Set the Shower Pan — Install the Drain Fitting

Intermediate16 hours

Part of project

How to Install and Level a Shower Pan Base · Step 2 of 9

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In this video

With the drain now fully assembled into the shower pan, the entire unit is carefully lifted and maneuvered into the shower alcove. The bottom of the drain assembly is aligned with the drain pipe in the floor, and the pan is lowered into its final position. Care is taken to ensure the pan rests flat on the leveled subfloor and its flanges fit snugly against the wall studs. The narrator points out that the flanges are labeled (Back, Left, Right) to ensure correct orientation.

Goal: Shower Installation

Having a second person can make lifting and positioning the shower pan much easier and safer.

Used in this video

Shower Pan (Supply Type: Plumbing Fixtures) — Forms the floor of the shower and directs water to the drain.

674.3K views2.0K10-15 minutes

Oatey Co

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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.

Transcript

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So the drain assembly is in. We got the nut on the bottom. Everything's centered, perfect. Now we're going to set this in place and drop it down over the drain pipe. We got the pan installed. It's sitting on the level floor as you can see. It's close to the tile in the front there. The floor and guide block does the cone that or the ground in that drain. You can see where the drain assembly is right around that pipe, perfect. And after we're finished doing the install of the shower walls, the plumber will come in and finish installing the drain pipe assembly. You can see how the flange comes up on the wall. That's what creates the water type tub of the flat shower pan. So all of that water proof inside there and then over here. So this will be dry wall on the walls and I'll come down to the right about here. We'll show that in another video and then the panels will come down and tie tight to the bottom of the floor. Anyway, we're coming along.

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