Best Shower Pan Base Reviews

10 Best Shower Pan / Base Reviews with Buying Guide in 2021

These days the market is riddled with products that look so appealing that you can’t help buy them. If you don’t stop and think before buying a shower pan, then you might end up with a faulty drain or a flooded bathroom. Not to mention, almost all of us have slipped and fell inside the shower and injured ourselves.

As most customers tend to complain about these issues, we have based our research on eliminating them. After experimenting with various brand products, we have poured in all the info in this list of best shower pan reviews. We have also provided a detailed buying guide with all their defining features in this article.

Top 5 Best Shower Pan Comparison in 2021

Top Rated 10 Best Shower Pan Reviews


With all the numerous options available on the market, it can be pretty challenging to pick a model that suits you best. Thus, we have picked shower pans with the most convenient features for you to choose from.

1. Swiss Madison SM-SB516 Voltaire 48×32 Shower Base

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No products found.

There is a wide range of shower pans on the market with some remarkable features but not all of them are easy to access. Hence, as the first product on this list, we have picked this model that’s considered one of the best walk-in shower bases in the modern market.

That’s not the only thing it’s renowned for. This exclusive shower pan comes with an integral 3 sided flange that effectively prevents leakage. Now you can take an hour-long, inspirational shower without flooding your entire bathroom. Plus, you won’t have to mop the floors each time you take a bath.

Slippery floors can also be a major problem when you’re taking a shower. The manufacturers of this shower pan addressed this issue and added a textured layer to the floor surface. We observed that no matter how long you’re in the shower, your feet can safely grip the floor.

Besides that, the shower base is painted with high gloss acrylic, which makes it a sight to admire. The beautiful design is toughened by a layer of reinforced fiberglass as well. This superior quality material not only makes the shower pan durable but also protects it from rusting.

It will offer you long-lasting service without having to replace the components any time soon. This efficient shower floor pan is equipped with a center drain, so, make sure it matches the alcove’s drainage system.

Pros

Easy to access

3 sided flange

Non-slip floor

High gloss acrylic color

Reinforced fiberglass layer

Cons

Sloped shaped might reduce the walking space

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2. Tile Redi USA RT3060L-PVC-SQBN Trench Shower Pan

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No products found.

It can be pretty irritating to not be able to buy a shower pan just because it doesn’t match the color of your bathroom tiles. You may come across this dilemma more often than not. That’s why it’s wise to buy a tileable shower pan like this one.

This feature will allow you to customize the outlook of the shower pan to match your bathroom’s décor. However, the shower pan is available in multiple finishes. You will be able to choose between brushed nickel, polished chrome, and tileable grate finishes.

The manufacturer has tested this shower pan thoroughly to make sure it’s completely leak-proof. This heavy-duty shower pan is pre-pitched and consists of integrated curbs on three sides. You will no longer have to worry about broken drains anymore either.

This shower floor pan also comes with stainless steel drain grates that prevent the waste from clogging up the drainage system. They are also rusting and corrosion-resistant. So, you won’t need to replace them anytime soon. The shower pan is made of polyurethane, which highly contributes to its durability.

On top of that, these shower pans are also available in different styles and sizes. You’re sure to find a favorite if you browse through the range of choices. Now you can either buy a center round drain plate (with or without flashing) or a center square tileable grate. The choice is entirely yours.

Pros

Made of polyurethane

Customizable to fit décor

Leak proof

Available in several finishes

Different styles and sizes

Cons

Relatively pricey

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3. PROFLO PFSB3232WH 32″ x 32″ Single Curb Slip Resistant Shower Pan

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No products found.

If you’ve ever slipped and fallen in the shower then you know the hazards of stepping on a soapy shower pan. Thus, we have chosen this product, which comes with a slip-resistant surface. It offers you a safe and sound shower experience without ever clogging up the drain.

Another great thing about this bathroom shower base is how easy it is to install it in your bathroom. Even the most inexperienced family man can install this pan and revamp the look and feel of your bathroom. Its light weight makes it even easier to carry around during the installation process.

This single curb shower pan measures 32×32 inches. So, it’s suitable for a small to medium-sized alcove. As this is a center-round drain, you need to make sure you install it right over the drainpipe at the center. This is also one of the most durable shower pans on the market.

