How to Properly Measure for a Tile Redi Shower Pan

How to Properly Measure for a Tile Redi Shower Pan

One of the most important steps to ensure a successful, leakproof shower installation is proper measurement before ordering or installing your shower pan. Even the most advanced system—like a pre-pitched, one-piece Tile Redi pan—can fail to deliver optimal performance if it doesn’t fit the space correctly. In this guide, we’ll walk through essential measuring tips and highlight key takeaways from Bathroom Remodeling Teacher’s step-by-step video tutorial.

Watch: Step-by-Step Measurement Guide

Before you begin, we highly recommend watching this short video by Bathroom Remodeling Teacher which visually explains the measuring process: Watch on YouTube

In This Guide:

·         How to Measure the Rough Opening

·         How to Measure and Confirm Your Shower Drain Location

·         How to Account for Tile and Wall Board Thickness

·         How to Check for Plumb Walls and Level Floors

·         Recommended Tolerance and Tools

·         Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid

·         FAQs

How to Measure the Rough Opening for Your Shower Pan

Start by measuring the length and width of the shower area from stud to stud. Make sure to measure at the floor level, not from mid-wall or ceiling.

·         Tip: Measure twice—once at the base and again about 6 inches up the wall to check for variance.

How to Measure and Confirm Your Shower Drain Location

Knowing your drain’s location is critical:

·         Measure from the back wall stud to the center of the drain.

·         Then measure from the side wall stud to the drain center.

·         This determines which standard drain location to choose (center, left, right, etc.) or whether a custom Redi Your Way pan is needed.

How to Account for Tile and Wall Board Thickness

Don’t forget to factor in finishing materials:

·         Add the thickness of wall backer board and tile on each side.

·         This ensures the pan will fit flush without under- or overhanging the tiled walls.

How to Check for Plumb Walls and Level Floors

Use a level to ensure your walls are square and plumb:

·         Out-of-square walls can affect fit and cause gaps.

·         Floor leveling may be needed before installation to ensure a proper setting bed.

Recommended Tolerance and Tools for Accurate Measuring

Allow a small tolerance—about 1/8 inch—on each side to make positioning easier and prevent tight spots that could compromise your waterproof seal.

Recommended Tools:

·         Tape measure or laser measure

·         Framing square

·         4-ft. level

Why This Step Matters

Accurate measuring:

·         Prevents ordering the wrong size pan

·         Ensures perfect drain alignment

·         Avoids costly tile layout issues

·         Reduces callbacks due to improper fit

Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid

·         Measuring from finished walls instead of studs

·         Forgetting to account for tile and board thickness

·         Assuming the drain is centered without measuring

·         Ignoring unlevel floors or out-of-square framing

·         Not leaving any tolerance for pan adjustment

FAQ

Q: How much space should I leave around a Tile Redi shower pan for proper fit? A: We recommend leaving about 1/8 inch of tolerance on all sides. This makes installation easier and helps ensure a proper waterproof seal.

Q: Should I measure before or after installing wall board in my shower? A: Always start with rough opening measurements before wall boards are installed. However, we also recommend double-checking fit after boards are up to ensure nothing has shifted.

Q: How do I know if my drain is centered for a Tile Redi pan? A: Measure from each wall stud to the drain’s center point. If the distances are roughly equal and match up to the product spec sheet, it’s centered. Otherwise, choose the correct offset option or consider a custom pan.

Q: What if my walls aren’t square—can I still install a Tile Redi pan? A: Yes, but you may need to shim or adjust your framing. A square and plumb opening ensures the best fit and seal for the pan.

Q: Do I need to level the floor before installing a Tile Redi shower base? A: Yes. The floor should be level so the pre-pitched pan performs correctly. Use leveling compound if needed before setting the pan in place.

Final Thoughts

Measuring might seem simple, but small errors can lead to major installation problems. Take the time to follow this guide and the video walkthrough to get it right the first time. With proper measurements, your Tile Redi shower pan will fit seamlessly—and perform flawlessly.

Ready to Order?

Use our sizing guide and measuring tips to select the perfect pan for your next project. Still not sure? Contact our team for personalized support.