If adhesive is called for, spread it within the area where the shower pan will sit. we’ve already sealed it down and attached it too two walls. The slope … Although the installation process for pre-fab bases does not differ from tile, it is lighter, faster, and less expensive. Hammer down any protruding nails used to fasten the subfloor to the floor joists below. Let our bathroom installation services help. But for homeowners who want a faster, easier alternative to custom tile, prefabricated showers are great. Cover the walls with backerboard before adding the acrylic or fiberglass walls, or tiling. In some cases, plumber’s. Put cardboard down and walk over the base to test it for stability, and follow all other manufacturer recommendations for leveling. However, anyone doing a shower remodel or installing a new shower needs to consider important details to make sure the process goes smoothly and everything gets done correctly. ", Step 2: I'm thinking about installing 1/2" cement board under the shower pan (and … Some shower bases require a cement bed to provide proper support of the shower … Did you use a sand mix bed for leveling? Products shown as available are normally stocked but inventory levels cannot be guaranteed, For screen reader problems with this website, please call 1-800-430-3376 or text 38698 (standard carrier rates apply to texts), How to Install a Direct-to-Stud Shower Enclosure, Step 1: Find products fast with image search in The Home Depot app. Test-Fit the Shower Pan Check that everything is still level before attaching the pan. You'll set and level the shower pan using shims right on the floor, or on a bed of cement mortar. Use silicone to caulk the flange before lining up the drain body’s holes with the flange’s screw holes. Test for Leaks Frame the walls, then add a leakproof drain assembly like a no-caulk shower drain. Line the underside of the shower drain flange’s rim with latex/acrylic or silicone caulk, per manufacturer’s instructions. If the hole does not align, trace the hole location onto the substrate and remove the shower pan. Adjust the shower pan until it is level in all directions. Once the cement dries, put gaskets on the flange and place the pan over the drain. Wrap the liner completely over the shower curb and fasten on the other side. Next, put the friction washer (which looks like a cardboard version of the rubber washer) on the threads of the flange. Use of this site is subject to certain Terms Of Use. Test the pan and shower drain connection for leaks as well as in and around the. To complete this project, there are four main considerations: Connecting the drain, leveling the base, attaching the new pan, and creating a watertight seal around it. Many home improvement stores and dealers can special order larger sizes and specialty colors. Check to see if the shower drain hole lines up with the existing shower drain. ", Step 5: Depending on whether you’re replacing an existing base or installing a new one, you might also need 2-inch pipe and a drain kit to add a shower liner (not to be confused with a curtain). Otherwise: If mounds of mortar are called for, mark the locations on the subfloor per the manufacturer’s instructions. The shower pan is the base or floor of the shower. Wall & Ceiling Installation … Additionally, contractors can install your shower doors and walls at the same time, which could save valuable time in completing the project so you can use your shower sooner. The next prep step is to clean and seal your surface. Thread the gasket setscrew over the rubber gasket. Cut the tub/pan and surround away with a reciprocating saw to remove it. To build the sloped sub-base, cut a piece of 15-pound felt to fit the … Sinc the other parts are attached to the wall, the only place it has room to give is the corner you mentioned. We have a customer that would like to use 3/4" plywood in the same way you would attach drywall as a substrate for the solid surface panels. Next, a "pre-slope" is troweled to sit below the vinyl material. This guide teaches you how to install a shower pan, including floor prep, installing a shower base and compression shower drain assembly. Use fabric strips to build the shower pan waterproofing. Now that the area is prepped and you’re sure that everything fits correctly, you’re ready to move on to getting things permanently in place. Put the new base in place and double check the level before securing it with galvanized screws and connecting the drainpipe to the shower pan’s strainer. Acrylic tends to be more durable, but it’s also pricier. First, a mortar bed is sloped to the weep holes in the drain. Silicone