To achieve a flat, flush transition in a curbless shower, you must account for the total thickness of the assembly: the waterproofing membrane, mortar bed, and tile. If the existing subfloor is not lowered (recessed), the finished floor of the shower will be higher than the bathroom floor, defeating the purpose of a barrier-free design. Recessing involves lowering the subfloor joists to create the necessary depth, which often requires a structural engineer’s approval to maintain the integrity of the floor system. If the joists cannot be lowered, some homeowners choose to raise the entire bathroom floor level to match the shower. This avoids cutting into the house frame but complicates other aspects of the bathroom, such as vanity height and doorway clearance. Before proceeding, consult with a qualified contractor to evaluate the home's specific framing. Proper subfloor depth is the most important factor in preventing trip hazards and achieving the clean, modern look associated with curbless showers. Neglecting this step will likely force you to add a ramp or a curb, which you may have been trying to avoid.
Key considerations
- recessed subfloor for curbless shower
- curbless shower subfloor requirements
- barrier free shower floor
- Subfloor
- Joists
- Barrier-Free