If you're installing new plumbing or looking to upgrade your current shower, think about getting a new shower pan to make sure it is watertight. Although a pan liner and tile can be used to form a shower floor, installing a shower is simpler with a pre-made shower pan. Typically, ready-made shower pans are composed of composites, fiberglass, or acrylic. You can select a shower pan that fits your bathroom's size and style thanks to the wide range of options available. This manual demonstrates how to set up a shower base, install a shower base, and install a compression shower drain assembly.
Easy & Simple Installation Process Of A Shower Pan
Shower pans are utilized as the foundation of the shower area and catch the water when you shower. The majority of shower pans are made of acrylic or fiberglass, and they may be installed by using the right tools and adhering to a few simple instructions. Although shower pans differ slightly from one manufacturer to the next and you may also make your own, the fundamental installation procedures remain the same.
Step 1: Test-Fit The Shower Pan
- In the aperture, dry-fit the shower pan. The edge of the shower pan should be marked with a line on the subfloor; this line will be used later.
- In the flange, drill 3/16-inch holes for each stud.
- Verify that the shower drain hole fits with the shower's current drain. Remove the shower pan and mark the location of the hole on the substrate if it is not aligned.
- Cut a hole in the flooring for the shower drain pipe using a jigsaw or circular saw. Typically, this hole shouldn't be larger than 5 inches, but make sure to verify the shower pan manufacturer's guidelines.
- Reposition the P-trap for the shower drain and pipe as necessary from below so that the waste pipe rises roughly 1 3/4 inches above the flooring (the manufacturer's instructions will specify this height).
Step 2: Prepare The Subfloor
- The entire shower pan bottom must rest on a level, flat surface. To make sure the subfloor area is level, check it from front to back and from left to right.
- Step 3 should be taken if the subfloor is totally level and flat.
- Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for applying a self-leveling compound if the subfloor is not flat and level. Use a self-leveling compound that binds to the OSB, cement board, plywood, or whatever substrate you are placing it over.
- Draw a line in step 1 and then apply the self-leveling compound up to that line. If necessary, screw a piece of 1x2 along the line to serve as a dam. In the shower pan region, the self-leveling compound will remain contained as a result.
- Follow the manufacturer's directions for curing the self-leveling compound.
Step 3: Install The Shower Drain Flange
- Test-fit the "drain basket" or "drain body," also known as the shower drain flange, to make sure it sits flush with the shower base.
- As directed by the manufacturer, caulk made of latex/acrylic or silicone should be used to line the underside of the shower drain flange. Plumber's putty, a frequently employed drain flange sealer, may occasionally cause the material of the shower pan to deteriorate, so be sure to thoroughly review the manufacturer's recommendations in this regard.
- To get the excess caulk to squeeze out, insert the flange into the top side of the shower pan and press as far down as you can without twisting.
- Before the caulk dries, use a paper towel or an old cloth to remove any extra.
- Place the rubber washer against the shower pan's bottom and around the flange's threads on the underside of the pan.
- The friction washer, which resembles a cardboard replica of the rubber washer, should next be placed on the flange's threads.
- After tightening the friction washer and gasket between the flange and the shower pan's bottom, screw the locking ring onto the flange's threads. If necessary, tighten using adjustable pliers.
Step 4: Secure The Shower Pan
- Some shower pan manufacturers specify that the shower pan should be placed immediately in mortar or glue when it needs to be replaced.
- Spread adhesive if necessary on the area where the shower pan will be placed.
- Mark the spots on the subfloor in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions if mortar mounds are required. Then place mortar piles over the marks.
- Position the shower base in the desired location, adhere it to the mortar or glue, and firmly press it into position.
- The shower pan should be adjusted until it is level throughout.
- To safeguard the shower pan base's surface, insert cardboard or similar material.
- Through the pre-drilled holes, fasten the shower pan rim to the wall studs with 1 1/4-inch exterior-grade screws.
Step 5: Attach Gasket And Drain Screen
- The drainpipe going up through the shower drain flange should be covered by the rubber drainpipe gasket.
- Over the rubber gasket, thread the gasket setscrew.
- Utilizing the provided tool and a screwdriver, tighten until stable.
- In order for the shower drain screen to sit flush with the shower pan base, it must be screwed or snapped over the flange.
Step 6: Test For Leaks
- Follow the manufacturer's recommendations and permit the thin-set mortar or adhesive to cure completely.
- Check for leaks in the shower drain connection, the pan, and the area inside and outside the shower cubicle. Obtain a checkup if necessary.