bath caulk creates a tight, waterproof seal to finish things off. Relocate the P-trap for the shower drain and pipe as necessary from below so that the waste pipe extends approximately 1 3/4-inch above the subfloor (this distance will be specified in the manufacturer’s instructions). They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, although they lack the color range and high-end appearance of tile. Remove debris at the area of the subfloor where the shower pan installs, using a shop vacuum. To ensure your shower is water-tight, whether it’s a new plumbing installation or you’re looking to upgrade your current shower, consider a new shower pan. Chisel away any flooring that would be under the pan before attaching the drain hole’s strainer. 3/4” below top of floor joists. Do Our Shower Handles Need to Be Replaced? Snap a picture of an item you like and we'll show you similar products. ", San Jamar Toilet Paper Dispensers & Holders, Catskill Craftsmen Carts, Islands & Utility Tables. Aside from the cost of the pan itself, below are other necessary items you’ll need for installation. For example: Using a pro for this project may help you avoid potentially costly issues like leaks and water damage that could occur in the future. With so many options available, you are sure to find the size and style of shower pan that fits your bathroom. We also used Schluter’s ALL-SET to adhere the pan to the 3/4″ plywood using a 1/4″ x 3/8″ square notch trowel. Shower bases are intended to be installed directly on top of the subfloor. I’m thinking once the tiles on the floor and the shower doors on it, it’ll stay down??? Whether you’ve chosen an acrylic or a fiberglass base, the preparation and installation of the shower pan remains the same, including measuring the space, cleaning, leveling, and dry-fitting the pan. If the subfloor is not flat and level, apply a. Safely install blocking along floor joists appr. Most drain assemblies include a flange, drain pipe, gaskets, and a drain body. Test … Additionally, saw through the drainpipe that’s connected to the old base and remove it. ", Step 4: Over the membrane, a mortar bed floor supports the tile. The process for removing an existing fiberglass or acrylic pan and removing a tub for a tub to shower conversion is very similar: When you’re installing a fiberglass or acrylic shower liner enclosure (not to be confused with a shower curtain) and base over a concrete floor, special considerations should be taken to minimize leaks. ", Step 3: The Right Way to Install Shower Pan Liners A sloped mortar bed should be installed first, no matter what the inspector says. We have installed a 5′ x 3′ fiberglass shower basin. Thread the gasket setscrew over the rubber gasket. Installing a fiberglass or acrylic pan can usually be completed within four to six hours. Place the shower tray and solidly embed in the mortar. Step by step process on how to install PVC pan liner for any shower...and yes, you need one on a slab application, so this would apply to those showers too. Place cardboard or another material into the shower pan base to protect its surface. We tried liquid nails, didn’t work. Draw a line onto the subfloor along the edge of the shower pan; this line will be referenced later. Screw or snap the shower drain screen into place over the flange so that it sits flush with the shower pan base. Local store prices may vary from those displayed. Just a guess, but it sounds like inadequate support under the base is causing it to buckle under pressure. and make shower installation easier than ever. Because the shower pan … © 2000-2020 Home Depot Product Authority, LLC. The corner, not connected to the wall, is popping up. Tighten with the included tool and a screwdriver until secure. Cut Felt and Metal Lath. Next, place the pan on … Dry-Fit the Shower Base. Shim as necessary. I am installing a 36 x 48 acrylic shower pan on a plywood subfloor. Likewise, if you have an existing fiberglass base that’s cracked or leaking beyond repair, it’s time to replace it. Tip: Make sure you have a helper with you to complete this step. Scrape old caulking off with a putty knife. Test the drain flange to make sure it rests flush with the pan, adding an extension if needed. The floor is not level. If needed, add 1/2-inch plywood strips to give the floor extra clearance. Cover shower subfloor … Screw or snap the shower drain screen … The waterproofing membrane, called a pan … If it’s untreated, which is likely when working with a new shower, apply primer or a water sealant and allow it to dry according to manufacturer instructions. 