Prepare the Subfloor — Dry-Fit and Mark the Pan
Part of project
How to Install and Level a Shower Pan Base · Step 3 of 9
In this video
The first step is to prepare the area for the shower pan. This involves a 'dry fit' where the pan is placed in the shower stall to check for any issues. In this case, the drain hole lines up directly with a floor joist. To fix this, a section of the subfloor is cut out using a reciprocating saw. The obstructing joist is then cut and new support blocking is framed in to reinforce the structure. A new piece of plywood is cut with a jigsaw to patch the hole in the subfloor. Finally, the entire area is swept clean to prepare for the mortar bed.
Goal: Create a clean, structurally sound subfloor with drain clearance
- Modifying floor joists is a structural change. If you are not experienced, consult a professional. Ensure new framing provides adequate support.
Used in this video
- Reciprocating Saw (brand: Ryobi, Tool Type: Reciprocating Saw, Power Source: Battery) — Cutting the existing subfloor and floor joist.
- Jigsaw (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Jigsaw, Power Source: Corded) — Cutting the new plywood patch for the subfloor.
- Drill (brand: DeWalt, Tool Type: Drill, Power Source: Battery) — Driving screws to install new framing.
- Broom (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Hand Tools, Power Source: Manual) — Sweeping the subfloor clean.
- Plywood (Material: Wood, Material Type: Plywood) — Patching the hole in the subfloor.
- Lumber (2x stock) (Material: Wood, Material Type: Lumber) — Creating new support framing for the subfloor.
- Wood Screws (Material: Metal, Supply Type: Hardware) — Fastening the new framing.
24K subscribers
FAQs
How difficult is it to install a shower pan for a DIYer, and what's the realistic time commitment?
This is an intermediate project, requiring precision and patience, especially with leveling and mortar work. While the estimated time is 16 hours, allow extra time for potential subfloor repairs or unexpected issues. Rushing can lead to costly mistakes, so take your time and don't skip steps.
Why is a mortar bed crucial for a new acrylic/fiberglass shower pan, and which type should I use?
A mortar bed provides essential solid support beneath the shower pan, preventing flex, squeaks, and potential cracking over time. It also allows you to precisely level the pan for proper drainage. The project specifically calls for Type S mortar, such as Greencore or Quikrete mortar mix.
What are the most critical steps to ensure my shower pan is perfectly level and drains correctly?
Accurate leveling begins with a solid, level subfloor. Dry-fit the pan multiple times, marking its position and checking it with a long level in all directions. When setting the pan into the mortar, continuously check for level and adjust the mortar bed as needed before the mortar begins to set.
What precautions should I take to prevent leaks around the drain assembly and where the pan meets the wall?
Ensure the drain fitting is properly installed and sealed according to its manufacturer's instructions, using plumber's putty or silicone caulk as recommended. Secure the pan's flanges to the wall studs precisely, and apply a waterproof sealant where the pan meets the wall before installing wall coverings to prevent moisture intrusion.
TranscriptHide
Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.
Prepare the Subfloor — Dry-Fit and Mark the Pan
Part of project
How to Install and Level a Shower Pan Base · Step 3 of 9
In this video
The first step is to prepare the area for the shower pan. This involves a 'dry fit' where the pan is placed in the shower stall to check for any issues. In this case, the drain hole lines up directly with a floor joist. To fix this, a section of the subfloor is cut out using a reciprocating saw. The obstructing joist is then cut and new support blocking is framed in to reinforce the structure. A new piece of plywood is cut with a jigsaw to patch the hole in the subfloor. Finally, the entire area is swept clean to prepare for the mortar bed.
Goal: Create a clean, structurally sound subfloor with drain clearance
- Modifying floor joists is a structural change. If you are not experienced, consult a professional. Ensure new framing provides adequate support.
Used in this video
- Reciprocating Saw (brand: Ryobi, Tool Type: Reciprocating Saw, Power Source: Battery) — Cutting the existing subfloor and floor joist.
- Jigsaw (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Jigsaw, Power Source: Corded) — Cutting the new plywood patch for the subfloor.
- Drill (brand: DeWalt, Tool Type: Drill, Power Source: Battery) — Driving screws to install new framing.
- Broom (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Hand Tools, Power Source: Manual) — Sweeping the subfloor clean.
- Plywood (Material: Wood, Material Type: Plywood) — Patching the hole in the subfloor.
- Lumber (2x stock) (Material: Wood, Material Type: Lumber) — Creating new support framing for the subfloor.
- Wood Screws (Material: Metal, Supply Type: Hardware) — Fastening the new framing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is it to install a shower pan for a DIYer, and what's the realistic time commitment?
This is an intermediate project, requiring precision and patience, especially with leveling and mortar work. While the estimated time is 16 hours, allow extra time for potential subfloor repairs or unexpected issues. Rushing can lead to costly mistakes, so take your time and don't skip steps.
Why is a mortar bed crucial for a new acrylic/fiberglass shower pan, and which type should I use?
A mortar bed provides essential solid support beneath the shower pan, preventing flex, squeaks, and potential cracking over time. It also allows you to precisely level the pan for proper drainage. The project specifically calls for Type S mortar, such as Greencore or Quikrete mortar mix.
What are the most critical steps to ensure my shower pan is perfectly level and drains correctly?
Accurate leveling begins with a solid, level subfloor. Dry-fit the pan multiple times, marking its position and checking it with a long level in all directions. When setting the pan into the mortar, continuously check for level and adjust the mortar bed as needed before the mortar begins to set.
What precautions should I take to prevent leaks around the drain assembly and where the pan meets the wall?
Ensure the drain fitting is properly installed and sealed according to its manufacturer's instructions, using plumber's putty or silicone caulk as recommended. Secure the pan's flanges to the wall studs precisely, and apply a waterproof sealant where the pan meets the wall before installing wall coverings to prevent moisture intrusion.
Video Transcript
(711 characters)Hide
Video Transcript
(711 characters)Transcript may be auto-generated and contain errors.