray force, and coverage as separate performance considerations; WaterSense-labeled showerheads are independently certified to a maximum of 2.0 US gallons per minute (7.6 L/min) while meeting spray-performance criteria. WaterSense is a U.S. labeling program, so Canadian buyers should also review the product’s stated L/min rating and local requirements.
For multiple outlets, the total demand can be higher than the rating of any one head. As a simple illustration, two devices each rated at 7.6 L/min could require up to 15.2 L/min when operated together. Actual delivery depends on the valve, pipe sizing, pressure, hot-water capacity, and the devices’ restrictions. Have the plumber verify the intended combination before you promise a “spa” experience.
Also consider where the water goes. A high-flow custom shower needs a drain and waterproofing assembly suited to the bathroom design. The drain and waterproofing are not normally included in a faucet trim package, so include them in the renovation scope even though they may come from a different supplier.
6. Confirm the finished wall and installation dimensions
Rough-in depth is measured against the finished wall, not just the open stud cavity. Tile, backer board, waterproofing, mortar, wall panels, and other finishes change the final surface position. A trim can look perfect online and still sit too far in or too far out if the wall thickness was not considered.
Delta’s integrated-diverter documentation gives one example: its standard installation allows a specified finished-wall thickness, with a separate thick-wall kit extending that range. The exact limits differ by product. Record the manufacturer’s rough-in depth range and give it to the installer before framing and waterproofing are finalized.
Confirm the location of every outlet, the height of the hand shower, the reach of the shower arm, and any required service access. If you may add a grab bar, niche, or bench, have the installer plan blocking and waterproofing before tile starts.
7. Check what the “kit” actually includes
Two real manufacturer examples show why a package name is not enough:
- hansgrohe SKH3: the Canadian shower-kit listing includes thermostatic trim, overhead shower, hand shower, wall bar, shower arm, and wall outlet; the 01850181 rough-in is listed separately.
- Riobel Equinox TKIT323EQBK: the current FaucetExpress listing identifies it as trim-only and says an R23 or R93 rough-in is needed. The linked compatible options include the R23-SPEX rough-in and R23 rough-in.
The Riobel listing and model numbers are examples, not a universal recommendation. Finishes, revisions, package contents, and availability can change. Open the current specification sheet for the exact SKU you intend to order.
8. Use this order worksheet before checkout
| Decision | Write down the answer |
|---|---|
| Shower type | Shower only, overhead plus hand shower, body sprays, tub/shower, or exposed column. |
| Operating mode | Which outlets run individually, and which combinations can run together? |
| Rough-in platform | Manufacturer, exact valve model, connection type, service stops, and rough-in depth. |
| Control technology | Pressure balance or thermostatic; temperature-only or separate volume control. |
| Visible components | Trim, diverter, shower head, arm, hand shower, hose, outlet, holder/slide bar, body sprays, and tub spout if needed. |
| Package gaps | Which items are included, which are separate, and which are supplied by the installer? |
| Finish and collection | Exact finish suffix for every line, including the drain and coordinating accessories. |
| Project timing | Rough-in date, wall-close/tile date, final installation date, delivery postal code, and whether the order should be staged. |
For one simple shower, this worksheet may take five minutes. For a primary bathroom, multiple bathrooms, or a whole-home renovation, it can prevent mismatched valves, duplicate parts, and a second shipment after the wall is already closed.
Common shower-system ordering mistakes
- Buying trim before confirming the rough-in. The finish is visible; the compatibility is not.
- Assuming “3-way” means three independent outlets. Read the actual function map.
- Assuming the rough-in is included. Many premium kits list trim components and rough-in separately.
- Forgetting the hand-shower connection. A hand shower may still need a hose, wall outlet, holder, or slide bar.
- Choosing a large head without checking flow. Size and spray-hole count do not establish performance.
- Mixing finishes or model suffixes. Similar names can represent different finishes, generations, or valve platforms.
- Leaving wall depth and blocking until tile begins. Rough-in depth, arm position, niche, bench, and grab-bar support belong in the early plan.
Need help building a complete shower order?
Send FaucetExpress the product links or model numbers you are considering, the outlets you want, your preferred finish, whether the wall is already open, your delivery postal code, and your rough-in or installation date. We can help identify missing components and assemble a complete product list before you order.
If you are coordinating more than one bathroom, send a fixture schedule or a room-by-room list. A single coordinated quote makes it easier to keep valve platforms, finishes, delivery timing, and accessories organized across the project.
Contact the FaucetExpress product team for compatibility guidance and project quotes. Your plumber or project professional should approve the final valve selection, installation dimensions, flow requirements, and local compliance before installation.
Frequently asked questions
Does a shower system include the rough-in valve?
Not always. hansgrohe’s Canadian shower-kit listings state that trim components are included while the rough-in is sold separately. The FaucetExpress Riobel TKIT323EQBK listing also identifies the product as trim-only and calls for an R23 or R93 rough-in. Check the exact package contents before checkout.
Do I need a diverter for a hand shower?
If the hand shower and overhead shower are supplied through separate outlets, you need a way to direct water between them. That may be a separate diverter/transfer valve or an integrated diverter built into the control trim. Some two-in-one shower heads use one existing outlet and do not require a new concealed diverter.
Are 2-way, 3-way, and 6-setting systems the same across brands?
No. The labels are shorthand, and the function map varies. Confirm the number of physical outlets, which positions are individual, which are shared, and whether a non-shared cartridge is available for the exact model.
Can I change the trim later without opening the wall?
Sometimes. A compatible valve platform can allow future trim changes, but the replacement must match the installed rough-in and the desired function. Do not assume a new brand or a new valve technology will fit an existing rough.
What if I do not know which rough-in is already installed?
Identify the brand and model from the valve, documentation, or a photo taken while the wall is open. If it cannot be identified confidently, have a plumber or product specialist assess it before ordering trim. Replacing an unknown rough-in may be safer than buying a trim that cannot be installed.
Sources and further reading
The technical and package guidance above was checked against current manufacturer and public-agency documentation. Product availability and specifications can change; use the current document for the exact model.
- Delta Faucet. Choosing the Best Shower Faucet for Your Bathroom Shower. Valve, rough-in, trim, outlet, control, and planning explanations.
- Delta Faucet. R11000 3- and 6-Setting Diverter Rough. Rough-only scope, trim separation, port and cartridge information.
- Delta Faucet. MultiChoice Integrated Shower Diverter FAQs. Shared versus individual settings, thick-wall kits, and tub-spout limitation.
- Delta Faucet. MultiChoice Universal Valve FAQs. Compatible trim families and pressure-balance/thermostatic control descriptions.
- Delta Faucet. Integrated Shower Diverter Trim Specification, DSP-B-T27899. Function map, rough-in platform, wall-thickness and flow-guide examples.
- House of Rohl / Riobel. Equinox TEQ23N specification sheet. Combined thermostatic/pressure-balance technology, functions, rough-in requirement, and model-specific flow.
- FaucetExpress. Riobel TKIT323EQBK product listing. Current package description and applicable R23/R93 rough-in references.
- hansgrohe Canada. Shower Kits. Current example package contents and separate rough-in information.
- hansgrohe Canada. Showers and shower systems. Shower-set versus shower-system descriptions and component planning.
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. WaterSense showerheads and WaterSense at Work: Showerheads and Bath and Shower Diverters. Flow, spray-performance, pressure, and multiple-outlet considerations.