Quick answer
A collapsible shower dam is a flexible rubber or synthetic strip for curbless showers that let water escape. It holds water in, then bends when it's rolled over by a wheelchair or stepped on. It wears out over time and isn't right for every user, so think about who will use the shower before you buy.
Some wheelchair users may have difficulty rolling over a low, flexible dam. Some people using walkers won't be able to step over it or maneuver around it. With any home modification, keep the user and their abilities in mind.
A semi-permanent removable dam is taller and holds water like a built-in curb. It's set in place and caulked with silicone sealant, then knocked out later when a smooth, curbless transition is needed. It looks permanent, so make sure residents and facility managers know it can be removed.
These dams work well where a person's needs change over time, where the shower's user changes, or in retrofits with limited floor space. Treat any dam as backup water control, not the primary method. All EZ Able® curbless showers have an optional semi-permanent / removable dam available.
Good to know
Where strict accessibility-code compliance is required, flexible and semi-permanent dams are not allowed; the shower needs a flush, no-threshold entry. A dam can be added for a tenant who doesn't need the curbless entry if the tenant and property manager know it can be removed on request.
Read the full guide: Curbless shower water barriers: stop water and stay accessible
Rubber or other synthetic materials that let it deflect when rolled over or stepped on.
It deteriorates and loses flexibility over time and will need to be replaced.
A collapsible dam is low and bends. A semi-permanent dam is taller, caulked in place and knocked out when you need a flush entry.
Need a hand?
Call us at 877-392-2531, Monday–Friday, 9–5 Eastern. You can also open a support ticket or chat with Abby on ezable.com.