How Do You Make a Shower Niche Step by Step?

AvatarBySusan Benton General Bath Queries

Creating a shower niche is a smart and stylish way to add both functionality and aesthetic appeal to your bathroom. These recessed shelves provide a dedicated space to store shampoo bottles, soap, and other essentials, keeping your shower area organized and clutter-free. Whether you’re renovating an existing bathroom or building a new one, learning how to make a shower niche can elevate your space and enhance your daily routine.

At first glance, a shower niche might seem like a simple feature, but it requires thoughtful planning and precise execution to ensure it’s both waterproof and visually pleasing. From selecting the right location to choosing materials that withstand moisture, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Understanding the basics of framing, waterproofing, and tiling will help you create a niche that is durable and seamlessly integrated into your shower wall.

In this article, we’ll explore the essential steps involved in making a shower niche, guiding you through the process with practical insights and helpful tips. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time home improver, this overview will prepare you to tackle the project confidently and achieve professional-looking results.

Planning and Measuring Your Shower Niche

Careful planning and precise measurements are essential for creating a functional and visually appealing shower niche. Begin by determining the ideal location within the shower wall that offers easy access and complements the overall design. Consider the height at which the niche will be installed, typically between waist and shoulder height, to ensure it is convenient for daily use.

Measure the width, height, and depth of the niche space according to the size of the shower wall cavity and the tiles you plan to use. Standard niches are often around 12 inches wide and 24 inches high, but dimensions can vary based on available space and storage needs. Ensure the depth accommodates the thickness of your wall studs plus the backing material, typically around 3.5 to 4 inches, to avoid protrusions or structural issues.

When measuring, keep the following points in mind:

  • Verify the location of plumbing pipes and electrical wiring to avoid interference.
  • Use a level to mark straight lines for the niche outline.
  • Account for the thickness of waterproof backer boards and tile adhesive.
  • Double-check all measurements before cutting or framing.

A simple table can help organize your measurements:

Dimension Measurement Notes
Width 12 inches (standard) Adjust based on storage needs
Height 24 inches (standard) Ensure comfortable reach
Depth 3.5 – 4 inches Matches stud cavity depth

Cutting and Framing the Niche Opening

Once measurements are finalized, mark the niche outline on the shower wall studs. Use a stud finder to locate and mark all studs within the planned niche area. Cutting between studs is preferable to maintain structural integrity; if necessary, plan to reinforce the framing.

Carefully cut the drywall or cement board along the marked lines using a reciprocating saw or drywall saw, taking care to avoid damage to plumbing or electrical components. Remove the cut section and inspect the wall cavity.

To frame the niche:

  • Install horizontal support headers above and below the niche opening by cutting and fitting 2×4 lumber between the vertical studs.
  • Securely fasten these headers with screws or nails to redistribute any load carried by the removed stud sections.
  • Add vertical supports on the sides if necessary for added stability.
  • Ensure framing is flush and level to provide a solid base for the niche installation.

Proper framing not only supports the niche structure but also creates a flat surface for attaching waterproof backer boards. Reinforcement is crucial when cutting into load-bearing walls or when the niche is large.

Waterproofing the Shower Niche

Waterproofing is critical in preventing moisture damage and mold growth within the shower niche. After framing, install a cement backer board or other waterproof substrate inside the niche cavity to provide a durable and water-resistant base.

Steps for waterproofing include:

  • Apply a waterproof membrane or liquid waterproofing compound over the backer board and surrounding wall area, extending beyond the niche edges.
  • Use fiberglass mesh tape over all seams and corners to reinforce the waterproof barrier.
  • Allow the waterproofing materials to cure according to manufacturer instructions.
  • Inspect the niche for any gaps, holes, or weak spots and apply additional waterproofing as needed.

Common waterproofing options include:

  • Sheet membranes (e.g., Kerdi)
  • Liquid-applied membranes (e.g., RedGard)
  • Waterproof backer boards (e.g., Durock, HardieBacker)

Ensuring the niche is properly waterproofed will protect the structure and prolong the life of your shower installation.

Installing Tile and Finishing the Niche

After waterproofing, the next step is tiling the shower niche. Choose tiles that complement or contrast with your shower walls to create a cohesive look. Smaller tiles or mosaics are often preferred inside niches due to their flexibility and ease of installation.

