Rebuilding the Space from the Studs

This bathroom in Terre Haute, Indiana, was typical of older homes across Vigo County, dated tile, and a window placed too close to the wet zone. We began by taking everything down to the studs so we could rebuild the room from a clean, dry foundation.

Our crew installed new supply and drain lines with the correct slope and venting to meet modern plumbing code. A smaller frosted-glass window was framed in to improve privacy and reduce the risk of water damage, and the exterior siding repair was completed at the same time to ensure a watertight seal.

Inside, we added moisture-resistant drywall, fresh insulation, and a quiet exterior-ducted bathroom fan to keep humidity under control year-round. Together, these upgrades created a tighter, more energy-efficient envelope that protects the new tile, grout, and framing from the kind of moisture problems common in older Terre Haute bathrooms.

Custom Tiled Shower Construction

The tiled shower became the main feature of this Terre Haute remodel. Rather than using a prefabricated shower base, the project called for a full custom build using a Schluter waterproofing system. A bonded membrane was carried continuously from the shower pan across the walls, window, and curb forming a single sealed assembly that prevents water from reaching the framing.

Before any tile was installed, the substrate was carefully leveled to a quarter-inch-per-foot slope toward a bonding-flange drain and then flood-tested to confirm drainage and seam integrity. This step ensures the shower dries quickly and remains watertight for years to come, an essential detail in West-Central Indiana’s humid climate.

Clean white tile created smooth lines with minimal grout joints, reducing maintenance and giving the space a clean, modern finish. The homeowner selected barn-style sliding glass doors to improve accessibility and save swing clearance within the compact footprint. A fold down seat, grab bars and color-matched Schluter trim profiles tied the layout together, creating a simple but durable tiled shower that blends function with craftsmanship.

Finishes and Fixtures

Once the waterproofing and tile work were complete, the rest of the bathroom came together quickly and cleanly. A compact vanity with a quartz countertop and integrated backsplash helped open the floor area and reflect more light throughout the room. The toilet was upgraded with a modern bidet attachment to improve comfort and hygiene while complementing the new finishes.

Lighting and paint were chosen to enhance brightness and moisture resistance. Soft white fixtures balanced the natural light from the new frosted window, and a mildew-resistant satin paint added long-term durability to the walls and ceiling. The tiled floor extended through the room to unify the color palette and maintain the same easy-clean surface used inside the shower.

Every joint and penetration was sealed with precision to prevent hidden leaks and corners were caulked, silicone was applied at all changes of plane, and the exhaust fan was verified for strong exterior airflow. The finished space feels fresh, efficient, and designed to stand up to daily use in Terre Haute’s fluctuating humidity and temperature conditions.

Design Built for Ageing in Place

Many homeowners in Terre Haute are thinking ahead about comfort, safety, and long-term use. This remodel applied ageing-in-place design principles in a way that feels natural rather than clinical. The shower was built with a low threshold for easier entry and exit, and the floor tile was selected for its slip-resistant texture and quick-dry surface. The doorway was flipped to open outwards incase of any falls preventing the door from opening, and plumbing rough-ins were positioned where future grab bars could be installed without reopening the walls.

These details make everyday routines safer while preserving a clean, contemporary appearance. The room functions comfortably for any age or mobility level, and the layout can be easily adapted over time as needs change. It’s a good example of how modern bathroom remodeling in West-Central Indiana can blend thoughtful accessibility with lasting design.

Why Schluter Waterproofing Matters in a Tiled Shower

Tile and grout provide the finished look of a shower, but they don’t stop water from moving through the surface. The true protection comes from the waterproofing assembly underneath. For this remodel, the Schluter KERDI system was used to create a continuous bonded membrane directly behind the tile. The membrane ties into a bonding-flange drain and seals every seam, corner, and penetration so moisture can’t reach the framing or subfloor.

Compared to traditional liner pans buried under a mortar bed, this bonded system dries faster, allows a thinner build, and simplifies curbless or low-threshold entries. Because the waterproofing sits just below the tile, any water that reaches the surface drains immediately instead of soaking into a secondary layer.

This approach is especially important in Terre Haute and across West-Central Indiana, where humidity and temperature swings can accelerate hidden moisture damage. A properly installed Schluter system prevents the subfloor rot, mold growth, and grout discoloration common in older showers while maintaining a clean, efficient design that’s easier to maintain over time.

The Result

The finished bathroom in Terre Haute blends practical construction with a refined, cohesive look. Every element from the waterproofed tiled shower, insulated window, balanced ventilation, and coordinated finishes works together to create a space that’s comfortable, easy to maintain, and built to handle daily use.

For the homeowner, the improvement is immediate: a brighter, more efficient bathroom with durable materials that resist moisture and wear. For us as home improvement experts, it’s a demonstration of how planning, correct sequencing, and proven systems like Schluter waterproofing ensure the work holds up for the long term. The result is a remodel that feels solid underfoot, stays clean with minimal effort, and reflects the kind of craftsmanship we aim for in every Terre Haute home improvement project.