Best Shower Pan Reviews in 2022

A shower pan is placed in the framing of a shower enclosure to allow the water to drain away easily. It is made of lead, plastic, fiberglass, or a composite material and prevents water from seeping through the grout and the joints next to the drain. The best shower pan is an extremely important component of any steam room/steam shower and even a regular bathroom with a shower cubicle.

In some areas, shower pans are an absolute necessity if the area’s building code requires it. If you are planning a bathroom remodel, it is important to check the existing shower pan. Many times, the chemicals in hard water can corrode the pan over the years, leading to leaks.

It is a good idea to get your shower pan replaced during the remodeling project. Always check with building code permits to ensure getting the right pan that meets the required ASTM standards of safety and hygiene.

Comparison of 7 Best Shower Pans in 2022

Top 7 Best Shower Pan Reviews in 2022

In this guide, we will discuss in brief, the steps for installing a shower pan. Later, we will talk about 7 of the best shower pans to select for your bathroom remodel projects in 2022. We will also answer some frequently asked questions on the topic.

1. DreamLine SlimLine Shower Base

The single threshold, heavy duty shower base from DreamLine SlimLine is designed to fit standard openings of 2-inches. It comes with integrated tile flanges and has a slip-resistant pattern.

DreamLine SlimLine shower base is made from durable fiberglass, reinforced with acrylic, and also with ABS materials. Durable construction and easy installation make this the best shower pan in the marker.

Dimensions of the shower base are: 34 x 60 x 2 3/4^th inches (D x W x H)

Installation type: direct to studs, preferably by professional.

Also Read: Best Rain Shower Head – Top Chooses to Buy

2. Delta Faucet ProCrylic Shower Base

Delta Faucet ProCrylic is left-drain shower pan with high gloss finish. It is made from sturdy and durable acrylic material with built-in reinforced support. It also has a rough, fiberglass, acrylic backing.

Dimensions: 60 x 30 inches

Installation: Direct to studs

3. Tile Redi USA Redi Base Shower Pan

Tile Redi is one of the best shower pans for tile because of its leak-proof and easy to install design. This shower pan can be customized to match the décor of your bathroom. It features a center drain and has the following dimensions:

Dimensions:  60 x 42 x 3.75 inches (width x depth x threshold height)

Installation: Tile Redi shower base comes with Redi Flashing and Redi Epoxy adhesive to ease the installation process. It also comes with a 2-inch PVC drain and round polished chrome drain plate.

4. Bestbath Shower Pan

BestBath best shower base pan has a durable surface which is also very easy to clean. You can choose from gelcoat and solid surface colors to suit your bathroom decor. To enhance the pan’s durability, it comes with a wood-core and an integral-level supported bottom. This gives the shower base an exceptional strength.

The high-end shower base is made using a 5-layer lamination process. The gelcoat and water-tight seal prevent scratches and leaks, making this shower base truly waterproof. All BestBath products are made in USA.

Dimensions: 30×30 inches with center drain.

Installation: The BestBath shower pan is pre-leveled and ready to install.

Also Read: Best Electric Tankless Water Heater – Reviews for Your Home

5. Lippert Components Shower Pan

Looking for the best affordable shower pan is easy as long as you know your exact requirements. Many people look for shower pans to install in their RVs. The Lippert 210369 is a rectangular shower pan with left-side drain and is made exactly for this purpose.

Its thermoformed ABS plastic composition keeps the shower pan lightweight and reduces your vehicle’s weight by 20-25%. The plastic material used in Lippert’s construction is tougher than fiberglass. Also, the ABS construction ensures viable paint replacement alternative.

Dimensions: This plastic shower pan is rectangular in shape and measures 24x 32 inches.

Installation: It is easy and people have easily installed the Lippert 210369 in their recreational vehicles.

6. ProFlo Shower Pan

PROFLO top-rated best shower pan is slip resistant and ready-to-install in shower cubicle installations. The PFSB3434WH shower pan comes with central drain and is about 5-inches deep. It comes with 3 tiling flanges and has been stringently and rigorously tested to ensure 100% flawless function.

