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We are in the process of starting whole-house renovations. One of the projects is installing steam shower. I will be on-sight often watching over the contractor doing the install. Anything in specific I should be aware of during the install, any pointers/advice would be appreciated.

Thank you.

Your post has a lot of lookers but no responses! So I might as well chime in.

I don't know, but does a steam shower use a lot of water? That would be a significant consideration around here because we have had a relatively dry winter and there is talk of possible water rationing later this summer. But maybe it just uses a steam generator instead of a lot of water.

To make the steam shower work, I think you would need to seal the sides and door to the ceiling.

I do know that the tile substrate, or whatever you will be using, must be particularly waterproof. Hardibacker is not recommended by some sources, even though it is very water resistant. But it may be possible to coat it with RedGard to make it work. RedGard is a red colored material that would be painted on the substrate to make it more waterproof.

However, they may have to use epoxy grout even so. Epoxy grout is roughly what it sounds like and it is difficult to work with from what I read.

Also, is there a light in the shower? It would have to be waterproof, not just water resistant. I believe a waterproof light would have to have a screw-on globe.

Personally, I like a warm shower and I accomplish that without a lot of expensive construction. A true steam shower is going to cost you!

I turn on the hot water to heat up the shower stall before I get in. I use a flex spray head and spray the lower part of the glass shower walls and the shower base to warm them. Then I spray me to warm me up. All this doesn't take a lot of water. The two non-glass walls are insulated and don't seem to need any special heating.

Bob's on the right track.

I've been involved in a number of steam shower projects. Having a clear plan is key.

Things you want to see in the plan include: Pitched ceiling framing (allows condensation to flow to a wall, instead of falling as cool random rain drops), vapor barrier, insulation, cement board, waterproofing membrane/system.

As for the epoxy grout, if you hire someone qualified and experienced for the selection and installation of the tile, you'll likely get good advice there. That decision needs to be made in a systematic way, with the folks onsite.

Point to consider before design is final - raised foot platform, or not? Some folks have had issues with the steam coming across the floor, being too hot on the feet. A step to rest your feet on breaks the steam flow below your feet. Some designs don't require this; be sure to ask your designer about this point.

Regards.