Alfie Marjory

My Experience With Building A Shower Pan On A Concrete Slab

When I decided to renovate my bathroom, I knew I wanted to install a new shower. However, the existing shower was on a concrete slab, which made installing a new shower pan a bit more complicated. After doing some research and consulting with professionals, I was able to successfully build a shower pan on the concrete slab. In this article, I will share my experience and provide a step-by-step guide for anyone looking to do the same.

Build Shower Pan On Concrete Slab: What You Need to Know

Step-by-Step Guide

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Concrete mix
• Waterproof membrane
• Shower drain
• Trowel
• Level
• Measuring tape
• Utility knife

Now, let’s get started:

1. Measure the area where you want to install the shower pan.
2. Cut the waterproof membrane to fit the area, leaving an extra 6 inches on each side.
3. Apply the membrane to the concrete slab, making sure it is flat and even.
4. Install the shower drain in the center of the area.
5. Mix the concrete and pour it over the membrane, making sure it is level and smooth.
6. Let the concrete dry for at least 24 hours.
7. Install the shower walls and finish the rest of the shower installation.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

1. Make sure the concrete is completely dry before installing any other parts of the shower.
2. Use a level to ensure the concrete is even.
3. Consider adding a slope to the concrete to ensure proper drainage.
4. Use a waterproofing membrane to prevent any leaks.
5. Don’t forget to install the shower drain before pouring the concrete.
6. Consider hiring a professional if you’re not experienced with concrete work.
7. Use a trowel to spread the concrete evenly.
8. Make sure the shower walls are properly sealed to the shower pan to prevent any leaks.
9. Consider adding a non-slip surface to the shower pan for added safety.
10. Take your time and don’t rush the process.

Pros and Cons

Building a shower pan on a concrete slab has its pros and cons. Here are some of the most important:

Pros:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Easy to clean
• Can be customized to fit any size or shape

Cons:

• Can be difficult to install
• Requires special tools and materials
• Not easily removable or adjustable

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I am very happy with the shower pan I built on my concrete slab. It has held up well and looks great. However, I would suggest that anyone attempting this project for the first time do their research and consult with a professional if necessary. It can be a bit tricky, but with the right tools and materials, it is definitely doable.

Question & Answer

Q: Can I install a shower pan on a concrete slab myself?

A: Yes, it is possible to install a shower pan on a concrete slab yourself, but it can be a bit complicated. Make sure you have the right tools and materials, and consider consulting with a professional if you’re not experienced with concrete work.

Q: How long does it take to build a shower pan on a concrete slab?

A: The process can take anywhere from a few days to a week or more, depending on the size of the shower and how quickly the concrete dries. Make sure you allow enough time for the concrete to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to slope the shower pan for proper drainage?

A: It’s a good idea to slope the shower pan slightly to ensure proper drainage. This can be done by adding more concrete to one side of the pan than the other.

Q: Can I use a pre-made shower pan on a concrete slab?

A: Yes, pre-made shower pans can be installed on a concrete slab. However, you will still need to make sure the area is properly prepared and that the pan is installed correctly.

Q: What kind of waterproofing membrane should I use?

A: There are a variety of waterproofing membranes available, so it’s important to choose one that is specifically designed for use in a shower. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.