Shopping for a wall-mounted shower or bath mixer can be confusing, because many are sold in two separate parts: the in-wall body and the trim kit. Buy the wrong combination and the parts won't fit together. Here's what each part does and how to get it right.
What is an in-wall body?
The in-wall body is the valve that sits inside the wall cavity, behind the tiles. It connects to your hot and cold water pipes and contains the cartridge that controls temperature and flow. On a mixer with a diverter, it also switches water between the bath spout and the shower.
The in-wall body is installed by your plumber during the rough-in stage, before the wall is tiled. Once it's in, you won't see it again.
What is a trim kit?
The trim kit is the part you see and use: the handle, the cover plate and any decorative pieces. It's fitted over the in-wall body once tiling is finished. Because the trim is the visible part, it's where you choose the finish, such as chrome, matte black or gunmetal.
Why are they sold separately?
- Timing. The body goes in during rough-in, but the trim isn't fitted until the bathroom is tiled. Buying them separately means the trim can stay safely boxed until the end of the job.
- Choice of finish. One body can often take trims in different finishes, so you can choose the look later.
- Easier updates. Want a new look in a few years? In many cases you can replace just the trim without opening the wall.
How to buy the right pair
The in-wall body and trim kit must be from the same brand and range, because each trim is designed for a specific body. Before you buy:
- Check the product listing says "in-wall body" or "trim kit" so you know which part it is.
- Look for the matching part number. For example, the Caroma Saracom Bath/Shower Mixer trim (98037C) installs with the Saracom in-wall body kit (98036C).
- If you're replacing only the trim, find the brand and range of the existing body first. Your plumber can usually help.
- If you're not sure, email us the model numbers and we'll help you confirm the match.
Matching sets at Elvor
We stock in-wall bodies and trim kits in our Mixer Bodies & Trim Kits collection, including the Dorf Enigma Bath/Shower Mixer with Diverter In-Wall Body and the Dorf Enigma Bath/Shower Mixer with Diverter Trim Kit in matte black. You'll also find complete wall mixers in our Shower & Bath Mixers collection.
A quick note on installation
In-wall bodies connect directly to your water supply and must be set at the right depth in the wall, so installation by a licensed plumber is recommended. Getting the depth right at rough-in makes fitting the trim much easier later.
Have a question about which parts you need? Email info@elvor.com.au with your project details and we'll help you work it out.