Here we share our built-in shower bench pros and cons guide including what is, its advantages and disadvantages, the ideal dimensions, and the best material to use.
Let’s talk about this fascinating addition to your bathroom – the pros and cons, recommended dimensions, and materials, so you can make an informed decision before installing one.
Built-in Shower Bench Pros and Cons
However, your space allocation and configuration of the shower room will actually determine if this seating type is the best choice for you.
What Is a Built-in Shower Bench?
Unlike other shower seats, such as a floating bench, a fold-down bench, or a portable shower chair, this particular seating style is permanently framed into the shower floor and wall. It is not open underneath but is instead a solid block custom-made to fit in the shower during construction.
This bench can span the entire width of a shower room or enclosure and provide more seating space. It is usually finished with waterproof material, such as tile or marble for durability, easy maintenance, and aesthetic reasons.
The Pros of a Built-in Shower Bench
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Customizable
So during the planning stages, you can choose to have a curved design, a linear one, or any other shape that your shower space allows.
Read more about our guide on different shower bench ideas here.
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Sturdy
Some of the materials used are brick, wood, or concrete. It is then covered with tiles or stone to hide its structural frame.
Hence, this makes built-in benches the sturdiest and most hard-wearing among shower seating types.
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Spacious and Functional
Others find it convenient to put shower accessories on, while some designs can even hide a cabinet underneath for additional storage. Its comfortable seating capacity allows you to relax in the bath, as well.
Furthermore, long, hot showers have proven health benefits, and a reliable shower bench will help you achieve them.
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Safety and Accessibility Feature
If possible, you can add a safety handrail to further assist these users, as well.
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Luxurious Appeal
The whole shower unit appears cohesive and elegant with built-in benches, unlike fold-on benches that look almost an afterthought. Read more about the different design ideas for luxury walk-in showers here.
The Cons of a Built-in Shower Bench
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Takes-up Space
If the space allotted for your shower room is not too sizable, you may risk blocking the entrance or making the space too tight.
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Not An Add-on
So if you already have an existing shower, it won’t be easy to suddenly add a built-in bench. Besides taking a significant amount of work, you’ll find it won’t blend as well as it should.
Built-in Shower Bench Dimensions
The most ideal size would, of course, depend on the user. You should find it large enough to sit comfortably but leave enough standing room.
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Height
Between 17 and 19 inches, as recommended by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
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Width
There is no minimum requirement as per the ADA, but the industry standard is at least 14 inches wide.
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Depth
The depth is more important than the width since it will affect your posture. A good measurement is between 15 and 16 inches.
Read more about different shower sizes and bathroom dimensions here.
Shower Pan with Built-in Bench
You can either custom-build your shower base with a bench or find a ready-made shower base with a bench in home stores. However, both options still need to be planned and installed with the rest of the shower room for a more seamless appearance.
Best Material for Shower Bench
If you’re after a more stylish look, a marble finish is the way to go. It tolerates humidity very well but tends to be cold during the shower. Stones like quartz and granite are also strong and low-maintenance materials.
If you find stones a bit expensive, you can opt for tiles instead. These materials easily blend with your shower’s floor and walls, making your overall shower enclosure pleasing to look at.
See more related content at our article about the different types of bathroom showers on this page.