Concrete Shower Pan vs. Kerdi Shower Pan: Which is Best for Your Shower Installation?
When planning a new shower installation or remodeling an existing one, choosing the right shower pan is a crucial decision. The shower pan serves as the foundation of your shower, directing water toward the drain and preventing leaks that can lead to water damage. Essentially, it acts as a waterproof barrier, safeguarding the rest of your bathroom from moisture. Among the most popular options are concrete shower pans and Kerdi shower pans, both of which offer distinct benefits and considerations. In this post, Residential Remodeling Pro compares these two options to help you determine which is the best choice for your project.
What Is a Concrete Shower Pan?
A concrete shower pan is a custom-built shower base made from a mix of sand, cement, and water. It is typically reinforced with a waterproof membrane and a sloped surface to ensure proper drainage. This type of shower pan is ideal for those looking for a highly durable, customizable solution.
Pros of Concrete Shower Pans:
✔ Custom Fit – Ideal for irregular or non-standard shower sizes.
✔ Highly Durable – Concrete is long-lasting and resistant to heavy use.
✔ Versatile Design – Can accommodate any tile or stone finish.
✔ Great for Large Showers – Works well for oversized or custom shower layouts.
Cons of Concrete Shower Pans:
✖ Labor-Intensive Installation – Requires expertise and multiple steps, including curing time.
✖ Heavy Weight – May require additional floor reinforcement.
✖ Longer Installation Time – Can take several days to complete.
At Residential Remodeling Pro, our team of experts ensures that concrete shower pans are installed with precision, meeting your specific needs and design preferences.
What Is a Kerdi Shower Pan?
A Kerdi shower pan, manufactured by Schluter Systems, is a prefabricated, lightweight, and waterproof shower base made from expanded polystyrene (EPS). It comes with a built-in slope to ensure proper drainage and is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Kerdi waterproofing membrane.
Pros of Kerdi Shower Pans:
✔ Easy Installation – Pre-sloped and ready to install, reducing labor time.
✔ Lightweight – No need for additional floor reinforcement.
✔ Completely Waterproof – Made from waterproof materials for added protection.
✔ Ideal for DIY Projects – Requires less skill compared to a concrete pan.
Cons of Kerdi Shower Pans:
✖ Limited Customization – Available in standard sizes, making it less flexible for custom layouts.
✖ Not as Durable as Concrete – Though strong, it may not be as long-lasting under heavy use.
✖ Higher Cost for Large Showers – Can become expensive if multiple pans are needed for larger areas.
At Residential Remodeling Pro, we offer seamless installation of Kerdi shower pans, ensuring waterproof reliability and a sleek finish for your bathroom remodel.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose a Concrete Shower Pan If: You need a fully customized, highly durable shower base that can accommodate unique layouts and heavy use.
- Choose a Kerdi Shower Pan If: You want a quick, waterproof, and easy-to-install option, especially for standard-sized showers or DIY projects.
Not sure which shower pan is right for you? Residential Remodeling Pro can help assess your space, budget, and design preferences to find the perfect solution for your bathroom renovation.
Final Thoughts
Both concrete and Kerdi shower pans have their place in bathroom construction, and the right choice depends on your specific needs. If durability and customization are top priorities, a concrete shower pan is the way to go. If convenience and waterproofing are key factors, a Kerdi shower pan might be the best solution.
At Residential Remodeling Pro, we specialize in professional shower installations that are built to last. Contact us today to discuss your project and get a free consultation!