10 Easy Steps to Install a Shower Drain

Shower Drain

With every day makes use of, it is no shock that bathe drains will accumulate gunk and hair, resulting in clogs or foul odor. Putting in a brand new bathe drain is a cheap house enchancment challenge that may forestall these points and improve the general performance of your lavatory. Whether or not you are changing an outdated drain or putting in one in a newly constructed bathe, understanding the method is essential. On this complete information, we’ll stroll you thru the step-by-step course of of putting in a bathe drain, empowering you to deal with this activity like a professional.

Earlier than embarking on the set up course of, collect the required instruments and supplies. You may want a brand new bathe drain, a screwdriver, a utility knife, a tape measure, a stage, and a pipe wrench. Guarantee you’ve the right kind of drain to your bathe base. Furthermore, think about choosing a drain with a detachable strainer to facilitate simple cleansing and stop future blockages.

After you have every thing you want, put together the work space by eradicating the prevailing drain cowl and any seen particles. Verify the drainpipe for any cracks or harm; restore or substitute it if vital. Mark the middle of the drain gap and align the brand new drain meeting in keeping with the producer’s directions. Safe the drain in place by tightening the screws firmly, ensuring to stage it for correct water movement. Lastly, join the drainpipe to the drain meeting and seal the joints with plumber’s putty or a sealant tape. Relaxation assured that by following these steps diligently, you’ll have efficiently put in a bathe drain that may guarantee easy drainage for years

Planning and Preparation

Earlier than embarking in your bathe drain set up journey, it is important to rigorously plan and put together to make sure a profitable final result. This includes gathering the required instruments and supplies, in addition to taking exact measurements and contemplating the drainage system’s design.

Gathering Instruments and Supplies

Instrument Description
Plumber’s wrench For tightening and loosening nuts and bolts
Hacksaw For chopping pipes
Pipe cutter For exact pipe cuts
Teflon tape For sealing connections
Plumber’s putty For sealing bathe drain base
Screwdriver For tightening screws
Degree For making certain correct drain alignment
Security glasses For eye safety

Along with instruments, collect these supplies:

  • New bathe drain
  • Drain pipe (if wanted)
  • PVC cement or pipe glue
  • Drain grate

Supplies and Instruments Required

Supplies:

  • Bathe drain meeting (contains drain physique, strainer, and flange)
  • Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant
  • Tile backer board or cement board
  • Tile adhesive
  • Tile grout

Instruments:

  • Utility knife
  • Caulk gun
  • Wrench
  • Screwdriver
  • Measuring tape
  • Degree
  • Grout float
  • Sponge

Bathe Drain Meeting

The bathe drain meeting is probably the most essential part of your bathe. It consists of three predominant elements: the drain physique, the strainer, and the flange. The drain physique is the portion that connects to the plumbing system. The strainer is the detachable half that collects hair and different particles. The flange is the half that attaches to the tile or bathe pan.

When selecting a bathe drain meeting, you need to think about the next elements:

  • The dimensions of the drain gap in your bathe base
  • The kind of bathe base you’ve (tile, acrylic, fiberglass)
  • The end of the drain meeting

After you have chosen a bathe drain meeting, observe the producer’s directions for set up.

Materials

Description

Plumber’s Putty

A pliable substance used to seal gaps and stop leaks.

Silicone Sealant

A water-proof sealant used to create watertight seals.

Eradicating the Outdated Drain

Earlier than putting in a brand new bathe drain, you may have to take away the outdated one. Here is learn how to do it:

  1. Flip off the water provide to the bathe. That is often carried out by turning the valve behind the showerhead clockwise.
  2. Take away the drain cowl. The drain cowl is often held in place by screws or a plastic ring. Take away the screws or pry off the ring to take away the quilt.
  3. Take away the drain strainer. The drain strainer is a steel or plastic grate that’s positioned within the backside of the drain. Use a screwdriver or pliers to take away the strainer.
  4. Take away the drain physique. The drain physique is the a part of the drain that’s related to the drainpipe. Use a wrench or pliers to loosen the drain physique and take away it from the drainpipe.
  5. Clear the drainpipe. As soon as the drain physique is eliminated, you possibly can clear the drainpipe. Use a drain snake or a wire brush to take away any buildup from the pipe.

