Tillie Doyle
Removing a shower drain is a doable DIY project, but it's important to know when to seek professional help. If you're experiencing persistent clogs, removing the drain cover will give you better access for cleaning or repairs. If your shower drain is constantly backing up, the problem could be deeper in the pipe. If you notice water pooling around the base of your shower, removing the drain will allow you to inspect and replace the seal, preventing water damage. If you see cracks, corrosion, or other signs of damage to the drain body or surrounding pipe, it's best to call a plumber. To remove the shower drain, you'll need to first remove the cover by unscrewing it with a screwdriver or gently prying it up with a flathead screwdriver. Then, use pliers to grip the drain body and turn it counterclockwise. You can then lift the entire pan.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Removing a shower drain is a doable DIY project for many homeowners, but it may be difficult and require significant force. |
| Tools required | Screwdriver, pliers, penetrating oil, drain snake, paper towels, rags, WD-40 or other drain lubricant, flat-head screwdriver, wrench, keys, bucket |
| When to call a professional | If there are signs of damage to the drain body or surrounding pipe, or if the shower is tiled or made of stone. |
| Preparation | Check for clogs before loosening the drain. Dry the shower drain before applying lubricant. |
| Installation | Insert the tapered end of the drain into the drain opening, fit it around the waste pipe, and push down to seat the flange onto the bottom of the shower pan. Tighten the four anchor screws in turn, using a Phillips screwdriver. |
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What You'll Learn
Removing the drain cover
If your drain has a visible screw, carefully unscrew it with a screwdriver. If there's no screw, gently pry up the drain cover with a flat-head screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the surrounding tile or shower pan. You can also try using a small-headed screwdriver and working it around the edge while slowly pulling up. If you have long hair or a lot of hair going down the drain, this method might be more effective than using a flat-head screwdriver.
If the drain cover is difficult to remove, you can try using pliers. Insert the pliers into the openings and gently twist and pull up. You can also try using needle-nose pliers, which are thin enough to fit into the openings. However, be careful not to use too much force, as this could damage the cover.
Another method is to weave a string or small wire through two openings near the edge of the strainer and pull straight up. This method is less likely to damage the shower base surface than prying the corner up.
If the drain is still difficult to remove, it might be siliconed or glued in place. In this case, you may need to cut it out or use a wrench or key to unscrew it. You can also try applying penetrating oil and letting it soak for a few minutes to help loosen the drain.
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Cleaning the drain stem
Prepare the Work Area
Before beginning, ensure you have gathered the necessary tools and materials. You will need gloves, eye protection, a flat-head screwdriver, pliers, a bucket, and some old rags or paper towels. It is also recommended to have some penetrating oil and a natural cleaning solution, such as baking soda and vinegar, in case there is a clog or buildup.
Remove the Drain Cover
Start by carefully unscrewing the shower drain cover with your screwdriver. If there is no visible screw, gently pry up the cover with a flat-head screwdriver. Be cautious not to damage the surrounding tile or shower pan.
Loosen the Drain Body
Use your pliers to grip the drain body, which is the part beneath the cover. Turn it counterclockwise to loosen it. If it is difficult to turn, try applying penetrating oil and let it soak for a few minutes to help loosen any buildup or corrosion.
Remove the Drain
Once the drain body is loose, you can usually unscrew it the rest of the way by hand. Be prepared for some water to drain into your bucket, especially if there is a clog.
Clean the Drain Stem and Surrounding Area
With the drain body removed, you now have access to the drain stem. Clean the stem thoroughly using an old rag or paper towel. Remove any old putty, sealant, hair, debris, or mineral buildup to ensure a good seal when reassembling the drain. You can also use a natural cleaning solution, such as baking soda and vinegar, to help dissolve any clogs or buildup.
Reassemble the Drain
After cleaning, reassemble the drain by screwing the drain body back into place and tightening it securely. Ensure there is a good seal by checking for any leaks. Finally, snap or screw the drain cover back into place.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean the drain stem of your shower pan drain, maintaining proper drainage and preventing unpleasant odors. Remember to take the necessary precautions, such as wearing gloves and eye protection, and always be cautious when using tools to avoid damaging your shower.
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Using a screwdriver
Removing a shower drain is a doable DIY project. If you have the right tools, you can save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a screwdriver to remove your shower drain:
First, check if your shower drain has a visible screw. If it does, carefully unscrew it with a screwdriver. If there is no screw, you can use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry up the drain cover. Be careful not to damage the surrounding tile or shower pan. If your drain is rusty, you can use WD-40 or a similar lubricant to help loosen it. However, make sure the shower drain is dry before applying the lubricant.
Once the cover is removed, you will need to loosen the drain body. This is the part beneath the cover. Use a pair of pliers to grip the drain body and turn it counterclockwise. If it is stuck, try applying penetrating oil and let it soak for a few minutes.
