Building your own shower tray is an economical alternative to buying a prefabricated ceramic one; the procedure is relatively simple and can be completed within a few days.
Steps
Step 1. Make sure the floor can withstand the weight of the shower before starting work, as concrete can be very heavy
It is worth reinforcing the surface under the shower tray with outdoor plywood panels
Step 2. Prepare the drain before pouring concrete or contact a professional plumber to install the model you want to use
- You need a two-piece drain;
- Part of this is placed flush with the floor and is coupled to the drainage pipes below;
- The second element is located above the insulation membrane and the concrete layer.
Step 3. Install the drain using PVC glue or always use PVC joints if the pipes are not plastic
Follow the instructions on the glue package to join the drain to the hose
Step 4. Check local regulations to make sure that the thickness of the insulation meets the requirements and that the depth of the shower tray is sufficient
Step 5. Use planks with a 5x10 cm section to delimit the perimeter of the area where the concrete is to be poured
Step 6. Place the rubber membrane over the wooden frame, making sure that the edges overlap by at least 25 cm
Make sure there is enough material on all sides, so that the sheathing also covers the walls up to the height defined by the building regulations
Step 7. Flatten it on the bottom of the formwork and fix it to the wall by nailing it to the bearing posts at least 20 cm from the floor
- Remember that building regulations may vary by municipality;
- Use big-headed nails to secure the insulation membrane to the wall.
Step 8. Cut out a hole at the drain using a utility knife
By doing so, the water that seeps from the concrete is directed towards the drain.
Step 9. Connect the second part of the drain to the first using the screws and bolts provided in the package
Step 10. Screw the drain approximately 3cm high to make room for the concrete
Step 11. Carefully cover the drain with duct tape to protect it during pouring
Step 12. Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer's directions
Once dry, the mixture of sand and cement guarantees a smooth and homogeneous surface
Step 13. Pour the concrete by spreading it evenly using a trowel
Shape it so that it is 6-7cm thick along the outer edges and 3-4cm near the drain
Step 14. Remove any concrete that has covered the drain
Step 15. Wait for the material to season for 2-3 days before installing the tiles
Remember to seal the tiles and joints with at least two coats of water-repellent product
Advice
- The slope of the shower floor should be at least 2%; for example, if the wall is 1m from the drain, the floor next to the wall should be 2cm higher.
- You can buy the membrane or the insulating coating in the hardware store; it is sold in large rolls and cut to the required size.
