
Before you start, make sure you have the right tools and materials for the job. You'll need a tape measure, a level, a drill, and a variety of shower stall components, such as the shower pan, walls, and door.
To begin, clear the area around the shower stall location of any debris or obstructions. This will give you a clear space to work in and ensure a smooth installation process.
Measure the space where the shower stall will go and mark the area with a pencil. This will help you visualize the space and ensure the stall fits properly.
The shower pan is typically the first component to be installed, and it's essential to ensure it's level and secure before moving on to the next step.
Preparation
Before you start installing your shower stall, it's essential to prepare the area. Clear the space of any obstructions, and make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials within reach.
To ensure a smooth installation process, read the instructions of your shower surround kit and shower pan carefully. Many shower surrounds attach directly to studs, so prepare your walls accordingly.
You'll need a few basic tools to get started, including a variable speed drill, screws, tape measure, and level. Don't forget to gather any additional materials specified in your shower kit, such as framing lumber or thread seal tape.
Here's a list of the essential tools and materials you'll need for the job:
- Variable speed drill and screws
- Tape measure
- Level
- Framing lumber (if applicable)
- Thread seal tape
- Pipe wrench
- Water resistant drywall
- Silicone
Removing the Old
Removing the old shower stall requires some care and attention to detail. Carefully cut around the caulking to avoid damaging the surrounding area.
You'll need to remove your old stall or shower pan, which can be a bit of a challenge. Be extra careful around your drain connections to prevent any unnecessary damage to your plumbing.
Taking a sledgehammer to your old shower is not a great idea, so it's best to avoid it altogether.
Preparing the Area
Before you start putting in your shower stall, make sure to prepare the area properly. This includes reading the instructions for your shower surround kit and shower pan to understand how they're installed.
Many shower surrounds attach directly to studs, so prepare your walls accordingly. This will ensure a secure and sturdy installation.
To get started, read the instructions for your shower pan and kit to understand the installation process.
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Verify All Fits
Check that all the essential connections fit with your home's current setup. The showerhead, water connections, and especially the drain are the most vital.
Don't assume everything will fit perfectly, or you may end up with costly repairs. If your drain doesn't line up with your new shower pan, you may require new subflooring.
Moving the drain can be a major undertaking, so it's best to plan ahead. If this happens, we advise contacting a professional plumber to line it up for you.
Prepare Surround Area
To prepare the surround area, you'll want to ensure the walls are ready for the new shower wall. Many shower surrounds attach directly to studs, so make sure to prepare your walls before installation.
Before you start, go over the instructions of your shower surround kit to see how to install it. This will give you a clear understanding of what to expect and what needs to be done.
The pan is installed, and now it's time to focus on the surround area. Make sure to prepare your walls before putting in the new shower wall.
Go over the instructions of your kit to see how to install it, and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for attaching the surround to the studs.
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Installing the Stall
Installing the stall is a crucial step in putting in a shower stall. You'll need to clear and prepare the intended shower site, which may involve removing bathroom tiles or other floor coverings.
The shower pan or prefabricated unit should be installed next, with screws used to secure it in place. If you're working with a prefabricated unit, you may need to build a frame to support it first.
Some shower kits require you to build a structure to support the shower pan or unit, so be sure to check your instructions. You'll also need to install the sides of the shower stall, if applicable, which can be delayed until the project is nearly complete.
To make the installation process easier, consider using an acrylic shower stall, which comes complete with a door and floor and is relatively easy to install. However, if you prefer a tile floor, you'll need to understand how water, tile, and a concrete slab interact.
A pan liner is recommended to be installed over the slab floor to direct any water that leaks through the grout to the drain. You can use CPE plastic sheets for this purpose, which are often preferred over PVC sheets.
Here are the essential parts to check before proceeding with the installation:
- Shower pan or prefabricated unit
- Frame to support the unit (if required)
- Sides of the shower stall (if applicable)
- Pan liner
- CPE plastic sheets (if using)
Remember to carefully read the manufacturer's instructions and follow the steps outlined in your installation kit.
Installing Fixtures
Installing fixtures can be a bit tricky, especially if your shower stall doesn't come with pre-cut holes for your faucets or showerhead.
You'll need to measure carefully to map out the areas to cut, double-checking your work to avoid mistakes that could mess up your entire shower surround.
A good tip is to make the holes a little too big rather than a little too small, so you have some wiggle room to seal any gaps.
Cuts for Fixtures
Carefully measure the areas to cut for your faucets and showerhead to ensure everything lines up correctly.
Measure twice and cut once is a good rule to follow, especially when working with fiberglass or plastic shower kits.
Don't be afraid to double-check your work, as improper measurements could mess up your entire shower surround at this stage in the process.
A blade hole saw is the best tool for cutting through the fiberglass, and it's a good idea to make the holes just a little too big rather than a little too small.
This will give you some wiggle room to work with and prevent you from having to force your pipes through the holes.
Install Door

Installing the door is a crucial step in the process. Carefully read the manufacturer's instructions, as the shower door supplied in the installation kit usually has pre-drilled holes.
To start, fix the frame profiles on the edges of the panels, making sure to conceal the screw heads for a more aesthetic result. The fixing screws are supplemented with plastic protective washers for this purpose.
First, fix the bottom horizontal profile, then add the remaining ones, ensuring they are securely attached to the panels.
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Install Faucet
Installing a faucet can be a straightforward process if you have the right tools and follow some basic guidelines. The type of faucet you're installing will determine the specific requirements, but most faucets will have a similar installation process.
For example, installing a shower faucet requires factory-made holes in the shower stall, which is a common feature in many modern shower stalls.
You'll need to have the necessary plumbing knowledge and tools to complete the installation, but with practice, it can become second nature. The provided shower stall has factory-made holes in order to install the faucet and the handheld shower.
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Finishing Touches
Now that the shower stall is in place, it's time to add the finishing touches. The shower pan should be sealed with a waterproof coating to prevent water from seeping behind the walls.
The drain assembly should be securely attached to the shower pan and the drain pipe should be sloped to ensure proper water flow. A 1/4 inch per foot slope is recommended.
A shower door or enclosure can be installed to complete the look and provide additional safety features. The door should be at least 30 inches wide to allow for easy entry and exit.
To ensure a watertight seal, apply a bead of silicone caulk around the edges of the shower door or enclosure. This will help prevent water from leaking out.
Finally, install any necessary trim or molding to cover any gaps between the shower stall and the surrounding walls.
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Step-by-Step Recap
Putting in a shower stall can be a daunting task, but breaking it down into smaller steps makes it more manageable. To start, you'll need to fit the tray, which involves closing the shut-off valve and leveling the tray horizontally.
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To ensure a leak-free installation, it's essential to follow the correct sequence of steps. Here's a step-by-step recap of the process:
By following these steps, you'll be able to successfully install your shower stall. Remember to take your time and double-check each step to ensure a leak-free and watertight installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to put anything under a shower base?
A waterproof layer is not strictly necessary, but adding a layer like Kerdi or Prova mat can be beneficial for future water management. It's a good idea to consider adding a waterproof layer under the shower base for added protection.
What is the cheapest way to put in a new shower?
The cheapest way to install a new shower is to use a pre-fabricated shower kit with acrylic or fiberglass walls and basic plumbing fixtures. This cost-effective approach can save you money upfront, but may require more DIY effort and planning.
What is the average cost of installing a shower stall?
The average cost of installing a shower stall is around $8,200, but actual costs can range from $390 to $16,931. This wide range is due to various factors including shower type, size, design, and labor costs.
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