How to Install a Standing Shower Stall in a Bathroom

 

Installing a shower stall is not as difficult as you would think. If you have the capacity to follow directions and a reasonable amount of construction understanding, it can be pretty fulfilling in the end. DIY is growing more popular as professional renovation contractors become more difficult to come by, and the cost of doing it yourself can sometimes surpass your budget.

 

To begin, cut off the water to the shower unit temporarily; don't worry, you'll be able to turn it back on once the plumbing is capped off. In its current state, remove the shower stall. Whether you have a fiberglass unit, a cast iron tub, or an existing tile stall, your demo strategy will differ.

 

Now that the demo is complete, decide where you want your new shower valves and fittings to go and rough them out. The drain must be put in the centre of the new stall entrance when a tub is removed. Shower niches or soap dishes are also common today, and their installation and framing, as well as any type of "knee or pony walls," are all done currently.

 

Right now, the slab will be pre-sloped with a formable mud mixture. Your pre-slope will come to a halt when you mark the ultimate depth of the new shower stall on the slab or sub-floor. Connect the drain to the shower pan liner and run it up the wall to about 20 inches above the height of your seat. Form the curb that the shower door will sit on to a specified height, usually 5 inches, by drawing the pan up between the form boards and pouring concrete on either side to enclose the pan.

 

Now is the time to mesh tape the joints and install the duroc material or a concrete-based backer board. Then, except for the floor, use a waterproof paint or membrane to cover the whole shower stall with waterproof paint or membrane. While dry packing the floor on top of the shower pan, it is necessary to leave at least 1/4 inch for every 3 foot fall to the drain. This will ensure proper drainage of the water.

 

After completing this step, you are ready to begin installing your shower floor tile material. After it has cured, you may start putting up the wall tiles. Before commencing the grouting procedure, clean all of the tile and grout lines after the tile installation is complete.

 

Finally, install your new shower fittings and shower door to enjoy the rewards of your effort.