Elevate your bathroom with expert custom and barrier-free shower installation from Asgard Construction. Our professional team specializes in creating beautiful, functional shower spaces that combine accessibility, safety, and stunning design. Whether you’re planning a luxurious spa-like retreat, an accessible barrier-free shower, or a complete bathroom transformation, we deliver precision craftsmanship and lasting value that exceeds your expectations.
What Are Custom & Barrier-Free Showers?
Custom showers are personalized shower spaces designed specifically to meet your unique needs, preferences, and bathroom layout. These bespoke installations can feature custom tile patterns, specialty fixtures, built-in seating and storage, unique layouts and configurations, and luxury amenities like multiple showerheads or steam features. Every element is selected and arranged to create your perfect shower experience.
Barrier-free showers, also known as curbless showers, zero-entry showers, or walk-in showers, eliminate the traditional raised threshold or curb. The shower floor is completely level with the rest of the bathroom or features a minimal slope toward the drain, allowing seamless, unobstructed entry. This accessible design provides safe, easy access for individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids, seniors aging in place, families with young children, and anyone seeking modern, open-concept bathroom design.
The Benefits of Barrier-Free Showers
Barrier-free showers offer numerous advantages that make them increasingly popular for both accessibility and design reasons.
Enhanced Safety and Accessibility
The elimination of a raised threshold dramatically reduces fall risks, especially in wet, slippery bathroom environments. With no step to navigate, barrier-free showers provide safe access for individuals with limited mobility, stability concerns, or visual impairments. Wheelchair users can roll directly into the shower without assistance. Caregivers can more easily assist family members with bathing needs. The open design also allows for installation of additional safety features like grab bars, fold-down benches, and non-slip flooring.
Modern, Spacious Aesthetic
Barrier-free showers create a sleek, contemporary look that makes bathrooms feel larger and more open. The seamless transition from bathroom floor to shower eliminates visual barriers, enhancing the sense of space. This open-concept design is particularly beneficial in smaller bathrooms where every inch counts. The continuous floor plane creates a spa-like, luxurious atmosphere that appeals to homeowners seeking modern elegance.
Universal Design for All Life Stages
Barrier-free showers exemplify universal design principles, creating spaces usable by people of all ages and abilities. Young families appreciate the ease of bathing children without lifting them over a tub edge. Active adults value the modern aesthetic and convenience. Seniors benefit from aging-in-place features that support independence and safety as mobility changes. This versatility makes barrier-free showers an excellent long-term investment that adapts to changing needs.
Easier Cleaning and Maintenance
Without a curb to trap dirt, soap scum, and mildew, barrier-free showers are significantly easier to clean. The continuous floor surface allows for effortless cleaning with no hard-to-reach crevices. This simplified maintenance saves time and effort while keeping your bathroom looking fresh and hygienic.
Increased Home Value
Accessible features and modern design elements both contribute to increased property value. As the population ages and awareness of accessibility grows, barrier-free showers have become highly desirable amenities. Potential buyers appreciate the combination of style and functionality, making homes with well-designed accessible showers more marketable.
Our Custom & Barrier-Free Shower Installation Process
At Asgard Construction, we follow a comprehensive process that ensures your custom shower exceeds expectations.
Initial Consultation and Design Planning
Every exceptional shower begins with understanding your vision and requirements. During our consultation, we discuss your accessibility needs and safety concerns, design preferences and aesthetic goals, budget parameters and priorities, bathroom dimensions and structural considerations, and desired features like seating, storage, or specialty fixtures. Our design experts help you envision possibilities and make informed decisions about layout, materials, and features. We provide sketches, samples, and 3D renderings when appropriate to help you visualize your finished shower.
Structural Assessment and Preparation
Proper structural preparation is critical for successful barrier-free shower installation. Our team conducts thorough assessment of your bathroom’s structural capacity, subfloor condition and levelness, plumbing location and requirements, and drainage considerations. For barrier-free showers, we determine the optimal approach which may include recessing the shower floor below the bathroom floor level, raising the entire bathroom floor to accommodate proper slope, or using specialized pre-sloped shower systems. We address any structural modifications needed before installation begins.
