Sloping a walk in shower floor is not a difficult task, but there are a few things you need to take into consideration before you start. The most important thing is the slope of the floor. This will determine how much water drains away and how fast it drains. You also need to consider the type of drain you will use. There are two types of drains, linear and point. Linear drains are more common in new construction because they allow for a more shallow slope and are easier to install. Point drains are more common in older homes and can be more difficult to install. Once you have considered these things, you can start to slope your shower floor. The following steps will show you how to do this.
Overview
Assuming you are starting with a new shower installation or are gutting an old one, the first step is to create a sub-floor that slopes toward the drain. This is accomplished by attaching 1×4 furring strips around the perimeter of the shower at the desired height and installing a second layer of plywood over top. The thickness of the plywood will be determined by how much slope is needed to ensure proper drainage.
Once the sub-floor is installed, you can then proceed with installing your shower flooring. There are a variety of materials that can be used for this, including tile, stone, or even concrete. Whichever material you choose, make sure it is properly sealed to prevent water damage.
A sloped shower floor is essential for proper drainage and preventing water damage. By following these simple steps, you can easily install a sloped shower floor in your own home.
Step One: Plan The Drain Location
When planning the drain location for your walk in shower, it is important to consider both function and aesthetics. The drain should be located in a spot that is both practical and visually appealing.
The first step is to determine where the water will flow. The drain should be placed in the lowest point of the shower so that water can easily flow towards it. It is also important to consider where the plumbing lines are located when choosing the drain location.
Once you have determined where the water will flow, you can then decide on the best location for the drain. Keep in mind that the drain needs to be large enough to handle the amount of water that will be flowing through it. You also want to make sure that the drain is not too close to any walls or other obstacles so that water can flow freely towards it.
Step Two: Cut The Shower Pan Liner
Once the liner is in place, use a sharp utility knife to cut it where it meets the drain. Be sure to make a clean, straight cut so that the liner will lay flat against the drain when you install it.
Step Three: Install The Shower Pan Slope
After the mortar bed has cured, it’s time to install the shower pan slope. This is a crucial step in ensuring that water flows properly towards the drain and doesn’t pool in any areas of the shower.
To install the slope, you’ll need to first lay down a layer of gravel over the mortar bed. This will help with drainage and prevent any potential clogging issues further down the line. Once the gravel is in place, use a trowel to create a sloped surface that slopes downward towards the drain at a rate of 1/4 inch per foot.
Once the slope is created, you can then place the shower pan liner on top of it. Make sure that the liner is cut to size and extends up above the highest point of the slope by at least 2 inches. Once the liner is in place, you can then add your chosen flooring material on top of it.
Step Four: Install The Pre-Sloped Shower Pan
Once the mortar bed has cured, it’s time to install the pre-sloped shower pan. This part is critical to getting the slope right, so take your time and be precise.
Start by putting a bead of silicone sealant around the perimeter of the drain hole in the pan. Then, fit the rubber gasket over the drain hole and press it into place.
Next, set the pan in position on top of the mortar bed. Make sure it’s level and centered before you start to attach it to the walls.
To do this, use screws and washers to attach the flanges on the pan to the wall studs. Start at one corner and work your way around until all four corners are secure.
Once the pan is installed, you can move on to installing the drain assembly.
Step Five: Install The Shower Drain
Installing a shower drain is a relatively easy process, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, make sure you have the correct tools for the job. You’ll need a hacksaw or similar tool to cut the pipe, and a wrench to tighten the connections.
Second, be careful not to over-tighten the connections. This can damage the pipe and cause leaks.
Third, when installing the drain, make sure that the grate is level with the floor of the shower. This will ensure that water flows properly and doesn’t pool in any areas.
Once you have these things in mind, follow these steps to install your shower drain:
1. Cut the drain pipe to size using a hacksaw. Make sure that the cut is clean and straight.
2. Connect one end of the pipe to the drainage fitting on the bottom of the shower base. Use a wrench to tighten this connection securely.
3. Connect the other end of the pipe to the main drainage system of your home. Again, use a wrench to tightened this connection securely.
4. Place the grate over top of the drain opening in the shower floor. Make sure that it is level with the rest of the floor before securing it in place with screws or bolts
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an easy and affordable way to make your shower more accessible, slopes are the answer. With a few tools and some elbow grease, you can DIY this project in no time. Be sure to take your time and do it right the first time so you can enjoy your safe and functional walk in shower for years to come.
