Small bathroom

[badnailer]

Would like to add a bathroom (toilet, lav and stall shower) What is the best and smallest configuration for same. Please detail code clearances for each fixture.

Thanks

[jadnashua]

A shower stall must be a minimum of 30" square (and unless you are a child you will find this very restricting). A toilet needs a minimum of 15" either side of center. I think there's a minimum distance in front, too, but I don't know it. Most places want 24" in front of the sink, but that varies. You really need to check your local inspector, as that's what counts.

[nhmaster]

If you install a 30" shower you can't put a door on it because if you drop the soap you have to exit the shower to pick it up.

[hj]

You are supposed to lift with your knees, not your back so you should be able to stoop down to pick up the soap, not bend over.

[nhmaster]

Yea but then you slam your forehead on the shower valve.

[Gary Swart]

I have a 30" shower stall in my basement bathroom. I will certainly concede the fact that it is a tight fit, but this bathroom is intended for the few times we have overnight guests and need a second bathroom. It is not for daily use. As HJ says, bend your knees not your back to pick up the soap. I have a Sterling glass door on the stall and it works very well. If you can figure out how to fit a larger stall in the space you have, by all means do so, but a 30" Lasco works.

[nhmaster]

The code says that the shower has to be 900 square inches. Most 32 x 32 showers do not have 900 sq. in. in. inside measurment. I don't think by code you can install anything smaller that a 36" rough opening shower.

[Cookie]

Duh, you get your wife to pick up the soap. My husband could never hold onto that soap, I never understood why.