How to Install New Bathroom Shower Fixtures

Lead Image for How to Install New Bathroom Shower Fixtures
  • 2-8 hours
  • Beginner
  • 75-500
What You'll Need
Drill
Handheld pipe
Voltage detector
Screwdriver
Adjustable wrench
Sealant
Tape measure
Pencil
Masking tape
What You'll Need
Drill
Handheld pipe
Voltage detector
Screwdriver
Adjustable wrench
Sealant
Tape measure
Pencil
Masking tape

Installing new bathroom shower fixtures may not seem like the easiest DIY job, but planning carefully and ensuring that you have all the correct equipment will make the project go smoothly.

Step 1 - Assess the Current Situation

Before determining which bathroom shower fixtures to install, examine the bathroom fixtures and the position in which they are presently fitted. If you are merely replacing a bathroom, replacing like-for-like fixtures will be the most straight-forward way complete the job.

If you are installing a new bathroom or amending the position of the fixtures, use the pipe and voltage detector to ensure that you can place without danger of affecting the existing pipes or wires.

Step 2 - Preparation

Before starting any work you plan to undertake, ensure that both the water and electrical supply to the bathroom are turned off. If appropriate, also drain the water tank.

When working in limited space, it is prudent to remove any unnecessary items so that they do not cause an obstruction. All the equipment and tools that you need should be readily available so that work is not left half done.

Step 3 - Remove Old Fixtures

If you have retained the instruction manual for the original bathroom shower fixtures, refer to it while removing the existing fixtures. It can also be used to determine what tools should be used for each particular job.

Taps and shower heads should be relatively easy to remove with a wrench, enabling you to measure the dimensions to ensure that your new fixtures will fit. It is important that you undertake the removal of fixtures with care to prevent damaging the pipes.

If you need to remove an electric shower unit, do so carefully. Make a note of where the wires and pipes behind it are located to ensure that you fit the new unit correctly.

Step 4 - Fit New Fixtures

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to help you fit the new bathroom shower fixtures and do not be tempted to omit any step that seems insignificant.

If you are installing a fixture that requires drilling tile, such as a rail riser or safety rail, measure several times to ensure that you get the correct dimensions. Make a note of the result. Use the pipe and voltage detector to check that it is safe to drill. In order to stop the drill bit from skidding across the tile, mark the correct position with masking tape and use a slow speed.

Step 5 - Accessories

If you are installing a rail for a shower curtain, use the pipe and voltage detector to ensure there is nothing behind the wall that will be damaged by the drill.

If you are fitting a shower screen, be aware of the points where water can gather when the shower is in use. Apply sealant to ensure that it is watertight.