Installing a new shower in your bathroom can be an exciting and satisfying project for a DIY enthusiast. Yet a shower installation is not always a simple task. To ensure success, you will need a clear vision, a thorough plan, and all the right materials.
In many cases, the shower kit you want will be available at your local home improvement store. These kits will come with most of what you need for your project, including screws, nails, and fasteners. However, you should be prepared to invest in several other important tools that will help you execute your installation to a high standard.
1. Two- to Four-Foot Level
An accurate spirit level is essential for a successful shower installation. First, you will use this tool to ensure that the floor beneath your shower tray is even. If the floor is sloped, you will need to take steps to correct it as you are installing the shower pan. You will also need to check that the slope of your base allows gravity to bring water down to the drain. Failure to do so will prevent the water from draining properly.
2. Electric Drill
Installing your shower unit will require you to drill pilot holes into it so that you can prepare to create holes for your fixtures. Be patient when performing this step, and be sure to drill from the back of the unit to avoid damaging the finish on the front.
You can also use the drill to insert the screws, which can save a great deal of time.
3. Two-Inch Hole Saw
You will use the hole saw to prepare the fixture holes on your unit. Many people are unfamiliar with this tool. Rather than forcing the hole saw, let it do the cutting work for you. You might detect smoke as you perform this step, which is normal. However, wearing goggles and a face mask can protect your eyes and airways as you work.
4. Cedar Shims
Cedar shims will allow you to prop up your shower pan in a way that creates the correct slope for drainage. Insert the shims after you line up the drain hole with the drainpipe and screw in the drain cover. Ensure that the slope is correct before applying caulk to the base.
5. Caulk and Caulking Gun
Caulk will help to waterproof your shower, preventing water from reaching the floor or the walls. Use the caulk to seal the crevices of the waterproof wallboards before installing your shower. You will also need to caulk every gap and crack of the shower’s corners and base. After caulking, do not run any water in the shower for at least 24 hours. If you can spare the time, you can wait 72 hours to ensure full curing of the caulk.
6. Safety Equipment
Installing a shower can pose certain safety risks. You can reduce the risk of harming yourself by using safety equipment such as:
- Workman’s gloves
- Safety glasses
- Face covering
- Knee pads
Factors to Consider
The process of installing a shower can be incredibly rewarding. Start with a clear vision of what you would like your end product to be. Simple shower units lend themselves more easily to DIY projects, but more sophisticated projects often require professional assistance.
Keep in mind that even small mistakes on a DIY shower installation job can easily lead to serious problems in the future. If your project requires making changes to your plumbing, you should hire a licensed plumber to ensure that you do not take unnecessary risks that could lead to problems with rot or flooding.
When considering what you want to get out of the job, carefully think about the costs of investing in the tools required. Furthermore, you will need to invest time in researching and planning the installation as well as executing it. Sometimes, enlisting a professional plumber for even parts of your project can be a worthwhile investment to consider.
Contact an Experienced Austin Plumbing Professional
Working with a licensed and experienced plumber on your shower installation can give you the confidence you need to complete your project to the high standard you deserve. The Austin plumbing professionals at Indigo Home & Facility Services offer efficient and cost-effective services to help you install your shower safely. Our Austin-based family business is committed to delivering excellence to home and business owners in our community.
Call us today at (512) 608-4999 or contact us online for an appointment.