Installing a shower drain is an important part of constructing or remodeling a bathroom. A properly installed shower drain ensures proper water flow and prevents leaks that could damage the subfloor and framing. While it may seem intimidating, installing a shower drain is a DIY project that can be tackled with the right materials and steps. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of how to install a shower drain correctly.
Choose the Right Shower Drain
The first step in learning how to install a shower drain is selecting the right drain for your project. There are several types of shower drains to consider:
Linear Shower Drains
- Long, narrow drains that sit flush with the floor for seamless look
- Effective water drainage from their length
- Require less slope in thin shower pans
- Range of sizes from 12 inches to over 4 feet
- Drain cover options like tile, metal, marble
Center Drain Grate
- Circular drain with removable grate over opening
- Most common and affordable option
- Available in different sizes, shapes, and finishes
- Require proper sloping to drain from all directions
Perimeter Channel Drains
- Long drains that run around perimeter of shower walls
- Catch water as it falls from sides for quick drainage
- Require linear sloping from walls to drain
- More difficult to install with tiling
Consider shower pan size, design, tile choice, and existing plumbing when selecting a shower drain. Consult manufacturers’ specifications on drainage capacity, flow rate, and installation requirements as well.
Gather the Necessary Materials
Once you’ve selected the right shower drain, gather the essential materials to properly install it:
- Shower drain body and drain pipe kit
- PVC primer and cement
- Plumber’s putty
- Protective foam backer rod
- Thin set mortar
- Pipe sealant
- Gravel or small rocks
- Tools: tape measure, level, screwdriver, hacksaw, etc.
Make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific shower drain for any specialized tools or additional materials needed. Having all materials ready beforehand ensures an efficient installation process.
Prepare the Installation Site
With the right materials gathered, now the shower drain installation site must be prepped. Proper site prep sets up a solid base for a watertight seal and long-lasting drain. Follow these key steps:
Step 1: Set the Drain Height
The top of the shower drain must sit level with the finished shower floor. To determine the correct drain height:
- Measure height of the shower curb from subfloor.
- Account for thickness of tile, mud bed, and any other layers.
- Hold drain in position and mark desired height on drain pipe.
Setting the drain height early allows you to plan other layers.
Step 2: Add Gravel and Slope Mortar
Proper drainage requires directing all water flow towards the central drain. To achieve this:
- Add a 2-4 inch gravel base layer for drainage under the pan.
- Pour thinset mortar and slope gently towards the drain location.
- Create a low spot for the drain with a slope of 1/4 inch per foot.
Don’t forget to connect and test the drain pipes before adding slope mortar.
Step 3: Waterproof the Shower Pan
Prevent leaks and moisture damage by waterproofing the shower pan:
- Line shower pan sides with foam backer rod.
- Apply waterproofing membrane over gravel, mortar, sides, and 6-12 inches around drain.
- Seal all seams and corners thoroughly and allow to dry completely.
Waterproofing is crucial to prevent leaks that can damage framing and leak to lower floors.
Install the Shower Drain
Once the site is fully prepped, it’s time to install the shower drain permanently. Follow these key steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Drain Pipes
- Dry fit drain pipes, curving them slightly to align with the drain.
- Cut with hacksaw to desired height marked earlier.
- Deburr cut edges smooth.
- Prime and cement pipes connections, allowing to fully cure.
Prepping pipes ahead of time provides proper drainage when installing the drain body.
Step 2: Set the Drain Body
- Apply plumber’s putty around underside of drain flange to prevent leaks.
- Position drain over pipes, pressing firmly in place to seal putty.
- Tighten drain bolts or mounting hardware securely.
The drain flange should sit flat against waterproofing membrane for optimal seal.
Step 3: Connect Drain Pipes
- Slide drain pipe into drain body opening and tighten compression fitting.
- Attach extension pipes with proper slope if needed.
- Caulk pipe connections for added leak protection.
Proper pipe alignment provides optimal water flow to drainage system.
