Shower Niches Done Right: Function, Waterproofing, and Finish

Why Shower Niches Fail (When They're Rushed)

A poorly built niche might look fine at first, but behind the tile, it’s often hiding:

Gaps in waterproofing

Improper slope that causes pooling

Framing that's out of square

Grout lines that don’t line up

Cracking at corners from movement or water intrusion

We’ve been called in to fix these—and it always starts with tearing everything back out.

Here’s How We Build Niches the Right Way

1. Framing and Layout

We frame the niche into the studs so it’s solid and perfectly square. We plan the location so it falls cleanly into the tile layout—no awkward cuts or skinny edge pieces.

2. Slope the Bottom

We slope the shelf slightly forward so water doesn’t pool. This is a key detail many people skip, but it makes all the difference in keeping mold and mildew away.

3. Waterproof Everything

We fully wrap and seal the niche using liquid waterproofing membrane (like LATICRETE Hydro Ban). Every seam, every corner, and around the edges. We let it cure and test it before tile goes anywhere near it.

4. Tile With Precision

We center the niche in the wall, line up grout joints, and trim it out clean—whether that’s with bullnose tile, Schluter edging, or mitered corners. The end result is seamless and sharp.

5. Use Materials That Last

We never use drywall or green board behind tile. Cement board or foam board, waterproofing, and quality thinset are our standard. No shortcuts.

Function That Looks Good, Too

Your shower niche isn’t just for holding soap—it’s a focal point. We build them to be:

The right height and width for your products

Easy to clean and maintain

Aligned with your overall tile design

Built to last as long as the shower itself

Thinking about a bathroom upgrade? Let’s build you a shower that works—and looks great—from the inside out.

📞 Call or text us at 858-800-4843

📩 Or just reply to this email to get started.