- 1). Verify that the waterproofing membrane or shower pan liner is already installed and water-tested prior to installing your shower bench. Also ensure that the wall substrate has been installed. Determine if you are placing your bench in a corner or along a long wall. Test-fit a row of blocks along the base of where your bench will be and mark the outer edge with a pencil along the shower pan liner so you have a reference point for the concrete later.
- 2). Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer's instructions if you purchased a dry mix. Otherwise, open a pre-mixed container. Use a trowel to apply a 3/4-inch layer of mud onto the floor of the shower, on top of the shower liner or membrane, with your line as a reference. Fill in the entire area where the first layer of blocks will rest, creating a perimeter that includes the face as well as the sides along the walls and along the back wall.
- 3). Lay the first layer of blocks. Set them on top of the layer of cement and space them roughly 1/2-inch apart from each other. As you lay each block, use the trowel to put cement in between each block. Tap each subsequent block into place against the one next to it with a rubber mallet. After you finish the first row, use the level across the top and tap the blocks down into the base layer of mud so that they are level.
- 4). Apply another layer of mud on top of the first layer of bricks. Apply at least 3/4-inch of mud so when you tap the blocks into place, there is at least 1/2-inch of mud left as a joint. Install the blocks as normal; tap them into place but also check the plumb of the face of the block bench with the level in terms of how straight the bench face is vertically. Work your way up, row by row, checking for level and plumb after each row is finished.
- 5). Cover the top of the bench with a piece of concrete board and adhere it to the blocks with mud. Cut the board to fit with a utility knife. Put extra mud in the back of the bench area on the top of your pieces of block that line the back wall so that the bench top slopes slightly forward to the front of the bench and the shower floor, allowing for water to drain properly while showering. Use the level to check the angle.
- 6). Let the bench dry for at least 24 hours then install your chosen finish material, such as marble, granite, slate, travertine, ceramic or porcelain. Cover the bench first then run the surrounding wall material into the bench, as well as on top of the bench. This will lock the bench in place with the surrounding installation.
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