Waterproofing System Installation
Waterproofing is absolutely essential for any shower, but especially critical in barrier-free installations where water can more easily reach adjacent areas. We use industry-leading sealed waterproofing systems from manufacturers like Schluter Kerdi, Wedi, or equivalent products that meet Tile Council of North America (TCNA) standards. Our waterproofing process includes installing waterproof membranes on shower pan and walls, sealing all seams, corners, and penetrations with specialized tapes and fabrics, extending waterproofing at least 12-24 inches beyond the shower threshold for barrier-free installations, and ensuring proper waterproofing around drains, mixing valves, and other fixtures. This comprehensive waterproofing creates a completely watertight assembly that protects your home from water damage.
Drainage Installation
Proper drainage is crucial for barrier-free showers to prevent water from escaping into the bathroom. We install appropriate drain systems which may include linear drains that efficiently collect water along one edge of the shower, center point drains positioned at the lowest point, or trench drains for larger shower areas. The shower floor is carefully sloped toward the drain to ensure complete water evacuation without pooling. For barrier-free showers, we create a subtle slope (typically 1/4 inch per foot) that effectively channels water while remaining comfortable and safe to walk on.
Custom Tile Installation
Once waterproofing and drainage are in place, we begin the tile installation that brings your design vision to life. Our skilled installers work with all tile materials including porcelain and ceramic, natural stone (marble, travertine, slate, granite), glass and mosaic tiles, and pebble tiles. We execute your chosen design whether it’s classic subway tiles in various patterns, dramatic large-format tiles, intricate mosaics and decorative accents, or mixed materials for visual interest. Every tile is precisely placed with attention to layout, grout line consistency, and overall aesthetic. We incorporate design elements like shower niches for storage, bench seating tiled to match or contrast, decorative accent walls or borders, and textured floor tiles for slip resistance.
Glass Enclosure Installation
The right glass enclosure completes your shower while enhancing its beauty and functionality. We offer various enclosure options including frameless glass doors for sleek, modern aesthetics, semi-frameless designs balancing style and structure, framed enclosures for traditional or budget-conscious projects, and walk-in configurations without doors for open, spa-like spaces. Frameless glass enclosures are particularly popular for their clean lines, unobstructed views showcasing beautiful tile work, easier cleaning without frame crevices, and contemporary, luxurious appearance. All glass is tempered safety glass meeting building codes. We ensure proper installation with secure mounting, appropriate sealing to prevent leaks, and smooth, reliable operation.
Fixture and Accessory Installation
The final phase includes installing fixtures and accessories that enhance functionality and comfort. We install shower valves and controls positioned for easy reach and safe operation, showerheads in your preferred style (rainfall, handheld, multi-function, or combination systems), grab bars strategically placed for safety and support, built-in or fold-down seating, integrated storage niches and shelves, and ventilation fans to manage moisture. All fixtures are selected and positioned according to accessibility guidelines when appropriate, ensuring they serve both aesthetic and functional purposes.
Custom Shower Design Options
We offer endless possibilities to create your perfect custom shower.
Tile Design and Materials
The tile selections available today allow for truly personalized shower designs.
Natural stone tiles like marble, travertine, and slate create luxurious, spa-like atmospheres with unique veining and textures. Porcelain and ceramic tiles offer durability, water resistance, and countless colors and patterns. Glass and mosaic tiles add sparkle, color, and intricate detail as accents or full coverage. Pebble tiles provide natural texture, massage-like feel underfoot, and excellent slip resistance. Wood-look tiles deliver warmth and natural beauty without the maintenance concerns of real wood.
Popular tile patterns and layouts include classic subway tiles in brick, herringbone, or vertical stack patterns, large-format tiles creating seamless, modern looks with minimal grout lines, hexagon, arabesque, and other geometric shapes adding visual interest, mosaic tiles in borders, niches, or full shower floors, and mixed materials combining textures and finishes for custom designs.
Shower Fixtures and Features
Modern shower fixtures transform daily routines into luxurious experiences.
Rainfall showerheads mounted overhead provide gentle, enveloping spray mimicking natural rain. Handheld showerheads offer flexibility for rinsing, cleaning, and accessibility needs. Combination systems pair fixed and handheld heads for ultimate versatility. Body sprays and jets positioned along walls provide spa-like targeted massage. Digital and thermostatic controls maintain precise temperature and allow custom programming. Steam shower features convert your shower into a therapeutic steam room.
Built-In Seating and Storage
Thoughtful integration of seating and storage enhances comfort and functionality.
