When speaking with your local plumber, having accurate information is helpful in discerning whether or not you are getting a good deal.
If you are looking to install a rain shower head, the costs can be broken into two primary categories: the cost of the fixture and the cost of the labor for installation.
The cost of the fixture typically will range anywhere between $75 and $1,000. Labor costs will vary significantly from one plumber to the next and one city to the next. Generally, you should expect to pay between $250 to $1,000 for labor. In total, a rain shower head installation can cost anywhere between $300 to $2,000.
While the range is wide, we’ll explain the factors that will affect the cost of the fixture and labor below.
Fixture cost
Like all bathroom fixtures, price varies depending on many factors, including the materials, brand, and style. Rain shower heads from premium brands like Kholer, GROHE, or Delta will cost upwards of $500 to $1,000 for the unit. In contrast, more affordable private brands like Glacier Bay (Home Depot’s brand) or MODONA can be purchased for as little as $75.
What you decide on will depend on your budget, style, and requirements for the fixture.
Picking a plumber
The biggest variance in total cost will be labor. Before deciding on a plumber, it is best to get at least three quotes. This will give you a better understanding of the market and what is a fair price. When choosing a plumber, make sure he or she is licensed within your state, has several years of experience in running plumbing lines, and, if possible, comes with a solid recommendation.
Pictures or videos of their previous work can also help make a decision.
Mounting type
Rain shower heads are commonly mounted in two ways, either by using an extended shower arm or a ceiling mount. Extended shower arms are fairly easy to install and shouldn’t cost more than $200 to have a plumber do this for you.
Ceiling-mounted rain shower heads require that a line run from the main water line to the ceiling. This requires that the wall and ceiling be opened up, which is a significantly more involved process. As such, the cost of labor will be higher and is typically in the range of $250 to $1,000.
How to make the cost more affordable?
To save money, it is recommended to install a ceiling-mounted shower head either during the initial construction of the house or during a bathroom renovation, as the walls will be open up, and the plumbing lines will be exposed. If done at this time, expect the costs to be about half.
Can you do this job yourself?
Savvy DIYers may attempt to install a rain shower head themselves. This may be sufficient for a wall-mounted type where essentially, you are just swapping out the existing shower arm with a longer one.
However, for ceiling-mounted units, it is advised to seek the help of a professional plumber as it will reduce the risk of leaks, damage to the walls, and other issues.
