Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche Installation Guide - Step-by-Step Instructions
Installing a Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche is a straightforward process when the opening is properly prepared and the niche is installed using the recommended framing and waterproofing methods. This guide walks you through every stage of the installation, from planning and framing to waterproofing, tile installation, and finishing. Whether you are a professional tile installer or tackling a bathroom renovation yourself, these step-by-step instructions will help you achieve a clean, waterproof, and professional-looking installation.
This guide applies to Recess-It Adjustable Ready-to-Tile Shower Niches and expands upon the manufacturer's installation instructions with additional explanations, professional tips, and best practices.
Quick Navigation
- Planning the Installation
- Tools & Materials Needed
- Preparing the Wall Opening
- Adjusting the Niche Width
- Installing the Niche
- Waterproofing the Installation
- Installing Tile
- Final Inspection
- Common Installation Mistakes
- Frequently Asked Questions
Planning the Installation
Careful planning is the key to a successful installation. Before cutting into the wall, determine the ideal location for the Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche based on the shower layout, tile pattern, and the items that will be stored inside the niche. Taking a few extra minutes to plan the installation can help reduce tile cuts, improve the finished appearance, and simplify the installation process.
The Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche is designed to install between standard wall studs while allowing the width to be adjusted to fit your project. Verify that the wall cavity is free of plumbing pipes, electrical wiring, HVAC components, or other obstructions before beginning the installation.
For the best visual results, position the niche so the surrounding tile layout remains balanced. Aligning the niche with grout joints or using full tiles whenever possible creates a cleaner, more professional appearance.
Before You Begin
- Confirm the wall is suitable for a recessed shower niche.
- Locate and avoid plumbing, electrical wiring, and other obstructions.
- Verify the wall framing is structurally sound.
- Plan the niche location to complement the finished tile layout.
- Measure the finished wall thickness before adjusting the niche.
- Have all required tools and materials available before starting the installation.
Tools & Materials Needed
- Tape measure
- Level
- Pencil or marker
- Stud finder
- Drywall saw or oscillating multi-tool
- Drill/driver
- Construction screws
- 100% silicone sealant
- Polymer-modified thin-set mortar
- Waterproof membrane (if required by your waterproofing system)
- Tile spacers
- Grout and grout float
- Safety glasses and gloves
Preparing the Wall Opening
Once the installation location has been planned, prepare the wall opening for the Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche. The niche is designed to fit between standard wall studs, but the framing must be square, level, and properly supported to ensure a secure installation and a professional finished appearance.
Before cutting into the wall, use a stud finder to verify the stud locations and check for plumbing, electrical wiring, HVAC ducts, or other hidden obstructions. If utilities are present, relocate the niche or have the obstructions professionally rerouted before continuing.
Mark the desired niche location on the wall using a level to ensure the opening is perfectly square. Taking time to accurately mark the opening will make the remainder of the installation much easier.
Step 1 - Mark the Opening
- Measure and mark the desired niche location.
- Use a level to ensure all layout lines are straight and square.
- Confirm the opening will fit within the wall framing.
- Double-check measurements before cutting.
Step 2 - Cut the Wall Opening
Using a drywall saw or oscillating multi-tool, carefully cut along the layout lines. Remove the drywall while avoiding damage to nearby framing or utilities. Clean any loose debris from inside the wall cavity.
- Cut only as much drywall as needed.
- Inspect the framing after removing the drywall.
- Remove nails, screws, or debris that could interfere with the installation.
Step 3 - Install Horizontal Blocking
Install solid horizontal wood blocking between the studs at both the top and bottom of the opening. The blocking provides a secure mounting surface for the niche and helps keep the installation rigid and properly aligned.
- Use framing lumber that matches the existing wall construction.
- Fasten the blocking securely to both studs.
- Verify the blocking is level before tightening all fasteners.
- Confirm the finished opening is square before proceeding.
Professional Tip
Before installing the niche, dry-fit it into the opening to verify the framing is square and the niche fits properly. Making small framing adjustments now is much easier than after the niche has been fastened in place.
Adjusting the Shower Niche
The Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche is designed with a telescoping construction that allows the overall width to be adjusted before final installation. This provides greater flexibility during remodeling and new construction by allowing the niche to fit a wider range of wall openings while maintaining a professional appearance.
Before fastening the niche to the wall framing, adjust the niche to the required width for your installation. Verify that the niche fits comfortably within the framed opening without forcing or twisting the unit.
Step 4 - Adjust the Niche Width
- Place the niche on a clean, flat surface.
