A Customizable Shower Bench Made from Plastic Bottles

Shower solutions manufacturer QuickDrain USA has released an ADA-compliant, customizable shower bench that is made from 100% recycled content.

Known for curbless shower solutions and linear drains, the company says the new bench creates a complete ADA-compliant system.

Universal design and aging in place have become some of the most important features for consumers when it comes to home improvement. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) found that the pandemic resulted in more generations living together under one roof. This is resulting in an increase in demand for ADA-compliant features for older parents, such as curbless showers and in-law suites. 

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The shower bench comes in three configurations—rectangle and a small or large corner bench—but custom sizes are available upon request. During installation, the ready-to-assemble shower seat’s panels can be trimmed for a custom fit.

Because the bench does not need fasteners, lumber framing, or anchors, the company says the installation is far more efficient than traditional framed benches. 

The large corner, or triangular shower bench, measures 24 inches by 24 inches by 20 inches. The small version measures 16 inches by 16 inches by 20 inches and the rectangle shower bench is 48 inches by 16 inches by 20 inches. 

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Marble shower bench featuring QuickDrain USA's corner shower bench

Earlier this summer, NKBA announced that the demand for larger, zero-clearance showers with integrated seating was a growing priority for homeowners. NKBA wasn’t the only one.

The American Institute of Architects 2020 Home Design Trends Survey also reported that accessibility and aging in place home designs were among the most popular home layouts. Easier accessibility within the home was a request to 59% of architects. Overall designs for aging in place were requested 61% of the time. From 2018 to 2019, the demand for both larger walk-in showers and universally designed bathrooms increased to about 60%.

Integrated seating and zero-threshold showers are the most important design theme for both Baby Boomers and the Greatest/Silent generations. Homeowners are increasingly concerned about eco-friendly products as well, especially the younger generations.

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QuickDrain USA's linear shower drain

QuickDrain USA says the shower bench meets the ADA standards for height and exceeds the weight guideline of 250 pounds. In addition, the bench features 2-inch PET, or polyethylene terephthalate plastic foam panels made entirely from recycled plastic water bottles. According to the company, 400 water bottles are recycled with every shower bench.

These PET panels are lightweight yet durable, UV-resistant, shatterproof, and non-reactive, the company says. Designers and architects can specify the bench in projects requiring a tileable seat, and it can be installed with both sheet and liquid topical waterproofing.

Suitable substrates for the shower bench include concrete, exterior glue plywood, cement backer board, OSB or Avantech.