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Shower pans are waterproof barriers placed under the floor of bathrooms. They usually consist of waterproof elements such as PVC, fiberglass, acrylic, and composite, etc. They are essential for directing the water down to the drain.
Besides, they provide excellent support for tile floors. Even if the users don’t use tile, it will protect the surface from all types of leaks. So, if your bathroom doesn’t have a shower pan, you should get one as soon as possible.
Standard Sizes of Shower Pans
One of the major critical features to consider while purchasing shower pans is the size. Make sure that it fits correctly in the designated location as there is no chance to resize it. Now you may be wondering about what are standard size shower pans. To find out the answer to this question, check out the following options:
Full Size
Such standard shower pans generally measure 30 inches in width and 60 inches in length. As you can assume, they are rectangular in shape. They are more popular than the other pans because they fit into most of the standard bathrooms quite easily.
After some modifications of the surrounding walls, the users can place them into areas, which are not exactly square. You will also find larger full-size models in the stores. If you have a medium or large bathroom with a wide showering area, you can go for this one. The length and width may extend up to 42 inches and 60 inches, respectively.
Square Size
The square-size models are usually smaller than the previous types. They are designed to fit into a small location. Therefore, if your restroom is too small to accommodate a standard full size one, this will be the best. As the name suggests, they have a square shape where each side may extend from 32 to 48 inches. You have to select the size according to the space available in your shower.
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Curved
Many shower bases utilize circular or round portions at one size. This configuration can be beneficial for smaller washrooms where less space is available. They even occupy less space compared to a square shower base.
The reason is, the corners of the square or rectangular pans are almost unnecessary. As a result, if one side is curved, it won’t cause any difficulty as well as will be space-efficient. They come in 30 to 48 inches long sides with a rounded design in any direction. You should not buy them for those bathrooms having large free areas.
The Process of Installing Shower Pans
If you don’t know how to install shower pans, follow the given steps:
Step 1: Assembly of the required tools
A few basic repair tools will help you to complete this job properly. Be sure of having all of them before starting the work. You will need:
- Hammer
- Screws
- Power drill
- Measurement tape
- Masking tape
- Screwdriver
- Carpenter’sCarpenter’s level
- Caulk gun
- Handy pliers
- Bathroom caulk
- Standard washers
- Wood shims
Step 2: Measurement of the available space
You have to find out the measurements along the surrounding walls, which will be close to the base. Record them carefully and search pans accordingly. Apart from the standard sizes, there are also many more.
Step 3: Preparing the installation area
First of all, clear out all dirt, debris, and sticky layers from the showering platform. Brooms will be helpful in getting rid of loose trash. Then clean stubborn adhesive by appropriate scrapping kits. Some shower bases also need a few additional treatments to seal them to the tiles.
So check out the instruction manual given with the shower pan. If you find instructions for extra tasks, do them correctly. A damp platform contains moisture to breed mold. Moreover, it may lead to defective seals of the caulk. Therefore, avoid placing the shower base until the water coating dries out properly from the surface.
Step 4: Checking whether the pan fits well or not
After cleaning the area, you have to put the shower pan on it to make sure it fits perfectly. It won’t require any other tools this time. Space should not be too light or too loose for the base. Too tight fit may result in buckling and breaking the shower pan.
On the other hand, the installer will face water leaking or movement issues if it is too loose. Then you have to fulfill some stabilization requirements. A little movement will not be a problem at all. As soon as everything fits properly, proceed to the next phase.
Step 5: Placing, leveling and attaching
At this moment, you have to follow the written instructions on installing pans using several gears. The process may require a small coupling tool, coupling extensions, or other kits as well. Later, level it with a carpenter’s level and shims.
Adjust the wood shim as how you want, but don’t lift it too high. Otherwise, the pan will be floating right above the platform. After completing the leveling procedure, mark the upper lip area where studs present. Attach your shower case to the studs following the manufacturer’s guide.
It can be temporarily done by inserting a small using a washer. Secure the screw on the pan’s lip without over-tightening, as it can break the shower base. Take the carpenter’s level one more time to observe whether the fastening misplaces the pan. When it becomes securely mounted, you can jump to the next step.
Step 6: Sealing
Each pan needs silicone bath caulk paint finish to be sealed. It is mandatory to avoid water penetration inside the holes or sides of the pan. Fill such areas with a thin bath caulk coating to achieve a waterproof result.
Besides, don’t forget to do the same around the studs, screws, and nails. Avoid overusing because the additional caulk may ruin the lip of your shower base. Wipe up all accidental drops with a wet towel or paper. If they dry before you notice, your nails or any sharp objects can help you to clean them.
Finally, wait till the caulk layer dries completely. Then check all seals and reseal them if needed. Then the shower pan will become ready to use.
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