How To Install a Shower Pan for Your Bathroom Yourself

Accurate measurements will help your new shower pan installation run seamlessly. To start, determine the length and width of your space with a tape measure so you know what size pan to purchase.

Since you want to have a perfectly level shower pan, you want to avoid fitting the pan over any debris or other elements that could compromise how it sits. So set aside time to thoroughly clean the bathroom floor and the shower. Your shower walls should also be as clear as possible so that nothing gets damaged during the installation.

Now that you’ve properly prepped your space, it’s time to make sure the shower pan fits before installing it. Set the pan in place and ensure the edge of the base is sitting level and that the drain holes line up correctly. If it’s not level, use shims to adjust it and mark spots on the studs for reference. It also helps to put pieces of cardboard around the pan and walk on it to make sure it’s stable.

If the drain holes don’t line up, you may need to trace the hole on the subfloor and cut around the hole with a jigsaw. If you don’t have a jigsaw or feel comfortable using one, now is the time to call it quits and enlist the help of a professional plumber.

Once the shower pan is dry-fitted, insert the drain flange into the pan. Make sure it’s flush with the pan, then seal it with plumber’s putty under the rim. Once your sealant is in place, screw the flange onto the pan and wipe away any excess putty.

Then, finish attaching the drain body with gaskets or washers, depending on the instructions on your drain-fitting kit. Now that the drain flange is secure, you can remove the shower pan to prepare for installation.

If your shower pan has feet, then you should pay special attention to where the feet will go. Install composite shims and make sure your pan will be level when installed.

In case your shower pan does not have feet, grab a level and see if the flooring has any unexpected slopes. Mark any areas that you find and prepare the self-leveling compound. To prepare the compound, you’ll usually use a 1/2” electric drill and paddle, but refer to the instructions on the packaging. Pour the compound in the sloped areas, use a gage rake to smooth it out, and finish up with a trowel.

Once the subfloor is ready, you can set the pan. If your shower pan has feet, use the provided clips to attach the feet to the studs. In case there are no clips, then use flange locks instead.

If your shower pan doesn’t have feet, find out if installation requires adhesive or mortar. Apply the adhesive or the mortar, and then place the shower pan onto the floor. Use pressure and use a level to check that it’s properly in place. Once you’re satisfied with the placement, screw it into place.

Pour water into the pan to test the drain. If you have access, look at the space below the pan to make sure water isn’t leaking below the surface. If your installation passes the leak test, you can move on to applying finishing touches, including a faucet valve and a showerhead.