The reasonably priced shower pan is made of a premium quality composite material. This heavy-duty shower base will easily last for years without wearing out or losing its efficiency. Moreover, as this shower pan comes in white, it can easily blend in no matter what type of tiles you own.

You might also be glad to know that each of this company’s products goes through rigorous testing procedures. The manufacturers do this to make sure you get the best and easy to install shower pans.

Pros

Slip resistant surface

Made of premium composite material

Easy to install

Available in white

Goes through multiple tests

Cons

Not many sizes available

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4. DreamLine SlimLine Center Drain Single Threshold Shower Base

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No products found.

Coming in at number 4 is a single threshold shower base that comes in multiple sizes, which makes it suitable for all types of bathrooms. There are up to 16 sizes available for this unit. Hardly any other shower will give you these many options. It’s perfect for installing in a 3-wall alcove.

Unlike most shower pans, this model is made of 3 layers of high-quality material. This makes it one of the durable shower pans on the market. The initial layer of PVC is covered by a fiberglass layer that makes the shower stronger. On top of that is an acrylic layer that can easily resist stains and scratches.

Due to this feature, it becomes incredibly easy to maintain this shower pan. As the main part of the unit is made of a fiberglass material, the model tends to be more flexible and lightweight. This allows you to carry and install the shower base easily without even breaking a sweat.

Most DIY enthusiasts among you will call this an exceptional catch! Moreover, the acrylic layer’s texture offers a better grip, which can prevent unwanted accidents in the shower, especially during a soapy shower session. This is also one of the reasons why it is so easy to clean.

Besides that, you won’t be facing any drainage troubles while using this shower pan. You can either choose to install a center drain or left or right drain, based on the style of your bathroom.

Pros

Available in 16 sizes

Lightweight

Textured acrylic surface

3-layered construction

Scratch and stain-resistant

Cons

Drainage systems need some tweaks

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5. KOHLER K-8659-0 60″ x 42″ Rely Single Threshold Shower Base

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No products found.

This product on this list comes from the manufacturers of some of the best bathroom equipment on the market. From shower bases to sinks, they have a wide range of products that have pleased customers for decades. If you’re looking for a reliable and branded shower base, this is your best choice.

To your relief, this shower stall base comes with a clever solution to prevent leakage in the bathroom. The single threshold design is incorporated with water containment beads that trap the water inside. With this shower base in your bathroom, you will never have to worry about a watery bathroom floor.

This feature effectively reduces the safety hazards you face on a daily basis. Apart from that, the floor is also textured enough to create a slip-resistant surface. Tripping and falling inside your bathroom will become a thing of the past! This is also one of the most durable shower bases out there.

The main material used in its construction is cast iron, which consists of two different layers – heavy-duty iron core and enamel. We have tested this product in multiple ways to make sure it lives up to its promises, and surprisingly it does! Not only is it tough and strong but also very easy to install.

You will also find no lack of choices when it comes to picking a color or design. It’s available in classic colors such as almond, white, and biscuit, which fit in with the aesthetics of your bathroom.

Pros

Water containment beads

Made of cast iron

Textured enamel surface

Widely recommended brand

Available in white, biscuit and almond

Cons

Shower base is pretty heavy

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6. WOODBRIDGE SBR4832-1000 C Solid Surface Shower Base

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If you’re looking for a damage-resistant shower base that will last for several years to come, then I’m glad to tell you that your search is over. This highly rated shower base pan can resist rusting like no other! There are two main reasons for this perk.

The first is the non-porous material that eliminates excessive water leakage. This material prevents overflow and significantly reduces the chances of slipping. They have also included a stainless steel cover on top to make it more resistant to rusting. Stainless steel makes the shower base sturdy as well.

It can often be irritating to clean a shower base due to mold and mildew accumulation. Most manufacturers don’t tackle this issue that well. Thankfully, this particular brand has solved that issue. Less mold and mildew means cleaning the shower base is fast and easy.

What really amazed me was they included an extra PVC drain in the package. This saves you the cost and hassle of replacing the drain the first time. If you want to cut back on maintenance costs, it might be a highly beneficial feature to have. Furthermore, this solid shower base offers 3 sided tiling.

It’s good for efficient water retention. They have also implemented a slip-resistant design in its construction. Now you can sing and dance your shower without a care in the world!