Tiled benches can be built-in along walls, floating for sleek modern look, corner-mounted to save space, or full-width for maximum seating. Fold-down seats provide accessible seating that stores away when not needed. Built-in niches create recessed storage for toiletries without cluttering shower space. Corner shelves and caddy systems offer additional storage options.
Glass Enclosure Styles
Glass enclosures define your shower space while maintaining openness.
Frameless glass doors feature minimal hardware for contemporary elegance, heavier tempered glass (typically 3/8″ to 1/2″), various configurations (pivot, sliding, hinged), and multiple finish options for hardware. Semi-frameless designs offer structured support with refined appearance and balance of style and affordability. Walk-in or doorless showers eliminate doors entirely for barrier-free access, require proper sizing and showerhead positioning to contain water, and create ultimate open, spa-like feel. Frosted or textured glass provides privacy while maintaining light flow.
Accessibility Features for Barrier-Free Showers
When designing barrier-free showers, we incorporate features that maximize safety and independence.
Size and Space Requirements
Adequate space ensures comfortable, safe use of barrier-free showers. Minimum recommended interior dimensions are 36″ x 36″ for basic accessibility, but 60″ x 36″ or larger is ideal for wheelchair access and caregiver assistance. Additional maneuvering space outside the shower allows for wheelchair turning and transfer. We design shower layouts that maximize usable space within your bathroom constraints.
Grab Bar Installation
Strategically placed grab bars provide essential support and stability. We install grab bars near shower controls, along shower walls at appropriate heights, beside seating areas, and at entry and exit points. All grab bars are installed into properly reinforced walls capable of supporting required weight loads. We offer various finishes to match your bathroom décor while meeting safety standards.
Non-Slip Flooring
Slip-resistant surfaces are crucial for shower safety. We recommend and install textured tiles with natural grip, small-format tiles (like mosaics or pebbles) creating more grout lines for traction, specialized slip-resistant coatings or treatments, and proper slope that allows drainage without creating slippery standing water. All flooring selections balance safety with comfort and aesthetics.
Accessible Controls and Fixtures
Thoughtful fixture placement ensures independence and safety. Shower controls are mounted within easy reach from both standing and seated positions (typically 38″-48″ from floor), away from direct water spray to prevent temperature shock, with easy-turn or lever handles rather than round knobs, and clearly marked hot and cold indicators. Handheld showerheads with long hoses allow seated use and targeted rinsing. Thermostatic mixing valves prevent dangerous temperature fluctuations.
Seating Options
Appropriate seating provides comfort and safety for users who cannot stand for extended periods. Built-in tiled benches offer permanent, sturdy seating at proper height (17″-19″), fold-down seats provide seating when needed without reducing space when not in use, and transfer benches extend from inside to outside shower for wheelchair transfers. All seating is positioned to allow easy access to controls and showerhead.
Waterproofing Methods for Barrier-Free Showers
Proper waterproofing is the most critical aspect of barrier-free shower installation.
Industry-Standard Sealed Systems
According to the Tile Council of North America, barrier-free showers must use sealed waterproofing systems. These systems include bonded waterproofing membranes that adhere directly to substrate (such as Schluter Kerdi, RedGard, or Hydroban), waterproof foam shower bases with integrated slope, waterproof sealing tapes and fabrics for seams and corners, and sealed integration between shower pan and wall systems. Sealed systems prevent water from penetrating behind tile even at the vulnerable transition between wet shower area and dry bathroom floor.
Extended Waterproofing Coverage
Barrier-free showers require waterproofing well beyond the shower area itself. Industry standards call for waterproofing extending minimum 12 inches beyond the high point of the shower slope, though we typically extend 24 inches or more for added protection. The entire shower pan and walls up to at least 72 inches are completely waterproofed. We also waterproof the entire bathroom floor in barrier-free installations for maximum protection.
Professional Installation Techniques
Our installers follow precise protocols to ensure waterproof integrity. We properly prepare all substrates ensuring they’re clean, dry, and structurally sound, apply membranes according to manufacturer specifications with proper overlap and adhesion, seal all penetrations (drains, mixing valves, pipes) with specialized components, reinforce and seal all corners and transitions with fabric and additional membrane, and conduct flood tests before tile installation when appropriate. This meticulous approach ensures your shower remains watertight for decades.
Glass Door Options: Frameless vs. Framed
Choosing between frameless and framed glass enclosures affects both aesthetics and functionality.
