{"id":6804,"date":"2022-04-13T07:50:21","date_gmt":"2022-04-13T12:50:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kohlershowers.com\/blog\/?p=6804"},"modified":"2022-04-13T07:50:23","modified_gmt":"2022-04-13T12:50:23","slug":"choosing-the-best-shower-base","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kohlershowers.com\/blog\/choosing-the-best-shower-base\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Choose the Best Shower Base"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\n
\n

Selecting the right base for your walk-in shower can help keep your wet space contained, provide stability while you bathe and heighten your shower\u2019s design. Learn how to choose the shower pan that best fits your needs and style!<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n\n

\n
\n
\n

What Types of Shower Bases Are There to Choose From?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Shower bases come in a range of shapes, sizes and design styles, but they typically fall under three installation categories:<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Recessed: These bases have no step-in, lying flush with the bathroom floor beyond the shower base and allowing for a seamless transition from floor tile to shower foundation.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Tile-ready: Similar to recessed bases, tile-ready bases are designed to be tiled over and lay evenly with the existing bathroom tile.<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Raised: These bases sit atop the bathroom floor and have at least a minimal threshold to keep shower water contained.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    It\u2019s worth noting that the installation type you select may depend on multiple factors, including space availability and potential drain depth. Recessed shower bases typically require a full bathroom remodel to install.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n\n

    \n
    \n
    \n

    What is the Best Material for a Shower Base?<\/span><\/h2>\n

    \"white<\/p>\n

    It\u2019s most important to select base materials that are durable, slip-resistant and load-bearing. Popular materials include acrylic, fiberglass, stone, heavy metals and tile\u2014each of which has its own benefits and price points. Considering your budget, safety and aesthetic preferences can help you decide on the right material for your shower.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    Acrylic shower bases are long-lasting and stain- and scuff-resistant, all at a reasonable price, especially considering their lifespan. Fiberglass bases may be more affordable, but they \u200cshow signs of wear earlier than acrylic bases. And stone and metal bases come at a high price and may require specialized maintenance.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n\n

    \n
    \n
    \n

    Pre-made vs. Custom Shower Bases<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Finally, \u200cconsider the merits of a pre-made shower base or a custom shower base. While a pre-made pan may save you money and be available in many styles and shapes, you may want a custom design instead for a more unique base.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Pre-made Shower Bases<\/span><\/h3>\n

    Pre-made (better known as prefab) shower bases arrive at your home ready for installation. Prefab bases can be custom cut to fit your bathroom, and they can be tiled over for additional custom design, but they are manufactured for quick and easy installation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    Custom Shower Bases<\/span><\/h3>\n

    Custom shower bases are designed and built entirely based on your preferences. This custom construction includes building a shower liner to prevent leaks, a mortar base and any tiling necessary. These are typically more expensive and require professional installation.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n\n

    \n
    \n
    \n

    Other Shower Base Considerations<\/span><\/h2>\n

    \"\"<\/p>\n

    For the most cohesive shower design, consider your shower\u2019s drain orientation, sizing and wall pattern before selecting a base. Today\u2019s showers may also include built-in seating, textured surfaces and more.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

    \n
    \n
    \n\n \n
    \n