Adding a niche to your shower is a fantastic way to create additional storage and add a touch of style. Whether you are renovating your own home or working on a commercial project, tiling a shower niche can be a rewarding project. In this guide, we'll go through the process, highlighting the best techniques, including how to tile a shower niche with metal trim, where to place a shower niche and how to install a shelf.

What is a shower niche

A shower niche is a recessed shelf built into the wall of a shower. It's designed to provide storage for bath products like shampoo, soap, and other toiletries, keeping them neatly organised and within easy reach. Unlike traditional shower caddies or shelves that protrude into the shower space, a niche is integrated into the wall, giving the shower a cleaner and more streamlined appearance.

Shower niches are popular because they are both functional and aesthetic. They can be customised in terms of size, shape, and design to match the overall look of the bathroom.

Prefabricated shower niches such as the Schluter KERDI-BOARD-SN Shower Niche save time and money as it is fully sealed, quick to install, and integrated with KERDI and KERDI-BOARD shower assemblies. 

A consideration to make is where to place a shower niche so it is in a practical place for product storage and so it looks good in your shower. 

Bathroom fittings and accessories to tile a niche in a shower:

• Tiles (preferably water-resistant for the shower)

• Tile Trim

• Tile Adhesive 

• Notched Trowel

• Tile Spacers

• Tile Cutter

• Spirit Level

• Grout

• Grout Float

For all things tiling including tile adhesive, trowels, tile spacers, tile grout and more, we recommend Pro Tiler Tools.

Step 1: Plan Your Niche Layout

Before you start tiling, it's essential to plan your niche layout and think about where to place a shower niche so it is in a practical place for product storage and so it looks the part in your shower design. Consider the size of the tiles, the placement of the metal trim, or whether you'll be adding a shelf too. 

Pro Tip: Use larger tiles for a clean look, to reduce grouting and avoid cutting small slivers of tile at the edges. Measure carefully to ensure that your tiles fit evenly within the niche.

Step 2: Prepare the Niche

Make sure your niche is fully waterproofed before you start tiling. The best way to tile a shower niche is on a solid, dry, and level surface. If the niche isn’t waterproofed, you risk damaging your tiles and the wall behind them.

Step 3: Apply Tile Adhesive

Using a notched trowel, spread tile adhesive onto the back of the niche. Apply it evenly to ensure a strong bond. Work in small sections, starting with the back wall of the niche.

Step 4: Begin Tiling

Start by tiling the back of the niche. Use tile spacers to maintain even grout lines, and cut tiles to fit using a tile cutter. For all things tiling tools and materials, we recommend Pro Tiler Tools. After the back wall, move on to the sides and top, leaving the bottom for last. If you're installing a shelf, now is the time to insert it.

Installing a Shower Shelf:

• Choose a shelf that matches your tiles or use a contrasting material like glass or stone or Schluter shelves for niches such as the Schluter SHELF-N- range.

• Position the shelf in the desired location, ensuring it is level. Apply adhesive to the underside of the shelf and press it firmly into place.

• Tile around the shelf, cutting tiles as necessary to fit snugly.

• Install Metal Trim (such as Anthracite or Pewter). To achieve a professional look, use metal trim around the edges of the niche. Genesis metal tile trim such as the Genesis straight edge polished chrome tile trim is a popular choice by homeowners. Metal trim not only enhances the appearance but also protects the tile edges from chipping (you can also use edge protectors).

Read more: How To Make Exposed Tile Edges Look Finished: A Guide To Tile Trim

How to Tile a Shower Niche With Metal Trim:

• Measure the edges of your niche with a tape measure and cut the metal trim to size.

• Apply a thin line of adhesive where the trim will be placed.

• Press the trim into the adhesive, ensuring it is level and flush with the tile surface.

• Tile up to the trim, leaving a small gap that will later be filled with grout.

• Grout the Tiles. Once the adhesive has dried, it's time to grout. Use a grout float to press the grout into the joints between tiles. Wipe excess grout away with a damp sponge, careful not to remove too much from the joints.

Finishing Touches

After the grout has set, apply silicone caulk around the edges of the niche, especially where the tiles meet the metal trim. This will seal the edges and prevent water from seeping behind the tiles.

Tiling a shower niche may seem daunting, but you can achieve professional results with careful planning and attention to detail. Remember, the best way to tile a shower niche is to take your time, measure accurately, and use high-quality materials. 

For all your tiling needs, including premium tile trim and accessories, contact our experienced sales team today at 01604 439345 or via email [email protected].