Ideas for Eradicating a Cussed Drain

  • If the drain physique is caught, you possibly can strive utilizing a penetrating oil to loosen it up. Apply the oil to the threads of the drain physique and let it sit for a couple of minutes earlier than making an attempt to take away it.
  • If the drain physique continues to be caught, you possibly can strive utilizing a pair of pliers to grip the physique and twist it forwards and backwards. Watch out to not harm the drainpipe.
  • If you’re unable to take away the drain physique, you might have to name a plumber for help.
Instrument Description
Screwdriver Used to take away the drain cowl and strainer.
Pliers Used to loosen and take away the drain physique.
Drain snake Used to wash buildup from the drainpipe.

Cleansing the Drain Gap

Getting ready the drain gap for the brand new drain is essential. Begin by eradicating any particles or outdated sealant from the drain gap utilizing a small screwdriver or a utility knife. Clear the outlet completely with a moist material to make sure a safe seal for the brand new drain.

To take away any remaining particles or mineral buildup, pour a combination of equal elements white vinegar and baking soda into the drain gap. Let the combination sit for 15-Half-hour to dissolve any clogs or residues. Rinse the drain gap completely with scorching water to flush out the combination.

Eradicating Outdated Putty

If there’s outdated putty across the drain gap, it is important to take away it earlier than putting in the brand new drain. Use a putty knife or a razor blade to rigorously scrape away the outdated putty. Be cautious to not harm the drain gap or the encompassing tiles.

If the putty is cussed, you possibly can strive heating it with a hair dryer to melt it for simpler elimination. Alternatively, you should use a industrial putty remover to dissolve the outdated putty. Observe the producer’s directions for secure and efficient elimination.

As soon as the drain gap is completely cleaned and any outdated putty is eliminated, it is prepared for the set up of the brand new bathe drain.

Putting in the Drain Meeting

Becoming the Strainer

The strainer, additionally referred to as a basket strainer, is the detachable a part of the drain meeting that catches hair and particles. To suit the strainer, align the tabs on the strainer with the corresponding slots within the drain opening. Rotate the strainer clockwise till it locks into place.

Putting in the Drain Gasket

The drain gasket is a rubber or plastic ring that creates a watertight seal between the drain meeting and the bathe pan. Place the gasket over the drain opening, ensuring that the ribbed facet faces up.

Utilizing Plumber’s Putty

Plumber’s putty is a pliable materials used to seal gaps and stop leaks. Roll a small piece of plumber’s putty right into a rope and form it right into a doughnut. Place the doughnut on the drain opening, across the gasket.

Tightening the Tailpiece

The tailpiece is the curved pipe that connects the drain meeting to the drainpipe. Insert the tailpiece into the drain meeting and hand-tighten it as a lot as potential. Use a wrench or pliers to additional tighten the tailpiece, however keep away from overtightening.

Tightening Torque for Drain Assemblies

Drain Measurement Torque (ft-lbs)
1.5 inches 5-10
2 inches 10-15
2.5 inches 15-20

Putting in the Cowl Plate

The quilt plate is the ornamental piece that covers the drain opening. Place the quilt plate over the strainer and gently press down till it snaps into place. Be certain the quilt plate is stage and does not wobble.

Connecting the Water Provide Traces

Earlier than you begin connecting the water provide strains, be sure to have the fitting instruments and supplies. You may want a wrench, a pair of pliers, Teflon tape, and the water provide strains. After you have every thing you want, observe these steps:

  1. Flip off the water provide to the bathe.
  2. Disconnect the outdated water provide strains from the bathe valve.
  3. Wrap Teflon tape across the threads of the brand new water provide strains.
  4. Join the brand new water provide strains to the bathe valve.
  5. Activate the water provide to the bathe.
  6. Verify for leaks.

Ideas for Connecting the Water Provide Traces

Listed here are a number of suggestions that can assist you join the water provide strains accurately:

  • Use a wrench to tighten the fittings. Do not overtighten, or you possibly can harm the fittings.
  • Use Teflon tape to seal the threads of the fittings. This may assist forestall leaks.
  • Watch out to not kink the water provide strains while you’re connecting them.
  • After you have related the water provide strains, activate the water provide and test for leaks. In the event you discover any leaks, tighten the fittings till the leaks cease.
Instrument Goal
Wrench To tighten the fittings
Pliers To carry the fittings in place
Teflon tape To seal the threads of the fittings
Water provide strains To attach the bathe valve to the water provide

Putting in the Drain Cowl

The drain cowl is the ultimate piece of the bathe drain meeting, and it performs an vital position in holding water from leaking out of the drain and onto the ground. To put in the drain cowl, observe these steps:

1. Take away the outdated drain cowl.

If there’s an outdated drain cowl in place, take away it by gently prying it off with a flathead screwdriver.

