A walk in shower is a great addition to any bathroom, providing both increased functionality and aesthetic appeal. If you’re considering adding a walk in shower to your home, the first step is to ensure that you have the proper plumbing in place. In this blog post, we will explore how to plumb a walk in shower, including what type of piping you will need and how to install it. We will also touch on some of the common mistakes people make when plumbing a walk in shower, so that you can avoid them in your own installation. Read on for everything you need to know about how to plumb a walk in shower!
What is a walk in shower?
A walk in shower is a type of shower in which the user can walk into the shower without having to step over a threshold or lip. This type of shower is becoming increasingly popular due to its ability to make showers more accessible for people with disabilities or limited mobility. Walk in showers typically have a glass door or enclosure that prevents water from spilling out onto the bathroom floor.
The benefits of a walk in shower
A walk in shower can offer many benefits over a traditional shower enclosure. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it provides easier access for those with limited mobility. With no need to step over a bathtub lip or enclosed shower threshold, a walk in shower allows anyone to enjoy the relaxing benefits of a hot shower.
Another great advantage of walk in showers is that they can be much more easily customized to your specific needs and taste. Whether you prefer sleek and minimalistic or luxurious and spacious, there’s a walk in shower design out there to suit your preferences. And because they’re not bound by the same constraints as traditional showers, walk in showers can also be installed in previously unused spaces, like alcoves or under eaves.
Finally, walk in showers tend to be much easier to keep clean than their enclose counterparts. With no nooks or crannies for dirt and grime to accumulate, all you need is a quick wipe down after each use to keep your shower looking sparkling new.
How to plumb a walk in shower
When it comes to plumbing a walk in shower, there are many things to consider. The first thing you need to do is decide where the shower will be located. Once you have decided on the location, you need to measure the area where the shower will be placed. This will help you determine how much pipe and fittings you will need.
Next, you need to determine what type of drain you will use for your walk in shower. There are many different types of drains available on the market today. You need to choose one that is compatible with the type of flooring you have in your bathroom. If you are not sure what type of drain to use, you can always ask a professional plumber for advice.
Once you have chosen the perfect drain for your walk in shower, it is time to install it. The first thing you need to do is mark the center of the drain hole on the floor where the shower will be located. Then, using a drill and a 1/2 inch hole saw, cut a hole in the center of the drain hole. Be sure to wear safety goggles when doing this so that no debris falls into your eyes.
After the hole has been cut, insert the drain into the hole and secure it with screws or bolts. Next, attach any necessary fittings to complete the connection between the drain and your water supply lines. Finally, turn on the water supply and test your new walk in shower!
Tips for a successful installation
1. Make sure the drain is properly installed and leveled. The last thing you want is for water to pool in your shower.
2. When installing the shower pan, make sure the lip of the pan is level with the surrounding floor. This will ensure that water does not seep out from under the pan and onto your bathroom floor.
3. Be sure to use waterproof caulk or grout around all joints and seams in your shower to prevent leaks.
4. When installing tile, make sure that the tiles are properly spaced and level with each other. Uneven tiles can cause water to pool in certain areas and lead to leaks.
5. Make sure all plumbing connections are tight and secure to prevent leaks. Use Teflon tape on all threaded connections to help create a watertight seal
Alternatives to walk in showers
There are many alternatives to walk in showers, including shower stalls, shower enclosures, and even bathtubs. Shower stalls come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and can be made from a variety of materials, including fiberglass, acrylic, or tile. Shower enclosures are similar to shower stalls, but typically have higher walls and doors that can be opened or closed to keep water inside the shower area. Bathtubs can also be used as an alternative to walk in showers; however, they typically require more time and effort to fill and empty than showers do.
Conclusion
A walk in shower is a great addition to any bathroom, and with the proper planning and execution, can be relatively easy to plumb. Be sure to have all of your materials on hand before starting, and take your time while working to avoid any costly mistakes. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll have your very own walk in shower up and running in no time. Thanks for reading!
