In the past when if you wanted recessed shelving in your shower you had to construct it by framing it out, cladding it with cement board and covering it with a waterproof membrane.  

ProSpec niches are designed to make life easier for the contractor and do-it-yourselfer alike.  If you plan to cut out part of a wall in a wet area, like a shower, installations must be done correctly.  Improperly installed or poorly waterproofed niches can result in problems with mold and rot.  When installed according to these simple instructions, ProSpec niches provide beautiful recessed shelving that is waterproof and worry-free.

Step 1 – Position niche and mark the top and bottom of the flange between the two studs.

ProSpec niches are made of lightweight polystyrene in a single-piece form with a waterproof coating.  They are easy to install and tile in minutes.  The unique in-wall design allows them to be tiled with the same tile as the surrounding wall, transforming niches into an attractive and functional nook.  ProSpec niches will not leak or degrade and require no ongoing maintenance.  

Step 2 – Cut away and remove the panel.

To install a niche as part of new construction, position the niche between two 16-inch on-center studs.  Check to be sure niche is level, and mark the top and bottom of the flange.  For additional support, you may nail two horizontal braces between vertical studs.  Next, caulk the niche to the cross-bracing studs using ProSpec B-6000 Waterproofing or nail washers.  Then install the cement backerboard around and butt to the niche.  Finally, cover the joints and seal all edges between the niche and the backerboard with B-6000 Waterproofing or a fiberglass mesh that has been embedded in latex modified mortar.

Step 3 – Insert niche.

To install a niche as part of a remodel, draw a level pencil line on the outside substrate layer.  Place the niche with the bottom flange of the box centered on the level line and trace around the exterior flanges.  Cut along the line using a six tool jab saw or a four inch hand held grinder  (Caution:  be sure you know what is behind the substrate surface before making any cuts to prevent damage to electrical or plumbing), and remove the panel.

Step 4 – Embed fiberglass mesh into ProSpec B-6000 Waterproof Membrane around the edges of the niche.

Next, caulk the niche to the cross bracing studs using B-6000 Waterproofing or nails with nail washers.  Finally, cover the joint and seal all the edges between the niche and the backerboard with B-6000 Waterproofing or a fiberglass mesh that has been embedded in latex modified mortar.  The mesh should be installed into the B-6000 while it is still tacky.  Apply a second coat of B-6000 over the mesh and allow it to dry to the touch before installing tile or stone.

Step 5 – Seal all edges with ProSpec B-6000 Waterproof Membrane.

ProSpec niches offer an array of design possibilities.  They are available in seven styles including three squares (twelve, eight and six inch) as well as three combination sizes (wide, medium and narrow) and a rectangular niche. With their sturdy, single-piece and waterproof construction, professionals or do-it-yourselfers can install recessed shelving quickly, easily and with confidence.

Step 6 – Tile.

For more information on where to purchase niches or other ProSpec products, consumers should contact ProSpec’s customer service department by calling 800.334.0784 or visit their web site at www.prospec.com.