Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Measure for a Walk-In Shower

Before you install a walk-in shower, consider essential details like plumbing, bathroom size and layout to ensure a smooth installation. Common walk-in shower dimensions range from 60 to 80 inches in height and 36 inches to 60 inches of floor space. Make adjustments to this depending on your bathroom’s layout and your personal preferences.

Tip

The direction of the door’s swing should be factored in when designing your walk-in shower. An outward swing and a width of 22 inches is preferable.

How to Replace an Existing Walk-In Shower

If you already have a walk-in shower and you're looking to replace it, follow these steps before starting the installation process. Installation of a walk-in shower would require deconstruction of the existing one. Here’s how you can go about this process.

To avoid damaging any other parts of your bathroom, lay down drop cloths or plastic sheets. Shut off the water supply beforehand and wear proper safety gear.

Use a jab saw or a pry bar and carefully remove all the components like the shower valves, shower pan and any other fixtures down to the subfloor.

Caution

Make sure no damage is caused to any underlying plumbing or electrical system.

Choose Your Fitting

Installing the right shower kit is vital for a functional walk-in shower. A shower kit includes the shower pan, shower wall and panels, waterproofing materials and a drain assembly. Choosing a shower kit that complements your space and fits your budget is key. After selecting the ideal shower kit for your walk-in shower, you can choose shower hardware to complement your bathroom. This includes shower heads and faucets in a wide range of materials and finishes.

Installing a Walk-In Shower

Now that you have gathered the materials and prepped your space, it's time to install the walk-in shower. These are the steps for a walk-in shower installation.

Waterproofing

Waterproofing the shower area is crucial before the installation of any of the walk-in components. This creates a watertight barrier that ensures that no water gets behind the pan, walls or panels.

Clean the entire area before waterproofing. Any dirt or debris might cause a problem. Choose a waterproofing sheet or liquid membrane and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. To prevent leaks, seal all corners, seams and openings.

Tip

If it is a liquid membrane, allow it to dry for at least an hour.

Good to Know

Performing a flood test is important. It is critical to ensure your walk-in shower is completely waterproof. Plug the drain, fill the shower up to 2-3 inches and monitor for leaks or a drop in water level. This helps prevent water damage.

A shower pan forms the base of your shower. It directs your shower water to the drain. If you plan to install a walk-in shower with no curb, this is an essential component.

Shower pans are available in two major forms. A pre-formed shower pan are ready-made and come in materials like acrylic, fiberglass or stone. Comparatively, custom shower pans are made with materials like mortar or tile.

Place your shower pan on the floor with the help of a level to achieve a flat surface. Ensure that the subfloor is clean and free from debris. You can use a leveling compound for extreme unevenness. Mix the compound and spread evenly, starting with the corners. Use a notched trowel to spread the compound. Allow it to dry as per the drying time recommended by the manufacturer.
Mark the area where the drain will be onto the floor.
Ensure that there is a consistent slope towards the drain. A ¼ inch per foot slope will be ideal to prevent pooling. Level the mortar accordingly.
Spread thin set mortar in the floor space where the shower tray will be.
Apply sealant around the drain flange.
Insert it through the drain hole in the pan.
Insert the shower pan and press to fit snugly.

Some of the common types of shower walls include tiles, prefabricated panels and glass. Tiles might require more labor and skill for installation, while prefabricated panels provide quick installation. The latter is available in acrylic, fiberglass and stone. Glass is an option that requires careful handling and sealing but creates a modern and open look. The steps to install shower walls are highlighted below.

Ensure the walls are structurally sound. You can consider installing a water-resistant backer board or cement board on your wall to prevent water damage.

Measure the wall area with a measuring tape and cut the shower wall panels to fit the dimensions if necessary. You can use a saw or cutting tool for this step. Some shower panels come with their own lock-in mechanisms and grooves, making the installation process easier.
Attach the bottom edge of your shower wall to the shower pan according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Attach shower panels to the wall with the help of screws or adhesive. Ensure that they are aligned and level with the wall.
Use a silicone sealant around the edges of the panels to create a watertight seal between the panels and the shower pan.
Position the panels correctly and press and secure gently.
Use painter's tape while the sealant cures to hold the panels in place.
Repeat the process for all panels.

Tip

Some panel materials might require a specific panel adhesive for additional support. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.

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Bathroom

How to Install a Walk-In Shower