How much does it cost to install or replace a shower pan?
$500 – $1,550 install pre-made shower pan
$900 – $3,500 build custom tile shower pan
$900 – $3,500 build custom tile shower pan
Shower pan installation costs $900 to $2,300 on average. A pre-made shower pan replacement costs $500 to $1,550. The cost to install a tile shower pan is $900 to $3,500. A custom stone shower pan costs $1,200 to $1,800. A hot mop shower pan costs $225 to $500. Poured mud shower pans cost $350 to $650.
Get free estimates from shower pan installers near you or view our cost guide below.
Cost to install a shower pan
The average cost to install or replace a shower pan is $900 to $2,300. Shower pan prices depend on the size, type, material, features, labor, and base type (tile-ready pan or poured mud). Labor costs to install a mud shower pan are $45 to $150 per hour.
| National average cost | $1,600 |
| Minimum cost | $300 |
| Maximum cost | $4,600 |
| Average range | $900 to $2,300 |
Cost data is based on 177 project costs reported by HomeGuide members.
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[hide]Shower pan replacement cost
Shower pan replacement costs $500 to $3,500 for the pan and installation, depending if it's pre-made, tile, or custom stone.
| Type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Pre-made shower pan | $500 – $1,550 |
| Custom stone shower pan | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Tile shower pan | $900 – $3,500 |
Pre-made shower tray cost
Pre-made shower trays cost $500 to $1,550 with installation or $150 to $950 for the pan alone, depending on the size and material.
- Fiberglass shower pans are inexpensive but the least durable.
- Acrylic is budget-friendly and typically lasts longer.
- Metal and stone pans cost the most but have the longest lifespan.
| Pan type | Price range | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiberglass | $150 – $450 |
|
|
| Acrylic | $200 – $620 |
|
|
| Solid surface, cultured marble, natural stone | $200 – $950 |
|
|
| Cast iron | $700 – $1,200 |
|
|
*Not including installation.
Cost to install tile shower pan
The average cost to install a tile shower pan is $900 to $3,500. The cost to replace a shower pan with tile depends on the pan size, tile material, and installation of a tile-ready pan or a poured mud bed.
- Tile-ready shower pans cost $500 to $800 for the pan alone and save installation time.
- Retiling a shower costs $800 to $3,000, not including shower pan replacement.
- Tile installation costs $7 to $25 per square foot for a shower.
Custom shower pan cost
A custom tile shower pan costs $900 to $3,500 installed. The cost to build a custom stone shower pan is $1,200 to $2,000 or more. Prices depend on the pan size, type, and material.
| Material | Average cost to install |
|---|---|
| Tile | $900 – $3,500 |
| Stone | $1,200 – $2,000 |
*Including installation and materials.
Custom shower base replacement cost
A custom shower base replacement costs $225 to $650, depending if it's a hot mop shower pan or poured mud.
- A hot mop base provides a waterproof layer and requires either a pre-made pan or tiled mortar bed to complete the shower pan.
- A poured mud pan base lays the foundation for tile shower pan installation.
| Type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Hot mop shower pan base | $225 – $500 |
| Poured mud shower pan base | $350 – $650 |
Hot mop shower pan cost
A hot mop shower pan costs $225 to $500 installed on average. Hot mop shower pans last 15 years or more. Hot mopping a shower pan creates a watertight membrane with layers of hot tar and felt.
PVC shower pan liners last longer than hot mopping, but are more puncture prone.
Poured mud shower pan cost
A poured mud shower pan costs $350 to $650 installed, depending on pan size and labor rates. Tilers and plumbers charge $45 to $150 per hour for labor to install a mud shower pan. The installation process takes several days to cure the base and top layers.
Poured shower pans are the traditional method of installing a tile shower floor and involves waterproofing and sloping to the drain. Hire a professional to ensure a long-lasting, problem-free shower pan.
Shower and bathroom pan prices
Shower pan prices are $150 to $950 on average without installation, depending on the pan size and material. Extra features like benches, trench drains, and curb variations increase costs by $100 to $600.
