Better Bench and Recess It Frequently Asked Questions
Professional Shower Bench and Recessed Shower Niche Installation Information
Better Bench and Recess It systems are designed to simplify custom shower bench and recessed shower niche installations while creating durable, tile-ready surfaces for residential and commercial bathroom projects.
These systems are commonly used in tiled showers, steam rooms, bathroom remodels, and wet area applications where strong, low-maintenance installation systems are required.
Better Bench General Questions
Can Better Bench really support the weight?
Yes. Better Bench systems are engineered using shear-force support principles that provide exceptional structural strength when properly installed according to manufacturer recommendations.
Professional contractors and homeowners have successfully installed Better Bench systems for many years in both residential and commercial shower applications.
What type of mortar should be used to fill the bench?
A dry-pack deck mortar is recommended for filling the bench system. Standard thinset mortar should not be used as the primary fill material.
Many installers use a 4-to-1 sand-to-cement mortar mixture or a pre-blended deck mud or masonry mortar mix available from tile supply and building material stores.
Do I need wood blocking or framing support?
No additional wood blocking is typically required. Better Bench systems are designed to work using the supplied fasteners and approved tile substrates.
Wood framing may still be used if desired or when encountered during installation.
What types of wall substrates are compatible?
Better Bench systems are designed for use with most approved tile installation substrates including:
- Cement board systems
- Mortar bed installations
- Foam tile backer boards
- Waterproof shower wall systems
- Gypsum-based wall systems in approved dry areas
When should the bench be installed?
The bench may be installed before tiling begins or during the tile installation process depending on project preference and layout requirements.
Many installers prefer mounting the bench during wall tile installation to simplify tile cuts and improve overall layout appearance.
Does the bottom of the bench need tile?
No. In many installations the underside of the bench is not visible and may remain exposed. However, tile may be installed underneath if desired for decorative purposes.
Is additional waterproofing required?
Better Bench systems are designed to function without requiring additional waterproof membranes directly on the bench unit when installed according to manufacturer instructions.
Proper caulking at mounting points and wall transitions is important for moisture management.
Will mortar damage the aluminum bench?
The alloyed aluminum construction is designed for mortar contact. Proper mortar mixing and grout sealing practices help minimize long-term staining or moisture-related issues.
Are Better Bench systems ADA compliant?
Some Better Bench models meet or exceed certain ADA dimensional guidelines. Local building code requirements and ADA compliance regulations should always be verified before installation.
Better Tray Questions
What is the weight capacity of the Better Tray?
The Better Tray BT-17 is designed to support standard toiletry and shower accessory loads when installed properly using supplied fasteners.
Additional support capacity may be achieved with supplemental fastening methods depending on installation conditions.
Can the Better Tray be used as a footrest?
Yes. Many installers mount the unit lower on the shower wall for use as a shaving footrest or shower accessory ledge.
How do I tile the underside of the shelf?
The perforated shelf design allows thinset mortar to bond tile directly through the openings, creating a reinforced tiled shelf structure.
Installation Tip
When filling the Better Tray with mortar, support the underside temporarily with scrap wood or a float to prevent mortar from falling through the perforations.
Recess It General Questions
Will the waterproofing flange create a bump in the tile?
The flange thickness may require minor feathering or substrate preparation depending on tile thickness and installation method.
Most installers feather the surrounding area with thinset mortar to create a smooth tile transition.
Is horizontal blocking required?
No. The structural aluminum shell and mounting flange are designed to provide support without requiring additional horizontal framing in many installations.
Why is the bottom of the niche sloped?
The built-in slope helps direct moisture outward and reduce the potential for standing water, mold, or mildew buildup inside the shower niche.
Why is caulk used during installation?
Caulk functions as a waterproof gasket between the mounting flange and substrate surface to help maintain waterproofing integrity.
Are Recess It products waterproof?
Yes. Recess It systems utilize an alloyed aluminum shell combined with a waterproof coating system designed for wet-area installations.
What is the floating shelf system?
The floating shelf is an aluminum reinforcement shelf designed to support tiled shelving within the recessed niche while allowing flexible shelf positioning during installation.
How are tiles bonded to the floating shelf?
Thinset mortar bonds through the perforated shelf openings, effectively sandwiching the shelf between tiled surfaces for added strength.
What tile trim is recommended for shelves?
Surface bullnose tile, accent trim pieces, or custom edge finishing methods may be used depending on tile style and installation design.
Can shelves be installed at custom heights?
Yes. Floating shelves may be positioned according to tile layout and project design requirements.
Is the floating shelf strong enough for normal use?
Once fully tiled, grouted, and cured, the shelf is designed to support standard bathroom and shower toiletry items.
Benefits of Better Bench and Recess It Systems
- Helps simplify custom shower construction
- Creates durable tile-ready shower seating and storage
- Suitable for tiled showers and steam rooms
- Designed for residential and commercial installations
- Supports modern recessed shower niche designs
- Compatible with waterproof shower systems
- Helps reduce installation time
Helpful Installation Resources