Installation, Design and Function

Shower niches are prefabricated shelving units typically composed of extruded polystyrene foam and can be installed with thin-set mortar in tiled shower applications. The Kerdi-Board-SNLT niche is installed vertically, and to create the illuminating effect in the niche, the LED lighting strip is installed horizontally at the top of the niche with a mounting profile. The lighting strip can be placed either in the center or towards the back of the niche, depending on personal preference after the niche is installed in the wall. The system also includes a completely waterproof cable connection box at the top of the niche to ensure code compliance. This is especially important in wet areas. The lighting strip requires no special care or maintenance, although the profile should be cleaned regularly to maintain its appearance. For complete installation instructions and other relevant information, including components, care and maintenance, refer to Schluter’s Kerdi-Board-SNLT installation instructions and planning guide. 

Although the lighting in modern washrooms is generally brighter than traditional living spaces, the shower area tends to lose some of the lighting when the area is closed off to allow for privacy. When LED lighting is encompassed in the shower area, the area is not only aesthetically pleasing, but the illumination of the LED lights allows items in and around the shelf to be seen more clearly. The dimmer switch included with the assembly can also be used to brighten or dim the light according to preference. 

In the longer 12- x 20-inch niche, additional shelves can be added towards the top, middle or towards the bottom of the niche to provide more space to store items. The Schluter®-Shelf-N is specifically designed to be inserted into the niche, and when installed, provides neat designs that illuminate under the shelf depending on the shelf and the color of the chosen tile.

The silicone lighting strip is also fully waterproof, making it ideal for wet-area installations. However, due to the versatility of the niche, it can also be installed in various areas throughout the residence and is not strictly limited to shower area installations. These shelving units can be installed anywhere Kerdi or Kerdi-Board can be installed, such as behind the sink in the kitchen to allow for supplemental lighting while housing decorations or cleaning products, or other areas in a residential application, such as living rooms and bedrooms, to provide additional shelving in areas that lack adequate space.

Illuminating Benefits

Modernization is a must when it comes to today’s residential applications. The good news is that the current trends allow for some flexibility and versatility, especially when it comes to shower area installations. Darker tile trends may compromise the brightness of the shower area, so when LED lighting strips are incorporated into these areas, the ambiance is appropriately enhanced without having to switch out the tile. The driver’s options for the system allow for dimming and brightening as desired, making the lighting system appropriate for both light and dark tiles. The installation of the Kerdi-Board-SNLT is also straightforward, as specified in the literature materials available on Schluter.com. Given the relevant information on this topic, it is time to see your shower in a whole new light!