Your Top 10 Questions on Shower Niches Answered
Adding a shower niche enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom. If you’re considering installing one, you likely have some questions. Here, we answer the top 10 questions people ask about tile niches to help you make an informed decision.
1. What is a Shower Niche?
A shower niche, also known as a recessed shelf, is a built-in storage area within the shower wall. It’s designed to hold toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, and soap, keeping them within easy reach while maintaining a clutter-free shower space.
2. What are its benefits?
Tile niches offer several benefits:
- Organization: Keep shower essentials organized and accessible.
- Aesthetics: Add a sleek, modern look to your shower.
- Space-saving: Maximize shower space by eliminating the need for additional storage solutions like caddies or shelves.
- Easy Cleaning: Reduce the buildup of soap scum and mildew that can accumulate around freestanding shelves or caddies.
3. What Sizes Are Available?
Here at Newline, we offer our ProFinish Jigsaw Shelf, which comes in four different sizes, including: 320x320mm, 370x320mm, 470x320mm, and the 520x320mm. These need to be waterproofed and tiled over
4. Where Should I position the Shower Niche?
The ideal position for a tile niche depends on your shower layout, but there are a few things you should consider, such as ensuring it is accessible to all users, and ensuring that your installer follows your preferred tile niche instruction manual. This is important so that you can maintain the integrity and durability of your shower wall.
5. Can I install a Shower Niche in an existing shower?
Yes, you can install a tile niche in an existing shower, but it requires more work than incorporating it into a new build. Retrofitting involves cutting into the existing wall, ensuring waterproofing, and matching the existing tiles. It’s advisable to hire a professional for this task to avoid damaging the waterproofing membrane and structure of your shower.
6. Can I customize the design of a Shower Niche?
Absolutely! You can customize your tile niche to match your bathroom’s style and your personal preferences. Options include:
- Tile Choice: Match the niche tiles with your shower tiles or choose contrasting tiles for a standout feature.
- Accent Tiles: Use decorative tiles for the back of the niche to create a focal point.
7. What Materials are best for a Shower Niche?
When choosing materials for your tile niche, it’s important to consider both durability and aesthetics. Common materials include:
- Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles: These are popular choices due to their durability and wide range of colours and designs.
- Natural Stone: Offers a luxurious look but requires more maintenance to prevent staining and damage.
- Glass Tiles: Provide a modern, sleek appearance and are easy to clean.
Choosing the right materials will depend on your bathroom’s overall style and your maintenance preferences.
8. How Much Does it Cost to Install?
The cost varies based on factors such as size, materials, and whether it’s a new build or a retrofit. On average, installing a tile niche can range from NZD350 (install only, not including the niche itself).
9. How do I maintain?
The cost varies based on factors such as size, materials, and whether it’s a new build or a retrofit. On average, installing a tile niche can range from NZD350 (install only, not including the niche itself).
10. Can I include a Footshelf Niche in my shower?
Yes, you can include a foot shelf niche. It’s designed to provide a convenient place to rest your foot while shaving or washing. Like a tile niche, it should be properly waterproofed and can be tiled to match or complement your shower design.
Need help choosing your next tile niche or Foot shelf? Give us a call on 0508 639 5463 or email us at info@newline.co.nz for more information.