Dimensions: Length 34 1/4^th inch, width 34 1/4^th inch, height from bottom to top lip is 6 inches. depth.

Installation: Alcove.

7. Kohler Purist Shower Base

Kohler shower base consists of enameled cast iron that makes it extremely sturdy, durable, and long-lasting. It has a slip-resistant finish and comes with center drain. Kohler best bath shower pan is scratch, stain, and impact-resistant.

The enameled surface is also easy to clean. The graceful clean lines of the shower base add elegance to any bathroom décor. Its superior slip-resistant technology added to the enameled surface keeps the pan durable and ensures long-lasting performance.

Installation: Being single-threshold design, one can opt for tile-in or drop in installation. It has 3-tile flanges on it and is suitable for recessing into the ground or setting on the top of small curb.

Dimensions: 50.44 x 38.5 x 9.38 inches with central drain.

Also Read: Best Indirect Water Heater – Make Works Easier for You

How to Select Shower Pans

Here are the factors to consider before selecting your shower base or shower pan:

Building Codes

Contact your local building department regarding code permits and restrictions. Secure the necessary code permits. Most code permits require access to water outside the shower as well as acceptable door positions and operation. These factors will determine the size and shape of your shower base.

Tiles

You may want to choose your tile first before finalizing the design. Some bases need full tiles. You can consider using small tiles and graduate from top to bottom in sweep across the walls. Alternatively, you can use trim tile and listels. In any case, use water resistant grout to make your tiles last longer.

Materials

These days, shower bases and pans come in a variety of materials. The common materials are lightweight ABS plastic, ceramic, enameled cast iron, and fiberglass. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and copper safety pans are also available. The material will decide the durability and also the price of your shower pan.

Ease of Installation

Most shower pan installations need an experienced plumber. There are different types of installation such as drop in, tile in, or direct-to-studs installation. The installation is also based on the position of the drain.

Steps to Install a Shower Pan

Know the Difference Between Shower Pan and Shower Base

Shower pans are made from pliable materials that are completely hidden from view once the shower is complete. Please understand the difference between shower pans and shower bases. Shower bases are more like receptors and they are not pans.

The pan may be made from copper, metal, or layers of acrylic, asphalt, and laminated with molten tar. Modern shower pans are made with plastic materials like PVC or poly vinyl chloride. In the review section below, we have included both-pan and bases.

Select the Right Gauge

Shower pans made from PVC are made in different gauges: 20,30, 40 mils etc. We recommend using the 40-mil material as that is the one most building permits and codes also recommend. High-quality PVC shower pan in 40-mil gauge has a lesser chance of failing and developing leaks.

Construct the Pre-Slope

The slope is very important and if it is not constructed properly, you might have pools of water in the shower. Use Portland cement and clean sand to construct the pre-slope. Add water and mix the two ingredients to make the right bonding cement consistency. If needed, seek professional help.

For a thickness of 2-inch shower floor, and assuming your area of flooring is 4 x 3 feet, you need at least 2 cubic feet of shower floor material. What you are looking for here is smooth and uniform slope from walls to the drain flange.

It is important not to have any depressions along the way that would invite pools of water in the installed best shower pan. If depressions do form, you may want to pack in a little more mud and then smooth it off. Use a flat trowel to smooth the surface once you are satisfied with the pre slope.

Pan Liner Installation

You can draw lines on the pan and measure it to ensure using the right amount of material to cover the shower floor. Make sure you have a height of at least 2-inches over the top of the rough curb. This equates to about 6-inches of material going up the walls and all the way around.

Again, assuming the shower cubicle is 3 x4 feet, adding 6-inches for walls, you will need piece of material 4 ft x 5 ft. On the curb-side, you will need about 6-8 inches material to handle the shower curtain or the shower door.

Fold the material edges inward and place it in the shower. As you start unfolding, you can center the liner and measuring the distance it travels up the walls. You can use nails or staples to hold down the material. These days, shower pan manufacturers apply some glue to hold the material down. Glue the dam corners in place with vinyl pan liner cement.

