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Tips on Building a New Walk in Shower
The process of installing walk in shower enclosures begins with deciding whether to purchase a prefabricated unit or to construct a custom designed unit. With either of these the most important considerations are the integrity of the waterproof shower pan and the existing drain and water lines.
If the installation calls for the removal of an existing shower, the pan should be removed and a new pan installed in order to ensure the reliability of the waterproof assembly. The shower drain hub should be intact with no cracks or breaks at the rim and water supply lines should be checked to make sure no replacement is needed.
If the unit will be built in place, the process begins with the design and the selection of the finish materials and trim fixtures. The design can be configured as a square or rectangle with an offset that serves as the entry, or as a circular unit with a wing wall as the entry. The shower can be installed in a corner or as peninsula with three sides, and the entry opening at the most convenient location.
The design could feature any type of tile or slab material such as granite or marble, and these should be installed over a mixed mortar bed. Using a manufactured underlayment is not recommended for showers. No matter what the final design may be, the shower walls should be full height and the ceiling should be finished to form a completely water-resistant assembly.
The shower wall configuration can be wood frame construction or concrete block, and the construction may include openings for a soap dish or an accessory niche. Some designs include glass block ports that provide natural light in the shower, while others designs include a waterproof, overhead light fixture. In addition, the design configuration should consider the path of the shower water. The floor of the shower must be installed with fall, to guide water to the drain and the degree of fall will determine whether a shower dam will be needed at the walk-in opening.
Homeowners and property owners should consult with a reputable building contractor prior to purchasing any materials or starting work to install a walk in shower. This will serve to qualify the viability of the design and ensure the integrity of the installation.
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