How to Install a PVC Shower Drain

There are several reasons that could lead you to install a new PVC shower drain. It could be that you are fixing a broken shower drain or remodeling your house. Whichever it is, you are then forced to venture into a new and unfamiliar territory. It’s about time you learned how to install a PVC shower drain. Before commencing any work, you have to ensure that you have all the required tools and materials. Take any necessary measurements that you might need, check the current plumbing and make a note of the required items.

Step 1 – Preparation

Invest in a PVC shower drain that is compatible with the current plumbing. Check the current plumbing’s interior and exterior. It is important that the shower floor be relatively flat. Using a level, you will be able to determine this. If there are any uneven areas, use the PVC cement prep to create an even surface.

Check if there are any cracks or worn out parts that need replacement, especially the pipes. Find out beforehand if the current plumbing has black pipes installed. If this is the case, rubber adapters can be used.

Ensure that all the PVC drain parts are correctly assembled and note how they are assembled in case you have to disassemble them.

Step 2 – Drilling

With extreme caution, drill 2 holes in the shower floor. One hole, approximately 3 inches, should fit the pipe while the other should be about 6 inches.

Make sure that the holes are in place with the current plumbing. After doing this, it is required that you check for any rough edges and smooth them. This is usually done so as to avoid leaks.

Step 3 – Applying Prep

Apply the PVC glue or silicone around the drain and carefully insert the brass drain body. Strategically place the PVC drain body such that the bottom part is inside the hole while at the same time the drain is being supported by the shower floor.

Apply the PVC prep and let it rest for 20 seconds before applying the PVC cement on the current plumbing and the new shower drain. Use PVC glue to attach the drain cap onto the shower floor.

Step 4 – Fastening the Drain Cap

Using screws, fasten the drain cap onto the shower floor. Some drains have retention tabs. If this is the case, press these retention tabs down. The silicone is supposed to prevent any leaks. All the water should pass through the pipe. Any water that leaks could cause damage to the floor.

Extra Tip

Ensure that you maintain caution at all times. PVC glue is acidic, so make sure that it does not come into contact with your skin.

Follow instructions as required to avoid unnecessary accidents and mistakes in regards to the final work. Refer to the plumbing instructions that come with the package for the type of drain you are using before and during installation process. Any mistakes that you make may be irreversible.