How to Build a Shower Bench: and the Best Materials to Use

Building a shower bench is a brilliant upgrade for your bathroom. Whether you have elderly relatives visiting, need extra support for mobility issues, or simply want a comfortable spot to shave your legs, a built-in seat transforms the experience. While constructing a permanent bench might seem intimidating, the process is straightforward with the right planning.

Here is how to build a shower bench safely and stylishly, along with the pros and cons you need to consider before breaking ground.

Pros and Cons of a Built-in Shower Bench

If you are on the fence about adding a permanent seat to your shower renovation, weigh the benefits against the drawbacks.

Best Materials for a Shower Bench

Selecting the right material is critical for longevity. The wet environment of a shower destroys improper materials quickly.

Wood Options

Teak is the gold standard for shower benches. It is naturally dense and oily, which helps it resist rot and moisture. Cedar and bamboo are decent alternatives, though they often require more frequent sealing.

Structural Materials

For a tiled built-in bench, you generally have three structural choices:

• Pressure-treated lumber: Standard 2x4s used to frame a box.
• Concrete blocks: Heavy and stable, requiring no framing.
• High-density foam (EPS): Modern pre-formed benches (like Schluter-KERDI or Wedi) that are lightweight, waterproof, and ready to tile.

Surface Materials

Once the structure is built and waterproofed, you can finish it with:

• Natural Stone: Granite, marble, or slate slabs (solid slabs are better than tiles for the seat to avoid grout lines).
• Porcelain or Ceramic Tile: Durable and matches the rest of the shower walls.
• Solid Surface: Quartz or engineered stone for a seamless look.

Avoid using pine, standard drywall, or untreated plywood, as these will act like a sponge and rot from the inside out.

How to Build a Framed Shower Bench

Building a framed box seat is the most common method for DIYers. It is sturdy and customizable. Note that waterproofing is the most vital step; a leak here can ruin your subfloor.

Tools and Materials

• Pressure-treated 2×4 lumber.
• Marine-grade plywood or cement backer board.
• Rust-resistant exterior screws (do not use nails).
• Power drill.
• Circular saw.
• Tape measure and spirit level.
• Waterproof membrane (liquid or sheet).
• Thinset mortar, tiles, and grout.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Plan the dimensions: Standard bench height is 17 to 19 inches. A depth of 15 to 16 inches is comfortable for most adults.
2. Build the frame: Cut your 2x4s to size. Construct a box frame that fits your space. Use vertical supports every 12 to 16 inches for strength.
3. Create a slope: This is crucial. The seat must slope slightly toward the drain (about 1/4 inch per foot) to prevent water from pooling. You can achieve this by shimming the framing or building up the mortar later.
4. Secure to the wall: Fasten the frame to the wall studs using heavy-duty screws. If you are retrofitting, you must locate the studs behind the existing wall.
5. Sheathe the frame: Cover the top and sides with cement backer board or marine-grade plywood. Cement board is preferred for tiled surfaces as it does not warp.
6. Waterproof: Apply a high-quality waterproofing membrane (like RedGard or Schluter-KERDI) over the entire bench. Cover seams with waterproof tape. This barrier prevents water from reaching the wood frame.
7. Tile and grout: Apply thinset mortar and lay your tiles. Once dry, apply grout and seal the joints with silicone caulk where the bench meets the walls and floor.

How to Build a Corner Shower Seat

Corner seats are excellent space-savers. While framing angled cuts can be tricky, a floating corner bench is often easier to install than a full box bench.

If you are building a floating corner seat, you need robust support. Install heavy-duty blocking between the wall studs before closing up the wall. You can then bolt angle brackets or a pre-formed metal frame directly into that blocking.

For a tiled finish, maintain the same waterproofing standards as a full bench. If you prefer a wood look, you can mount a finished teak corner seat directly to the wall using architectural bolts.

How to Waterproof a Shower Bench

Waterproofing is not optional. A bench is a horizontal surface that collects water, making it the most vulnerable part of your shower.

You generally have two options:

• Liquid Membrane: A paint-on rubberized coating (like RedGard). You apply several thick coats to the cement board until it forms a seamless rubber skin.
• Sheet Membrane: A fabric-like sheet (like Schluter-KERDI) adhered to the bench with thinset. This offers superior crack isolation and water protection.

How to Build a Shower Bench With Concrete Blocks

If you want a bench that will never rot or creak, concrete blocks (cinder blocks) are the way to go. This method is heavy, so ensure your subfloor can support the extra weight.