Shower pan cost by size
| Size (inches) | Average price range |
|---|---|
| 32 x 32 | $150 – $250 |
| 34 x 34 | $150 – $200 |
| 36 x 36 | $100 – $600 |
| 38 x 38 | $200 – $500 |
| 40 x 40 | $300 – $600 |
| 42 x 34 | $250 – $500 |
| 42 x 42 | $250 – $600 |
| 42 x 60 | $550 – $800 |
| 48 x 32 | $200 – $700 |
| 48 x 34 | $200 – $700 |
| 48 x 36 | $250 – $900 |
| 48 x 48 | $200 – $700 |
| 54 x 36 | $300 – $350 |
| 60 x 30 | $200 – $900 |
| 60 x 32 | $200 – $800 |
| 60 x 34 | $200 – $800 |
| 60 x 36 | $300 – $950 |
| 72 x 36 | $600 – $850 |
| 72 x 48 | $750 – $850 |
*Not including installation.
Shower pan prices by material
- Fiberglass, plastic, and acrylic pans are budget-friendly but lack longevity.
- Composite pans are a mid-range choice providing a more solid look and feel without a high price tag
- Stone and cast iron pans are high-end and last the longest.
- Custom tile shower bases are the most expensive due to tile and labor costs.
| Pan material | Average price range |
|---|---|
| Acrylic | $200 – $620 |
| Cast iron | $700 – $1,200 |
| Composite | $150 – $650 |
| Cultured marble and molded stone | $500 – $950 |
| Fiberglass | $150 – $450 |
| Gel | $275 – $600 |
| Plastic | $180 – $230 |
| Polystyrene | $115 – $165 |
| Polyurethane | $600 – $850 |
| Porcelain-coated steel | $225 – $275 |
| Solid surface | $200 – $800 |
| PVC (pan liner only) | $30 – $70 |
| Vinyl (pan liner only) | $35 – $50 |
*Not including installation.
Cost factors to build a shower pan & base
The following factors affect shower pan costs:
- Drain location – Center drains are standard. Linear and square drains increase the cost.
- Material – High-end materials drive up the cost but are typically more durable.
- Finish – Matte finish cultured stone typically costs more than glossy finish.
- Size and shape – Custom sizing and curved custom bases cost more than standard size and shape.
- Solid color vs. pattern – Solid color cultured granite costs 10% to 20% more due to the manufacturing process to get a consistent color.
- Weight – Heavy materials may require subfloor reinforcement and multiple professionals to complete the installation.
- Ramps and curb-less entries require more installation time.
Shower pan features
Additional features available for shower pans include:
- Barrier-free entry for handicap accessibility
- Slip-resistant floor
- Built-in shower seat
- Linear drain – Allows for larger floor tiles to create slope.
- Square drain
- Low-profile curb
- Removable curb
Steps to build a shower pan and base
Replacing a shower pan involves several steps to ensure proper drainage and waterproofing. Read all manufacturer instructions before installing the new pan.
- Remove the existing pan.
- Remove overlapping walls and caulking.
- Remove nails or brackets holding pan to the studs.
- Drill or pry out the drain gasket to disconnect the drain.
- Clean the area.
- Confirm the subfloor is up to code and can support the weight of the new shower pan.
- For pans requiring thin-set or glue, tack down a tar paper layer to prevent mortar from seeping through floorboards.
- Dry fit the new pan and install shims to level as needed.
- With the pan in place, mark the drain hole center if it does not line up or is being relocated.
- Remove the pan and adjust the plumbing to relocate the drain if needed.
- Relocating the drain typically requires cutting or moving the piping and attaching a new P-trap. Some situations involve removing the concrete floor to get to the drainpipe.
- Attach the drain fitting to the pan with plumber’s putty.
- Install the new pan per the manufacturer's instructions.
- Shower pans typically need to be screwed or clamped to the wall studs.
- Some pans require a layer of thin-set mortar or glue.
- Confirm every perimeter side is level.
- Attach the drain gasket.
- Check for leaks.
- Re-install shower walls and caulking.
What is a shower pan?
A shower pan is a solid, waterproof floor of the shower sloped to guide water to the drain. All showers require a pan. Some pans are built to lay beneath a tiled shower floor, while others are made of acrylic, fiberglass, or composite material installed over the base.
A shower base is a substructure beneath the shower pan. Shower bases are typically built from mortar and slightly sloped to allow water to flow to the drain. Some pre-made pans do not need a mortar base.
What mortar to use for a shower pan?
