Cast Iron Shower Pan -- Too Cool

A cast iron shower pan usually goes by the term shower receptor. In any case, it is a cool alternative to a more conventional shower pan. A bit on the pricey side, but these products actually may be a good value as well as looking really cool. Here's why...

See, conventional built-in shower pans, no matter how you build them, are a lot of trouble to put in and expensive as well. Make mistakes with the installation and the whole project gets very expensive very fast. Water leaks can destroy a house.

But with a cast iron shower pan, or receptor, you get the same durability as a cast iron tub. The iron tubs from the sixties or the even older claw foot tubs are legendary for lasting for decades. They usually get changed out because of the white color.

Plus there's the quality feel. It's solid like a mortar base shower floor and not at all like many acrylic showers, a little bouncy.

So, the price looks a little steep but must be balanced against the much higher installation costs for many shower pans. Then the durability of porcelain covered iron as compared to acrylic must be considered too. Then there is the look and feel of quality as a bonus.

Two styles to consider are the built in place unit and the self standing receptor. The built in pan installs much like an acrylic pan. It does stand alone usually with a shower curtain around it. Then the other option is a self-standing unit on legs. An alternative to a claw foot tub, these sport a vintage look.

Even the Kohler company offers a cast iron shower pan. Use one and build a bath of distinction for maybe less money than you would spend on a less durable more conventional shower. It's cool!