How to Build a Tiled Shower Niche

Build a recessed shower niche by cutting into the wall between studs, framing with wood or metal, waterproofing thoroughly, and tiling to match your shower walls.

  1. Mark Your Perfect Niche Spot. Choose a spot between two wall studs using a stud finder. Standard niche dimensions are 12-16 inches wide, 6-8 inches tall, and 3.5 inches deep. Mark the outline with a pencil, ensuring it's level and at a comfortable height, typically 48-60 inches from the floor.
  2. Cut Into the Wall Cleanly. Use a drywall saw to cut along your marked lines. Remove the drywall section carefully. If you hit any plumbing or electrical, stop immediately and relocate the niche. Clean out any insulation and check that the back wall is solid.
  3. Build Your Structural Frame. Cut 2x4 lumber to create a frame that fits snugly in the opening. The frame should be 3 inches deep to leave room for tile and backer board. Secure the frame to the existing studs with 3-inch wood screws. Add horizontal blocking at the top and bottom of the opening.
  4. Reinforce the Back Wall. Cut a piece of cement backer board to fit the back of the niche. Secure it with cement board screws every 6 inches. This creates a solid, waterproof backing for your tile installation.
  5. Seal Every Surface Completely. Cover the entire niche interior with a liquid waterproofing membrane or waterproof tape and membrane system. Pay special attention to corners and edges where water can penetrate. Allow to cure according to manufacturer instructions.
  6. Layer Your Backer Board. Cut cement backer board pieces for the sides, top, and bottom of the niche. Install with appropriate screws, leaving small gaps at joints. Apply mesh tape and thin-set mortar to all seams.
  7. Lay Each Tile With Precision. Start tiling from the back wall and work forward. Use tile spacers for consistent gaps. Install bullnose or trim pieces on the front edges for a finished look. The niche floor should slope slightly toward the shower to prevent water pooling.
  8. Complete Your Niche Professionally. Apply grout to all joints, removing excess with a diagonal motion. After grout cures for 24 hours, apply grout sealer. Install any corner trim pieces or caulk the edges where the niche meets the shower wall.