How to Build a Bench in a Shower

Rest your weary feet by installing a shower bench.

A popular convenience for a shower is a shower bench. A bench serves multiple uses, such as assistance and rest for the elderly while in the shower. It can also be used for balance while washing and shaving. While this project is a bit intimidating, you will love the end result and have a new confidence in your building abilities once you complete it. Of course, since every shower is different you may choose to anchor your bench to the floor or the wall, depending on how your shower is constructed. Some people simply set it firmly on a separate mat. Consult a plumbing expert before you drill anywhere in your shower to install the bench, should you choose to do so.

Things You'll Need

• Screws 1/2 " tile backerboard 2 x 4 pressure treated lumber 1/2" plywood Drill Saw Safety glasses Measuring tape Mortar Pre-measured, pre-cut marble or granite

Instructions

1. Think about the reasons you are putting a bench in your shower. This will help you determine what size bench you want. You will need to decide the height, width and length of the bench. If you are a tall person you may want to build your bench so it will be higher than normal.

2. Compare your desired measurements to the dimensions of your shower. You need to make sure that your bench will fit in the shower once you are done.

3. Cut the 2 x 4 lumber according to the sizes you have come up with for the bench. Use the saw. Wear your safety glasses for this step.

4. Frame your bench using 2 x 4 pressure treated lumber. Framing means that you are creating a box using the front, back and sides of the bench. Use a drill for the 3" galvanized screws to hold the lumber together. Be sure to use screws on all corners of the lumber so that each piece is attached securely.

5. Cover the pressure treated lumber with appropriately sized plywood. Cut the dimensions of the bench out of the 1/2" exterior grade plywood. Cover the pressure treated lumber with the plywood. Use 1 1/4" galvanized screws to attach the plywood to the pressure treated lumber. Be sure the screws are firmly attached to the lumber.

6. Attach the backerboard. You will use the same measurements that you used for the plywood to cut the pieces out of the 1/2" tile backerboard. Cover the plywood already installed with the tile backerboard. Use 1 1/4" galvanized screws to install the backerboard to the plywood. Make sure you have installed screws so that everything is fitting tightly.

7. Cover the seat of the shower bench using a thin layer of mortar on the backerboard. Place a pre-measured piece of granite or marble to the mortar. Lay a heavy object on top of the marble to ensure that it will adhere to the mortar. Allow your bench to dry for 48 to 72 hours before using.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear safety goggles for sawing and drilling.

Resources

• Get more ideas for showers here.