Here's How: Add a Seat in Shower Stall

James Dulley on Sep 10, 2026

Add a Seat in Shower Stall

Dear James: While we are remodeling our bathroom, we would like to install a shower seat. How can we minimize the chance of water leakage into the support wall? -- Pamela W.

Dear Pamela: You will definitely find your shower seat very relaxing and well worth the small amount of time it takes to install one.

To begin the transition from plain old shower to meditation area, plan on making the shower seat about 12 to 14 inches deep. This is a comfortable size even for a very tall person. Since the seat will probably be popular with the entire family, a height of 15 inches should be a comfortable compromise for everyone.

A standard rectangular shower is the best shape to install a seat in. The shower should be a minimum of about 52 inches by 36 inches in size. If you decide to install the seat in a smaller shower, you will most likely regret it since your legs will take a beating from bumping into the seat.

It is true that a shower seat, if not installed correctly, can cause leaking into the walls. The key is to make sure no water gets behind the seat. To do this, make sure you slightly slope the top of the seat toward the center of the shower. This will eliminate standing water after you shower.

Using a vinyl membrane can also help create a waterproof barrier. This membrane should cover the shower floor, run up the front of the seat and over the seat. If you do not have a piece of vinyl that is large enough, there are solvents available you can use to glue smaller pieces together.

Once you have the water barrier in place, cover the seat with cement backer board for a tile base. Next, attach the cement board to the seat with a cement mixture. You need to use a cement mixture so you don't break the water barrier membrane with nails.

Since you are also having the bathroom remodeled, you have the choice of building a seat that perfectly matches the ceramic tile floor. Just build and finish the seat with matching ceramic tile.

To build a ceramic tile seat, use standard two-by-four lumber to make the framing. Size it so that it is one inch shorter and narrower than the finished shower seat size. This provides room for the plywood, waterproof membrane, cement board and tile.

Another attractive medium to consider is contrasting color pieces of marble or granite. It is actually easier to build the seat with these materials. They are strong and do not always require support framing. Local marble suppliers may even have odd pieces available to fit your shower.

Now that you have the shower seat ready, you can begin to enjoy all of the additional conveniences it offers. For example, the seat can serve as an extra shelf when needed and even a great footrest for shaving your legs.

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Send your questions to Here's How, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45244 or visit www.dulley.com. To find out more about James Dulley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.