2. Clear the drain opening.

Use a moist material to wash the drain opening of any dust or particles. This may assist to make sure a very good seal between the drain cowl and the drain opening.

3. Apply a bead of caulk across the drain opening.

Utilizing a caulk gun, apply a skinny bead of caulk across the perimeter of the drain opening. This may assist to seal the drain cowl in place and stop water from leaking out.

4. Place the drain cowl over the drain opening.

Align the drain cowl with the drain opening and press it into place. You’ll want to press firmly across the edges of the drain cowl to make sure a very good seal.

5. Screw the drain cowl into place.

Most drain covers are secured in place with screws. Utilizing a screwdriver, insert the screws into the holes within the drain cowl and tighten them till the drain cowl is safe.

6. Wipe away any extra caulk.

Use a moist material to wipe away any extra caulk that will have squeezed out across the edges of the drain cowl.

7. Check the drain.

To check the drain, run water into the bathe and observe the drain cowl for any leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the screws on the drain cowl or apply extra caulk across the edges.

Step Description
1 Take away the outdated drain cowl.
2 Clear the drain opening.
3 Apply a bead of caulk across the drain opening.
4 Place the drain cowl over the drain opening.
5 Screw the drain cowl into place.
6 Wipe away any extra caulk.
7 Check the drain.

Caulking and Sealing

Caulking and sealing play a significant position in stopping leaks and water harm round your bathe drain. Here is an in depth information to make sure a watertight seal:

Making use of Caulk

1. Clear the floor of the drain and surrounding space to take away any particles or residue.

2. Apply a skinny bead of silicone caulk across the outer fringe of the drain flange.

3. Use a moist sponge or your finger to easy out the caulk and create a uniform seal.

Putting in a Drain Seal

4. Place the drain seal over the drain flange and push it down firmly.

5. Be certain the seal is centered and suits snugly across the flange.

Sealing the Seal

6. Apply a beneficiant quantity of sealant across the fringe of the drain seal.

7. Easy out the sealant with a moist sponge or your finger.

Putting in a Hair Catcher

8. Insert the hair catcher into the drain opening.

**Desk: Varieties of Hair Catchers**

Sort Description
Basket-style Holds hair and particles in a detachable basket.
Dome-style Suits over the drain opening, catching hair and permitting water to movement by means of.
Pop-up model Hid hair catcher that opens and closes with a push of a button.

9. Apply caulk or sealant across the fringe of the hair catcher, if vital.

10. Permit all caulks and sealants to remedy utterly in keeping with the producer’s directions.

Testing the Drain

After putting in the drain, it is essential to check it completely to make sure correct perform and stop future leaks.

Steps to Check the Drain:

  1. Fill the Showerpan with Water

    Gently fill the showerpan with water till it reaches a depth of a number of inches. This may create stress on the drain and mean you can observe any leaks.

  2. Verify for Leaks

    After filling the showerpan, rigorously examine the drain for any seen indicators of leakage. Search for water dripping or seeping from the drain flange or across the drain physique.

  3. Run the Water

    Activate the bathe and run the water for a number of minutes. Observe the drain whereas the water is flowing to make sure it drains effectively and with none pooling or backups.

  4. Verify for Overflow

    Permit the water to run into the drain for an extended interval. Monitor if the water stage rises within the showerpan. If the water reaches the peak of the drain flange, it might point out a blockage or overflow subject.

  5. Check the Drain Strainer

    As soon as the water has drained, take away the drain strainer and test it for any particles or hair that will have amassed. Rinse the strainer completely and substitute it to make sure correct drainage.

  6. Verify the Entice

    In the event you discover any gradual drainage or backups, the problem could lie within the drain lure. Take away the lure by loosening the cleanout plug and examine it for any obstructions.

  7. Reassemble the Entice

    After cleansing any obstructions, reassemble the drain lure and tighten the cleanout plug securely. Run the water once more to verify that the lure is functioning accurately.

  8. Examine the Bathe Valve

    In uncommon instances, a defective bathe valve could cause drainage points. Verify the valve for any leaks or harm which may be limiting the movement of water.

  9. Seek the advice of a Skilled

    In the event you encounter any important leaks or drainage points that can’t be resolved by means of these steps, it is advisable to seek the advice of a certified plumber for additional troubleshooting and repairs.

