Building A Shower Base For A Walk-In Shower: My Personal Experience

Building A Shower Base For A Walk-In Shower: My Personal Experience

When I decided to renovate my bathroom, I knew I wanted a walk-in shower. But I didn’t want to spend a lot of money on a professional installation. So, I decided to build the shower base myself. It was a challenging but rewarding experience. Here’s how I did it.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Planning

The first step is to plan the layout of your shower. Determine the size and shape of the base, as well as the location of the drain. You should also consider the type of tile or other flooring you will use for the shower floor.

Step 2: Building the Frame

Next, build a frame for the shower base using 2x4s. Make sure the frame is level and square. This will ensure your shower base is also level and square.

Step 3: Adding the Drain

Install the drain in the center of the shower base. You can use a pre-made drain assembly or build your own using PVC piping. Make sure the drain is properly sealed to prevent leaks.

Step 4: Installing the Liner

Place a waterproof liner over the frame and secure it with staples. The liner should extend up the walls of the shower about 6 inches. Cut a hole in the liner for the drain and seal it with silicone caulking.

Step 5: Pouring the Concrete

Mix and pour concrete over the liner, making sure it is level and smooth. Use a trowel to smooth the surface and create a slight slope towards the drain. Let the concrete dry for at least 24 hours.

Step 6: Tiling the Shower Floor

Install tile or other flooring over the concrete base. Make sure the tiles are level and properly spaced. Seal the grout to prevent water from seeping through.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

1. Use a pre-made drain assembly to make installation easier.
2. Consider using a shower pan liner kit for a more professional installation.
3. Make sure the frame is level and square to ensure a level and square shower base.
4. Use a spirit level to check that the base is level before pouring the concrete.
5. Add a slight slope to the base towards the drain to ensure proper drainage.
6. Use a notched trowel to spread the adhesive for the tiles.
7. Choose non-slip tiles for added safety in the shower.
8. Seal the grout to prevent water from seeping through and causing damage.
9. Consider adding a built-in bench or niche for added convenience.
10. Install a shower door or curtain to prevent water from splashing out of the shower.

Pros and Cons

Building your own shower base for a walk-in shower has several advantages. It can save you money on installation costs, and you have more control over the design and layout of your shower. However, it can also be a challenging and time-consuming project. If you’re not experienced with DIY projects, you may want to consider hiring a professional.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I am very happy with my DIY shower base for my walk-in shower. It was a challenging project, but it was also very rewarding. The shower base is level, smooth, and provides excellent drainage. My only suggestion would be to use a pre-made drain assembly to make installation easier.

Question & Answer / FAQs

Q: What type of concrete should I use for the shower base?

A: You should use a concrete mix that is specifically designed for shower installations. These mixes are typically waterproof and have a high compressive strength.

Q: Can I install the tiles directly on the concrete base?

A: No, you should install a waterproof membrane or other barrier over the concrete before installing the tiles. This will prevent water from seeping through and causing damage to the base.

Q: How long does it take to build a shower base?

A: The time it takes to build a shower base will depend on your level of experience and the complexity of the project. It can take anywhere from a few days to a week or more to complete the project.