Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Installing a Custom Shower Pan
When designing custom showers, your shower pan is more than just a base, it’s the foundation of your entire experience. A poorly installed custom shower pan can lead to costly repairs, water damage, and long-term frustration.
At Brandt Molded Marble, we’ve seen how the right materials and proper installation can make all the difference. Here are the top five mistakes to avoid, plus how we help you get it right the first time.
1. Using the Wrong Materials
Not all shower pans are created equal. Traditional pans made of fiberglass or plastic often crack, stain, or warp over time.
What to Do Instead:
Choose a custom shower pan made from cultured marble, a material known for its durability, seamless design, and long-lasting finish.
💡 Brandt Molded Marble offers prefabricated custom shower pans crafted from premium cultured marble: strong, low-maintenance, and built to last.
2. Ignoring Drain Placement
Standard shower pans don’t always align with existing plumbing, leading to expensive rerouting or poor drainage performance.
What to Do Instead:
Plan your drain location early and choose a custom shower pan designed to fit your space.
💡 Our team at Brandt Molded Marble can help you customize your pan with center, left, or right drain options and no more guesswork.
3. Improper Slope or Leveling
A pan that isn’t sloped correctly can cause standing water, leaks, or even mold growth underneath your shower floor.
What to Do Instead:
Work with experienced fabricators and installers who understand the technical requirements for proper slope and sealing.
💡 Brandt Molded Marble’s prefabricated custom shower pans are precision-engineered for ideal drainage and a perfect fit.
4. Forgetting About Waterproofing
Some homeowners assume the shower pan is waterproof enough on its own. But poor sealing or missed prep work can lead to hidden moisture problems.
What to Do Instead:
Always ensure the surrounding walls and seams are correctly sealed and that you’re working with non-porous, waterproof materials.
💡 Our seamless cultured marble pans and wall panels eliminate grout lines and reduce the risk of leaks and mildew altogether.
5. DIY Without Support
Installing a custom shower pan might seem like a simple task, but improper cuts, missed measurements, or incorrect materials can lead to expensive do-overs.
🔧 What to Do Instead:
Work with experts who specialize in custom showers from design to installation.
💡 At Brandt Molded Marble, we guide you every step of the way, ensuring a stress-free experience and a result you’ll love.
Why Brandt Molded Marble?
We’ve built our reputation on precision, quality, and personal service. Whether you’re upgrading a guest bath or designing your dream master suite, our custom showers and custom shower pans offer unmatched style and reliability.
Seamless cultured marble.
Custom fit to your space.
Quick fabrication and installation.
Made in Wisconsin, with care.
Ready to Start Your Shower Remodel?
Avoid the headaches and get the shower you’ve always wanted.