Extra Ideas:

To assist forestall future clogs and drainage issues, think about:

  • Putting in a hair catcher or drain strainer.
  • Cleansing the drain strainer and lure usually.
  • Working a combination of baking soda and vinegar down the drain periodically to take away buildup.
Troubleshooting Concern Potential Trigger Answer
Gradual drainage Clogged or obstructed drain Examine and clear the drain strainer, lure, and bathe valve.
Water backing up into the showerpan Overfilled drain Look ahead to the water to empty absolutely or test for blockages within the drain or lure.
Seen leak Broken or free drain gasket Change the gasket or tighten the drain flange.

Upkeep

To stop clogs and keep the effectiveness of your bathe drain, common cleansing and upkeep are important. Listed here are some useful suggestions:

1. Take away Hair Commonly: Hair is a major reason behind drain clogs. Use a drain strainer to catch free hair, and clear it incessantly. Commonly brush hair out of the drain utilizing a drain brush.

2. Clear the Drain Filter: Most bathe drains have a filter that traps particles. Take away and clear this filter as per the producer’s directions to forestall clogs.

3. Use Drain Cleaner: Industrial drain cleaners can be utilized often to dissolve buildup and take away clogs. Observe the producer’s directions rigorously.

4. Flush with Sizzling Water: Working scorching water by means of the drain helps dissolve cleaning soap scum and different buildup that will accumulate over time.

5. Examine and Clear Grout: Grout between tiles can crack and permit water and particles to seep by means of, contributing to empty issues. Commonly examine and clear grout to forestall leaks.

Troubleshooting

In case your bathe drain is clogged or not draining correctly, observe these steps to diagnose and resolve the problem:

6. Verify for Apparent Blockages: Take away the drain cowl and test for any seen blockages, corresponding to hair or particles. Take away these obstructions and run water to see if the drain is cleared.

7. Use a Plunger: A plunger can create suction to dislodge clogs within the drainpipe. Fill the bathe base with water and place the plunger over the drain. Pump vigorously to launch the clog.

8. Snake the Drain: If a plunger is ineffective, a drain snake can be utilized to succeed in deeper into the drainpipe and take away extra cussed clogs.

9. Examine the Drainpipe: In instances the place the clog can’t be faraway from the drain opening, the drainpipe could must be inspected for any harm or buildup.

10. Name a Plumber: If you’re unable to successfully troubleshoot and resolve the drain subject, it’s advisable to contact a certified plumber. Skilled plumbers have the required instruments and experience to diagnose and restore any extreme drain issues.

Learn how to Set up a Bathe Drain

Putting in a bathe drain is a comparatively easy activity that may be accomplished in a number of hours. Nonetheless, you will need to observe the directions rigorously to make sure a watertight seal and stop leaks. Listed here are the steps on learn how to set up a bathe drain:

1. Take away the outdated drain cowl. If the outdated drain cowl is screwed on, use a screwdriver to take away the screws. If the outdated drain cowl is glued on, use a utility knife to chop the glue and pry the quilt off.

2. Clear the drain opening. Use a rag or sponge to wash the drain opening of any particles or dust. This may assist to make sure a very good seal between the brand new drain and the drain opening.

3. Insert the brand new drain. Insert the brand new drain into the drain opening. Ensure that the drain is seated correctly and that the gasket is in place. If the drain will not be seated correctly, it might leak.

4. Tighten the drain. Use a screwdriver to tighten the drain screws or bolts. Don’t overtighten the screws or bolts, as this might harm the drain.

5. Check the drain. As soon as the drain is put in, check it by pouring water into the bathe. The water ought to drain shortly and easily. If the water doesn’t drain correctly, test the drain for leaks.

Folks Additionally Ask About Learn how to Set up a Bathe Drain

How a lot does it price to put in a bathe drain?

The associated fee to put in a bathe drain can range relying on the kind of drain and the complexity of the set up. A easy drain alternative can price round $50 to $100, whereas a extra complicated set up might price $200 to $500 or extra.

Can I set up a bathe drain myself?

Sure, you possibly can set up a bathe drain your self. Nonetheless, you will need to observe the directions rigorously to make sure a watertight seal and stop leaks. If you’re not comfy with doing the set up your self, you possibly can rent a certified plumber to do it for you.

How lengthy does it take to put in a bathe drain?

The time it takes to put in a bathe drain can range relying on the kind of drain and the complexity of the set up. A easy drain alternative can often be accomplished in a number of hours, whereas a extra complicated set up might take a day or two.