The base of a shower enclosure is an important component and needs to be constructed well to provide the enclosure with a solid, waterproof footing. This will help to ensure the enclosure and bathroom floor below remain in good condition. Whether put in place by the homeowner or a tradesman, care should be taken to ensure that shower pan installation is carried out professionally.
The requirements for how to build a shower pan will typically depend on whether a prefabricated or insitu pan is used. The option that involves less construction work involves using a prefabricated pan, with this basically set in place on top of the existing floor. However, building an insitu pan generally provides more options in terms of the final size and shape of the pan, and man people prefer the style for these reasons. For homeowners that want to do the job of building a shower pan themselves there are plenty of instructions on the internet for both prefab and in-situ construction. Some of the websites that provide step-by-step guides include DIY Network and Ontario Tile.
Shower pan sizes commonly start around 36 inches by 36 inches and this is generally considered the smallest size that someone can stand in and shower comfortably. From there on the sizes of pans can increase and as far as custom pans are concerned the size can basically be whatever is required and appropriate for a bathroom. Manufacturers that produce custom pans typically have the capabilities to produce these in the size required by a customer, and those installing an insitu pan can obviously set the size to whatever dimensions are suitable for the bathroom layout.
A custom shower pan can be a better choice to opt for in a variety of situations. In older homes that do not have plumb walls, a custom base may provide a more accurate fit in comparison to a standard off-the-shelf base. A custom base also makes a good choice for those trying to create a more individual look in their bathroom, as manufacturers of custom pans can typically produce these in a variety of shapes and sizes. This means the pan can be better fitted to the size and layout of a bathroom and this usually results in a more attractive finish. Custom bases come in a variety of materials, and this can range from basic fiberglass and acrylic to more luxurious options such as marble. This typically provides more options to find a material that fits in with the style and décor of a bathroom.
The base of a shower is typically made from materials designed to be hard wearing and durable. This should ensure that the base remains in good condition, although wear and tear, a well as damage can cause problems. If a base suffers damage the first option to consider is shower pan repair, as this is typically a more affordable option than full replacement. There are a few kits on the market that are designed to repair cracks and other damage in a shower pan, with the Bondo Shower and Tub Kit being an example of this. The kits essentially fill in and reseal cracks and damage and can typically be used on a variety of the standard shower pan materials such as acrylic and fiberglass.
When a shower base is damaged or worn out beyond repair, options to consider include shower pan replacement. This is obviously more affordable than purchasing a new enclosure, and if the remainder of the enclosure is still in relatively good condition, replacing the pan should ensure a few more years of useful service. Generally replacement provides the option of using the same base material again or choosing an alternative. If using a prefabricated pan it needs to be fitted accurately to the size of the enclosure to ensure that a watertight base is achieved. This will help to avoid any problems with leaks.
It is important that shower pan installation is carried out correctly to provide an enclosure with a waterproof base, as well as a solid footing for those using the shower. When a shower pan is installed professionally it should help provide the enclosure with many years of useful service.
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