Installing a linear drain will make your curbless shower functional and elegant. It involves gathering essential items and locating the linear drain system. Then, you need to position the drain base, add the pipe, secure the grate, and test it. Follow our step-by-step guide on linear drain shower system installation to know the steps better.
1. Prepare Your Tools and Materials for the Installment
Before installing your long shower drain, lay down the tools and materials you’ll use. Here are the items you should prepare.
Tools:
- Chalk line
- Level
- Measuring tape
- Screwdriver
- Utility knife
- Notched trowel
- Rubber mallet
- Drill
- Hole saw
- Grout float
- Tile saw
Caulking gun
Materials:
- Linear Drain kit (including drain base, grate, and flanges)
- PVC or ABS drain pipe and cement
- Waterproofing membrane
- Mortar mix
- Screws and washers
- Tile adhesive
- Grout
- Silicone caulk
- Tiles
Choosing the actual materials will need spatial strategy and your aesthetic choice. First, decide which type of linear shower drain you want. Should it be a grate drain or a tile insert drain? Determine the size and length of the drain, as well as the pipe. Read our comprehensive guide on linear shower drains and trench drain systems.
2. Decide Where To Place the Linear Drain Shower System
Many invisible shower drains are at the entrance of the shower area or along the wall. These placements make it easier for the large volume of water to slide through the drains. Plus, it’s neater and more discrete. But that’s not to say that you can’t put the above-floor shower drain at the center. It will still boil down to how you envision your curbless shower.
Once you decide on the location, measure the length and width of the shower floor. Then, mark the centerline using a chalk line. This will serve as a guide for positioning the linear drain.
Still trying to figure out where to put your linear drain? Let our guide on shower drain placement provide you with clarity and help you decide.
3. Remove the Existing Drain
If you are saying goodbye to an old drain, remove it completely from the shower floor. Take off the drain grate and unscrew the flange. Next, detach the drain pipe from the main plumbing line. Use a screwdriver or pliers to do it.
4. Create a Slope Towards the Above-Floor Shower Drain
To ensure proper water drainage, create a slope towards the linear drain. Use a level and a chalk line to mark a gradual slope from the outer edges of the shower floor towards the centerline. The slope should be approximately 1/4 inch per foot. This will be enough to promote fluidity without making it too steep for the users.
5. Clear the Subfloor of Any Debris
A clean subfloor makes it easier to install the new drain system. This is because you’ll have a smooth surface where the grate can fit like a glove. If your shower floor is concrete, ensure that it is free from any debris. If it’s wooden, install a layer of cement backer board to provide a stable and waterproof surface.
6. Position the Linear Shower Drain Base
Place the linear drain base on the shower floor, aligning it with the centerline. Ensure that the drain base is level and centered. Secure the drain base to the floor with the provided screws. Check for any gaps between the base of the drain and the floor. Fill in gaps with silicone caulk.
7. Cut a Hole in the Subfloor and Connect the Pipe
Before cutting the hole, mark the drain pipe location on the subfloor with a pencil. Next, cut the hole for the drain pipe in the subfloor with a hole saw. Make the hole bigger than the drain pipe’s diameter so it’s easy to install.
Cover the inside of the drain pipe and the outside of the drain base with PVC or ABS cement. Put the drain pipe in the hole, making sure it fits tight. If there’s any cement left, wipe it off.
8. Add the Waterproofing Membrane
The waterproofing membrane protects your curbless shower trench drain from leaks, which promote damage. With these at stake, it’s important to do waterproofing with the right material. You can opt for sheets or liquid-applied membranes.
Add a waterproofing membrane to the shower floor and walls. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to do it right. Ensure the membrane overlaps the drain base to create a watertight seal.
9. Place the Grate Onto the Drain Base
A linear drain grate is a functional and stylish addition to any curbless shower. Place the linear drain grate onto the drain base, aligning it with the shower floor. It should sit flush with the surrounding tiles or floor material.
Afterward, secure the grate based on the manufacturer’s instructions. You could use screws, clips, and other fastening materials. Regardless of which, make sure they are firmly attached and do not move or wobble.
10. Test the Linear Drain Shower
Check the new linear drain shower system for proper water drainage before tiling. Do this 24 hours after the installation to ensure the membranes and sealants dry.
Remove the linear drain grate to access the drain base. Turn on the shower or pour water into the drain base. Observe the water flow and check for any leaks or blockages. The water should flow towards the drain without any pooling or backup.
If you notice any issues with water drainage, reposition the drain base or grate as needed. See that the slope of the shower floor directs the water toward the drain. Once the drain performs well, it’s time to proceed with the tiling process.
Conclusion
Installing a linear drain in a curbless shower can be an accomplishment in itself. Even though curbless shower renovations can be daunting, the results are worth it. With our step-by-step guide, you can make a sleek and functional curbless shower that’s easy to use. Nonetheless, if you need help, don’t hesitate to hire a professional to do the installation.
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