Frameless Glass Enclosures
Frameless glass doors represent the pinnacle of modern shower design. They feature thick tempered glass (typically 3/8″ to 1/2″) that requires minimal hardware support, clean, minimalist appearance that showcases tile work, easier cleaning with no frame crevices to trap soap scum and mildew, and versatile configurations including pivot, hinged, and sliding options. Frameless enclosures create a luxurious, spa-like atmosphere and make bathrooms feel more spacious. They typically cost more than framed alternatives but add significant value and appeal. Various hardware finishes (chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, bronze) allow customization to match bathroom fixtures.
Framed Glass Enclosures
Framed glass doors feature aluminum frames around glass panels providing structural support. They offer excellent water containment due to frame sealing, lower cost compared to frameless options, easier installation in some situations, and variety of frame colors and finishes. However, framed enclosures can appear less modern, require more maintenance as frames can corrode or collect buildup, and may obstruct views of decorative tile work. They remain excellent choices for traditional bathrooms or budget-conscious projects.
Semi-Frameless Options
Semi-frameless enclosures combine elements of both styles, offering partial framing for support while maintaining cleaner lines than fully framed designs. These provide good balance of cost, style, and functionality.
Shower Fixture Selection
The right fixtures transform your shower from functional to exceptional.
Rainfall Showerheads
Ceiling or wall-mounted rainfall heads deliver gentle, enveloping spray mimicking natural rain. Large head sizes (8″ to 12″ or more) provide full-body coverage. Various spray patterns range from gentle mist to drenching downpour. These create luxurious, spa-like shower experiences and serve as stunning design focal points.
Handheld Showerheads
Handheld units offer essential flexibility for rinsing, targeted spray for accessibility needs, easier shower cleaning, and convenience for bathing children or pets. Long hoses (60″ or more) ensure adequate reach. Multiple spray patterns provide versatility. Handheld showers are particularly important in accessible shower designs.
Combination Shower Systems
Combination systems pair fixed rainfall or wall-mounted heads with handheld units for ultimate versatility. Three-way diverters allow independent or simultaneous operation of multiple outlets. Body sprays add targeted massage. Digital controls enable custom programming of temperature, flow, and spray patterns. These comprehensive systems create truly luxurious shower experiences.
Why Choose Asgard Construction for Your Custom Shower
When you choose Asgard Construction for your custom or barrier-free shower project, you partner with experienced professionals committed to excellence.
Specialized Expertise
Our team brings extensive experience in custom shower design and barrier-free installation. We understand complex waterproofing requirements, accessibility standards and ADA guidelines, advanced tile installation techniques, and glass enclosure integration. Our installers stay current with industry best practices and manufacturer requirements.
Quality Materials and Systems
We use only premium products from trusted manufacturers. Our waterproofing systems meet or exceed TCNA standards. Tile selections include top brands offering beauty and durability. Glass enclosures feature tempered safety glass and quality hardware. All materials are backed by manufacturer warranties.
Comprehensive Project Management
We handle every aspect of your shower installation from initial design through final inspection. Our process includes detailed planning and design, all necessary permits and inspections, coordination of plumbing and electrical work, material procurement and delivery, expert installation by certified craftsmen, and thorough cleanup and final walkthrough. This turnkey approach ensures smooth, stress-free project completion.
Attention to Safety and Accessibility
For barrier-free and accessible showers, we ensure compliance with relevant accessibility standards, proper installation of all safety features, waterproofing that protects your home investment, and designs that balance safety with beauty. We can also connect you with resources for accessibility funding or grants when applicable.
Customer-Focused Service
Your satisfaction drives everything we do. We provide clear communication throughout your project, punctual, respectful crew members, daily cleanup and workspace protection, and responsive support for questions and concerns. Our goal is not just meeting expectations but exceeding them with results that delight you for years to come.
Get Started with Your Custom or Barrier-Free Shower
Transform your bathroom with a custom or barrier-free shower from Asgard Construction. Whether you’re creating an accessible shower for aging in place, designing a spa-like luxury retreat, or simply updating your bathroom with modern style and functionality, our team has the expertise to bring your vision to life.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll discuss your goals, assess your space, and provide a detailed proposal outlining design options, timeline, and investment. Let us show you why homeowners throughout the region trust Asgard Construction for their custom shower projects.