I would like to remove the bathtub in our bathroom and build a walk in shower using concrete and not a shower pan base, I have construction experience and would like to do this myself. I would be hiring the tile work out to a contractor as I don't wanna do the finish work myself. The tub is 32 x 60 and had a left side drain, my only concern is I'm not familiar with all the top products out there to do this. Vapor barriers, walk in shower kits, etc. Im sure if you Google it as I have you will see 50 different "systems" on how to do this. But I'm just looking for some thing basic and solid, would this just be using 2x4s for the curb step, cement (floor), vapor barrier, and durock on the walls for the tile.

I'm trying to avoid all the fancy systems for building the cement floor I guess is my point. Any one have instructions or steps for building something solid without using the kits.

 

Welcome to the forums! Adding a shower where a tub once was is a nice addition. Sometimes it can have adverse consequences at sale time, but truly if that is what you want, then it is good.

First, you have to remove the tub, which will require the complete demolition of the walls that surround it. Cut the tub vertically in two places equidistant from the ends using a reciprocating saw and remove the middle piece, then the two end pieces. Next, you will have to reconfigure the drain from a 1 1/2" to a 2" all the way to where it ties into the main plumbing, properly positioning it where you want it to drain.

Building the pan of concrete is more indepth than just pouring it. It is actually a semi dry pack. I have lost the link, but Cizzi will be along with it. I have it in Word format. Using a preformed pan is a good way, as well as the Fiber mat (kerdi) systems.

I'll try to get the link up in case Z doesn't respond.

 

Hey chandler,
Thanks for your response, yeah any guide or instructions would be greatly appreciated. I don't mind using some barrier kits but there is all these curb kits and cement leveling kits that are super high priced, I figured for the curb I'll stack the 2x4''s and use wire mesh for the mortar, etc. I think I got the plan down, but prefer to use actual instructions so I don't mess anything up.

 

Just to be clear, you WILL need a waterproof membrane in order to get your water to flow into a drain and not just seep around it. Building a shower pan with preslope is not as complicated as it sounds and can be a diy install if you have the patience and follow best practices. If not, then as Larry mentioned, go with a preformed acrylic or fiberglass pan.

Here is the link mentioned to a pretty good step by step. It is not perfect, but will get you there. The author is also a funny guy so it will keep you entertained as you read. It is a 5 part series, so grab a coffee and sit back and enjoy the read. We can help you with specifics once you have read the procedures.

How to Create a Shower Floor – Part 1

 

Z, did you lose the Ontario Tile one? I note they do not have a website any more. If I was told how to do it, I could make the one I have from Ontario Tile into a link from Word.

 

Larry, you will have to talk to the tech gods on that one. I can work with the floor elf site for now. There are a few steps to point out such as added blocking between the joists, installing backer board before the second mudbed. Also I have been suggesting preformed curbs as it is so much easier - those would go in before the second mudbed as well.

 

I'll go to computer part of forum and ask there. I've got the whole thing, but in Word.

 

I have it printed out from 10 or so years ago in my misc. tools bucket. Always brings a smile when I open that chest. I used to carry it around for reference (just in case).