This article talks about where to place a bench on a shower. Shower benches are a functional and convenient addition to your shower. However, you need to carefully plan where to place it. There are many things that you need to consider when adding a bench into your shower and this includes space and use. We will discuss the best place to install a bench in your shower as well as the different factors that you need to consider.
Where should the bench be placed in a shower? The placement of the bench in your shower will mostly depend on your preferences and its purpose. Experts recommend that the bench should be near the shower control because it makes shaving and rinsing off easier. The benches should also measure 17 to 19 inches from the shower floor.
The shower bench will keep toiletries at easy reach and will also provide a footrest when shaving. Where should you place a shower bench? How much weight can a shower bench hold? What are the different kinds of shower benches? We will discuss these questions and more. If you are planning to add a bench in your shower, you can check out the rest of this article for useful tips and information.
Where to Place Shower Bench?
You need to place the shower bench depending on its purpose. If it is used for balance and mobility, the bench should face the shower head but not that close so that the streaming water will not hit the person on their face when they are sitting. On the other hand, if the shower bench is used for relaxation, it can be placed almost anywhere within the shower. When installing on into the shower wall, it should be properly attached to the studs in the walls. Other than that, it can be placed anywhere where the user finds it convenient and comfortable to use. Most would choose to install the bench at the back of the shower and away from the showerhead
How High Should a Shower Bench Seat Be?
Shower benches are usually 17 to 19 inches tall from the shower floor. You can always choose to customize the height and other dimensions of the bench according to your height. When determining the height of the shower bench, you also need to consider the distance from the shower control. The bench should be within the reach of the shower control. This way, you do not need to stand and walk a few steps to adjust the shower.
What is the Purpose of a Bench in a Shower?
The shower bench serves many purposes which include safety, convenience, storage, function, and design. The bench can provide safety for older people who are using the shower. It can also serve as a footstool to be used for shaving and washing. Moreover, a shower bench can be used as storage for shower essentials. They are an excellent addition to showers. There are design options for showers that are small or with limited space. Below are some of the uses of a shower bench.
- Offers a comfortable and safe place to sit for the elderly, and those with strength, balance, and endurance issues.
- Used as a footstool to wash feet and for shaving legs.
- Used as storage for shower essentials like soap bottles, shampoo, and conditioner.
You can also check out this article that we have written titled, why have a bench or a seat in the shower? We have shared the different purposes and uses of a shower bench or seat.
Shower Dimensions with Bench
According to the International Residential Code, showers should at least be 900 square inches or 30 inches by 30 inches. If you plan to add a built-in shower bench, see to it that you can put a disc that measures 30 inches in diameter to the floor so that it can pass the code inspections. Simply put, the shower should be larger so that it can be able to accommodate a built-in bench.
According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association, the minimum measurement for interior shower quarters should be 36 inches by 36 inches. The dimensions should be larger if the shower is designed for easy access to those with special needs. The custom shower bench should not hinder the shower floor space that is meant for the shower. Moreover, the shower seat should be 17 inches to 19 inches tall with 15 inches depth. It is considered the standard size.
Different Styles of Shower Bench
There is a wide array of shower bench styles that you can choose from which includes a built-in bench, floating shower bench, built-in corner seat, and unique built-in shower benches. You can also find square, corner, and rectangular bench seats. Bathrooms that are larger and more elaborate can have a customized shower bench that will suit the overall style of the bathroom. Make sure that you carefully choose the style of the bench according to the design of your bathroom, the available space, and its function. Learn more about the different styles of shower benches below.
Built-In Bench
If your shower is spacious, you can install a built-in bench that runs along the length of any side of the shower wall. It can even be designed to wrap around. En-suites, double showers, and steam showers can be installed with a longer bench because it offers more kicking back space. Regardless of the design layout of your shower, you can plan different ways to incorporate a built-in shower. On the other hand, small showers can have a built-in bench with a shallow depth and a footrest. Another option includes adding the bench as a window seat into the wall. The more space that a shower has, the more you can play around with different styles and designs of built-in benches.
Built-In Corner Seat
Another style option that you can have is the built-in corner seat. These styles are popular for small showers because of the versatility that they provide. Small and narrow showers should opt for a bench with special features that highlight the design of the shower. More than being just a shower bench, it can also serve as a place to keep or display toiletries and other shower essentials. You can also use the bench to prop your legs when washing and shaving.
Floating Benches
While floating benches are not technically considered built-in shower seat, it is a good option for seating in your shower area. It is proven useful for showers that have limited space and those that cannot be installed with a built-in shower bench for the floor up. The good thing about floating benches is that they can be customized for long and corner benches. They are usually installed as single slabs or stone which seems to be floating. Take note that floating benches should be installed by a professional. This is because the weight of the bench and the average weight of the individual should be properly supported and will require professional skills for proper construction.
✅ Video – How to Install Floating Benches
Federal Brace shared the video below on YouTube. It demonstrates how to install a floating bench that has a weight capacity of 500 pounds. You can watch the video below for more tips and ideas about floating shower benches.
Unique Built-In Shower Seating
You can also choose built-in shower benches with unique designs. There are different designs that you can have for your shower area. The more unique the design, the more you will be able to enjoy using the bench as your investment. If you have a design in mind that you want to have, you can get in touch with a professional. The sky is always the limit when it comes to shower bench designs. On the other hand, make sure that you meet the code requirements for shower benches.
Can You Add a Bench to a Shower?
You can add a bench to a shower. If you have the skills and equipment, you can even try to make your shower bench from scratch. You can choose various materials like wood, tiles, stone, marble, and many more. Wood is easy to work with and also easier to install into your bathroom. You do not even need to attach to the shower walls. On the other hand, you can always get in touch with a professional for sturdy and quality work. Are you planning to add a bench to your walk-in shower? Check out this article that we have written titled, how big should a shower be to have a bench? We have shared the different sizes of showers that you can consider.
How Much Weight Can a Shower Bench Hold?
A shower bench can hold between 200 pounds to 500 pounds depending on the model that you choose. You can choose from the wide array of styles and features that are available on the market. However, you can also install a shower bench from scratch so that it can hold the weight that you have specified. Take note that when it comes to choosing a shower bench, the weight capacity should be considered. You can also check out this article that we have shared titled, is it ok to be sitting down in the shower? We have shared tips and information about the shower benches, seats, chairs, and stools that are used for taking a shower while sitting.
Is Bamboo Good for a Shower Bench?
Bamboo is a good material for a shower bench. It is a popular option because it has excellent water resistance. Moreover, bamboo is also eco-friendly and durable. You find s wide array of bamboo shower benches sold on the market.
Conclusion
You have reached the end of this article that discusses where a bench should be placed in a shower. Shower benches should be placed according to their purpose. The bench has many uses but it is elderly and those with disabilities that are using them the most. Knowing where to properly place the bench provides a more comfortable and convenient shower experience. You can choose from a wide array of shower benches sold on the market. Thank you for reading!