A shower curb is a small but important feature that helps contain water in a shower. A well-built curb can prevent leaks, improve drainage, and make your shower safer and more functional. Installing or replacing a shower curb may seem daunting, but with proper materials and techniques, you can create a durable, watertight curb that will last for years.

Choosing Curb Materials

When selecting materials for your shower curb, consider function, code requirements, and aesthetics. Here are some top options:

Mortar bed: A mortar bed reinforced with metal lath provides a very strong, waterproof foundation for shower curbs. This traditional method involves building up the curb area with concrete mortar over a metal mesh. Mortar requires skill to install correctly.

Cultured marble: Prefabricated cultured marble curbs are dense, nonporous, and ADA-compliant. Cultured marble comes ready to install and offers an attractive finish. Some find the appearance less natural than other materials.

Solid surface: Materials like Corian consist of acrylic resins and minerals that form a seamless curb. Solid surface curbs are durable, stylish, and easy to clean. However, they can be prone to scratching.

Tile: Using matching tile for the curb creates a uniform look. Tile installation takes practice but materials are affordable. Grout requires sealing to prevent water intrusion.

PVC/plastic: PVC and plastic shower curbs are waterproof, lightweight, and trim easily with basic tools. They’re a good budget option, although less durable than other materials.

Tools and Materials

Gather your materials ahead of time for a smooth installation. Having the right tools for each step will ensure your curb is structurally sound.

Essential supplies include:

• Trim materials (tile, solid surface, cultured marble, etc.)
• Mortar or thinset
• Grout
• Caulk
• Wood or cement backerboard
• Polyethylene membrane or pan liner
• Metal lath
• Mixing tub and paddle
• Notched trowel
• Grout float
• Sponge
• Tile cutter
• Utility knife
• Safety gear (gloves, goggles, mask)

Preparing the Shower Base

Installing the curb on a properly prepared shower base prevents leaks and damage. Follow these tips to ensure your base is ready for curb installation:

• Install the drain and plumbing correctly according to the shower liner manufacturer’s specifications.
• Waterproof the subfloor by covering with a water barrier like RedGard or a polyethylene membrane.
• Build up the mortar bed for the shower floor to the correct slope (1/4” per foot minimum).
• Allow mortar bed to fully cure before installing the curb.
• Install backerboard around bottom walls covering the shower base. Cut boards to overlap the area where the curb will be built.

Preparing the area properly before installing the curb saves time and headaches down the road.

Building a Mortar Shower Curb

For a durable, waterproof mortar shower curb:

Step 1: Build a Sturdy Framework

• Cut 2×4 studs to the height you need for your curb. Secure to the floor and back wall with screws.
• Cut cement backerboard to height and tack it to the front of the 2×4 frame.

Step 2: Add Reinforcement

• Cover the framework in metal lath, overlapping pieces at least 1”. Staple lath tightly to the studs and board.

Step 3: Apply Waterproofing

• Spread thinset over the metal lath using a notched trowel. Fully embed polyethylene membrane into thinset.
• Fold excess membrane up sides and fasten to studs. Seal seams with thinset.

Step 4: Build Up Curb with Mortar

• Apply mortar over the membrane, packing it into lath. Slope top away from shower slightly.
• Build up mortar to just below finish height. Screed to level. Allow to cure before final layer.

Step 5: Install Finish Materials

• Spread thinset on top of cured mortar and install tile, solid surface, or other finish materials.
• Grout and seal as needed. Caulk joints between curb and walls.

Allow mortar to fully cure before using shower. Building over a sturdy framework and waterproofing correctly prevents leaks.

Using Alternate Curb Materials

For quicker installation or different looks, consider these alternate curb options:

PVC/Plastic Curb

PVC and plastic curbs snap together and install in minutes.

• Cut boards to fit inside framing. Dry fit pieces before final assembly.
• Clean and dry surfaces thoroughly. Apply adhesive to joints.
• Press pieces firmly together. Seal seams and corners with silicone caulk.

Cultured Marble Curb

Cultured marble curbs require minimal preparation.

• Ensure base and walls are watertight before installing.
• Apply silicone adhesive to curb bottom. Press firmly in place.
• Seal seam between curb and walls with caulk. Use acrylic sealant on top surface.

Corian/Solid Surface Curb

Corian curbs create a sleek, seamless look:

• Cut Corian to size using a circular saw with fine-tooth blade. Sand cut edges.
• Pre-fit piece to area and check walls for plumb. Mark and trim as needed.
• Apply silicone to bottom of curb and place. Clamp securely in corners.
• Seal all seams with matching acrylic caulk.

PVC, cultured marble, and solid surface curbs offer quicker, easier installation than mortar. All options should be properly sealed to prevent leaks.

