How to Measure for a Shower Curb Top

Knowing how to measure for a shower curb top is the first step to a clean, watertight shower entry. A curb top that is too short leaves gaps, and one that is too narrow looks unfinished. In this guide, we explain which measurements you need, how to take them, and how to order a stone curb top cut to your exact size.

What a shower curb top does

The shower curb is the low wall at the shower entry that keeps water inside. Usually, the curb itself is built from blocks or a foam form and then waterproofed. On top of it sits a solid stone piece, the curb top. Because it is one solid piece, it has fewer grout lines than tile and is easier to keep clean.

How to measure for a shower curb top: tools you need

• A tape measure (a metal one is more accurate)
• A pencil and paper, or your phone
• A level, if you want to check the curb before ordering

Step 1: Measure the length

First, measure the curb from wall to wall, along the top. Measure at the front edge and at the back edge, because walls are not always square. Then use the shorter number, so the piece fits between the walls. If the curb ends at a glass panel or a half wall instead of a wall, measure to the finished surface there.

Step 2: Measure the width (depth)

Next, measure across the top of the curb, from the bathroom side to the shower side. Measure in at least three places: near each end and in the middle. Again, note the smallest number. Remember to include the tile or backer board that will cover the sides of the curb, because the top usually sits over them.

Step 3: Decide on the overhang

Many installers let the curb top overhang the tiled sides slightly, so water drips off the edge instead of running down the face. Others prefer it flush. Either way, decide this with your installer before you order, and add the overhang to your width measurement.

Step 4: Check the slope

A curb top should slope slightly toward the shower, so water runs back inside. Usually, the installer creates this slope in the setting bed under the stone, not in the stone itself. So you do not need to change your measurements for it, but it is worth checking with a level before installation.

Step 5: Write down your final size

Finally, write down your final length and width, including any overhang. Double check both numbers before you order. Custom-size stone is cut to your measurements for your project, so you cannot return it after delivery.

Common measuring mistakes

• Measuring only once. Walls and curbs are rarely perfectly straight, so measure in several places.
• Forgetting the tile. Measure to the finished surface, not the bare frame.
• Mixing up width and length. Length runs wall to wall; width runs from the bathroom to the shower.
• Rounding up. When in doubt, use the smaller number so the piece fits.

Order a shower curb top cut to size

Now that you know how to measure for a shower curb top, open Build Your Shower Curb. There, you choose your stone, finish and edge, enter your final size, and see your price before you order. If your size matches a standard size, you can also pick a ready-made piece.

Need help?

If you are not sure about a measurement, our team is happy to help. Email sales@platosurfaces.com or call (201) 357-0444, Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. You can also visit our stone product FAQs for answers about ordering, shipping and returns.