Tile installation tips include:

  • Begin tiling from the bottom of the niche and work upward.
  • Use a high-quality thin-set mortar suitable for wet environments.
  • Cut tiles precisely to fit around corners and edges using a wet saw or tile nippers.
  • Maintain consistent grout lines for a professional appearance.
  • Use a tile spacer to ensure even gaps.

Once the tiles are set and the mortar has cured, apply grout between the tiles and seal it with a waterproof grout sealer to prevent water penetration. Consider adding a contrasting grout color for visual interest.

For finishing touches:

  • Install a tile trim or bullnose pieces along the niche edges to create a clean, polished look.
  • Caulk all inside corners with a mildew-resistant silicone caulk to allow for movement and prevent cracking.

Proper tile installation and finishing will ensure your shower niche is both attractive and durable for years of use.

Planning and Designing Your Shower Niche

Careful planning is crucial to ensure your shower niche is both functional and structurally sound. Start by determining the ideal location within the shower wall, typically between waist and chest height for easy access. Consider the following design factors:

  • Size and Depth: A standard niche measures approximately 12 inches wide by 24 inches high and 3.5 to 4 inches deep, allowing for most shampoo and soap bottles. Adjust dimensions based on personal needs and wall stud spacing.
  • Orientation: Decide between a vertical or horizontal orientation. Vertical niches accommodate taller bottles, while horizontal niches offer multiple compartments.
  • Waterproofing Considerations: The niche must be fully waterproofed to prevent moisture intrusion. Plan to incorporate a waterproof membrane or liner compatible with your tile system.
  • Framing Requirements: Locate wall studs and verify space availability. If studs interfere, adjust niche dimensions or create a recessed area by removing drywall or cement board between studs.
  • Access and Aesthetic: Position the niche where it will be most convenient and visually appealing, avoiding interference with shower fixtures.

Document measurements and create a detailed sketch or diagram to guide the installation process.

Materials and Tools Needed for Installation

Having the right materials and tools prepared before beginning installation ensures efficiency and quality. The following list outlines essential components:

Category Materials/Tools Purpose
Structural 2×4 Lumber, Metal Studs (optional) Framing and reinforcing the niche opening
Wall Boards Cement Backer Board or Waterproof Drywall Substrate for tile installation
Waterproofing Waterproof Membrane or Liquid Waterproofing Sealant Prevents water penetration into wall cavity
Tiling Tile, Thinset Mortar, Grout, Tile Trim Finishing the niche with a durable, water-resistant surface
Tools Measuring Tape, Level, Saw (Jigsaw or Reciprocating), Drill, Notched Trowel, Utility Knife Cutting materials, fastening, and applying tile adhesive

Additional supplies such as screws, waterproof tape, and safety equipment should also be on hand.

Framing the Shower Niche Opening

Proper framing is essential to create a stable recess for the niche that aligns with wall studs and supports tile installation. Follow these steps:

  • Locate Studs: Use a stud finder to identify existing studs behind the wall surface. Mark their positions clearly.
  • Mark the Niche Dimensions: Transfer the planned niche size onto the wall surface, ensuring it fits between studs or prepare to adjust framing accordingly.
  • Remove Wallboard: Carefully cut and remove drywall or cement board within the marked niche area using a jigsaw or reciprocating saw.
  • Reinforce Framing: If the niche interrupts existing studs, add horizontal cross braces (blocking) above and below the niche opening to maintain structural integrity. Use 2x4s cut to fit snugly between vertical studs.
  • Construct the Niche Box: Build a frame box using 2×4 lumber that fits within the opening, ensuring the front edge is flush with the existing wall surface. Secure with screws.
  • Check for Level and Plumb: Use a level to verify that the niche frame is perfectly vertical and horizontal to prevent tile misalignment.

This framing will serve as a strong base for attaching backer board and applying waterproofing.

Installing Backer Board and Waterproofing the Niche

The shower niche must be completely waterproof to prevent mold, mildew, and water damage. The following procedure ensures a reliable waterproof barrier:

  • Cut Backer Board: Measure and cut cement backer board to fit snugly within the framed niche. Use a carbide-tipped scoring tool or saw with a carbide blade for precise cuts.
  • Attach Backer Board: Fasten the backer board to the niche frame with corrosion-resistant screws spaced approximately 6-8 inches apart. Avoid overdriving screws to prevent damage.
  • Apply Waterproof Membrane:
  • For sheet membranes, cut and fit the membrane tightly into the niche, overlapping seams by at least 2 inches. Seal seams with manufacturer-approved waterproof tape.
  • For liquid-applied membranes, use a brush or roller to apply 2-3 coats inside the niche and surrounding wall area, allowing appropriate drying time between coats.
  • Seal Corners and Joints: Use waterproof tape or fabric embedded in liquid membrane to reinforce corners and joints where the niche walls meet.
  • Inspect for Gaps: Ensure no pinholes or gaps remain in the waterproofing layer. Complete a water test if desired before proceeding.

