Building A Shower Pan On A Concrete Floor: My Personal Experience

A few years ago, I decided to renovate my bathroom. One of the things I wanted to do was to replace the old bathtub with a modern shower. However, there was a problem – the bathroom had a concrete floor. I knew that building a shower pan on a concrete floor would require some extra work, but I was determined to do it.

What is a Shower Pan?

A shower pan is the waterproof base that sits under the tiles in a shower. It’s designed to catch the water that runs off your body and direct it towards the drain. Shower pans can be made from various materials, but the most common ones are fiberglass and concrete.

Why Build a Shower Pan on a Concrete Floor?

Concrete is a popular flooring material for bathrooms because it’s durable and easy to clean. However, if you want to install a shower in a bathroom with a concrete floor, you’ll need to build a shower pan on top of the concrete. This is because concrete is not waterproof, and water can seep through the pores and cause damage to the subfloor.

Step-by-Step Guide for Building a Shower Pan on a Concrete Floor

Building a shower pan on a concrete floor is a DIY project that requires some skill and patience. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Measure the shower area and mark the location of the drain.
Install the drain assembly and connect it to the plumbing.
Build a frame around the shower area using 2x4s.
Cover the frame with a layer of plastic sheeting to create a waterproof barrier.
Pour a layer of concrete on top of the plastic sheeting, making sure it slopes towards the drain.
Smooth out the concrete with a trowel and let it dry for at least 24 hours.
Apply a layer of waterproofing membrane on top of the concrete.
Cover the membrane with a layer of thinset mortar.
Lay the tiles on top of the mortar, making sure they are level and spaced evenly.
Grout the tiles and seal the edges with silicone caulk.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Building a Shower Pan on a Concrete Floor

Here are some tips and ideas to help you build a shower pan on a concrete floor:

Make sure the concrete is completely dry before you apply the waterproofing membrane.
Use a notched trowel to spread the thinset mortar evenly.
Choose tiles that are slip-resistant and easy to clean.
Install a shower bench or niche for added convenience.
Consider adding a shower curb to prevent water from spilling out of the shower area.
Install a linear drain for a modern and sleek look.
Use a pre-fabricated shower pan if you’re not comfortable building one from scratch.
Install a shower door or curtain to keep water from splashing out of the shower area.
Choose a grout color that complements the tiles.
Consult a professional if you’re not sure about any of the steps.

Pros and Cons of Building a Shower Pan on a Concrete Floor

Here are some pros and cons to consider before you decide to build a shower pan on a concrete floor:

Pros

Durable and long-lasting
Easy to clean
Can be customized to fit any size or shape

Cons

Requires some skill and patience
Can be time-consuming
May require some extra tools and materials

My Personal Review and Suggestion on Building a Shower Pan on a Concrete Floor

Building a shower pan on a concrete floor was a challenging but rewarding experience for me. It took me a few weekends to complete, but the end result was worth it. The shower looks modern and sleek, and the tiles are easy to clean. My only suggestion would be to hire a professional if you’re not comfortable with any of the steps. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Can I build a shower pan on a concrete floor without a frame?

A: It’s possible, but not recommended. A frame provides support for the shower pan and helps to create the slope towards the drain.

Q: How long does it take for the concrete to dry?

A: It depends on the type of concrete and the weather conditions. Generally, it takes at least 24 hours for the concrete to dry completely.

Q: Do I need to seal the tiles?

A: Yes, it’s important to seal the tiles to prevent water from seeping through the grout lines and causing damage to the subfloor.