My Experience Making A Shower Pan On Concrete Floor

When I decided to remodel my bathroom, I knew I wanted to upgrade my shower. After doing some research, I decided to make a shower pan on my concrete floor. Here’s how I did it.

What is a Shower Pan on Concrete Floor?

A shower pan on a concrete floor is a waterproof barrier that is placed at the base of a shower. It is made of either a pre-fabricated material or a custom-made mixture of concrete and waterproofing agents. Installing a shower pan on a concrete floor is a great way to ensure that your shower area remains leak-free and that water does not seep into the subfloor.

Step-by-Step Guide for Making A Shower Pan on Concrete Floor

1. First, I removed the old shower pan and any debris from the concrete floor.

2. Next, I measured and marked the area where the new shower pan would be installed.

3. I then prepared the concrete floor by cleaning it thoroughly and ensuring that it was level. I also added a layer of primer to the concrete floor to help the new shower pan adhere better.

4. Once the floor was prepared, I mixed the concrete and waterproofing agents together and applied it to the marked area using a trowel. I ensured that the mixture was level and smooth.

5. I then allowed the mixture to dry and cure for the recommended time.

6. After the shower pan had cured, I applied a waterproof membrane to the surface to ensure that it was completely sealed.

7. Finally, I installed the shower drain and attached the shower walls.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Making A Shower Pan on Concrete Floor

Ensure that the concrete floor is level before installing the shower pan.
Use a primer to help the shower pan adhere better to the concrete floor.
Allow the shower pan to cure for the recommended time before adding the waterproof membrane.
Use a pre-fabricated shower pan if you are not confident in making your own.
Consider using a sloped shower pan to ensure proper drainage.
Apply a second coat of waterproof membrane for added protection.
Use a high-quality waterproofing agent to ensure that the shower pan remains leak-free.
Install the shower drain correctly to avoid any future issues.
Ensure that the shower walls are properly attached to the shower pan to prevent any leaks.
Consider hiring a professional if you are unsure about making a shower pan on a concrete floor.

Pros and Cons of Making A Shower Pan on Concrete Floor

Pros:

Customizable to fit any size or shape of the shower area.
Leak-free and prevents water damage to the subfloor.
Can be cost-effective compared to pre-fabricated shower pans.

Cons:

Requires more time and effort to install compared to pre-fabricated shower pans.
May require additional waterproofing measures to ensure that it is completely sealed.
Not recommended for those without experience in concrete work.

My Personal Review and Suggestion for Making A Shower Pan on Concrete Floor

Overall, making a shower pan on a concrete floor was a challenging but rewarding experience. I was able to customize the size and shape of my shower area, and I felt confident knowing that it was leak-free and would not cause any water damage to my subfloor. However, I would recommend hiring a professional or doing extensive research before attempting this project if you are not experienced in concrete work.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: Do I need to reinforce the shower pan with mesh or rebar?

A: It depends on the size of your shower area. For larger areas, reinforcement may be necessary to prevent cracking.

Q: Can I use a pre-fabricated shower pan instead?

A: Yes, pre-fabricated shower pans are a great option for those who do not want to make their own.

Q: How long does the shower pan need to cure?

A: It depends on the type of concrete and waterproofing agents used. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended time.

Q: Can I install tile directly onto the shower pan?

A: Yes, but you will need to ensure that the shower pan is completely level and smooth before installing the tile.