Are you ready to pick up a big do-it-yourself shower project? I am sure if you will be able to do this project on your own, you will save a lot of money. Before you get started, you will have to make sure you know how to install a shower base on the concrete floor. If you have no idea how to get started with the installation of shower bases, do not worry. I am here to guide you and teach you how to build a shower base on the concrete floor. During the process of installing a new shower, replacing worn-out shower faucet parts can also be a crucial task. Whether it’s a leaky showerhead or a faulty handle, fixing these issues can significantly enhance the overall functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom.
Before starting, let us get a few things in mind. A lot of people use the terms shower base and shower pan simultaneously as if they are the same thing. That is not true. They are two different words that are usually used interchangeably.
Before beginning how to install the shower base on the concrete floor, make sure that the floor is even and clean. Then, follow the steps given below:
- In order to allow space for the waste pipe, make sure that you remove enough space.
- Inside the hole, install the pipe and drainage tool.
- On the concrete base, apply some amount of mortar.
- Press firmly, carefully place the shower tray on the mortar.
- Now, you have to screw the drain at an appropriate place.
- Let the mortar sit undisturbed and let it dry for 24 hours
- Use caulk to seal between the wall and the shower tray.
Now that I have stated some basic details about how to install a shower base on the concrete floor, let us get into the detailed explanation of each step to make you an expert at installing a shower base on a concrete floor. Scroll down to read further and gather information.
How To Build A Shower Base On A Concrete Floor
Before beginning the process of installing a shower base on the concrete floor, let us understand the difference between a shower base and a shower pan.
Shower Pan
A shower pan typically refers to a premade vinyl or fiberglass tray that is usually positioned on the top of a shower base. The shower pan is the shower floor on which you stand while taking a shower. It is also known as a shower tray.Â
You will want to purchase a special type of shower pan if you plan to surface the shower floor with tiles. It is advised to not place tiles directly on the concrete subfloor. It could be dangerous as water may accumulate and may damage the floor.
Shower Base
Now that you understand what is shower pan, it will be easier to understand what is a shower base. Shower base refers to what is present beneath the shower tray or shower pan. The base is generally not visible while taking a shower.
Both shower pan and shower base are typically made of waterproof materials. However, since the shower base is a substructure, it is also comprised of cement mortar. Since the shower base is a substructure, it is installed as a slope. This is done so that the water can easily drain out. This is exactly how to install a shower base on a concrete floor guide.
Installing The Shower Base And Shower Pan
Before beginning, make sure to make use of a leveling compound to even out the concrete floor.
Now, take the shower pan and place it over the concrete to make markings. Mark where the drain will be positioned. Then, keep the pan aside and make enough space in the concrete to place the pan. Also, make enough space for the drain pipe. Now, carefully place the pipe inside the hole and make sure that it does not interfere with the position level of the shower tray.
Now, use the tray to ensure that there are no leaks. You can do this by pouring some water on the tray and draining it to check the pipe. Once you are satisfied with how the drain works, keep the pan aside and get ready to begin the installation process.
On the concrete base, apply a layer of mortar. Make sure that you cover the entire section where the shower tray is to be installed. Now, take the pan and press it firmly into the concrete. Making use of a leveling tool, make sure that the pan is even on all sides. Now, tighten the drainage tray into place and leave the mortar undisturbed for 24 hours to dry. Once the mortar is dried and you have installed the shower walls, use silicone to seal all the cracks between the tray of the shower and the panels of the walls. After that, give it 24 hours to dry again before installing the enclosure or putting the shower into use.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Install A Shower Base On The Concrete Floor
Now, that we have understood how to install a shower base on a concrete floor, let us take a look at some frequently asked questions that may solve a lot of queries you have.
1. How big are shower bases usually?
Depending on the size of your bathroom, the measurements of shower bases vary. The most frequently used sizes that are generally used are standard full size, half baths, and larger full size. These are the three sizes that mostly fit in every house.
- Standard full size: The size is 30 x 60
- Larger full size: The size is 42 x 60
- Half baths: The size usually ranges between 36x 36 or 32 x 32
- Do I need both the shower base and the shower pan?
A shower base is an essential part of the bathroom installation. However, you need not have a shower pan. It is not an essential component. Sometimes, however, it is a good idea to make use of a shower pan to protect the subfloor from getting ruined. A shower tray usually provides a waterproof barrier between the two things.
If you plan to surface the shower floor with tiles, then having a shower pan is extremely important.
3. Is it necessary to waterproof the shower base?
If you are working on the concrete floor, which, in this case, you are; it is not a necessity to waterproof the portion beneath the shower pan. The use of mortar and silicone will alone ensure that it is waterproof. However, if you are using any other material apart from concrete, such as wood, you will have to ensure and waterproof the portion under the shower tray. You make use of a shower liner in order to ensure this.
4. How To Measure Which Shower Base Is Right For My Bathroom?
If you want to measure which shower base is right for you, then you can make use of a piece of cardboard lying around. You can make markings of the desired size on the cardboard and cut them out. Do not forget to mark the settings for your drain. Now, place the cardboard at the place where you want to install the shower pan. Now, with the help of a measuring tape, you can take measurements for the cardboard.
If you are going to replace an already existing shower tray, then you need to remove it in order to get an accurate size for a new shower pan. After removing the tray, you can measure the sides.
5. Should You Install The Shower Base On The Concrete Floor On Your Own?
You must be wondering if you should go ahead and get started with this do-it-yourself project? Well, if you are a little experienced with making stuff on your own, then you can go ahead and go for it. If you have any experience with plumbing, then, installing a shower base on your own wouldn’t be a problem for you to install the shower base on a concrete floor on your own.
If you are someone who does not have any experience with DIY projects, then you should wait for a while and hire a professional. Maybe practicing a little with small DIY projects can prepare you for installing a shower base on your own.
Final Thoughts
Even though installing a shower base on a concrete floor may seem complicated, it really is not. Just make sure to keep in mind that a shower base and shower pan are two different things. Sometimes the retailers may confuse it so it is important for you to remember this. Just make sure that the drainage pipe is properly fitted and that there are no leakages. All you have to do is ensure that the shower pan is evenly leveled. Make sure to add silicone and mortar and give it enough time to dry out!
And voila! You are done with a cleanly installed shower base!