Customizing Your Shower Curb

Beyond the basic installation, you can customize your curb in several ways:

Add Seating

• Build out framing to desired depth for bench seat.
• Install waterproofing membrane before building up mortar.
• Slope mortar for drainage. Install tile or other covering.

Extend Half Walls

• Use cement board and lumber to frame out partial walls around curb.
• Waterproof before installing finish materials to desired height.

Accent with Design Features

• Inlay tile, glass, stone or metal strips into finished curb.
• Shape solid surface for soft curves or angles.
• Install lighting recessed into sides of the curb.

With strategic framing and finishes, your shower curb can become a focal point rather than just a functional necessity.

Ensuring Proper Drainage

The sloped top of the shower curb prevents water from pooling. To enhance drainage:

• Maintain a slope of 1/8” – 1/4” per foot away from the shower.
• Use a level during installation to check for even slope.
• Avoid low spots or flat areas, especially near the middle.
• Direct runoff toward the drain using the slope of the entire shower pan.
• Seal surfaces completely – any cracks or pinholes can lead to leaks.
• Test for leaks by flooding the pan before finishing surfaces.

Adequate slope and sealing allows water to properly run off into the drain and not leak around the curb edges.

Common Shower Curb Problems

Even with proper installation, shower curbs can sometimes develop issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:

Cracks or gaps in grout/caulk:

• Seal any cracks or failed grout lines with silicone caulk. Ensure joint is clean before applying new caulk.

Leaking around curb:

• Waterproof behind and beneath the curb if not done initially.
• Check slope – rebuild curb if necessary to improve runoff.
• Replace broken or loose tiles and re-grout. Seal tile edges with caulk.

Curb feels unsteady or loose:

• Ensure framing is securely fastened to studs or backing. Add structural support.
• Cut away membrane covering subfloor and apply fresh thinset to improve bond.

Issues like cracks or leaks can undermine the curb’s waterproofing ability over time. Periodic maintenance helps prevent major failures.

Maintaining Your Shower Curb

With routine maintenance, your shower curb should provide many years of leak-free service:

• Caulk joints annually and re-apply grout or sealants if needed.
• Check for cracks, loose tiles, or any gaps that could compromise waterproofing.
• Ensure weep holes in tile or drain remain clear of debris and buildup.
• Clean curb with mild soap and water – avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
• Monitor for leaks and immediately correct any slopes, cracks, or seals that aren’t performing.
• Re-apply protective sealing agents per manufacturer directions to prevent deterioration.

Proper installation is key, but ongoing maintenance is also essential for long-term curb longevity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard height for a shower curb?

Shower curbs are commonly built to a height between 2”-7”. Standard building codes require a minimum height of 2”. Curbs over 7” are considered unsafe by building codes.

Can I install my own shower curb?

Installing your own shower curb is possible with proper materials, tools, and skill. However, first-time DIYers may struggle with getting a watertight seal. Consider hiring a professional if you lack experience.

What is the best material for a shower curb?

The best shower curb material depends on your needs. Mortar, tile, and solid surface provide durability. Cultured marble and plastic are easiest to install. Choose a material that fits within your budget and matches your shower design.

How do I slope a shower curb?

Shower curbs should slope between 1/8” – 1/4” per foot away from the shower. Use a level during installation to achieve the correct slope. Test for proper drainage by flooding the pan before finishing.

Can I cover my old shower curb with new tile?

You can install tile over an existing shower curb if it is in good condition. The old curb must be solid, watertight, and structurally sound enough to support new tile. Additional waterproofing may be needed.

Conclusion

Installing a shower curb may take careful planning and patience, but the benefits are worth the effort. A well-constructed curb containing water where it belongs provides peace of mind and prevents extensive repairs down the road. With high quality materials, proper slopes, and waterproof seals, your new shower curb will stand the test of time.

How to Build a Better Shower Curb

Building or replacing a shower curb increases the safety and functionality of your shower. With the right techniques and materials, you can create a water-tight curb that contains splashes and runoff while complementing your bathroom’s style. This guide covers the key steps for building a durable, sloped shower curb.

Choose Curb Materials

The material you choose forms the foundation for a successful shower curb installation. Consider factors like budget, appearance, waterproofing ability and ease of installation when selecting materials.

• Mortar or concrete offer extremely durable shower curbs, but require skill to install properly. Mortar must cure fully before finishing.
• Solid surfacing like cultured marble provides an integrated, seamless look. Prefabricated curbs install quickly.
• PVC or other plastic works well for budget-friendly projects. These lightweight curbs trim easily but lack durability over time.
• Tile paired with a mortar bed allows matching your shower floor tile. Grout requires sealing to remain waterproof.

Combining materials like a mortar base with tile finish layers utilizes the benefits of each.

