Add Rustic Charm to Showers with River Rock Floor Ideas
Looking to give your shower a natural, spa-like makeover? Consider installing an earthy river rock floor. With their smooth yet uneven texture and neutral, multi-colored tones, river rocks can transform plain shower floors into relaxing oases. Read on to discover the benefits of river rock floors, installation tips, design inspirations, and proper maintenance so you can enhance your bathroom with this unique feature.
River rock shower floors provide a textured, non-slip surface underfoot while allowing optimal drainage. Comprised of pebbles set into epoxy or mortar, water easily flows between the porous rocks without flooding the floor. Unlike slick ceramic or porcelain tiles, the bumpy shape and grip of river rocks prevent slippery falls. Their ability to disperse water also resists erosion and cracking over time.
Choosing River Rocks for Your Shower Floor
River rocks come in an array of natural shades like tan, brown, grey, white and black. Their smooth or jagged forms result from tumbling along riverbeds and coastlines for centuries. When selecting rocks, aim for uniformly sized 1-3 inch stones for stability and sufficient grouted lines for drainage.
Amount of Rocks
Determine the square footage of your shower floor then allow for 10% additional surface area. One 50 pound bag contains 15-20 square feet of rocks. For a 5x5 shower, 6-8 bags provides full coverage 2 stones thick.
The Right Sizes & Shapes
Mixing rock sizes creates contrast and stability. Combine mostly larger rocks (1-2 inches) with some smaller pebbles for accent. Rounded, egg-shaped stones sit best while jagged rocks work along walls. Blend colors or keep neutral for a cohesive look.
Preparing & Installing a River Rock Shower Floor
Proper installation requires assessing the existing floor structure, modifying the shower pan, leveling mortar or epoxy, laying rocks, wide grout lines for drainage, and sealing the surface.
Slope & Drainage
The shower base must slope 1/4 inch per linear foot towards the drain without pockets or divots so water flows freely. Install backerboard if needed to create an even surface before setting pan liner and mortar.
Applying Mortar & Setting Rocks
Trowel thinset mortar across shower floor, laying rocks before mortar skins over. Use larger rocks near drain and walls; fill center with smaller pebbles. Ensure rocks sit firmly, filling gaps completely.
Grouting River Rocks
Let mortar fully cure before grouting with flexible, waterproof sanded grout. Push grout deep between rocks with a rubber float for drainage channels. Avoid smearing grout over rock surfaces.
Once grout has set, use a porous sealer suitable for wet areas to protect river rock floors long-term.
River Rock Shower Floor Design Ideas
River rock shower floors present plenty of style options. Keep a Zen-like vibe with light greys and beiges swirled calmly together. Or go bold with vibrant blue and green pebbles for tropical flair. Other ideas include:
- Spa-themes with river rock borders and mosaic stone accents
- Rustic walk-in showers covered entirely in mixed earth tones
- Matching river rock walls and floors for harmonious flow
- Contrasting river rock designs with opposing colors and sizes
Maintaining a River Rock Shower Floor
With proper sealing, river rock floors are simple to maintain. Reapply sealants every 1-2 years as needed. Routinely check grout and mortar for missing stones or cracks needing patching. Sweeping debris and using non-abrasive bathroom cleaners keeps rocks looking freshly picked.
The porous nature of river rocks allows them to absorb minerals and impurities from water over time. This provides therapeutic benefits as part of a holistic shower experience. The varied texture also provides reflexology-like stimulation for tired feet.
Avoiding Erosion & Standing Water
Ensure proper sloping and drain openings stay clear. Check recessed grout lines for blockages preventing water drainage through rocks after each use.
Costs of Installing a River Rock Shower Floor
River rock shower floors cost $15-$25 per square foot including materials and professional installation. The non-slip, decorative upgrade averages $1000-$1500 for a 5x5 stall. Prices vary based on rock type, unique designs, and labor.
Ongoing maintenance runs approximately $200 yearly. Resealing costs around $150 every 2 years while grout repairs average $200. Periodic rock replacements run $100-300 depending on quantity.
Still have questions? Here are answers to some frequently asked queries:
- Are river rock shower floors slippery? No, the bumpy and grippy texture prevents slippery accidents.
- Do rocks fall out or loosen over time? They shouldn't if properly grouted. Check for loose stones with annual resealing.
- Is it hard to keep grout lines clean? Not with proper sealing and gentle sweeping. Avoid abrasive cleaning.
Installing a river rock shower floor requires careful prep and labor, but achieving that luxurious natural stone spa ambiance is worth the investment. With creative designs and proper maintenance, you'll enjoy safe, stylish looks for years.