1. This Old House plumbing and heating contractor Richard Trethewey installs a new waterproof shower floor. Additionally, you might need backerboard, sealant, cement primer, and fixtures. Position the shower base in the area, placing it onto the adhesive or mortar, and press firmly in place. Wipe away excess caulk before it dries using an old cloth or paper towel. Attach Gasket and Drain Screen Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest Twitter YouTube, By using HomeAdvisor, you agree to our Terms & Conditions, © Copyright 1999 - 2021 HomeAdvisor, Inc. All Rights Reserved, © Copyright 1999 - 2021HomeAdvisor, Inc. All Rights Reserved, How to Install a Removable, Handheld Shower Head. If you have someone with mobility issues, switching from a tub to a shower might be your best option. They typically come in standard sizes like 36”x36” and in limited colors like white or beige. Ideally, you’re putting it in an area where a drain has already been roughed in. Mark the center of each side’s studs on the rim, and pre-drill holes at the designated marks. When plumbing and tile work is involved, bathroom renovations like installing a new tub or shower can be quite labor intensive. Mark the new base’s drain hole on the subfloor, along with any areas where it overlaps the flooring. In both cases, you can usually choose from several shapes, including round, square and rectangle, and base lengths of 24 to 75 inches. Run the self-leveling compound up to the line you drew in step 1. By Tyler Grace. Screw a piece of 1x2 along the line to act as a dam if necessary. Line the drain pipe up with the drain hole in your shower base, and use that to guide the location of your stud walls to support the rest of the enclosure. Fiberglass is less expensive, but more prone to color loss and scratching. Check the fit of the new pan to make sure it fits with the existing studs. Once you’ve installed the shower pan and made sure there are no leaks, you’re ready to move on to installing the shower walls. Anyone use plywood behind shower panels? Need a hand getting figuring out how to install a shower pan? Ready-made shower pans are typically made of acrylic, fiberglass or composites. Note: Because cement board fasteners may protrude through the plywood base when 1/4" cement board is used, 1/2" or 5/8" cement board is preferred in this application. Use adjustable pliers to tighten if needed. Lay down cardboard to protect the fabric as you do the wall-to-floor connections. Allow the thinset mortar or adhesive to dry fully per the manufacturer’s instructions. Install the Shower Drain Flange While it is possible to create a shower floor using a pan liner and tile, a ready-made shower pan makes shower installation easier. Tighten with the included tool and a screwdriver until secure. Allow the self-leveling compound to cure per manufacturer’s instructions. Place the rubber drainpipe gasket over the drainpipe coming up through the shower drain flange. Test the base and plumbing connections for make sure everything works without leaking. Place the rubber drainpipe gasket over the drainpipe coming up through the shower drain flange. KERDI Shower Kit Part 3: Waterproof Shower Pan & Curb. Avoid caulking over the lip, or the caulk could prevent the shower walls from sealing correctly. Make sure the drainpipe sticks an inch or two above the concrete, with at least 1.5 inches of space between the concrete and the pipe so there’s enough space for the drain assembly, otherwise you’ll need to break through the concrete to extend the pipe or chisel the floor to create enough space around it. graphic here showing step #1. Drill pilot holes into the flange that are slightly smaller than the size of the screws… Caulk over any areas that you drilled, around the area where the studs and pan meet, and the joints where the floor and base join. All Rights Reserved. Otherwise, the dried mortar might interfere with your drain installation. After you have put down a double layer of plywood to provide the base for a custom walk-in shower pan, you need to cover the subfloor with a layer of tar paper, in this … For DIYers, the project requires an intermediate skill level and averages $250 to $550. Add shims to compensate for any sloping of the subfloor so that the acrylic or fiberglass pan sits level. On the underside of the shower pan, put the rubber washer around the threads of the flange and against the bottom of the shower pan. Screw or nail the pan into the stud with rustproof nails or screws. Was the floor completely level? Now that you know the dimensions of the space, you can purchase your fiberglass or acrylic pan. If not, you will need to run a new drain