A walk in shower kit can be a great addition to your bathroom, especially if you are limited on space. They are also relatively easy to install, even for someone with little to no plumbing experience. In this blog post, we will walk you through the process of installing a walk in shower kit, step by step. ###
What You’ll Need
Assuming you have a walk in shower kit and the tools necessary for installation, you will need to:
-Turn off the water to your bathroom
-Remove the old showerhead, shower arm, and diverter (if present)
-Use a caulk remover and remove all silicone or latex caulk around the shower area. If there is any mildew or mold, use a bleach solution to clean it before proceeding.
-Apply plumber’s putty around the drain hole.
-Place the rubber gasket that came with your kit over the drain hole.
-Thread on the metal strainer nut and hand tighten. Be careful not to overtighten and strip the threads.
-Set the base of your new shower unit into place. Make sure it is level before proceeding.
-If your new shower has feet, adjust them until the base is level.
-Once the base is level, use shims to secure it in place if necessary.
-Apply silicone sealant or caulking around the outside edge where the base meets the wall. This will help create a waterproof barrier.
-Reattach your shower arm using Teflon tape and pipe dope on all male threads. Hand tighten only – do not overtighten!
-Connect your new showerhead to the shower arm using Teflon tape and pipe dope on all male threads. Hand tighten only – do not overtight
Step One: Planning and Preparation
If you’re thinking about installing a walk in shower kit in your bathroom, there are a few things you’ll need to do before you get started. First, you’ll need to plan and prepare for the project. This means measuring the space where the shower will go, making sure there is proper drainage, and choosing the right shower kit for your needs.
Once you’ve done all of that, it’s time to get started on the installation process. The first step is to install the base of the shower. This can be a bit tricky, so be sure to follow the instructions that come with your shower kit carefully. After the base is installed, you’ll need to attach the walls of the shower. Again, be sure to follow the instructions carefully so everything lines up correctly.
The last step is to install the door or curtain for your walk in shower. Once that’s done, all that’s left to do is enjoy your new shower!
Step Two: Installing the Shower Base
Once you have the shower base in place, it’s time to install the shower kit. The first thing you need to do is connect the drain to the base. Then, you will need to connect the water lines to the base. After that, you will need to install the back wall. Finally, you will need to caulk and seal around the base.
Step Three: Installing the Walls
After the subfloor is installed, it’s time to start installing the walls. Most walk in shower kits come with pre-made panels that are easy to install. However, you may need to cut the panels to fit your space.
To install the panels, start at the bottom and work your way up. Make sure the panels are level and plumb before attaching them to the studs. Once the bottom panel is in place, continue attaching the rest of the panels until all four walls are complete.
Step Four: Finishing the Installation
Assuming the rest of the shower is already prepped and tiled, finishing the installation of a walk in shower kit is relatively easy. Most kits will come with clear instructions, but here are some general tips:
-Before starting, make sure all the pieces are accounted for. Review the instructions to get a sense of what goes where.
-Start by attaching the base or floor pan to the curb. If your kit includes a pre-fabricated base, it will likely just need to be set in place.
-With the base in place, you can begin installing the walls. Most systems use interlocking panels that fit together like puzzle pieces. Simply insert each panel into the track on the base until all four walls are secure.
-If your system includes a door, install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
-Finish up by installing any trim or molding to give your shower a finished look.
Conclusion
Installing a walk in shower kit is not as difficult as it may seem. With the right tools and instructions, you can have your new shower installed in no time. Be sure to follow the instructions included with your kit carefully, and be sure to ask for help if you need it. With a little bit of effort, you can have a brand new walk in shower that will make your bathroom look great and function even better.
