What is the best shower floor, tiles or one of those pan things?

Tile floors offer more design flexibility and durability, while shower pans provide better waterproofing and easier maintenance. The best choice depends on your budget, style preferences, and long-term maintenance expectations.

Tile shower floors remain the most popular choice in Ottawa renovations because they offer unlimited design possibilities. You can match your floor tile to the walls, create decorative patterns, or use contrasting colors for visual interest. Porcelain and ceramic tiles work well, but natural stone like marble or granite adds luxury appeal. The key is choosing tiles with adequate slip resistance - look for a coefficient of friction (COF) rating of 0.6 or higher for wet areas. Smaller tiles (2x2 or 1x1 inch) provide more grout lines for better traction than large format tiles.

One-piece shower pans (also called shower bases) offer superior waterproofing since there are no grout lines where water can penetrate. They're typically made from acrylic, fiberglass, or solid surface materials like Corian. Installation is faster and often less expensive than custom tile work. Modern shower pans come in various colors and textures, including ones that mimic natural stone. They're also easier to clean and maintain long-term since there's no grout to scrub or reseal.

For Ottawa's climate, proper waterproofing is crucial regardless of your choice. Tile floors require a waterproof membrane underneath (like Schluter or RedGard systems) and properly sloped substrate to direct water to the drain. This adds to the installation cost but prevents water damage to your subfloor and joists below. One-piece pans come pre-sloped and waterproofed, reducing these concerns.

Cost considerations in the Ottawa market show tile floors ranging from $8-25 per square foot installed, while quality shower pans typically cost $300-800 for the pan itself plus installation. However, tile floors often require more extensive prep work and waterproofing, which can increase total project costs.

For a free consultation on the best shower floor option for your specific bathroom renovation, Ottawa Bathrooms can assess your space and provide detailed recommendations based on your needs and budget.

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Ottawa Bathrooms connects you with vetted, licensed renovation contractors from the Ottawa Construction Network:

• Justyn Rook Contracting ✓
• Davinci Tiling ✓
• Montgomery Construction ✓