How to Make a Shower Pan

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Ensure your floor can support the weight of a shower before beginning construction because the concrete can be quite heavy.

   It may be a good idea to reinforce the floor below the shower pan with exterior grade plywood.
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   Step 2: Prepare your shower drain prior to pouring the concrete or hire a professional plumber to install the drain you plan to use.

   You will need a two-piece drain.
   
   One piece of the drain will sit flush with the floor and connect to drainage pipes beneath the surface.
   
   The second drain piece will be on top of the membrane liner and poured cement. , Follow the PVC cement manufacturer directions to connect the drain and pipe. ,,, Be sure there's enough material on all sides to extend up the wall to the correct height. , Local building codes requirements may vary.
   
   Use nails with large heads to attach the liner to the wall. ,,,,, A sandy mix concrete will dry to a good, smooth surface. , The concrete should slope from a 2 1/2-inch (0.64 dm) height around the outer edges of the shower pan to 1 1/4 inches (0.32 dm) around the drain. ,, Be sure to seal your tile and grout with at least two coats to help repel the shower water.
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   Step 3: Install the drain using PVC cement or use PVC connectors if your pipes are not PVC.

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   Step 4: Check local building codes to assure you are using liner that meets thickness requirements

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   Step 5: and that the depth of your shower pan is sufficient.

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   Step 6: Use 2x4 wood planks to build the shower floor frame for your concrete pour.

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   Step 7: Spread the rubber membrane over your frame

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   Step 8: with the edges overlapping the form by at least 10 inches (2.54 dm.)

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   Step 9: Flatten the membrane snugly against the bottom of the frame

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    Step 10: and then attach the material to the walls by nailing it at stud points at least 8-inches (2.03 dm) above the floor.

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    Step 11: Cut a hole in the membrane over the drain using a utility knife so any water that leaks through the concrete will be directed down the drain.

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    Step 12: Attach the second part of the drain to the first part using the screws or bolts provided.

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    Step 13: Screw in the drain to a height of about 1 1/4 inches (0.32 dm) to leave room for the concrete.

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    Step 14: Cover the drain thoroughly with duct tape to protect it during the concrete pour.

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    Step 15: Mix your concrete according to the manufacturer's instructions.

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    Step 16: Pour your concrete

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    Step 17: spreading it out smoothly with a trowel.

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    Step 18: Clean all concrete from the drain.

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    Step 19: Allow the concrete to cure for two to three days before tiling.

Detailed Guide

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