- Slide the adjustable section until the desired width is reached.
- Confirm both sections remain properly aligned.
- Check that the niche fits the framed opening before securing it.
Step 5 - Dry Fit the Niche
Insert the adjusted niche into the framed opening and verify that it sits flat against the framing. The front flange should rest evenly against the wall surface without gaps or distortion.
- Verify the niche is level from side to side.
- Check that the built-in drainage slope remains at the bottom.
- Make any necessary width adjustments before fastening the niche.
Professional Tip
Do not force the niche into an opening that is too small. If necessary, make minor framing adjustments so the niche slides into place naturally. A properly fitted niche is easier to waterproof, tile, and finish.
Installing the Shower Niche
After confirming the niche is adjusted to the correct width and fits properly within the framed opening, it is ready to be permanently installed. The front mounting flange should sit flush against the wall surface, and the niche should remain level before any fasteners are installed.
Step 6 - Apply Silicone Sealant
Apply a continuous bead of 100% silicone sealant to the back side of the mounting flange. The sealant helps create a watertight connection between the niche flange and the wall surface while reducing the possibility of moisture entering behind the installation.
- Apply an even, continuous bead around the entire perimeter of the flange.
- Do not leave gaps in the sealant.
- Install the niche immediately after applying the silicone.
Step 7 - Position the Niche
Carefully insert the niche into the prepared opening until the mounting flange rests firmly against the wall surface. Verify that the niche is fully seated and that the built-in drainage slope remains at the bottom.
- Check that the flange sits flat against the wall.
- Confirm the niche is centered within the opening.
- Use a level to verify both the top and sides are properly aligned.
Step 8 - Fasten the Niche
Secure the niche through the mounting flange into the wall framing using corrosion-resistant screws. Tighten the fasteners evenly around the perimeter without overtightening, which could distort the flange.
- Drive the screws until the flange is snug against the wall.
- Do not overtighten the fasteners.
- Recheck the niche with a level after installing the screws.
- Wipe away any excess silicone before it cures.
Professional Tip
Before the silicone begins to cure, inspect all sides of the flange to ensure it is in full contact with the wall. A properly seated flange provides a better surface for waterproofing and tile installation.
Waterproofing the Installation
Proper waterproofing is one of the most important steps when installing a Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche. While the niche itself is manufactured from a durable, water-resistant composite material, it must still be integrated into the shower's waterproofing system to prevent moisture from reaching the wall cavity.
Always follow the waterproofing membrane manufacturer's installation instructions. Whether you are using a liquid-applied waterproofing membrane or a sheet membrane system, the waterproofing should create a continuous barrier between the shower walls and the niche flange.
Waterproofing the Installation
Proper waterproofing is one of the most important steps when installing a Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche. While the niche itself is manufactured from a durable, water-resistant composite material, it must still be integrated into the shower's waterproofing system to prevent moisture from reaching the wall cavity.
Always follow the waterproofing membrane manufacturer's installation instructions. Whether you are using a liquid-applied waterproofing membrane or a sheet membrane system, the waterproofing should create a continuous barrier between the shower walls and the niche flange.
Step 9 - Prepare the Surface
Step 9 - Prepare the Surface
- Ensure the niche has been securely fastened to the framing.
- Remove dust, debris, and excess silicone from the flange and surrounding wall.
- Inspect all fasteners to confirm they are flush with the mounting flange.
- Verify the niche remains level before waterproofing begins.
Step 10 - Apply the Waterproofing System
Install the waterproofing membrane according to the membrane manufacturer's recommendations. Extend the waterproofing over the mounting flange so it overlaps the surrounding wall system, creating a continuous waterproof barrier around the niche.
- Completely seal all flange edges.
- Remove air pockets when installing sheet membranes.
- Apply the required number of coats when using liquid waterproofing products.
- Allow the waterproofing to cure completely before installing tile.
Professional Tip
Never leave gaps between the waterproofing membrane and the niche flange. A continuous waterproof seal is essential for preventing moisture intrusion and ensuring a long-lasting shower installation.
Installing Tile
After the waterproofing system has fully cured, tile installation can begin. The Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche features a built-in drainage slope that directs water toward the shower, helping prevent standing water inside the niche. Maintain this factory-installed slope during tile installation and avoid adding excessive mortar that could alter the drainage angle.
Dry lay the tile before mixing mortar to determine the best layout and minimize small cuts. Whenever possible, center the niche within the tile pattern to create a balanced, professional appearance.