Step 4: Seal the Drain Body
- Apply a continuous bead of silicone sealant around flange edges.
- Ensure all gaps between flange and waterproofing are completely sealed.
- Seal underside of drain if accessible.
- Avoid blocking drain weep holes with sealant.
Sealing the edges prevents shower water from seeping under drain and damaging subfloor.
Complete Shower Installation
Once the shower drain is fully installed, complete the shower:
- Test for leaks by pouring buckets of water directly into drain.
- Fill in around drain body with mortar up to waterproofing height.
- Install tile, leaving proper clearance around drain cover as needed.
- Apply additional sealant bead between tile and drain flange after grouting.
- Install drain cover and accessories like hair catchers.
With the drain installed properly, the rest of the shower will have proper slope and drainage.
Installing a shower drain takes careful planning, patience, and attention to detail. But with the right materials and proper technique, you can achieve a high-performing, leak-free drain that will last for years. Maintain your new shower drain by cleaning regularly and watching for any signs of leakage around the flange. Enjoy the updated look and functional shower your new drain provides!
FAQ How to Install a Shower Drain
Installing your own shower drain may seem intimidating. Read on for answers to frequently asked questions about how to tackle this do-it-yourself plumbing job.
What tools do I need to install a shower drain?
You’ll need basic tools like a screwdriver, hacksaw, tape measure, level, marker, pliers, utility knife, and drill. Specialized tools like a hole saw, concrete chisel, and reciprocating saw may be needed depending on your existing floor and plumbing access. Always check your drain model’s manual for any specific tool recommendations.
What is the proper slope for a shower floor?
To ensure proper drainage, your tiled shower floor should slope 1⁄4 inch per foot towards the drain. Avoid low spots where water can pool. A foam slope guide under the tile can assist in creating the correct pitch.
How do I know if my drain pipe is centered on the drain?
Dry fit the curved drain pipe into the drain body before cementing to ensure it aligns properly for good water flow. The pipe should be centered and penetrate about halfway into the drain outlet. Adjust curve angles as needed to improve alignment.
How far should the drain flange sit above the floor?
The drain flange should sit flush with the finished tiled floor to prevent water from seeping underneath. Account for tile thickness when setting drain height. Some drains have an adjustable flange for the perfect position.
What can I use to waterproof my shower pan?
Use a membrane like Chloraloy, RedGard, or Laticrete Hydroban. After applying to the pan, bring it 6 inches up walls and 1 inch around the drain flange to fully waterproof. Rigid sheets like Schluter Kerdi are also effective waterproofing options.
How do I know if my shower pan is leaking?
After installing the drain, fill the pan with water and wait 30 minutes. Mark the water level and check again in 20 minutes for any drop, which indicates a leak. Apply more sealant if a leak is found.
Can I install my drain on an upper floor or above a finished ceiling?
Yes, just take extra care to waterproof thoroughly. Add full-spread mortar bed over the subfloor and membrane under the drain for a solid base. Install an overflow pan under upper floor showers in case of leaks.
How often should shower drains be cleaned?
Clean the drain cover and remove hair and debris every 1-2 months. Use a drain snake or cleaner every 6 months to clear soap buildup in the drain pipe. Avoid pouring grease down shower drains which can cause clogs.
What causes a foul odor from the shower drain?
Standing water in the trap or P-pipe underneath causes odors. Pour water into drain periodically if not used often. Otherwise, dry P-traps allow sewer gas to enter. A clog with organic buildup can also cause rotten egg or sewage odors from the drain.
Conclusion
Installing a shower drain allows you to update an old shower or construct a new stall with proper drainage. While the process involves careful planning and preparation, having the right materials and following key steps makes drain installation achievable even for a DIY-er. The reward is a high-functioning shower that efficiently drains water and resists leaks over its lifetime. With regular cleaning and maintenance, your newly installed shower drain will keep performing optimally for years of rewarding bathing experiences.