Shower Build Calculator Suite

Use this shower build calculator suite to estimate tile quantities, materials, and labor for a full shower build.

Related Calculators

Concrete Calculator | Tile Calculator | Deck Mud Calculator

How to Use

Start by entering the shower floor and wall dimensions. You can switch between square footage mode or full length × width inputs depending on how your project is measured in the field.

Next, enter tile size and material pricing. The calculator will automatically estimate tile quantity, deck mud, thinset, grout, waterproofing coverage, and labor costs.

For deck mud, input the drain thickness and slope (standard is 1/4 inch per foot). The tool will calculate the true sloped mortar bed volume and convert it into 80 lb bag equivalents.

Example

A 4 ft × 3 ft shower with a 1.5" drain thickness and 1/4" slope typically requires approximately:

• ~2.0–2.2 cubic feet of deck mud
• 3–4 bags of 80 lb dry pack mortar
• ~45–55 sq ft of total tile coverage (walls + floor)
• $300–$600 in total material cost depending on tile selection

Pro Tips

• Always dry-fit tile layout before mixing materials
• Use a consistent 1/4" per foot slope toward the drain
• Order 5–10% extra tile for cuts and breakage
• Pack deck mud firmly to avoid future cracking
• Waterproof before placing tile to prevent moisture damage

Frequently Asked Questions

How thick should deck mud be in a shower?
Typically 1–2 inches at the drain, increasing toward the perimeter based on slope.

What is the correct slope for a shower pan?
Standard code is 1/4 inch per foot toward the drain.

How much extra material should I order?
Always add 5–10% extra for waste, cuts, and installation variation.

How many bags of deck mud do I need?
Most small showers require 3–6 bags of 80 lb dry pack mortar depending on size and slope.