Your Guide to Shower Pan Sizes

If you’re looking to refresh your bathroom with a new shower or start over with a total remodel, you might need a shower pan for your modern walk-in shower. Since there are a few standard shower pan sizes to choose from, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the different options available so you can select the one that will work best in your space.

In this guide:
Shower Pan vs. Shower Base
Standard Shower Pan Sizes
Shower Pan Sizes by Shape
Additional Dimensions & Measurements
Frequently Asked Questions

1. Differentiate Between a Shower Pan vs. Shower Base

Before delving into the shower pan sizes, it's helpful to know the difference between a shower pan and shower base. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they serve slightly different purposes. A shower base is the structural foundation of your shower intended to support the weight of the user. The shower pan goes on top of the base as a waterproofing layer and is used to make the shower floor more aesthetically pleasing. Both the shower base and pan function to direct water towards the drain and prevent water from leaking beneath the shower.

Tip!

Need help deciding if a shower pan is right for your bathroom remodel? Read What is a Shower Pan & Do I Need One? for more insight into these common fixtures.

2. Explore Standard Shower Pan Sizes

Prefabricated shower pans are typically made from one solid piece of plastic, acrylic, or fiberglass material, and come in different shapes, and sizes. Most standard shower pan sizes start at 32" and go up to 60" deep (increasing in even-numbered measurements), though these vary according to the shape. Depending on the placement of your drain and your bathroom plumbing, this may dictate the size shower pan you can use. Consider the following standard sizes:

• 32" Shower Pans: The smallest available shower pans are 32" wide and are typically rounded corner or neo-angle shapes – ideal for maximizing space in small bathrooms.

• 36" Shower Pans: This is a standard size for square walk-in showers. To be ADA-compliant, showers must measure at least 36" wide by 36" deep.

• 48" Shower Pans: 48" is a standard width for small rectangular showers. These pans are usually between 32" – 36" deep.

• 60" Shower Pans: The largest prefabricated shower pans come in at 60" wide and usually have a depth of 36" to provide the maximum amount of space in a walk-in shower.

3. Compare Shower Pan Sizes by Shape

Square Shower Pan Sizes

Since they are square, these shower pans will have the same measurements on all sides. They work well for smaller bathrooms and corner shower installations because of their space-saving size. Square shower pans also give you enough room for a showering experience that is still comfortable. While they come in different sizes, the most common size for square shower pans is 36" wide by 36" deep.

Rectangular Shower Pan Sizes

When performing a tub-to-shower conversion, rectangular pans are a popular option since they can be easily installed in most bathroom layouts while providing an ample showering area. Thanks to their wide array of sizes that offer plenty of room to move around in, they are also great for people with disabilities. Rectangular shower pans can be between 48" – 60" wide and usually have a depth between 32" – 36".

Neo-Angle Shower Pan Sizes

Neo-angle shower pans are also great for small bathrooms as they are designed to fit into corners, maximizing a small area while looking stylish. They feature three 90° angles at the back corners and a diagonal or rounded front edge to save space. Neo-angle shower pans are the smallest available, typically between 32" – 36" wide.

4. Consider Additional Dimensions & Measurements

Beyond the footprint of your shower pan, it’s important to consider these additional measurements to ensure it will suit your accessibility and aesthetic needs. For instance, the threshold of a shower pan determines how high the edges of the pan are off the floor. The standard threshold height is 4" but it's possible to find some that are as low as 1" for wheelchair accessibility and people with limited mobility.

Also keep in mind the placement of your existing drain or alignment of your bathroom plumbing, as this will influence your shower dimensions and fixture placement. You can choose between center, left, right, corner, or front drain placement to suit the layout of your bathroom.

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