Pros

Made of a non-porous material

Stainless steel removable cover

No mold or mildew

Extra PVC drain

Excellent water retention

Cons

Moderately expensive

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7. DreamLine SlimLine DLT-2036360 36 in. Corner Drain Neo-Angle Shower Base

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No products found.

This shower pan is a must-have of your restroom consists of a 2 walled alcove. It’s called a neo angle shower base because it’s installed at the corner of the alcove. The model is most suitable for small bathrooms. Due to its universal color, it can easily fit in with the color of the walls.

The best thing about this shower base is that it doesn’t boast a sleek design but also a highly durable construction. It consists of a mixture of fiberglass and acrylic, which boost its endurance. The fiberglass reinforcement helps it resist rusting and corrosion, and also keeps the water in.

A watery floor can be a safety hazard every now and then. Fortunately, you won’t have to worry about that anymore. On top of that, the non-porous acrylic layer keeps the floor from flooding. It also enhances the outlook of the shower base, which stays lively even after several uses.

Due to the strong construction of the base, there are fewer chances of flexing during installation. Although this shower pan installs directly on the studs, it’s recommended to use a professional’s help. The process can be a bit complicated. It’s wise to install this unit when you’re renovating your bathroom.

Those who are bothered by continuously cleaning their shower base can finally let out a sigh of relief. Maintaining the neo-angle shower pan is an absolute breeze.

Pros

Suitable for cornered walls

Sleek design

Durable construction

Non-porous acrylic layer

Easy maintenance

Cons

Needs to be installed by a professional

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8. Bestbath 30×30 Shower Base – Shower Kit with Center Drain

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No products found.

At number 8 we have a high-functioning shower kit that is designed by one of the most reliable manufacturers of shower bases. They have been in the business since 1969, which is enough proof of their reliability. Over the years, they have modified their products to cater to each of their customer’s needs.

This 30×30 shower base is entirely made in the US. It’s widely recommended by professionals for its excellent water retention and easy installation. They have added a watertight seal that allows you to shower safely regardless of the conditions. Moreover, the seamless design will surely catch your eye.

Shower bases are often prone to stains and scratches in the long run. But no matter how many showers you take, stains and scratches won’t settle permanently on this shower pan. This is mainly because of the highly resistant gel coat layer. The composite shower base model can withstand heavy-duty usage like a boss!

As if that wasn’t enough, they even added a slip-resistant surface that helps retain your footing when the floor gets soapy. The floor is textured to perfection. This shower kit also comes with an adhesive gel and shower drain. Customers have rarely reported any problems with the drainage system.

Furthermore, this unit doesn’t require any mud setting during installation. It will take you less than a day to install, which can help you cut back on the labor expenses.

Pros

Making shower bases since 1969

Highly resistant gel coating

Stain and scratch proof

Shower drain and adhesive included

No need for mud setting

Cons

Not many sizes available

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9. Tile Redi USA – Base’N Bench P3648C-RB36-KIT Tileable Shower Pan & Seat

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No products found.

This is another tileable shower base that comes with its own installation kit. If you are the handyman of your household and like to tinker with bathroom attachments, you make good use of this feature. Even with minimal knowledge, you can fit this shower pan by following their instruction manual.

What really sets it apart from regular models is the convenient seat that comes with it. Now you can shower more comfortable while sitting on the integrated bench. Besides that, the manufacturers put the unit through several rigorous tests to make sure the design is entirely leak-proof.

It barely leaves any mess to clean up afterward. The shower pan is also pre-pitched to fit the dimensions of your alcove. An integrated curb makes it look more appealing and also increases its durability. I really loved the fact that the shower base comes in a handful of colors to choose from.

You can either choose between brushed nickel, oil rubbed bronze, or polished chrome based on your bathroom’s décor. It also makes it easier to install any tiles of your preference. This unmatched level of customization will surely come in handy if you want the shower base to match the walls.

You can modify the shower pan even further by changing the style of the drain or the finishing option. They have also included a 2 inch PVC shower drain.

Pros

Suitable for DIY enthusiasts

Integrated bench

Leak proof

3 different colors

Pre-pitched with an integrated curb

Cons

Takes longer than a day to install

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10. Swanstone FR03260RM.037 Veritek Right Hand Drain Shower Base

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No products found.

