SHOWER BASE BUYING GUIDE

The shower base is one of the most crucial factors when renovating your shower. As the foundation of your shower, it can lead to problems if the project isn't done right. That leads homeowners to ask many questions about the types of shower bases and the best shower base material and size for your bathroom remodeling project. 

Shower kits complete with base walls and doors can simplify your search for the perfect shower, but this option gives you fewer options for customization. 

When you take that first step into your shower, you want to see matching colors between the walls and base and a captivating floor made of materials like slate or marble. To create your ideal shower base, there are several key factors to keep in mind, including shower base installation, size, materials, and shape.

SHOWER BASE INSTALLATION TYPES

There are three primary methods used to install shower bases. Different installation techniques are used for different types of shower bases because some materials require a specific method. 

RAISED INSTALLATION 

A raised installation is fast and straightforward. With this shower base installation method, the base is placed directly onto the floor surface, creating a step a minimum of 5 cm high. A built-in vertical evacuation is required for this process.   

RECESSED INSTALLATION 

A recessed shower installation creates a walk-in shower with no steps. This installation method is ideal for new construction or a total remodeling of your bathroom because it needs a vertical recessed siphon.  

READY-TO-TILE 

The elderly and individuals with mobility issues can benefit from a ready-to-tile installation because it creates a walk-in shower. The base is covered in tiles that match the bathroom floor and shows only the shower drain grill. For easy water evacuation, the base is designed with a slope incorporated. 

A ready-to-tile shower base requires the floor layout to incorporate a: 

• Bung of at least 90 mm 
• 50 mm drain pipe 
• Pipe slope of a minimum of 2%

Smaller, anti-slip tiles are preferred with this type of base.

SHOWER BASE SHAPES

Shower bases are available in various shapes, such as round, pentagon, and oval. But there are three commonly used during bathroom renovations. 

SQUARE  

Square shower bases match multiple door styles, including bi-folding doors. This type of shower base is suitable for small bathrooms. 

RECTANGULAR 

A rectangular shower creates ideal comfort in an ample space. 

CORNER

A corner shower base takes minimal space in your bathroom, providing comfort and saving space.

SHOWER BASE MATERIALS & STYLES

Many shower base materials are available today, and the best shower base material will be durable and slip-resistant. Common materials include tile, heavy metals, acrylic, and stone. 

ACRYLIC  

Shower bases made from acrylic are popular because of their many benefits. Some of those benefits include: 

• Stain resistance
• Scuff resistance
• Reasonable pricing
• Durability 

Acrylic bases are also lightweight, making them easy to install. 

STONE COMPOSITE 

Stone composite shower bases are rigid and can handle heavier loads. They also have a more durable protective outer layer, protecting against cracks and scratches. These pans come in wide varieties, including printed styles like wood.   

SHOWER BASE SIZES

Shower base sizes are fairly straightforward. They are manufactured using even numbers, starting with 32" x 32" and ending at 42" x 60". Shower pan depths range from 1" up to 6".

UPDATE YOUR BATHROOM WITH YOUR IDEAL SHOWER BASE

For your shower renovation, it's essential to consider every factor, from the best shower base material to the perfect size for your bathroom. Whether you want to design your own shower or choose from shower kits complete with base walls and doors, upgrading your bathroom is a fun and exciting project.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

How Difficult Is It to Clean a Shower Base? 

Cleaning your shower base is never difficult, but there are different methods for cleaning different materials. 

How Can I Clean an Acrylic Shower Base? 

For acrylic showers and doors, a non-abrasive, all-purpose cleaner works best. You can try pine oil or a light baking soda mixture for a little grit that can reduce the amount of effort required to eliminate shower scum. Overly abrasive solutions can scratch the acrylic surface. We recommend using AquaClean because it is safe and effective on all shower base materials.  

How Can I Clean a Stone Base Shower? 

Soap scum easily sticks to natural stone because it’s more porous than other shower base materials. Removing the sludge-like substance may require the help of a professional cleaning service. It’s best if you take precautions and try to prevent soap scum buildup by following these steps: 

• Use a towel to wipe the shower after each use
• Remove clinging water with a squeegee 
• Routinely seal and reseal the surface 

These preventive steps should reduce the soap scum buildup, but you may still see some accumulate. When this happens, use a non-acidic cleaner before calling in the professionals – pH-neutral cleaning products are best for certain types of stone. 

What Size Shower Base Do I Need for My Shower Enclosure? 

Any shower enclosure we offer that has a matching shower base will be 2 inches smaller to provide adequate space for installation. For example, our 34” x 34” shower enclosure has a base that measures 36” x 36”. 

Will Any Shower Base Brand Work with My Shower Enclosure? 

It’s important to use the same brand for both the shower base and shower enclosure so you can ensure proper sizing.