Tillie Doyle
Installing a shower pan is a crucial step in ensuring your shower is water-tight. While it is possible to create a shower floor using a pan liner and tile, a ready-made shower pan is often preferred for its ease of installation. Fiberglass is a common material for shower pans, and when installing one, it is essential to consider the underlying surface. While some recommend using mortar or concrete to set a fiberglass shower pan, others suggest simply screwing it in place. The decision to use concrete depends on the specific fiberglass shower pan being used and personal preference. In the case of a concrete floor, a fiberglass shower pan can be installed, but careful attention must be paid to the drain assembly to prevent leaks.
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What You'll Learn
Installing a shower pan
Step 1: Floor Prep
First, ensure that the subfloor area where the shower pan will be installed is completely flat and level. If it is not level, apply a self-leveling compound following the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring it adheres to the substrate (OSB, cement board, plywood, etc.). Draw a reference line on the subfloor along the edge of the shower pan. Use a jigsaw or circular saw to cut a hole in the subfloor for the shower drain pipe, ensuring it doesn't exceed 5 inches. Relocate the P-trap for the shower drain and pipe as needed so that the waste pipe extends approximately 1 3/4 inches above the subfloor.
Step 2: Dry-Fit and Drill
Dry-fit the shower pan in the opening to ensure a proper fit. Drill 3/16-inch holes in the flange at each stud location, and check if the shower drain hole aligns with the existing shower drain.
Step 3: Prepare the Shower Drain
Line the underside of the shower drain flange's rim with latex/acrylic or silicone caulk, following the manufacturer's instructions. Some plumber's putty may degrade the shower pan material, so be cautious. Place the flange through the top side of the shower pan and press down firmly without twisting, allowing excess caulk to squeeze out. Wipe away the excess with a cloth or paper towel.
Step 4: Secure the Shower Pan
On the underside of the shower pan, place a rubber washer around the threads of the flange, followed by a friction washer, which resembles cardboard. Screw on the locking ring, tightening it with adjustable pliers if needed.
Step 5: Adhesive or Mortar
Some manufacturers recommend that the shower pan sit directly in an adhesive or small mounds of mortar. If adhesive is specified, spread it within the area where the pan will sit. If mortar is required, mark the locations on the subfloor per the manufacturer's instructions and position the mounds of mortar accordingly. Place the shower base onto the adhesive or mortar and press firmly.
Additional Considerations
Before beginning the project, it is essential to consult local building codes, the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Handbook, and ANSI108.1 for detailed guidelines. Additionally, consider using a waterproofing membrane beneath the first layer of the shower pan to establish a drainage path for any potential water intrusion.
Please note that this guide provides a general overview of the process, and specific instructions may vary depending on the manufacturer's recommendations and the unique characteristics of your shower pan and bathroom setup.
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Using concrete or mortar
If you are installing a new shower pan, you may be wondering if you can put concrete in a fibreglass shower pan. The answer is yes, but it is not a simple task and it is important to follow the correct procedures to ensure a successful installation. Here is a step-by-step guide on using concrete or mortar when installing a fibreglass shower pan:
Prepare the subfloor
Before installing the shower pan, it is crucial to ensure that the subfloor is flat and level. If the subfloor is not level, you will need to apply a self-levelling compound following the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure to use a self-levelling compound that is compatible with the substrate you are working on, such as OSB, cement board, or plywood.
Mix the concrete or mortar
When using concrete or mortar, it is essential to achieve the correct consistency. Wear respiratory protection and mix Sand Mix with about a quarter of the recommended amount of water in a mortar pan or bucket. The correct consistency, known as the "'dry pack' method", is achieved when you can form a "snowball" with the mix that can be tossed a few inches without breaking. If it crumbles, add more water, and if it is too wet, add more dry mix.
Create a pre-slope mortar bed
To ensure proper drainage, create a pre-slope mortar bed by dumping enough dry pack Sand Mix into the shower base to form a level perimeter. Use a rubber or wooden float to pack the material down and maintain a level perimeter with a hand level. Once the perimeter is level, fill in the centre of the shower pan to establish a rough slope towards the drain. Place a layer of clean gravel or crushed tile around the shower drain to keep the weep holes clear.
Position the shower pan
If your shower pan manufacturer calls for mortar, mark the locations on the subfloor according to the instructions. Position mounds of mortar on the marks and firmly place the shower base onto the mortar. For fibreglass shower pans without mid-support, Type N or S mortar (mixed stiff) is often specified to prevent the mortar from pressing outwards under pressure.
Install the drain
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the shower drain. Ensure the drainpipe extends at least an inch above the concrete or mortar bed. Use a leakproof shower drain assembly, such as the No-Caulk Shower Drain, to prevent leaks. Hold the shower drain basket in position, slide on the washers, and tighten the exterior setting ring with slip-joint pliers. Cut the drainpipe to length with a hacksaw, ensuring a square cut, and lower the shower bay and basket assembly over the pipe.
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Ensuring a level surface
First, assess the current condition of your shower floor. It is crucial to start with a clean and stable base. Remove any debris, old caulk, or residue from the surface. Ensure that the underlying structure is solid and intact, free from any rot or damage that could compromise the integrity of your new shower pan installation.