The best shower pan mortar is a sand and cement mixture that creates a water-resistant foundation to withstand the shower weight. Pre-blended mixes are available at local hardware stores. For DIY mortar, use five parts fine sand, one part Portland cement, and enough water for wet snow consistency.
Can you paint a shower pan?
Most shower pans can be painted with epoxy paint made for showers and tubs. Refinishing kits come in acrylic or gelcoat and use roller brushes or spray cans. A final non-slip coating can be applied.
What is the best material for a shower pan?
The best material for a shower pan depends on budget and preferences. Acrylic and fiberglass are budget-friendly but not the most durable. Cultured stone and cast-iron cost more but provide longevity and an upscale look. Tile pans are the most customizable but require more maintenance due to the grout.
Do I need a permit to install a shower pan?
Plumbing permits cost $30 to $500, depending on the total project cost. Many cities require a permit to install or replace a shower pan. Check local requirements to ensure compliance.
Hiring a shower pan replacement contractor
Use this checklist when hiring a shower pan installer:
- Get at least three estimates to compare.
- Look for licensed contractors with experience installing shower pans.
- Request references and ask to see a portfolio of their previous work.
- Browse their reviews on HomeGuide, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
- Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business for more than five years.
- Avoid selecting the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
- Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the work begins.
- Never pay in full before the project starts. Follow a payment plan instead for work completed.
Questions to ask contractors
- Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
- How long have you been in business?
- What experience do you have installing shower pans?
- What type of shower pan do you recommend and why?
- Is the cost of the pan included in your quote?
- What is and is not included in the installation fee?
- What additional costs should I expect?
- How long does the installation take?
- How soon can I use the shower after the pan is installed?
- How long will the shower pan last?
- Is there a warranty, and if so, what does it include?
Get free estimates on HomeGuide from trusted shower pan installers:
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Shower Pans - The Home Depot. (2021).
https://www.homedepot.com/b/Bath-Showers-Shower-Pans/N-5yc1vZbza4 -
Shower Bases - Lowes. (2020).
https://www.lowes.com/pl/Shower-bases-Shower-bases-parts-Showers-shower-doors-Bathroom/4294648511 -
How much do acrylic and fiberglass shower pans cost. (2020).
https://blog.innovatebuildingsolutions.com/2020/11/24/how-much-acrylic-fiberglass-shower-pans-cost-pricing/ -
Custom Shower Base. (2019).
https://builtwithfoam.com/product/custom-shower-base/ -
Third Generation Shower Pans. (2021).
http://3gshowerpans.com/pricelist.html -
So. Cal Shower Pans. (2021).
https://socalhotmopshowerpans.com/pricing.html -
How to Build a Custom Tiled Shower Pan. (2019).
https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/diy-rennovation-how-to-build-a-custom-shower-pan-apartment-therapy-tutorials-200302 - Hicks, Ray F. "2020 National Construction Estimator" (PDF). (2020).
- Paxton, Albert S. "2020 National Repair & Remodelings Estimator. (2020).
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How much do custom and standard-sized cultured marble and granite shower pans cost?. (2020).
https://blog.innovatebuildingsolutions.com/2020/06/09/how-much-do-custom-standard-sized-cultured-marble-granite-shower-pans-cost/ -
SHOWER PAN INSTALLATION. (2021).
https://www.texasgreenplumbing.com/plumbing/bathroom-and-kitchen/shower-pan-installation -
Cost to Install a Shower Pan. (2021).
https://www.homewyse.com/services/cost_to_install_shower_pan.html -
Stone Shower Pans. (2020).
https://bathandgranite.com/shower-enclosures/shower-floors/stone-shower-basins/ - Carlos Alvarez, BacksplashInstallersTampa.com. Personal Communication. (2021).
- Robert Christofaro, Atlanta Tile Installatin. Personal Communication. (2021).
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Shower Pan Repair & Installation. (n.d.).
http://trianglegranite.com/shower_pan_installation.php - Boyer Showers. Personal Communication. (2021).
- Matthew Hathaway, Custom Hot Mop. Personal Communication. (2021).
- Kevin Lares, ShowerPanLiners.com. Personal Communication. (2021).
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Cost to Install a Mortar Bed. (2021).
https://www.homewyse.com/services/cost_to_install_mortar_bed.html - Russell, Jonathan "2020 National Renovation & Insurance Repair estimator. (2020).
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