In order to install a new shower base in your bathtub you often need to tear apart the entire bathroom. This multiplies the workload and makes installation more complicated. Hence, as the last product on this list, we have decided to add this retrofit shower base with smart dimensions.

The retrofit design allows you to easily fit the shower base inside your existing bathtub with ease. Moreover, due to its large dimensions (60×32), it’s mostly suitable for spacious bathrooms. Even though it has a minimalistic outlook, it doesn’t stand out like an eyesore.

Instead, its off-white color makes it look more appealing. Dirt and grime will hardly settle on its surface. It’s pretty hard to notice the mess, and it’s also easy to clean. This efficient shower pan comes with an integral tile flange that makes installation simpler for amateurs.

You will rarely find any mold or mildew collection in the shower base. So, you barely have to do anything to maintain it. When it comes to durability, this American-made shower pan shows incredible results. It’s made of the best compression-molded materials that protect from premature wear.

This non-porous material also keeps the bathroom from overflowing every time. It’s also equipped with a right-hand drain that is molded in to allow the waste to flow through seamlessly.

Pros

Retrofit shower pan

Suitable for large bathrooms

Attractive design

Made of compression-molded materials

Integral tile flange

Cons

Comparatively expensive

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What Features to Look For Before Buying The Best Shower Pan / Base?


Getting the right shower pan can get challenging. To ensure that you are getting the right product, it is important to know the key factors. Upon knowing about the main elements before purchasing, it will help you to get the item that is going to be worth your money.

There might be a lot of questions running through your head before purchasing. Isn’t it a pain getting lost in your thoughts about what material to get or not? What would be the best type of shower base for your bathroom?

Queries as such may cause you a lot of worries. Worry no more as we will help you with a perfect guide to ensure you with all the knowledge to get the right product.

Shower Pan Style

You can choose your shower pan according to the style you want or depending on how much space you want it to cover. There are mainly three types of shower pans. These types include square-shaped, rectangular, and cornered shower pans.

Along with fitting bi-folding doors, the square-shaped shower bases can fit a lot of door styles and is very versatile. The rectangular type will give your more comfort as it tends to offer more space for you to shower on. And the cornered shower base is the best combination for providing you with space, comfort, and a great outlook.

Size

While remodeling your shower room, make sure you know how much space you want your shower pan to have. Depending on your preference, choose the style that suits your taste the best. You can get them custom-made by providing the dimensions beforehand.

If you don’t have the dimensions figured out beforehand, then the type and material that should be used to make your base might not be suitable for your bathroom; hence will create a mess.

Material & Composites

Different shower pans consist of various composites and are made up of different materials.  The most common materials include plastic, composite and ceramic. A lot of shower bases also offer an acrylic coating. This ensures the finish to be durable and quality to be maintained for a long time.

Cement, wood, and concrete are less common. Although, you can still choose among them as they are customizable and can be design-friendly. However, it is suggested to use the other types as they tend to give off a greater outlook and result.

Ceramic Shower Pans

With the mixture of natural clay with water and sometimes along with other organic materials, ceramics are formed. It is often hardened and glazed with the help of heat to give it a shape along with a more decorated look. This material is scratch-resistant, however; it can be slippery due to its smooth surface.

Shower pans made up of ceramic can be easier to clean and will give you a scratch-free result. The drawback can be the fact that it is expensive. Also, upon hard impacts, it can result in chipping.

Composite Shower pans

Fiberglass and resin are popular composites used for shower bases. Reinforced acrylic of a different type is known as fiberglass. Rotomoulded polymer and polyester resin are types of resins. While Rotomoulded polymers tend to have a texture that is pleasant, polyester resin has a higher resistance.

The benefits of using Resins are that they can last for a long time, and they are easy to clean up. Furthermore, they have high resistance to chipping and scratching. However, they require daily clean-up and might not be budget-friendly.

On the other hand, fiberglass is affordable, is easier to install, and can be lightweight. The damages can also be repaired easily. And the drawback is the fact that it is brittle and might crack easily due to being porous and water absorbent.

Plastic Shower Pans

Shower pans made up of plastic tends to be of low maintenance. They are also great with hotter temperatures as they have high heat resistance. Furthermore, plastic pans are cost-effective when compared to rest.

Also, they have a lot of coloring options; hence you can choose a color according to your taste. However, the disadvantage of using plastic shower pans is that they are not easy to customize besides the color.

