Walk-In Shower: 6 Things to Know About Installation

By Editorial Team

Updated on September 4, 2024

Installing a walk-in shower

Have you always dreamed of owning a beautiful walk-in shower in your bathroom? Whether this large-scale project is carried out for aesthetic or functional purposes, it’s essential to be well informed before embarking on the adventure. Here are some important facts about the installation of a walk-in shower!

Installing a walk-in shower: What you need to know

Spacious bright bathroom with a freestanding bathtub, a roomy walk-in shower, and a solid wood double vanity

Source : les Réalisations P.O.P. Design Inc.

1- The floor and slope

First, you should know that a walk-in shower installation initially begins with taking note of something very important: this relates to the possibility of embedding the system (water drainage, shower tray, etc.) below the flooring. This implies a full floor removal to integrate the entire device under it.

After this step, it’s usually possible to obtain a slope (between 1 and 3%) which will be sufficient to ensure good water flow. In a situation where this is not the case, it’s necessary to raise your shower or build a platform on which the shower will be placed.

2- Sealing is of utmost importance

Modern bathroom with a freestanding bathtub, walk-in shower, and terrazzo tiles. Accompanied by a small dog

Source : MTL Contractors

To ensure optimal waterproofing, it’ll be essential to use only water-repellent products for the jointing between the walls and the floor. Otherwise, issues will not take long to reveal themselves!

At this point, there are many elements to take into account: sealing strips on each side and in the corners, the presence of seals at the siphon as well as the use of waterproof paint at the tank level.

3- Installing a shower with or without a wall?

Most homeowners who consider installing a walk-in shower do so because of its unique design, which is often open-concept. Of course, keep in mind that a shower without walls allows for splashing water to disperse around the room.

This can be very unpleasant, especially if your bathroom configuration wasn’t designed with this reality in mind. In this case, all is not lost! It’s always possible to lean towards integrating transparent walls to preserve the unique charm of this style of shower. Moreover, be aware that the integration of sliding, hinged or pivoting doors are among the available options.

4- The cost of installation

Spacious bathroom with a freestanding bathtub, a walk-in shower with natural stone cladding, and wooden elements for a warm atmosphere.

Source : CRC - Construction Rénovation Canada inc.

Unsurprisingly, the budget required for the installation of a walk-in shower will be substantial. Due to the complexity of this project and the nature of the plumbing work required to complete it, it’s impossible to get out of it without spending several thousand dollars. So, if you need to renovate the entire bathroom, planning your budget will be of the utmost importance.

5- The choice of tiles for your walk-in shower

When choosing the floor tiles for your walk-in shower, you’ll naturally have the choice between small or large tiles. How do you make a decision about something which will have a major impact on your shower’s aesthetic appearance? First, note that each of these options has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

First, regarding the large tiles, let us mention that these have the ability to visually enlarge the space. Moreover, when used with glass panels extending down to the floor, they create continuity with the flooring.

However, it’s important to mention that these will be much more slippery than the small squares. If this option is the one that catches your attention due to aesthetic considerations, be sure to purchase a shower mat and install it on your shower’s floor to prevent slips and falls.

Now concerning small tiles, these will have more of a non-slip effect. This is a huge advantage for some people, especially those with reduced mobility. For those concerned about the extra maintenance involved with small tiles, note that the use of an epoxy-cement grout will reduce the required frequency for cleaning.

6- The integration of niches and benches

Modern bathroom with a freestanding bathtub and walk-in shower

Source : GROUPE DA SILVA

Looking at various illustrations of walk-in showers, it’s common to notice the presence of niches. Very practical for resting various items such as shampoo and soap, keep in mind that these pose a very specific problem: water accumulation. Indeed, these cavities will inevitably end up accumulating small amounts of water, favourable to the proliferation of moulds.

Similarly, the installation of ceramic benches is also not recommended. Not only are they also susceptible to collecting water, but in the event of a fall, they’re very dangerous due to their protruding corners.

Would you like to have an estimate of the cost of your bathroom renovation project? Try our price calculator!


Get 3 free quotes for your project!

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes!

Looking for something else?

Get 3 free quotes for your project!

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes!

Are you a contractor?

Join our network and receive real leads!

Download the price guide for renovations

We’ll be emailing you the latest market price guide for renovations.



Related articles

The latest industry news, interviews, technologies, and resources.

6 min read

Christine Simard

07 Nov 2023

Ceramic grout: products and maintenance

Have you decided to change your floor covering and your choice fell on ceramic? Regardless of the specific tile pattern that caught your attention, you will need to purchase grout.

Bathroom
5 min read

Editorial Team

07 Nov 2023

Pros and Cons of Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters warm up water on demand rather than ahead of time and storing it in a tank. Chances are that you might not have heard about this option, or are a wee bit familiar with it, so we’ll outline the pros and cons of this type of system for you. 

5 min read

Editorial Team

07 Nov 2023

How to Change the Slope of a Roof

When it comes to a home, the roof is one feature that is rarely given pause. However, it is the one part that shelters from the elements and, if properly insulated, prevents cold drafts from seeping in. Yet, you may want to change your roof. In such a case, we are looking at changing the roof's structure to then alter the slope. Although this might seem like an impossible task, it is definitely doable. 

Exterior renovations
6 min read

Cynthia Pigeon

31 Mar 2025

Window Installation Regulations - The Essential Information You Need

How many windows does your home need? Where should they be placed? Do basement windows have specific safety requirements? Whether you are looking to enhance your home’s energy efficiency, improve its exterior appeal, or tackle a DIY renovation, understanding the regulations surrounding window installation is crucial.

6 min read

Editorial Team

07 Nov 2023

Pros and Cons of Vinyl and Linoleum Flooring

Made with plastic, vinyl first made its way onto the market in the shape of records (the infamous LP) or even as shiny items of clothing. During the 80s, this material became a popular, cushiony flooring option, vinyl sheets, or loose lay vinyl, which was also known as “cushion flooring.”


Looking for a contractor?

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes now!