Using the Prova system to create a linear shower drain pan measuring 32″ x 60″ may update an outdated bathroom with style and provide the practicality and water management features necessary for a long-lasting shower.
The Prova system is a user-friendly and adaptable alternative when building tiled showers with integrated drainage and waterproofing solutions. It will keep water out and extend the life of your shower because of its dependable design. Ensure you have all the tools and Prova parts you need before starting.
Material Required
- Prova shower pan
- Prova drain
- Prova waterproofing membrane
- Prova sealant
- Trowels
- Cutting tools.
- Garbage bag
- Gloves
- Adhesive
Step 1: Preparing the Space
Evaluation and Cleaning
Evaluate the space that will house the shower pan first. Clear the area of any dirt or trash, and make sure the floor is flat. Removing old flooring or glue and checking the subfloor for damage is important. Make sure your new shower pan can sit firmly on the floor by fixing any problems.
Materials and Quantities
Get everything you’ll need, including the tools and supplies. Take precise measurements of the 32″ by 60″ area. The dimensions must be exact for the shower pan and linear shower drain to fit properly.
Step 2: Shower Pan Installation using a Pre-Slope
Setting Up
Proceed cautiously while positioning the Prova pre-sloped shower pan in its allotted spot. One of the most important features in ensuring proper drainage is the pre-sloped design, which directs water flow toward the linear shower drain.
Protection of the Pan
After placing the shower pan in its designated spot, fasten it to the floor. Before putting the pan down, level the subfloor with high-quality, thin-set mortar. Push down on the surface to remove air pockets and guarantee perfect adherence.
Step 3: Linear Drain Installation
Location
Choose a spot for the linear shower drain. The standard placement is at the far end of the shower, but you can move it to the middle if that suits your needs and the design of your bathroom.
Drain Installation
Set the drain flange in place, ensuring it’s flush with the pan and firmly fastened to the flooring after cutting a hole in the shower pan to accommodate the drain (see the Prova drain’s instructions for precise dimensions and methods). The Prova package includes sealant that you may use to waterproof the joint between the shower pan and the drain flange.
Step 4: Waterproofing
Waterproofing
To construct a long-lasting and mold-proof shower, waterproofing is an essential step in installing a linear shower drain. To make a continuous waterproof barrier, cut the Prova waterproofing membrane to match the size of your shower and let some surplus flow up the walls.
Joint and Seam Sealing
Seams, joints, and the spot where the membrane meets the drain flange may all be treated with the Prova sealer. Be cautious to seal any openings that may allow water in tightly.
Step 5: Check for Leaks
It is critical to check for leaks in the system before moving on with tile installation. Put water in the shower area and clog the drain. Put a dot on the water level and wait a day. Make sure the water level is still the same or has fallen. If so, you must find the sources of the leaks and fix them before proceeding.
Step 6: Installing the Tiles
Selecting Tiles
Choose tiles for shower floors, considering slip resistance, durability, and aesthetics. Ensure that your selection harmonizes with the general motif of your bathroom.
Getting Ready for the Install
Distribute thin-set mortar evenly over small shower floor areas using a notched trowel. Start placing the tiles from the linear shower drain, working your way to the walls, and ensuring each one is flush and securely fastened.
Putting in Grout
Grout the spaces between the tiles when the mortar has dried, and the tiles have been set. Remove any excess grout using a wet cloth. Once the grout has cured, you may waterproof the shower floor using a sealer.
Step 7: Final Details
Ensure everything is watertight and each tile is firmly in place before proceeding. Put in the last of the fittings, and then relax in your brand-new, ultra-modern shower!
Special Considerations and Tips
Constructing a linear shower drain pan is an undertaking that blends form and function. The Prova system makes the procedure seem easy, but if you pay attention to the little details and use some expert advice, your project will turn out much better than it might have.
Integrity of Structure
Find out how solid your bathroom floor is. Ensure the floor can handle the weight of the shower pan, tiles, and regular usage; this is especially important in older houses. See a structural engineer if you’re unsure.
Current Plumbing System
Think about where the pipes are already installed. If at all feasible, plan your shower to use the preexisting plumbing fixtures; moving pipes is a tedious and expensive process.
Leveling
Before installing the shower pan or linear shower drain, check the subfloor is level. Water might pool and drain inefficiently if the shower is not level.
Unanticipated Problems
You never know when you could run upon antiquated plumbing or strange floor plans in older houses. You can handle these unexpected expenses with ease if you have a backup plan and a budget.
Professional Help
Don’t be shy about getting expert help for general guidance or particular tasks. It is advisable to have professionals handle tasks such as structural inspections or plumbing upgrades.
Setting Time
Remember that sealants, grout, and mortar all have different cure periods. In your haste to shower, you risk damaging your hard work. Make sure everything is in order before you wrap up the job. Verify that the grout is applied properly, that the edges are sealed, and that the tile spacing is uniform.
Applying Sealant Again
Check the sealants from time to time and reapply them if necessary. This activity is essential to keep your shower’s waterproofing in good condition.
Bottom Line
Planning, measuring, and installing a 32″ x 60″ linear shower drain pan with Prova requires great attention to detail. Nevertheless, the end product is an aesthetically pleasing and durable contemporary shower area. Paying close attention to detail and carefully following the instructions will result in an expert installation.
FAQs
What are the steps to installing a linear shower drain pan?
Mark the position of the drain and take measurements. Cut a hole for the drain once you determine its height. Next, set up the wire lath and tar paper. Make the floor slope by connecting and inserting the base drain. Then, put the camping ring and waterproof liner in place. Place the tiles and top-pan mortar in the pan. Put the grate cover on top of the drain and seal it.
When installing a linear shower drain, is a flange necessary?
While a flange is often required for linear shower drains to adhere to waterproofing regulations, some methods may be used without one.
Is it possible to stand on a linear shower drain?
It is simple to clean linear drains. Never again will you have to stand on them, thanks to their installation. Similar to how it would look against a wall of tile. The price is much more than that of standard shower strainers.