Step 11 - Install the Tile
- Apply polymer-modified thin-set mortar using the appropriate notched trowel.
- Install the back wall tile first.
- Continue with the side walls.
- Finish with the top and bottom pieces.
- Maintain consistent grout joints throughout the installation.
- Immediately remove excess mortar from the tile surface and grout joints.
Step 12 - Grout the Installation
After the thin-set mortar has cured, grout the tile according to the grout manufacturer's instructions. Completely fill the grout joints while keeping the niche clean. Once the grout has cured, polish the tile surface to remove any remaining haze.
- Use grout appropriate for wet-area installations.
- Clean excess grout before it hardens.
- Seal the grout if recommended by the grout manufacturer.
Professional Tip
Large-format tile can often eliminate unnecessary grout joints around the niche, creating a cleaner and more modern appearance. Plan the tile layout before installation for the best visual results.
Final Inspection
Before placing the shower into service, carefully inspect the completed installation. Verify that the niche is securely fastened, properly waterproofed, and fully integrated into the finished tile installation.
- Confirm all grout joints are completely filled.
- Inspect all corners for proper sealant application.
- Verify the niche drains toward the shower as designed.
- Check that all tiles are firmly bonded.
- Clean the niche thoroughly before first use.
A properly installed Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche will provide years of reliable performance while creating convenient storage for shampoo bottles, soap, and other shower accessories.
Common Installation Mistakes
Most installation issues can be avoided by carefully planning the project, following the manufacturer's recommendations, and using approved waterproofing methods. Taking the time to verify measurements, framing, and waterproofing before tiling will help ensure a durable, professional-quality installation.
- Cutting the wall opening before checking for plumbing or electrical wiring.
- Installing the niche without verifying it is level and square.
- Forcing the niche into an undersized opening.
- Overtightening screws, which may distort the mounting flange.
- Leaving gaps in the waterproofing membrane around the flange.
- Applying excessive thin-set that changes the factory drainage slope.
- Beginning tile installation before the waterproofing membrane has fully cured.
- Failing to plan the tile layout before installation, resulting in uneven tile cuts.
Correcting these issues before the shower is finished is much easier than making repairs after the tile has been installed.
Maintenance & Cleaning
The Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche requires very little maintenance after installation. Regular cleaning helps keep the niche looking new while preventing soap residue and mineral deposits from accumulating.
- Clean regularly using a mild, non-abrasive household cleaner.
- Rinse thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue.
- Avoid steel wool or abrasive scrub pads that may damage surrounding tile or grout.
- Inspect grout joints and sealant periodically for signs of wear.
- Repair damaged grout or sealant promptly to maintain a waterproof installation.
Routine maintenance of the surrounding tile and grout will help maximize the life of your shower installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche be installed in a steam shower?
Yes. When installed in a steam shower, always follow the waterproofing membrane manufacturer's requirements for steam room applications and ensure the entire shower assembly is properly sealed.
Can I cut the niche to make it smaller?
No. The niche is designed to adjust within its specified size range. Do not modify or cut the body of the niche.
Can the niche be installed horizontally or vertically?
The niche should only be installed in the orientation specified by the manufacturer so the built-in drainage slope functions correctly.
Can I install a stone or quartz shelf?
Yes. Many installers add a stone, quartz, porcelain, or solid-surface shelf to divide the niche into separate storage areas. Install the shelf during the tile installation process using an appropriate thin-set mortar.
What type of tile can be used?
The niche is compatible with ceramic, porcelain, glass, marble, travertine, natural stone, and many other tile materials suitable for wet-area installations.
Do I still need waterproofing if the niche is water resistant?
Yes. The niche must always be integrated into the shower's complete waterproofing system to protect the wall assembly from moisture intrusion.
Helpful Resources
Related Products
- Shop All Ready-to-Tile Shower Niches
- Shop Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche 16 x 36
- Shop Recess-It Adjustable Ready to Tile Shower Niche 16" x 72"
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Conclusion
The Recess-It Adjustable Shower Niche provides a flexible, professional solution for recessed shower storage. Its adjustable design simplifies installation while allowing the niche to accommodate a variety of shower layouts. By following proper framing, waterproofing, and tile installation practices, you can create a durable, attractive storage space that performs reliably for years to come.
Whether you're a professional tile installer or completing a bathroom renovation yourself, careful planning and attention to detail will help ensure a successful installation. Always follow local building codes and the recommendations provided by the manufacturers of your waterproofing system, setting materials, and tile products.