How to Build a Flagstone Shower

Planning

• The first step in building a flagstone shower is making a detailed plan. Flagstone is among the most expensive bathroom surfaces, so make sure your remodeling budget can accommodate the cost. Produce a diagram of the bathroom, including the size of the new shower. This will indicate how much flagstone you need and also help determine how long the project will take.

Materials

• The most important material for a flagstone shower is the flagstone itself. Select stones that have the visual characteristics you want. Because a shower is a small, enclosed space, choose smaller flagstones that you'll be able to fit together along narrow walls and around a floor drain. You'll also need a bonding agent to install the flagstones and fill the spaces between them. This can be a synthetic grout, natural mortar or acrylic caulk.

Installation

• The process for installing a flagstone shower includes placing several layers of material along the walls and floor of the shower stall. The first layer is a waterproof membrane, which will prevent any water that penetrates the flagstones or works its way through the cracks around them from entering your walls. The next layer is a mortar bed, followed by the flagstones and grout. The process only requires basic tools, such as a trowel for applying mortar and safety equipment such as gloves and eye protection.

Maintenance

• Once your flagstone shower is complete and in use, you must maintain it to preserve its look and enhance its lifespan. Flagstone surfaces are porous, which means they can absorb water. Wiping down the shower after each use will prevent enough water from entering the stones to promote mold and mildew growth. You should also replace grout and caulking between stones periodically to eliminate gaps where water can collect. If mold does begin to grow, you can apply a mild commercial mildew product to dark areas.