After the drain body is loose, you can usually unscrew it the rest of the way by hand. Be prepared for some water to drain out, so have a bucket ready. Once the drain is removed, you can clean the area thoroughly. Remove any old putty, sealant, or debris to ensure a good seal for the new drain.
It is important to note that if you see any signs of damage to the drain body or surrounding pipe, it is best to call a professional. Removing a shower drain is generally a straightforward process, but it is always good to be cautious.
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Replacing the drain
If you have a plastic shower base, you can replace the drain from the top inside the shower. Before you begin, carefully inspect the surrounding area for signs of water damage, discoloration, or warping. If you notice any of these issues, it is best to consult a professional plumber.
To replace the drain, start by removing the cover. If your drain has a visible screw, carefully unscrew it with a screwdriver. If there is no screw, gently pry up the drain cover with a flathead screwdriver, being careful not to damage the surrounding tile or shower pan.
Once the cover is removed, use pliers to grip the drain body (the part beneath the cover) and turn it counterclockwise. If it is stuck, try applying penetrating oil and let it soak for a few minutes. After the drain body is loose, you can usually unscrew it the rest of the way by hand.
Next, clean the area thoroughly. Remove any old putty, sealant, or debris to ensure a good seal for the new drain. Wash the area around the drain with soap and water and let it dry.
Now you are ready to insert the new drain. Place the tapered end of the drain into the drain opening and fit it around the waste pipe. Push down to seat the flange onto the bottom of the shower pan. Keep pushing down and tighten the four anchor screws in turn, using a Phillips screwdriver. As you tighten the screws, the anchors will draw the drain snugly against the shower base, and caulk will begin to ooze out.
Tighten each screw until a uniform amount of caulk oozes from the drain perimeter and the screws become hard to turn. Then, clean off the excess caulk with paper towels or a rag. Finally, snap the strainer onto the drain. You can turn on the water immediately, even before the caulk has set, to ensure no water seeps through around the drain perimeter.
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Sealing the drain
Prepare the Drain Opening:
Start by removing the old drain and cleaning the area thoroughly. This includes eliminating any old putty, sealant, or debris that may be present. Use coarse sandpaper to roughen the surfaces where the putty was, creating a better surface for the new seal to adhere to. Ensure that the shower base and drain surfaces are clean and free of any residue.
Apply Sealant:
If you are using a putty-based sealant, apply a generous amount around the drain opening, ensuring that it fills any gaps or voids. Smooth out the putty and ensure there are no air pockets. If you are using a self-levelling polyurethane sealant, carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for application, making sure to fill the gap completely and avoid trapping air.
Install the Drain:
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the new drain. This typically involves inserting the tapered end of the drain into the drain opening and fitting it securely around the waste pipe. Push down firmly on the drain to create a tight seal against the shower pan or base.
Secure the Drain:
Use screws or anchors to secure the drain in place. Tighten the screws in a uniform manner, ensuring that the drain is snugly fitted against the shower base. This step helps to further strengthen the seal and prevent leaks.
Caulk the Drain:
Apply a bead of caulk around the perimeter of the drain, using a caulk gun. Hold the gun at a 90-degree angle to the gap between the drain and the shower floor. Smooth out the caulk with a damp finger or a caulking tool, creating an even and continuous seal. Remove any excess caulk with a paper towel or a rag.
Allow for Curing:
Once you have completed the sealing process, allow the sealant and caulk to cure fully. This may take some time, so refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the specific curing period. Do not use the shower until the sealant and caulk are completely cured.
By following these steps, you can effectively seal your shower drain, ensuring a watertight and secure installation that will prevent leaks and maintain the integrity of your shower.
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Frequently asked questions
Removing a shower drain is a doable DIY project, but it is important to understand the potential challenges and know when to seek professional help. If you see cracks, corrosion, or other signs of damage to the drain body or the surrounding pipe, it’s best to let a professional handle the repair. To remove the drain, you can use a screwdriver to loosen and unscrew it, or use pliers to twist and pull up the cover. You may need to lubricate the cover and drain with WD-40 or a similar product to make the drain easier to remove.
There are several reasons why you might need to remove and clean your shower drain. If your shower drain is constantly backing up despite your efforts to unclog it, the problem could lie deeper in the pipe. Removing the drain cover gives you better access for cleaning or repairs. Additionally, if you notice water pooling around the base of your shower, a damaged drain seal could be the issue. Removing the drain allows you to inspect and replace the seal, preventing water damage.
After you have cleaned the shower pan and drain opening, it is important to remove any old putty, sealant, or debris to ensure a good seal for the new drain. You can then install a new drain cover. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and use the appropriate tools and cleaners to secure the new drain in place.