The next step is to check the levelling of the floor. Use a spirit level to determine if the current surface is level. Place the spirit level at various points on the floor to identify any discrepancies. If there are minor variations, you can use a self-levelling compound to address these issues. This compound will help create a more even surface by filling in low spots and creating a flat plane. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using the self-levelling compound to ensure proper application and curing.
For more significant discrepancies or uneven floors, a more rigorous approach is necessary. In this instance, consider using a concrete mix specifically designed to level uneven surfaces. This method will require more preparation and care. You'll need to clean and roughen the existing surface to ensure the new concrete adheres properly. Use a concrete mix suitable for this application and follow the mixing instructions carefully. Apply the concrete mix with a trowel, ensuring it is level as you work. Use a straightedge to smooth and level the concrete, working it to the desired level and ensuring it is even and consistent.
Once you've applied the levelling compound or concrete, allow adequate curing time. Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for the appropriate curing period. Sufficient curing ensures your new surface has the required strength and stability to support the weight of the shower pan and users. After the curing process is complete, you can proceed with the installation of your fibreglass shower pan, confident that you have a level and stable surface.
Remember, taking the time to ensure a level surface is crucial to the overall success of your shower pan installation. By following these steps and allowing the necessary time for preparation and curing, you will achieve a level and stable surface that will withstand everyday use and provide a solid foundation for your fibreglass shower pan installation.
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Drain pipe installation
Installing a shower drain in concrete requires careful planning and execution to ensure a successful installation. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install a drain pipe for a fiberglass shower pan in concrete:
Planning and Preparation:
Before beginning the installation, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the layout and measurements. Ensure you have the necessary materials, such as a shower pan, drain assembly, pipes, and the required tools.
Marking the Drain Location:
Locate the centre of the shower pan and mark the position of the drain hole. This will be the reference point for installing the drain pipe.
Preparing the Concrete:
If there is no existing drain in the concrete, you will need to break through the concrete to create space for the new drain line. Use appropriate tools, such as a diamond wheel on an angle grinder, to cut through the concrete neatly and minimise the risk of cracks. Ensure you wear the necessary safety gear during this process.
Installing the Drain Pipe:
With the concrete cut, it's time to install the drain pipe. Place the drain pipe in the designated space, ensuring it is positioned correctly in relation to the drain hole in the shower pan. The pipe should extend approximately 1-3/4 inches above the subfloor, as specified by the manufacturer's instructions.
Assembling the Drain:
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for assembling the drain components. This typically involves attaching the flange to the drain pipe and securing it with gaskets and setscrews. Use suitable sealant or caulk to create a watertight connection between the flange and the shower pan.
Connecting the Shower Pan:
Place the shower pan over the drain pipe, ensuring the drain cut-out lines up correctly. Secure the shower pan in place by screwing it into the wall studs or using appropriate fasteners.
Testing and Finalising:
Before finalising the installation, test the drain for leaks by running water and checking for any signs of leakage. Make sure the floor is perfectly level to ensure proper water drainage. If needed, adjust the levelling or add shims to compensate for any sloping. Once you are satisfied with the installation, allow any adhesives or mortar to dry completely, following the manufacturer's instructions.
It is important to note that this is a general guide, and specific steps may vary depending on the exact type of shower pan and drain assembly being used. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for detailed information on installation procedures and requirements.
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Using a shower pan with 'feet'
Ready-made shower pans are typically made of acrylic, fiberglass, or composites. They are available in a variety of sizes and styles to fit any bathroom. Installing a shower pan is a straightforward process that includes floor preparation, shower base installation, and compression shower drain assembly.
If your acrylic shower base has "feet", it will be fine. Type N or S mortar (mixed stiff) is often specified because fiberglass shower pans frequently lack mid-support, and the mortar could press outwards under moderate pressure while remaining in contact with the underside.
To install a shower pan, begin by dry-fitting the pan in the opening and drawing a line on the subfloor along its edge. Drill 3/16-inch holes in the flange at each stud location and ensure the shower drain hole aligns with the existing shower drain. Cut a hole in the subfloor for the shower drain pipe, ensuring it does not exceed 5 inches in diameter. Relocate the P-trap for the shower drain and pipe as needed so that the waste pipe extends approximately 1 3/4 inches above the subfloor.
The entire bottom of the shower pan must sit on a flat, level surface. Check the subfloor for levelness and apply a self-leveling compound if necessary, following the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the compound to cure, then test-fit the shower drain flange to ensure it sits flush with the shower base. Line the underside of the flange's rim with latex/acrylic or silicone caulk, following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid using plumber's putty as it may degrade the shower pan material. Place the flange through the top side of the shower pan and press down firmly without twisting, allowing excess caulk to squeeze out.
On the underside of the shower pan, install the rubber washer, friction washer, and locking ring, tightening them in place with adjustable pliers if needed. Some manufacturers may require the shower pan to sit directly in an adhesive or on small mounds of mortar. If adhesive is required, spread it within the area where the pan will sit. If mounds of mortar are specified, mark their locations on the subfloor and position the mounds accordingly. Place the shower base onto the adhesive or mortar, pressing it firmly in place. Adjust the shower pan until it is level in all directions.
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