Build a Shower Stall

Many people try to build a shower stall without professional help, and many of these people fail. They end up with leaky and out of level shower stalls. You have three options. Hire a professional contractor to do the job and get it done not only correctly but quick. Purchase a prefabricated shower stall making it a much easier job. This will insure your shower is waterproof and level, not to mention the correct proportions. But if you are set on trying to build a shower stall yourself, then be sure to get accurate plans drawn up. These plans should include precise measurements, ensuring a well built shower stall.

The most popular type of shower stall is one built with a mortar floor and backer-board walls. The floor of the shower will be the most important feature. Ensuring proper drainage of the water and that no leaks will occur takes accuracy and planning. When you decide to build a shower stall make sure that the plans call for a pitch in the floor leaning towards the drain. Don't assume that tile is completely waterproof and will keep water from leaking onto your bathroom floor. A pitch is necessary to direct the water down the drainage system.

You will learn when you decide to build a shower stall that a latex application is recommended as a sealant for your shower floor. This should be allowed to dry with the usual cure time running at about two weeks. Galvanized reinforcing wire should also be placed to reinforce the floor of your shower. Building your own shower stall from scratch will take knowledge and skill. A much easier way is to purchase the pre-built shower stalls available today. Many new homes include these pre-fabricated polystyrene showers. Also offered are parts of the shower pre-built which can help you design a custom shower stall without the hassle of starting from scratch. Whichever way you decide to go, with a good set of plans and the proper tools, building a shower stall is almost fail proof.