How to Build a Walk-In Shower

Walk-in showers are widespread in modern home designs because of their practicality and beauty. Unlike traditional enclosed shower stalls, walk-in showers create an open, roomy bathing experience. If you're considering upgrading your bathroom, this guide on how to build a walk-in shower will take you through the process step-by-step.

What Is a Walk-In Shower?

A walk-in shower is a type of shower without a door. It is designed to be level with the bathroom floor and includes a glass screen and a low-profile tray. One end of the shower is used for drying off, while the glass-enclosed portion is used for showering. This layout creates a more spacious and accessible bathroom, especially for those with limited mobility.

How to Build a Walk-In Shower

Unless you have extensive renovation experience, we recommend hiring a local shower installer for this job. They’ll follow the steps below and pay attention to details to build you a functional and beautiful walk-in shower that you'll enjoy for years.

1. Prep

Work with your contractor to plan and design your walk-in shower. Consider the available space, plumbing requirements, and your desired aesthetic. Determine the ideal location, ensuring it fits seamlessly into the bathroom layout. 

Prepare the space by removing existing fixtures and ensuring your bathroom is clean and debris-free. Select your materials and tools, including tiles, waterproofing materials, shower fixtures, shower pan, drain assembly, fixtures, and glass partition.

2. Install the Shower Pan

The shower pan forms the foundation for the entire structure. Here's what to do:

• Preparation: Ensure the subfloor is clean, level, and structurally sound, then measure and mark the center of the shower area.

• Positioning: Place the shower pan in the desired location, ensuring it aligns with the drain opening using a level.

• Connect drain assembly: Following the manufacturer's instructions, apply plumber's putty or silicone sealant to create a watertight seal around the drain flange and existing plumbing.

• Secure the pan: Secure the shower pan once the drain is connected by screwing it into the subfloor or using adhesive to bond it securely.

• Test fit: Before proceeding, perform a test fit to ensure the shower pan is securely installed and level to prevent any issues with drainage or leaks later on.

3. Waterproof the Area

Waterproofing is essential in building a walk-in shower to protect the underlying structure from water damage. You will need a liquid waterproof membrane and reinforcing tape, which is a sticky waterproof adhesive.

• Seal joints and corners: Use reinforcing tape to strengthen joints, seams, and corners.

• Apply the waterproofing membrane: Follow the manufacturer's instructions, using a paintbrush or roller to ensure complete coverage over the entire shower area, including walls, floors, and corners.

• Allow drying time: Allow the waterproofing membrane to dry completely between coats before proceeding.

4. Test for Leaks

Testing the shower pan before installing tiles is essential to ensure the waterproofing work you did is effective.

• Cover drain: Use a drain plug or waterproof tape to seal the shower drain and prevent water from escaping during the test.

• Fill the shower pan: Fill the shower pan gradually with water to a level just below the threshold of the shower door or entryway. 

• Monitor: Observe the area for any signs of leakage, paying close attention to the corners, seams, and joints.

• Inspect walls and floors: After allowing the water to sit for some time, inspect the walls and floors surrounding the shower area for any signs of moisture or water damage.

• Repeat if necessary: If you detect any leaks or areas of concern during the initial test, address the issues by adding more waterproofing materials and repeat the leak test until the waterproofing is effective. 

• Dry the area: Once the leak test is complete and no issues are detected, drain the water from the shower pan and thoroughly dry the area before proceeding with tile installation. 

5. Install Tiles 

The fun part is seeing your dream shower come to life with a beautiful, durable tiled surface. Consider hiring a local tile installer for a professional finish.

• Plan the layout and cut tiles to size.

• Mix and apply thin-set mortar: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure thorough mixing and a smooth consistency. Use a notched trowel to apply an even layer of thin-set mortar to the shower area in small sections.

• Install tiles and edging: Place tiles onto the thin-set mortar, pressing them firmly into place using tile spacers to maintain even spacing. Install tile edging along the edges of the shower area to create a clean and finished look.

• Grouting: Once the mortar sets, remove the tile spacers, mix the grout according to the manufacturer's instructions, and then, using a grout float, apply it to the joints between tiles, pressing it into the gaps. Use a damp sponge to remove excess grout from the tile surface.

• Seal grout: Allow the grout to dry completely before applying a grout sealer to protect against moisture and staining.

6. Install Shower Fixtures

After tiling, you are ready to install the fixtures.

• Prepare mounting areas: Use a carbide-tipped masonry drill bit to create the pilot holes for the mounting hardware. Start with the smaller bit size to prevent cracking or chipping the tiles, then gradually increase to the appropriate size for the mounting screws or anchors.

• Attach fixtures: Wrap the plumber's tape around the threaded connections of the shower fixtures to create a watertight seal and prevent leaks. Once the mounting hardware is in place, attach the shower fixtures to the brackets or plates, following the manufacturer's instructions to connect the fixtures securely.

• Apply silicone sealant: Using a calk gun, apply a small bead of silicone sealant around the base of each fixture to create a watertight seal and prevent moisture from seeping behind the tiles. 

• Final inspection: Before testing the shower, allow the silicone sealant to cure completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. Turn on the water to test each shower fixture's functionality.

7. Install Partial Glass Enclosure

Installing a glass enclosure for a walk-in shower is optional, depending on whether your space is an open wet room.

• Select the glass enclosure: Choose the type of glass enclosure that suits your preferences and fits the shower space—options include framed, semi-frameless, or frameless designs, each offering different aesthetic and functional benefits.

• Install hardware: Depending on the chosen design, install U-channels or hinges along the walls and floor of the shower opening using a level.

• Position the glass panels: Carefully position them into the installed U-channels or hinges, ensuring a snug fit and checking that the panels are level and aligned before securing them.

• Secure the glass panels: Use silicone sealant and glass-to-glass clamps to secure the glass panels in place, remembering to apply the sealant along the edges where the glass meets the U-channels or hinges to create a watertight seal. The silicone sealant must dry and cure completely before you use the shower—at least 24 hours.

• Seal joints and edges: Using a caulk gun, apply silicone sealant along the joints between the glass panels and where they meet the walls, floor, and door frame. 

• Final adjustments and cleaning: Check for leaks or gaps and reapply the sealant if necessary.

How to Maintain a Walk-In Shower

After each use, rinse the shower walls and floor to eliminate soap scum and residue. Use a squeegee or microfiber cloth to wipe down the surfaces and prevent water spots and buildup. Use a mild bathroom cleaner regularly to remove any soap scum, mold, or mildew. Pay special attention to grout lines and corners where dirt and grime accumulate.

Check the shower for any signs of leaks or damage, such as loose tiles or cracked caulking, and address them promptly to prevent water damage and maintain the integrity of the shower structure.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Walk-In Shower?

You have many options that influence the cost of walk-in shower installation, which ranges from $1,150 to $8,000. Cost factors include size, materials, plumbing, labor, and permits. If you have numerous notches on your toolbelt, you can DIY. However, a professional installation often produces higher-quality work backed by a warranty.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

If you have experience with plumbing, carpentry, and tiling, tackling the installation yourself could save money. However, installing a walk-in shower requires precise measurements, knowledge of building codes, and proficiency with specialized tools. 

Hiring a local shower installer is the safer option. Professionals can ensure proper waterproofing, accurate tile installation, and adherence to safety standards, potentially preventing costly mistakes and future repairs.