The important thing to do when installing a fiberglass shower pan is the preparation. Take note that shower pans will be installed at the base of shower stalls collecting water every time the shower is used. Here are some basic steps that can help in the installation of shower pans.
1. Prepare the Tools and Equipment
If you are going to install a shower pan, you need to have a set of tools that can be found from home retailers. In order to do the job well, you need to have tape measure, carpenter’s level, Philips and flathead screwdrivers, drill bits, power drill, caulking gun, adjustable pliers, silicon bath caulk, new shower pan, washers, masking tape, and wooden shims, not to mention some screws to get the job done.
2. Measure the Area where the New Shower will be Installed
Try to measure the walls that should come in contact with the new pan. After having the right measurements, allow the store personnel to look into the figures when you want to purchase a shower pan. They will help you choose the right size based on the measurements.
3. Prepare for Installation
After buying the needed tools and shower pan, ensure that the area has been properly set up that should be free from debris and old adhesive. If possible, try to use a putty knife or paint scraping tool.
4. Dry Out the Surface
If there is standing water, dry it out and keep the area free of excessive moisture before installing the shower pan.
5. Dry-Fit the Shower Pan
Try to dry-fit the shower pan after prepping the shower base area within the surface. However, you need not use fasteners or adhesives just yet because you only need to determine if everything fits just right.
6. Fit the Shower Pan in Place
Try to replace the shower pan if you removed it after you performed the dry-fitting. Just make sure that you line up the drain components and cut-outs properly. You can also follow the manual on attaching the drain hardware.
7. Leveling the Shower Pan
Try to use wood shims or carpenter’s level so that you can level the shower pan. Shims can be used to elevate the pan but don’t do it as it will end up floating on the solid base. Simply apply minimal shimming if you noticed that the sub-surface is level already.
8. Attaching the Shower Pan to the Studs
Make sure that you follow instructions from the manufacturer to avoid driving nails or screws via the lip of the shower pan unless it is specified directly. You can temporarily secure it to the studs by placing screw through the washer. Afterwards, you need to insert the screw on top the lip of the shower pan for the washer to overlap the lip holding it securely. Just don’t over tighten as it will crack the pan.
9. Install the Shower Pan
Use a silicone bath caulk to seal the shower pan. This should be applicable upon locations having penetrations of the pan. These could be factory or drilled holes. So you need to fill these holes using silicone bath caulk creating waterproofing seal.
Allow the caulk to dry and make sure seals are put in place. If necessary, re-seal the drain components with the use of caulk if the manufacturer recommends it.
