Best 38 X 60 Shower Pans for Tiled Bathroom Projects
The best 38 x 60 shower pan depends mainly on drain location and how much waterproofing and installation material you want included. Schluter’s center-drain tray is a direct option for a centered outlet, while its off-center version suits a matching drain layout. VEVOR’s kits are better for shoppers seeking a tray with curbs, membrane, and drainage components. Compare your existing plumbing and the kit contents before choosing.
| Product | Best For | Drain Position |
|---|---|---|
| Schluter KERDI Tray | Integrated waterproofing | Center |
| Schluter KERDI Tray | Offset plumbing layout | Off-center |
| VEVOR ABS Kit | Centered drain with included accessories | Center |
| VEVOR ABS Kit | Offset drain and included membrane | Offset |
| VEVOR PVC Kit | Central drain with PVC flange | Center |
Schluter KERDI Center-Outlet Shower Tray
Best for: Tiled showers with a centered drain and a preference for a prefabricated waterproof tray. This 38-by-60-inch Schluter KERDI model is made from lightweight polystyrene, has a built-in KERDI waterproofing shield, and is designed to be ready for tile.
Its prefabricated slope and integrated waterproofing can reduce the need to build a traditional mortar bed and apply a separate waterproofing layer to the tray. Choose this if the center outlet matches the plumbing plan and you want a tray-focused product rather than a kit with curbs and membrane rolls.
Limitation: The listed features do not include curbs or a complete drain assembly, so confirm what else the installation requires before buying.
Schluter KERDI Off-Center Tray
Best for: Projects where a center drain would not align with the existing or planned plumbing. This lightweight, 38-by-60-inch tray places its outlet off-center and incorporates Schluter-KERDI waterproofing beneath the tile surface.
Like the center-outlet model, it is designed for direct tile application and can avoid the traditional mortar-bed approach. It is a useful comparison choice when the drain position matters more than bundled accessories. Schluter lists multiple tray configurations, including off-center options, so verify that this specific outlet position matches the shower layout.
Limitation: The product listing does not specify included curbs or a full drain kit. Check the required components and exact drain alignment before installation.
VEVOR Center-Drain ABS Shower Kit
Best for: Buyers who want a centered-drain tray with several waterproofing and curb components in one kit. The EPS foam tray measures 38 by 60 inches and has a central drainage opening, a pre-applied water-impermeable membrane, and a slope toward the middle.
The package features an ABS bonding flange, a stainless steel grate, two cuttable curbs, HDPE membrane rolls, and inside and outside corners. Choose this if those included components suit the planned shower assembly and you prefer a kit over purchasing a tray alone.
Limitation: The listed drain opening is four inches, while the auxiliary drainage device is described as fitting two-inch pipes. Confirm the drain connection requirements and installation details for your plumbing.
VEVOR Offset-Drain ABS Shower Kit
Best for: A 38-by-60-inch tiled shower that needs an offset outlet and a package of curbs and waterproofing materials. Its EPS tray has a four-sided slope toward the drain, a water-impermeable membrane surface, and a four-inch drainage opening.
The kit includes an ABS offset bonding flange, stainless steel grate, two cuttable curbs, membrane rolls, and preformed inside and outside corners. It is better suited than the center-drain VEVOR model when the offset outlet matches the plumbing position. Confirm the outlet location before ordering; “offset” alone does not establish the exact placement.
Limitation: The feature listing describes a four-inch opening and an auxiliary device for two-inch pipes. Check the required connection and assembly instructions before purchase.
VEVOR Center-Drain PVC Shower Kit
Best for: Shoppers comparing a center-drain VEVOR kit with a PVC bonding flange. The 38-by-60-inch EPS tray includes a water-impermeable surface membrane and slopes toward its central drain opening.
Included items listed for this version include a PVC flange, stainless steel grate, two cuttable curbs, HDPE membrane rolls, and preformed corners. Choose it if the central outlet and PVC flange fit the project requirements. Its bundled components may be useful when planning the shower’s waterproofing and curb layout together.
Limitation: The listed information does not establish compatibility with every drain or pipe setup. Verify the flange connection and required drain parts before installation.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A 38 X 60 Shower Pan
Should you choose a center or offset drain?
Start by locating the drain pipe and comparing it with the tray’s outlet. A center-outlet pan is the match when the plumbing is centered; an offset model is intended for a different outlet position. Do not rely on the overall 38-by-60-inch dimensions alone. Check the exact drain placement on the product listing and compare it with measurements at the installation site.
Do you want a tray or a more complete kit?
A tray-focused product such as the Schluter options emphasizes a prefabricated sloped base and integrated waterproofing. The VEVOR kits list additional components, including curbs, membrane, corners, and a grate. More included parts can simplify purchasing, but compare the specific contents with the planned drain assembly and wall waterproofing needs. “Kit” does not necessarily mean every part for the full shower is included.
What should you check before installation?
- Confirm the finished shower footprint and whether the tray’s 38-by-60-inch dimensions fit the prepared area.
- Match the outlet position and drain connection components to the plumbing plan.
- Review whether curbs, membrane, corners, and drain parts are included or need separate sourcing.
- Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions for the tray, waterproofing, and tile preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all 38 x 60 shower pans the same?
No. They can differ in drain position, construction, waterproofing approach, and included accessories. Check each model’s specifications.
Can tile be installed directly on these trays?
The Schluter KERDI trays are described as ready to tile. For any product, follow its installation instructions and confirm the required setting materials.
Which option includes curbs and membrane?
The listed VEVOR kits include two cuttable curbs and membrane materials. Review each kit’s details to confirm its flange and drain configuration.
How do I choose between the ABS and PVC VEVOR versions?
Compare the listed flange material and drain position with the project requirements. The products provided here include both center and offset ABS options and a center PVC option.
What is the most important measurement before ordering?
Confirm the shower footprint and the drain’s exact location. The pan size alone does not ensure that its outlet will align with the plumbing.