Shower replacement is one of the most common plumbing repair jobs that plumbers undertake. It can be done at the time of a plumber’s visit or at a later date. Most plumbing problems will develop around a plumbing drain or trap; the most common of these clogs is a trap in a waste water pipe. Shower replacement is much more involved than installing a new shower, so it is usually a good idea to do this job thoroughly to avoid future problems. Below are some of the most important tips for successfully tackling a shower replacement job.
The first step in tackling a shower replacement is to turn off the power shower pump, if it is connected. The power shower pump is a circuit breaker that stops the water from going to the drains and tubs if there are problems. Without the water seal, leaks will occur and cause damage to the floor and walls of your bathroom. An often overlooked part of a bathroom design is the connection of the power shower drain valve to the main sewer line.
Shower replacement requires careful measurements to ensure a proper fit. A carefully measured perimeter is necessary around the drain to catch any overflow and prevent water damage to fixtures and fittings. This measurement is not only done for a permanent installation of a trap, but also for an installation of a liner. The perimeter should be three times the width of the drain opening for trap and liner installation purposes. This will allow room for a trap with an adequate liner to stay up without excessive pressure.
To ensure the best possible installation of a trap and liner combination, it is important to install both the trap and liner inside the drain opening. This will allow for water flow to the trap and to seal the drain opening, thus preventing excess pressure buildup. Most plumbers recommend using a pre-made liner or an inexpensive liner installation product. Both options work well, but pre-made liners provide more consistent results and are more durable.
Shower replacement is not a job for a DIY-er. If not done correctly, you may end up with clogged drains which will cause water pressure to build behind the existing showerheads. This can result in unsightly water leaks that could ruin the aesthetic appeal of the bathroom. If a newly replaced showerhead becomes clogged, you may find that the new showerhead is not as effective in cleaning the shower, causing you to waste money on unnecessary replacements.
There are many options available when considering a new bathroom design. If your bathroom is older and in need of an update, consider replacing the shower with a modern walk-in shower. You will instantly gain the benefits of a larger shower space, along with a higher showerhead water flow. Walk-in showers are designed to work with the existing showerhead installation and plumbing, offering you an easy and affordable way to replace your existing bathroom. Your high-end bathroom design will look like a brand new space in just a few minutes.