A beautiful shower column that is poorly positioned quickly becomes a nuisance: the showerhead is too low, the mixer tap is too high, the hand shower doesn't reach the floor... Before drilling, here are the standard dimensions and measurements to check.
Always measure from the finished floor
All heights are measured from the finished floor, i.e., the top of the shower tray or tiles, and not from the bare concrete slab. A shower tray often adds 8 to 12 cm. If you forget this, the entire column will be too low.
Standard heights
| Element | Recommended height (from the finished floor) |
|---|---|
| Mixer tap (water inlets) | 90 to 110 cm |
| Fixed showerhead | 200 to 220 cm |
| Hand shower hose | 150 to 175 cm long |
- Mixer tap: between 90 and 110 cm, so the controls fall naturally within reach of a standing adult.
- Showerhead: ideally 20 to 25 cm above the head of the tallest person in the household. For 1.65 to 1.75 m, allow 200 to 210 cm; for over 1.85 m, aim for 210 to 220 cm.
- Hand shower: a sliding bracket allows everyone to adjust the height, which is practical when adults and children share the same shower.
The center-to-center distance: the dimension we forget
The center-to-center distance is the distance between the center of the hot water inlet and that of the cold water inlet. The most common standard in France is 150 mm. Many mixer taps accommodate a small tolerance thanks to offset connectors (for example, from 125 to 175 mm).
Before buying:
- measure the center-to-center distance of your current inlets;
- check that they are perfectly horizontal and at the same level;
- check the thread type (often G1/2, i.e., 15/21).
Check the available height
A column with a showerhead often takes up between 90 and 120 cm in height above the mixer tap. Add the height of the mixer tap: you therefore need a ceiling or wall high enough. Columns with a height-adjustable bar adapt more easily.
The most common mistakes
- Measuring from the concrete slab instead of the finished floor.
- Reversing the inlets: hot water is generally on the left. On a thermostatic mixer tap, a reversal prevents it from working properly.
- Forgetting the tiles: the thickness of the wall tiles changes the depth of the offset connectors.
- Drilling without locating the pipes embedded in the wall.
- Neglecting waterproofing: install the provided seals and check for leaks before sealing or applying silicone.
The plumber's advice
First, install the mixer tap on its connectors, then position the column bar without drilling to check the height of the showerhead. Mark the holes only when everything is perfectly plumb. If in doubt about the water inlets or pressure, call a professional.
👉 See our shower columns with adjustable height.
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard height of a shower mixer tap?
Between 90 and 110 cm from the finished floor, depending on the height of the users.
My center-to-center distance is not 150 mm, what should I do?
Offset connectors can often make up a few centimeters. Beyond that, the water inlets must be repositioned.
Can I install a shower column myself?
Yes, if the inlets are already in place and at the correct center-to-center distance. To move inlets or install a concealed mixer tap, call a plumber.