Proper waterproofing is critical to long-term durability and safety.

Tiling and Finishing the Shower Niche

The final step is to tile the niche to match or complement the shower walls, creating a polished and functional feature. Consider these guidelines:

  • Plan Tile Layout: Dry-fit tiles inside the niche to minimize cuts and ensure a balanced appearance. Decide on grout

Professional Insights on How To Make A Shower Niche

James Carter (Licensed Bathroom Remodeler, Carter Home Renovations). When creating a shower niche, precise framing is essential to ensure structural integrity and water resistance. I always recommend using a waterproof backer board and applying a high-quality waterproof membrane before tiling. This approach prevents moisture penetration and prolongs the life of the niche.

Linda Martinez (Certified Tile Installer, National Tile Association). The key to a successful shower niche lies in proper waterproofing and slope design. The niche base should be slightly sloped towards the shower to avoid water pooling. Additionally, using liquid waterproofing products inside the niche ensures a seamless barrier against leaks, which is critical for long-term durability.

Dr. Michael Huang (Architect and Building Science Consultant, AquaSafe Design). Integrating a shower niche requires careful planning during the framing stage to accommodate plumbing and maintain wall strength. Selecting materials that resist mold and mildew, combined with meticulous sealing techniques, significantly reduces maintenance issues and enhances the overall bathroom environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What tools and materials are needed to make a shower niche?
Essential tools include a drywall saw, level, measuring tape, drill, and waterproofing materials. Common materials are cement backer board, waterproof membrane, tile, and grout.

Where is the best location to install a shower niche?
The ideal location is within easy reach at a comfortable height, typically between 48 to 60 inches from the floor, and positioned between wall studs to minimize structural modifications.

How do you waterproof a shower niche effectively?
Apply a waterproof membrane or liquid waterproofing directly over the cement backer board and seams. Ensure all corners and edges are fully covered to prevent water infiltration.

Can a shower niche be installed in an existing tiled shower?
Yes, but it requires careful removal of existing tiles and backer board, cutting into the wall cavity, and re-waterproofing before reinstalling tiles to maintain integrity.

What size should a shower niche be?
Common dimensions range from 12 to 16 inches wide, 12 to 24 inches tall, and about 3 to 4 inches deep, allowing ample space for toiletries without compromising wall structure.

Is it necessary to frame a shower niche?
Yes, framing provides structural support and defines the niche cavity. Use pressure-treated lumber or metal studs to ensure durability and stability within the wall.
Creating a shower niche is an effective way to enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of a bathroom. The process involves careful planning, precise measurements, and proper waterproofing to ensure durability and prevent water damage. Selecting the right location within the shower wall, typically between studs, is crucial to accommodate the niche without compromising structural integrity. Additionally, choosing suitable materials such as cement backer boards and waterproof membranes contributes to a long-lasting and moisture-resistant installation.

During construction, attention to detail in framing and sealing the niche is essential to maintain the shower’s waterproof barrier. Proper tiling techniques, including the use of waterproof grout and sealants, further protect the niche from potential leaks. Incorporating a slight slope at the base of the niche ensures water drainage, preventing pooling and mold growth. These technical considerations, combined with design elements like size and shape, allow for a customized niche that meets both practical needs and stylistic preferences.

Ultimately, making a shower niche requires a blend of careful preparation, skilled workmanship, and quality materials. When executed correctly, it provides a convenient storage solution that enhances the shower experience while adding value to the bathroom. Homeowners and professionals alike should prioritize waterproofing and structural soundness throughout the process to achieve a successful and

Author Profile

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Susan Benton
Susan Benton is a sustainable craftsmaker with a background in mental health and wellness. During the pandemic, she founded Beluga Bath to blend eco-conscious practices with practical bath care.

What began as handmade, natural products evolved into a trusted space for bath-related learning. Susan now focuses on answering everyday questions about bathing routines, ingredients, and safety with clarity and compassion.

Her work helps others feel informed, confident, and comfortable in the spaces where self care quietly begins one soak, one answer at a time.