Who Will Be Using the Shower Pan?

You might think this is a silly factor to talk about. However, once you install it and start using it you might face this problem. It is important for you to ensure that will be using the shower pan and install one accordingly. Age can be an important factor that will determine the barrier or height of your shower base.

If you have elderly people living with you who will be using the pan, then it is better to get one that is barrier-free. In addition, if you have family members who are heavy or have high weight, then it is better to get shower pans made up of fiberglass.

To be the safest, using a stone shower pan will be a better option as it tends to be as solid as a rock. If you have children who will be using the shower pan and are mischievous, then it’s better to get a durable solid shower base.

Cleaning up

If you have a lot of members who will be using the shower but nobody actually willing to clean up, then it can be a problem. It can be a chore that most of the family members, including you, wouldn’t like to do. In that case, it will be best if you get shower pans made up of acrylic or marble bases.



Frequently Asked Questions


Why You Need a High-Quality Shower Pan

A shower pan is a crucial attachment for your bathroom floor that is mainly there to prevent water from seeping into the floor. Without a shower pan, the leakage could get out of hand and reach the room underneath. A high-quality shower pan gives you a waterproof surface to lay tiles on (if you want to).

The materials must be of premium quality to ensure high durability in the long run. Some shower pans are made of multiple layers to increase their strength. An upper coat is often added to maintain a non-slip surface. The quality of the materials can also tell you how long the shower pan can last without wearing it.

What is the difference between a shower pan and a shower base?

Even though a shower pan and a shower base both help the water channel into the drain, the main difference is that the pan is the floor you step on, and the base refers to the structure under the shower.

Is a shower base better than tiles?

The structure of the shower base may give out or crack holes over time. Having a tiled shower pan will rather help you to eliminate the issue and the need to install a base under it. The tiled shower will also require less maintenance and cleanup.

Do I need mortar under shower pan?

It is better and recommended to have a bed of mortar so that your shower base can properly sit on and give off the best outcome.

How long do shower pans last?

Shower pans usually tend to last up to 10 or more years if any extra damage is not done. Even if a lot of damage is done or needs a replacement, you can do so by changing the pan.

Do you need a shower pan for a tile shower?

It is vital to install to shower pan if you want your shower to be tiled because the shower pan gives a waterproof surface for the tile to sit on. This is still important if you don’t want to tile the shower as it helps protect your floor and subfloor.

Why do shower pans fail?

Even though shower pans are built in a way to last for a long time, they may still fail to serve the purpose. If your shower pan is not installed properly or if you have used the same pan for a long time, it may end up failing.

How do I fix my shower pan from flexing?

Not having a mortar bed may cause your shower pan to flex. In that case, you can add the plastic shims to help support the ribs below it. However, it can be hard to do so once the pan is already installed.

You can also choose to install a flexible drain fitting in the drainpipe beneath your shower. It will ensure the pan to not flex as it works as a sort of rubber shock absorber. If not these two options, then you can just choose to remove the old pan and replace it with a new shower pan along with a mortar bed.

Can you use spray foam under a shower pan?

You can use it but in a small amount as it may spread and exert pressure causing your shower pan to crack.

What is the best material for shower pan?

The best material for shower pans includes tile, molded stone, acrylic, and fiberglass shower pans. These are the best kinds as they are durable and will give off a perfect surface to shower on. You can also choose sizes and colors according to your preference.

How to measure shower pan sizes?

Firstly, calculate the outer edges of your shower pan using measuring tape. You must measure from one outside edge to the other, Not from the inside edge of the pan. Repeat along the other edges and sides. Then measure the depth of the shower pan and record the measurements.

What are standard shower pan sizes?

The standard shower pan sizes can range from 32 by 32 inches to 60 by 42 inches.

Final Verdict


It’s pretty hard to choose a favorite with so many remarkable products in the best shower pan reviews we listed today. But if I have to compare and contrast between the models, my best pick would be the KOHLER K-8659-0 shower pan.

Not only do its water containment beads stop leakage, but they have also incorporated a 2 layered construction. It’s durable, long-lasting, and safe to use. However, that doesn’t mean that the rest of the products are any less efficient.

Each of the shower bases we reviewed today is suitable for a certain type of bathroom, and by now, I bet you have a bias of your own! So what are you waiting for?

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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