Tape measure Carpenter’s level Phillips and flathead screwdrivers Power Drill Drill Bits Hammer Caulking gun Adjustable pliers (if needed) Framing square Silicone bath caulk New shower pan 1 ½ or 2-in. screws Washers Wooden shims Masking tape
Most modern shower pans are either acrylic or fiberglass for ease of installation, but keep in mind that some shower pans may have to be special ordered if they’re not a standard model or size. Find this out before you tear out your existing shower. [4] X Expert Source Dave JonesMaster Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup Expert Interview. 29 March 2021. Standard sizes are 36” x 36”; 36” x 42”; 36” x 48” and are usually available in white or almond. Most dealers will have these sizes and colors in stock. Larger sizes or “decorator” designs and colors will likely have to be special-ordered. Call your dealer to see if they have your size and color in stock.
Make any additional surface preparations that are recommended by the shower pan manufacturer as necessary, such as applying a fresh coat of a water seal product to the surface below where the pan will be installed. Be sure to follow the instructions on the container for drying time. Do not install the pan until the water seal is dry. Make sure the subfloor is level before installing the shower pan. If it’s not, use a self-leveling compound to level it.
Check to see if the drain cut-out in the pan lines up and fits properly over the drain pipe. Never force it to line up, as this can cause damage to the pan and to the drain pipe. A little movement (about a half-inch or so in each direction) of the pipe is fine, and will help when lining up the drain components. Since drain components vary by manufacturer, follow the illustrations that come with your shower pan for test fitting. Once you are satisfied that everything fits properly, you are ready to complete the permanent installation.
Once the pan is level, mark the top of the pan lip where it meets the studs, and mark the location of the shims in case the pan has to be moved.
Use your carpenter’s level again to make sure your fastening didn’t throw the pan off slightly. When the pan is level, stable and securely mounted, it’s time to make all components water-tight.
Use a thin coat of caulk, about the thickness of a piece of masking tape, spread over each penetration location. Use just enough to coat and seal where nails or screws are used to attach the pan to the studs. Wipe up any accidental drips of caulk from the pan before they dry. If you discover them after they dry, you can usually peel them up with your fingernail or a plastic putty knife. As you’re working, don’t let any caulk run over the lip of the pan, as doing so can affect the fit and seal of the side shower panels. If it runs over while being applied, wipe it off before it dries. You’ll also need to caulk the joint where the pan meets the floor. Be sure the surface is very clean and dry or you will not obtain a proper seal.