Tools and Materials

• Concrete blocks (4-inch or 8-inch wide).
• Mortar mix.
• Trowel and bucket.
• Drill with mixing paddle.
• Thinset mortar and surface bonding cement.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the base: Ensure the shower pan liner is installed and protected. You will be building directly on the shower floor base.
2. Lay the bed: Spread a layer of mortar where the blocks will sit.
3. Stack the blocks: Butter the edges of your blocks with mortar and stack them to your desired height and shape. Check for level frequently.
4. Fill voids (optional): For extra solidity, you can fill the block cores with concrete or rubble.
5. Create the slope: Use a mortar bed on the top of the blocks to create the required 1/4-inch slope for drainage.
6. Smooth the surface: Coat the exterior of the blocks with surface bonding cement or a thick layer of thinset to create a smooth, flat surface for waterproofing.
7. Waterproof and tile: Apply your liquid or sheet membrane over the smoothed concrete, then proceed to tile.

Best Ready-Made Shower Benches

If mixing mortar and cutting lumber sounds like a hassle, ready-made options are a fantastic alternative. They range from simple stools to pre-formed tiling kits.

Here are the top options to consider:

Ready-to-Tile Bench Kits

Brands like Schluter and Better-Bench offer pre-formed high-density foam or metal benches. You simply adhere them to the wall and floor with thinset. They are lightweight, completely waterproof, and rot-proof.

• Best for: DIYers who want a built-in look without framing a wood box.
• Buying Tip: Check the dimensions carefully to ensure it fits your shower footprint.

Dr. Kay’s Adjustable Height Bath Chair

For immediate mobility support without renovation, Dr. Kay’s Adjustable Height Bath and Shower Chair is a practical choice. It features wide rubber tips to prevent slipping and utilizes anodized aluminum to resist rust.

• Best for: Renters or those needing a temporary safety solution.
• Buying Tip: It supports up to 350 lbs, making it sturdy despite its lightweight frame.

Medline Transfer Bench

The Medline Transfer Bench is designed for maximum safety. Two legs sit inside the tub/shower and two sit outside, allowing the user to scoot across without stepping over the threshold.

• Best for: Wheelchair users or those with severe mobility restrictions.
• Buying Tip: Look for the reversible backrest option so it can be used in left or right-sided tubs.

TeakCraft Teak Shower Seat

If aesthetics are your priority, this TeakCraft model offers a spa-like vibe. It is naturally resistant to water and humidity.

• Best for: Adding luxury and a warm visual element to cold tiled showers.
• Buying Tip: While beautiful, teak requires occasional oiling to maintain its rich color.

ALA Teak Corner Seat

The ALA Teak corner unit is perfect for compact showers. The triangular design tucks neatly out of the way, and the lower shelf provides excellent storage for shampoo bottles.

• Best for: Small showers where floor space is premium.
• Buying Tip: Ensure your shower floor is relatively flat in the corner for stability.

FAQs

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Bench In a Shower?

A DIY project typically costs between $200 and $500 for materials, depending on whether you use lumber or a pre-formed foam kit. If you hire a professional, expect to pay between $800 and $1,500 for labor and materials, as waterproofing and tiling are time-intensive.

What Size Shower Do I Need for a Bench?

Ideally, your shower should be at least 36 x 36 inches to comfortably fit a small corner bench. For a full built-in bench, a shower depth of 42 inches or more is recommended to ensure you still have standing room. The ADA suggests a seat depth of 15 to 16 inches.

Do Bamboo Shower Benches Get Moldy?

Yes, bamboo is more susceptible to mold than teak. While bamboo is technically a grass and handles water reasonably well, it requires adequate ventilation and regular cleaning. If left in a damp, unventilated shower, it can develop black mold.

How Do You Build a Floating Shower Bench?

Floating benches require strong structural support. You generally install heavy-duty steel brackets directly onto the wall studs before tiling. Alternatively, you can frame a cantilevered structure using lumber, but steel supports are thinner and offer a sleeker “floating” look.

Does a Built-in Shower Bench Need a Slope?

Yes, absolutely. The seat top must slope approximately 1/4 inch per foot toward the shower drain. Without this slope, water will pool on the seat, leading to soap scum buildup, mold growth, and eventual deterioration of the grout and tile.

What Is the Best Height for a Shower Bench?

The standard height for a shower bench is between 17 and 19 inches from the finished floor. This mirrors the height of a standard chair or toilet, making it easy for most adults to sit down and stand up safely.

Build That Bench

Learning how to build a shower bench gives you a custom feature that improves both the function and value of your bathroom. Whether you opt for a sleek tiled box or a simple teak stool, the added comfort is undeniable. Say goodbye to balancing acts and hello to a safer, more relaxing shower.