Shower Remodel Checklist in Fishers

September 26, 2025
Kitchen backsplash with a sink, dishwasher, cabinets, and stove.

Planning a shower remodel in Fishers? Use this quick checklist to go from idea to install without missing the details that slow projects down. It’s designed for homeowners in Fishers, so you’ll see local permitting notes and links, plus tips on tile, waterproofing, and glass that fit what we install most often in Hamilton County.

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Before You Start (SBT): Scope, Budget, Timeline

  • Define your scope
    Decide if this is a shower-only refresh (tile, pan, glass) or part of a larger bathroom update. Note if you want a walk-in layout, curbless entry, or a tub-to-shower conversion.
  • Set a realistic budget range
    Allow for tile, waterproofing, plumbing parts, glass, fixtures, and labor. Keep a contingency of 10–15 percent for hidden issues like subfloor damage.
  • Pick your target dates
    Most tile-and-glass remodels involve lead times for materials and custom glass. Plan around that, and be ready for 1–2 weeks of active work depending on complexity.

Measurements and Layout

  • Measure the footprint
    Length, width, and ceiling height. Note obstacles, window locations, and door swings.
  • Choose your entry style
    Standard curb, low curb, or curbless (best for accessibility). Curbless requires tighter prep to maintain slope and waterproofing.
  • Plan storage
    Mark locations for niches, benches, or corner shelves so blocking can be added in framing.

Tile and Materials

  • Tile size and style
    Large-format porcelain is popular for fewer grout lines and easy upkeep. Mosaics are common on floors for grip. See ideas and finishes on our
    Shower Tiles and Custom Tiling pages.
  • Shower pan
    Choose a pre-sloped base or a custom mud pan. Custom pans allow exact sizing and drains where you want them.
  • Grout choices
    Sanded vs. unsanded vs. pre-mixed options. Consider stain-resistant products for lighter colors.
  • Trim and transitions
    Plan bullnose edges or metal trims for clean lines around niches and outside corners.

Waterproofing and Substrate

  • Pick a full-system approach
    Use a compatible liner, membrane, seams, corners, and drain. Don’t mix parts from different systems unless the manufacturer approves it.
  • Backer board
    Cement board or foam board designed for wet zones. Avoid standard drywall inside the shower area.
  • Flood test
    Your installer should flood test a pan before tile to check for leaks. It’s a simple step that prevents headaches.

Plumbing and Fixtures

  • Valve and trim
    Upgrade to a modern pressure-balanced or thermostatic valve while the wall is open. Match finishes across the space.
  • Drain location
    Center drains are common; linear drains work well for large-format tile and curbless layouts.
  • Shower head options
    Standard, rain, handheld on a slide bar, or a combo. Make sure blocking is in place for heavy fixtures and grab bars.

Glass and Enclosure

  • Style
    Frameless, semi-frameless, or a sleek fixed panel. Measure after tile is complete for a precise fit.
  • Door swing and clearance
    Check that doors clear toilets and vanities. Note towel bar placement.
  • Ventilation
    Confirm the bath fan can handle steam and moisture from a larger or fully enclosed space.

Storage, Lighting, and Power

  • Niches and benches
    Size niches to your tallest bottles and tilt the base for drainage. Benches need proper waterproofing and support.
  • Lighting
    Add a dedicated can light rated for wet locations over the shower if the layout allows.
  • Outlets and heat
    If you’re adding features like radiant heat outside the shower or a smart fan, plan the circuit now.

Permits and Local Steps in Fishers

  • Check local requirements
    Interior bathroom remodels may trigger electrical or plumbing permits. Start with Fishers Planning & Zoning for guidance and contacts, then file through the city’s online portal.
  • Review city documents when needed
    For subdivision or broader residential work, Fishers publishes policies and construction specifications you can reference while planning.
  • Coordinate inspection timing
    Plan rough-in inspections before closing walls and final inspections before using the new shower.

Accessibility and Aging-In-Place

  • Entry and thresholds
    Low-curb or curbless entries reduce tripping hazards.
  • Grab bars and reinforcement
    Add blocking behind tile where bars or seats may go, even if you don’t install them today.
  • Non-slip surfaces
    Choose textured tile or small-format mosaics for more grout grip on the floor.

Demo and Prep-Day Checklist

  • Protect adjacent floors and doorways
  • Cap water lines and confirm valve shutoffs
  • Remove old finishes and check for mold or soft subfloor
  • Repair framing, add blocking, and correct slope at the pan

Tile Install Checklist

  • Verify substrate is plumb and flat
  • Install pan liner or system base and perform a flood test
  • Install backer board and waterproofing; seal seams and corners
  • Dry-lay tile patterns; align grout lines at niches and corners
  • Set tile with the right trowel size and thinset for the material
  • Grout, then seal where the manufacturer recommends

Glass Install Checklist

  • Measure after tile cures
  • Confirm door swing and handle placement
  • Install hardware into blocking, not just tile
  • Caulk appropriate seams and allow cure time before use

Final Walk-Through

  • Water test
    Run the shower and check corners, the door sweep, and the niche for leaks or pooling.
  • Clean and seal
    Wipe haze, seal if needed, and review care instructions for your grout and glass.
  • Warranty and care
    Keep product warranties, tile lot numbers, and care notes in one folder.

How Urbane Upgrade Helps Fishers Homeowners

  • Design and tile guidance
    We help you select sizes, patterns, and trims that are easy to clean and look right in the space. Browse our [Shower Tiles] gallery and see broader options under
    Services.
  • Local experience
    Our shop team works in Fishers and nearby communities regularly. You’ll have a direct line if questions come up during the job. When you’re ready, reach out on our
    Contact page to compare options and timelines.
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