Shower Base For Tile Floor

A shower base is a waterproof barrier that is installed on the floor of a shower to prevent water from leaking through to the subfloor. It is typically made of acrylic, fiberglass, or ceramic tile. The type of shower base that you choose will depend on your budget, your style preferences, and the size and shape of your shower. In this article, we will discuss the different types of shower bases for tile floors and provide tips on how to choose the right one for your needs.

Types of Shower Bases

There are three main types of shower bases for tile floors:

Acrylic shower bases are made of a lightweight, durable material that is easy to clean and maintain. They are available in a variety of colors and styles, and they can be custom-cut to fit any size or shape shower. Acrylic shower bases are a good option for both new and remodeled showers.
Fiberglass shower bases are made of a strong, fiberglass-reinforced plastic material. They are more durable than acrylic shower bases, but they are also more difficult to clean and maintain. Fiberglass shower bases are a good option for showers that will be used frequently.
Ceramic tile shower bases are made of individual ceramic tiles that are installed on a mortar bed. They are the most durable type of shower base, but they are also the most difficult to install. Ceramic tile shower bases are a good option for showers that will be used heavily.

How to Choose the Right Shower Base

When choosing a shower base for your tile floor, there are several factors to consider:

The size and shape of your shower. The shower base should be large enough to accommodate the size of your shower, and it should be shaped to fit the layout of your shower.
The type of tile you are using. The shower base should be compatible with the type of tile you are using. For example, if you are using ceramic tile, you will need to choose a shower base that is specifically designed for ceramic tile.
Your budget. Shower bases range in price from $100 to $500. The price of the shower base will depend on the size, shape, and material of the base.
Your style preferences. Shower bases come in a variety of colors and styles. You should choose a shower base that matches the style of your bathroom.

Installation

Shower bases are typically installed by a professional contractor. However, if you are experienced in DIY projects, you may be able to install the shower base yourself. The installation process for a shower base will vary depending on the type of base that you choose. However, the general steps are as follows:

Prepare the subfloor. The subfloor should be level and smooth. If the subfloor is not level, you will need to level it before installing the shower base.
Install the shower base. The shower base should be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most shower bases are installed using a mortar bed.
Tile the shower base. Once the shower base is installed, you can begin tiling the shower. The tile should be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Grout the tile. Once the tile is installed, you can grout the tile. The grout will help to seal the tile and prevent water from leaking through to the subfloor.

Maintenance

Shower bases are relatively easy to maintain. However, there are a few things you can do to keep your shower base looking its best:

Clean the shower base regularly. The shower base should be cleaned regularly with a mild soap and water solution. You should avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the shower base.
Inspect the shower base for cracks or damage. The shower base should be inspected regularly for cracks or damage. If you find any cracks or damage, you should repair them immediately to prevent water from leaking through to the subfloor.