Caulk

Carefully cut the liner material over the drain and bolt holes. Place a bead of caulking material around the perimeter of bottom flange. Observe the weep holes and make sure they are not clogged with caulking. If they are, wipe them dry. It is crucial that the holes remain clear.

Add the Mortar Bed

After you have successfully installed the shower pan liner, you can close the walls with tiles, and add in a moisture barrier. Make sure that the moisture barrier is placed in such a way that it laps into the shower pan liner. This will ensure proper moisture seepage through the pan. Next, install 2” mortar bed.

Finish the Installation

Complete the installation by allowing the mortar to cure. You can now add insulation material between wall and ceiling frame. It is important to get the above steps right the first time itself. Any mistake can lead to structural damage, mold, water infiltration, and other issues.

Also Read: Best Under Sink Water Filter  – Helping You Get Better Results

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How Long Does a Shower Pan Last?

A: Generally, the durability of the shower pan depends on the quality of the product you buy. In addition to this, it depends on how well you maintain it. Ideally, the best shower pan should last for around ten years. If you maintain and use it well, it will last for more than that. Hence, if you are looking to use a shower pan for a long time, it is vital to regularly maintain it by applying oil to the needed parts.

Q: Are All Shower Pans Safe?

A: Yes, all shower pans are safe. However, they don’t all provide the exact safety level. One of the parameters for a shower pan safety is, it mustn’t flex much. Also, it should have proper leveling. It is also needed that the shower pan’s surface is non-slippery to prevent accidents. With these features, you can be sure your shower pan is safe for use.

Q: What Goes Under the Shower Pan?

A: Before you place the shower pan on the subfloor, make sure to use some sort of waterproofing material. A very cheap and available option is a plastic shower curtain. Place it between the subfloor and the shower pan, and then start caulking. Apply caulk around the drain and seal the places between the wall and the shower pan. Using a bed of mortar under your shower pan is also recommended.

Q: How Long Does a Shower Pan Take to Dry?

A: 24 to 72 hours, depending on what sort of shower pan it is. You can generally let it dry overnight, from 16 to 24 hours. In some cases, it might be prudent to wait 2-3 days. It usually shouldn’t take any longer.

Q: Can You Put Tile on a Shower Pan?

A: Yes, you can. But only on existing tiled shower pans. If there were already tiles on the shower pan and they’re primarily undamaged, you can lay a layer of new tiles on it for aesthetic and functional purposes. It helps to create a stable and safe surface to stand on.

Q: What is the Difference Between Shower Base and Shower Pan?

A: Shower pans and shower bases are terms that are often used interchangeably. They mostly mean the same thing though subtle differences exist between the two. A shower base is what goes beneath the shower.

It is typically made of cement. A shower pan can be made of any materials like acrylic, ceramic, ABS plastic, metal, fiberglass etc. It is mandatory in some areas and helps prevents leaks and water damage to adjacent floor and tiles.

Q: What is the Standard Size in Shower Pans?

A: Some standard size acrylic shower pans come in the following shapes and sizes: the triangle is 48 ” across, the square is 36 ” and the rectangle 60 “.

Q: What is the Best Material in Shower Pans?

A: Fiberglass, enameled metal, and terrazzo are some great material choices in shower pans. Copper and lead shower pans last longer and are scratch resistant as well. Tile shower pans have a beautiful finish. Acrylic and ABS plastic hold well against water and are also lightweight.

Conclusion

The best shower pan in a shower compartment is a waterproof pan with the sides above the finish floor level, having the floor drain located within. High-quality shower pans can prevent leaks and are especially needed in steam rooms, saunas, and shower cubicles where there is greater risk of water seepage and leaks. They protect the bathroom tiles from damage caused by moisture.

Shower pans are available in a wide variety of materials. You can choose from fiberglass, cast polymer, ceramic, ABS, acrylic, and even metal enameled pans. We recommend the DreamLineSlimLine shower base which is made from durable fiberglass. It is sturdy, fairly easy to install, and has a slip-resistant finish. Do check out other recommendations as well.