Do you find your shower always filled with slowly draining water? If yes, then it’s time to look for a good and efficient shower drain. Having a well-functioning shower drain is important, as it will drain water faster and protect your bathroom from water damage. A competent shower drain also keeps the space dry and prevents mold growth, maintaining a well-sanitized space for a more hygienic shower experience.
If you have never done it before, installing a new shower drain yourself might be a little intimidating. However, it gets easy when you know a thing or two about your shower drain, such as its types, how it works, and the right tools you require to install a shower drain more efficiently.
Before moving ahead, let’s find out the types of shower drains available in the market and how they work. There are four types of shower drains. First is the linear drains, which are long and rectangular. They are placed along one shower edge, allowing water to drain in a single outlet, no matter where the water is coming from. This design is beneficial for larger bathrooms where water comes from multiple directions.
The second type is the point drains, which are also known as center drains. They are the most common types and are usually located in the center of the shower floor. The third type is called tile insert drains. These types of drains let you insert a tile that matches the aesthetic of your shower floor. The fourth type is hidden drains, sleek and subtly integrated into the wall or the shower floor.
Now that you have understood the types of shower drains, it’s time that you follow this practical and helpful DIY guide and know how to install one by yourself. However, don’t hesitate to call in a professional wherever things get tricky.
Also Read: How to Fix a Leaky Toilet: A Comprehensive DIY Guide
Things You’ll Need:
- Hacksaw or tubing cutter
- Channel-lock pliers
- Caulk gun
- Screwdriver
- Plumber’s putty or silicon sealant
- Plumber’s tape
- Measuring tape
- Safety gear
- New shower drain
Please note: these tools and materials may vary, depending on your shower and drain type. That’s why it’s important to go through the details and follow the instructions given on your shower drain for better results.
How to Install a Shower Drain Yourself
Remove the Old Shower Drain
Turn off the water to prevent accidental flooding. Remove the drain cover using a screwdriver. If it comes off simply without a screwdriver, well and good. Next, get rid of the old shower drain with the help of your wrench or pliers without posing any harm to your shower’s surrounding base.
Prepare the New Drain
For the second step, you need a measuring tape to measure the drain hole and the length of the drainpipe, ensuring an accurate fit. Cut the new drainpipe (if needed) to the correct length, using a hacksaw or tubing cutter. Then, roll the plumber’s putty into a rope and press it around the underside of the drain lip. You can also apply the silicone sealant, if required.
Install the Shower Drain
Firmly insert the new shower drain into the drain hole and tighten the drain onto the drainpipe with a wrench or pliers. Then, apply the plumber’s tape around the threaded part of the drainpipe, ensuring a leak-proof connection. For the last step, put the drain cover back on the shower drain.
Testing the Shower Drain
When everything is done, it’s time to test your new shower drain. Simply turn on the water supply and let the water run back into the drain while you check for leaks. If there is a water leakage, tighten the connection and test again. That’s it, you are good to go.
Final Word
Installing a shower drain could be a nerve-wracking process, but not impossible. You just need to have some basic knowledge and the right tools in hand to get the job done on your own. To ensure the longevity of your shower drain, regular cleaning is recommended. It involves getting rid of any debris and buildup.
Periodic cleaning with baking soda and vinegar is also important to break down minor clogs. If DIY is not your thing, you can always rely on someone with experience or when you feel stuck or lost.
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