line through the concrete, a job that you should consider hiring a plumber to tackle. … Dry-fit the shower pan in the opening. Vacuum the subfloor and check the level. When you install a shower pan on the shower floor, you mount it directly to the wall framing, which is a series of 2-by-4 boards. If you are not immediately installing the KERDI-DRAIN, clean the mortar from the step in the shower tray and the area surrounding the hole in the subfloor. Having this done professionally comes with a price tag between $500 to $900. Prepare the Subfloor How to Install a Fiberglass or Acrylic Shower Pan. If the subfloor is completely flat and level, proceed to step 3. When replacing a shower pan, some shower pan manufacturers call for the shower pan to sit directly in an adhesive or into small mounds of mortar. Apply primer and cement to the drain pipe and the flange. This will keep the self-leveling compound contained within the shower pan area. Unless you have some plumbing experience, it is best to hire a local professional to get the job done quickly and correctly to minimize potential problems like mold and water damage. Install the shower tray. Install tile. Screw or nail the pan into the stud with rustproof nails or screws. The Traditional Tiled Shower System The traditional method for installing tiled showers is time and labor intensive and creates a “water in/water out” system. Clean the flooring to remove any debris, and apply a water sealant before installing the base as normal. The entire bottom of the shower pan needs to sit on a flat, level surface. Set the pan … Sometimes refinishing a tub isn’t enough. Mark the center of each side’s studs on the rim, and pre-drill holes at the designated marks. Once the area is completely dry, place the new shower pan into the space without any fasteners or adhesives to make sure it fits snugly and the drain cut out lines up correctly over the drain pipe. Attach the drain screen and screw it into place. For the water to drain correctly once the shower is in use, the base, which has an integrated slope to move water toward the drain, the floor must be perfectly level. Need help identifying a tool or material for installing a shower pan? All mortar ridges should face the same direction. Check the level again. Bathrooms have become the … Drill 3/16-inch holes in the flange at each stud location. With your tape measure, measure the area and note the shape of the space where you’re placing the new base, including all the walls that it will touch. Use fabric … plywood or OSB with 1/8(3 mm) gap " between sheets; see page 17 for underlayment installation guidelines any leveling of the assembly must be done prior to installing DITRA … Secure the Shower Pan Step 1a Cut 3/4” Plywood base out fitting the space of wedi Fundo Ligno. If installing a single-piece composite floor, first install a bed of sand above the liner. Most acrylic and fiberglass shower pans cost between $100 and $1,000. Place the flange through the top side of the shower pan and press down as far as you can without twisting so that the excess caulk squeezes out. ", Step 6: Trowel a Pre-slope. Screw the flanges of the shower pan into the wall studs, using at least 1 1/2-inch wood screws. Screw the locking ring onto the threads of the flange, tightening the gasket and friction washer between it and the bottom of the shower pan. Check the subfloor area from left to right and from front to back to make sure it's level. Need Help? Screw the shower pan rim into the wall studs using 1 1/4-inch exterior-grade screws through the pre-drilled holes. Adjust for thinset thickness under wedi Fundo Ligno base and / or the flooring underlayment installation adjacent to shower area to create a flush transition for waterproofing and tile between floor and shower … Set the shower base into place to gauge what changes may need … For homeowners with some plumbing know-how, this is a do-able DIY project. (See below for a shopping list, tools, and steps. Check the level again. Then position mounds of mortar on the marks. If you're installing a shower base on a wood floor covered with plywood or a similar type of particle board, no cement is necessary under the shower base, as long as the flooring is flat and strong. Prefabricated pans are typically made from acrylic or fiberglass. Please call us at: 1-800-HOME-DEPOT (1-800-466-3337), Please enter in your email address in the following format: you@domain.com. A gap between a subfloor and a shower base can lead to squeaking and flexing in the floor of the shower. Floor oil paint is fine, 6 mil plastic run from behind cement board on the floor plywood is great.