Tools and Supplies

Assembling the right tools and prep materials ensures efficient installation:

• Trim materials (tile, solid surface panels, etc.)
• Mortar mix and/or thinset
• Grout and caulk for seams
• Cement backerboard
• Waterproofing membrane
• Lumber and metal lath for framing
• Mixing tub, trowels, sponges for mortar
• Utility knife, snips, saw for cutting
• Safety gear – gloves, goggles, mask

Prep the Shower Base

Before building the curb itself, the surrounding shower base must be prepped properly:

• Install shower drain to manufacturer instructions
• Create slope for drainage using a mortar bed
• Install cement backerboard around base walls
• Waterproof floor and side walls with RedGard or other membrane
• Overlap water barrier over curb footprint

With surfaces ready, you can build the watertight curb.

Install a Mortar Shower Curb

Mortar shower curbs require careful waterproofing but provide a very durable result:

Build a wooden framework

• Cut and secure vertical 2×4 studs and fasten cement board to the front

Add reinforcement

• Staple metal lath tightly across the entire frame surface

Waterproof

• Fully embed water barrier membrane into thinset over the metal lath

Build up curb

• Use mortar, packing it into the lath in layers to the desired height

Install finish materials

• Adhere tile, marble or other finishes over the cured mortar curb

Mortar curbs prevent leaks when installed over proper waterproofing. Allow to fully cure before use.

Alternate Curb Materials

For quicker installation, consider these options:

PVC plastic – Snap interlocking pieces together and adhere in the curb location with silicone. Seal all joints thoroughly.

Cultured marble – Silicone adheres lightweight prefab curbs in place. Seal seams and top surface.

Solid surface – Cut to size, dry fit, then adhere surfacing like Corian with silicone and clamps. Caulk seams.

All alternate curbs require sealing for waterproofing. Adhesives and caulk prevent leaks.

Customizing Options

Make your shower curb a focal point with these design touches:

Built-in Seating – Frame out desired size and height before building up the mortar bed. Maintain waterproofing.

Extend into Half Walls – Use cement board, framing, and waterproofing to continue materials up partial walls.

Inlaid Designs – Add metal, stone or tile inlays and accents during finishing.

Lighting – Recess lighting into sides or top for a unique look.

With planning, your curb can become an accent, not just a function.

Ensure Proper Drainage

The sloped curb top allows water to drain off and not pool. To promote drainage:

• Maintain a constant 1/4″ per foot slope away from shower
• Use a level to check slope while building up mortar
• Eliminate any low or flat spots, especially along the front center
• Seal surfaces completely to prevent leaks
• Test by flooding the pan and checking for pooling

Adequate slope prevents standing water that undermines waterproofing and causes leaks.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Several common issues can arise with shower curbs:

Leaking – Seal cracks or failed grout with caulk. Add waterproofing to areas that are compromised. Re-slope mortar if needed.

Cracks – Cut out grout or caulk, clean and seal with new silicone caulk. Match color closely.

Unstable curb – Check framework for secure fastening to studs. Add supports or shims if needed. Re-adhere any loose tiles.

Routine maintenance helps avoid major failures and expensive repairs.

Maintaining Your Shower Curb

With periodic upkeep, your shower curb will last for many years:

• Re-caulk and re-grout joints annually or as needed
• Ensure weep holes in drain and grout lines stay clear
• Use mild cleaners – avoid harsh chemicals
• Check for cracked tile, looseness or other issues
• Monitor for leaks and immediately correct any failing seals or slopes

Proper installation combined with regular maintenance provides long-term curb integrity.

Conclusion

Building your own shower curb allows you to choose durable materials that match your bathroom design. With the right preparation, high quality construction, proper slope and seals, your custom curb will contain water for years to come. Paying attention to crucial details results in a leak-free shower that keeps splashes and runoff inside where they belong.

How to Build a Better Shower Curb

A properly constructed shower curb is crucial for keeping water contained in the shower area. The curb serves as a barrier that prevents leaks, flooding issues, and water damage. Building or replacing your existing shower curb is a manageable project with the right approach. This guide covers choosing materials, installation steps, design options, and maintenance for shower curbs. Follow these tips to create a durable, sloped curb that contains splashes and runoff.

Selecting Curb Materials

The material you select as your finished curb surface impacts the waterproofing, durability, appearance and installation method.

• Mortar or concrete works well for curbs due to strength and water resistance when installed properly. Mortar requires a lengthy curing time.
• Tile provides a matching surface to the shower floor. Use a mortar base for support. Grout and seal tile to prevent leaks.
• Cultured marble offers an integrated, solid curb surface that installs quickly. It lacks the natural look of some materials.
• PVC/plastic is an affordable option. These lightweight curbs cut easily to fit the space but lack long-term durability.
• Solid surfacing like Corian creates a sleek, seamless look. The material resists scratches and stains when properly sealed.

Gather Tools and Supplies

Assembling the right preparation materials ensures the installation goes smoothly:

• Trim materials (tile, marble, etc