Is It Possible To Build A Shower Niche On An External Wall?

Installing a shower niche in an exterior wall, especially in cold climates, may not be a good idea due to drafts, mold, and structural issues. Instead, consider alternative solutions and tips to increase bathroom storage and improve aesthetics.

Installing a shower niche on an exterior wall requires special planning and knowledge of the best size, location, and materials for prefabricated or custom niches. It is important to choose a tile that is rated for outside and build out a simple niche instead.

A shampoo niche on an exterior wall can be beneficial, but it may not always be ideal due to the constant wetness from condensation during showering. In warm climates like Hawaii, where temperatures swing only a few degrees year-round, a niche on an exterior wall is acceptable.

In general, it is best to mount or build your tiled or finished niche in a wall that is not an outside-facing wall. If installing a 2×6 wall, you might be able to install it and spray foam behind, but be cautious of doing it yourself.

When considering installing a niche on an outside wall, one concern is that if siding needs to be changed during installation, it may cause issues with the new wall’s stability. To avoid these issues, it is essential to choose the right tile and location for your bathroom and follow step-by-step instructions for different wall materials and materials.

Can I run plumbing on an outside wall?

Installing plumbing pipes on an exterior wall can be beneficial, but it requires careful planning and the use of appropriate materials to prevent issues like freezing. With proper insulation and modern plumbing technologies, you can enjoy the benefits of having your plumbing run through an exterior wall without the headaches. To ensure smooth operation, take necessary precautions during each season.

Can you put a shower on an exterior wall?

Water-related plumbing should be placed in interior walls and not in exterior walls or unheated attics. If plumbing is in exterior walls, pipes should be well-insulated and air-sealed to protect them from heat loss. Cavity insulation should be installed behind pipes and between them and the exterior wall. Common places for exterior wall plumbing include basement bathrooms, attics, shower heads in ceilings, laundry hook-ups, and kitchen sinks.

To keep pipes warm and prevent freezing, any necessary measures should be taken. Exterior plumbing is commonly found in areas where there is no other place for the plumbing to go, such as basement bathrooms, attics, shower heads in ceilings, laundry hook-ups, and kitchen sinks.

Are wall niches outdated?

In the year 2024, wall niches are undergoing a transformation in the field of interior design, particularly in the context of bathrooms. These niches are emerging as a pivotal element in the creation of both aesthetically pleasing and functionally efficient spaces.

Can you put a shower niche on the opposite wall of the shower head?

The splash zone near the shower head is crucial for preventing soap from dilution down the drain. The wall opposite the shower head is the most popular spot for shower niches. For a stand-up shower, a niche height above the waist is most convenient for reach, while for tub/shower niches, a waist height or lower is more common to accommodate bathers. This ensures a clean and organized shower area.

Do I need a vapor barrier on the exterior wall of a shower?

Vapor barriers are essential for shower walls, especially when using backer board materials like Hardiebacker or Durock. Some manufacturers may not stress the requirement of a vapor barrier, leaving it up to local building codes and industry standards to determine the best choice. Vapor barriers can be applied or installed over the tile substrate using a liquid or sheet membrane. Liquid membranes are easier to apply and secure joints and plane changes, while sheet membranes offer continuity of thickness and a sturdy surface.

However, industry standards and local building codes do not encourage the use of vapor barriers behind and over the tile substrate. A poor understanding of both can lead to a “moisture sandwich”, where moisture can’t evaporate if a second vapor barrier is applied or installed to the outside of the tile substrate. This can cause mold growth.

A standard argument is that moisture would never reach behind the tile substrate if a liquid membrane or sheet membrane is installed over the tile substrate. If this is the case, a vapor barrier installed behind the tile substrate is unnecessary, avoiding the “moisture sandwich”. It’s crucial to note that the wet area is inside the shower area, not behind the walls, so protection should be directed outward.

Should shower niches be vertical or horizontal?

To create a functional shower niche, consider the shape of the niche: horizontal, which is wider than vertical, ideal for larger showers, or vertical, which is taller and suitable for smaller showers. Extending the niche up the wall and adding shelving can enhance its functionality. Choosing the design is also crucial. A shower niche can be installed in various styles and designs, with five ideas to give it a unique look:

1. Blend the niche with the rest of the shower, using the same materials and colors for a more functional and organized look.

How to insulate an exterior wall behind a shower?

The Energy Star Single-Family New Homes, Version 3/3. 1 (Rev. 11), emphasizes the importance of insulation behind tubs and showers. The insulation should be the same as the rest of the exterior walls and covered with an air barrier made of cement backer board, rigid foam insulation, or non-paper-faced drywall. The air barrier should be sealed at the edges and seams to provide a continuous air seal.

The Compliance tab contains program and code information, and links may have changed since posting. The thermal enclosure system provides fully-aligned air barriers at each insulated location, including walls behind showers, tubs, staircases, and fireplaces.

What are the disadvantages of shower niches?

The installation of custom-built tiled horizontal shower niches can provide a luxurious and spacious storage solution. However, such solutions may be associated with an increased risk of water leaks and are often more expensive than alternative options. The construction of these shower niches requires a significant investment of time and resources, and there is a risk of structural damage during the modification of walls. Furthermore, these units possess a sole recessed shelf for storage.

Should vapor barrier be on inside or outside of wall?

Moisture barriers are essential for various types of insulation, including basement floors, crawl spaces, exterior walls, and under flooring. For basement floors, a polyethylene sheet should be placed under the concrete slab to prevent moisture seeping up. For crawl spaces, a heavy-duty polyethylene sheet should be installed over the entire floor, extending up the foundation walls by about 6 inches. Exterior walls should be placed on the warm side to keep outdoor moisture out and prevent indoor moisture from condensing within the wall.

Under flooring, a suitable underlayment or moisture barrier designed for this specific application is needed to protect wood from moisture damage. Choosing the right moisture barrier depends on factors such as climate, material compatibility, and permeability. Cold climates should use less permeable barriers on the warm side, while hot, humid climates should opt for more permeable barriers on the cool side. Additionally, choosing a barrier with the right perm rating can help improve moisture management in a home.

Can you put a shower niche in an existing wall?

The Niche Man shower niche can be affixed directly to a solid brick wall cavity, with the front lip serving as the point of attachment and fixation. It is, however, important to avoid screwing through the side walls of the niche in order to prevent leakage issues. The niches are constructed from a high-density, closed-cell polyurethane panel, which possesses inherent insulating properties.

Which wall should a shower niche be placed?

Shower niches can be placed on the wall next to your shower or in an alcove or corner for a more modern look. Multiple niches can be chosen to maximize storage capacity. Ensure the niche is easily accessible and not too high or low for comfortable use. Double-check measurements before purchasing materials to ensure a perfect fit. Shower niches are generally easy to clean, with mild, non-abrasive cleaners being suitable for mild stains. For tougher stains, use harsher cleaners based on the niche’s material. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions before using any cleaning products in your niche.