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7 Factors You Must Consider Before Installing a New Shower

May 02, 2022

If you're thinking of replacing your old shower, you're not alone. According to  Bio Bidet's 2021 Home Upgrade study , 45% of Americans planned to renovate their home at some point in the next year. Of those, the bathroom was the main room being overhauled, with 70% planned a complete bathroom remodeling. Fortunately, you don't have to create a brand-new look just to install a new shower. Whether you're purchasing a new bath to go with your new home, or you're just looking to update your current shower, the right factors must be considered before you install a new one. Here are seven things you must consider before you install a new shower.

Be aware of your current shower configuration


The first thing you must do to successfully install a new shower is be aware of your current shower configuration. This includes measuring the current dimensions of your shower, as well as the layout of your walls. Knowing the layout of your walls is important, as it can help you determine where you will install the shower's plumbing.
It's also important to know the layout of your current plumbing, as some showers have small or inconveniently placed pipes and drains. Installing a new shower without first making sure of the layout of your current plumbing may lead to clogs and other issues.

Know what's needed for a new shower installation


Your new shower's installation must be able to fit within the dimensions of your current shower and the layout of your walls. This includes the size of the shower and any additional fixtures it may have, such as a tub or a showerhead.
If your new shower is larger than your current one, you'll need to move walls or fixtures to make room and that means being aware of not only the plumbing, but also possible electrical wiring and which walls are load-bearing. Finally, you need to make sure the plumbing for your new shower will fit within the space provided.

Budget is a Factor


Budget is a factor when installing a new shower, but it's not the only factor. If you're replacing your current shower with a luxury model, you should expect to spend more on the project. If you're not sure what you can afford, you can check out online budgets that will give you an estimate of how much you can actually spend on your project. You can also check with  shower installers in Kansas City  to get an estimate of the cost of a shower installation.

Get a Proper shower Pitch


A proper shower pitch has a slope of  approximately one-quarter inch per foot , which is the ideal slope of a shower. As improper pitches can lead to water leaking into the walls of your shower, which can be expensive to repair, it's a good idea to hire a professional. Make sure the installer you choose knows and follows industry norms for installing showers.
A proper shower pitch is ideal for two reasons:
  • It allows for optimal drainage of your shower and any fixtures located within it.
  • It allows for a comfortable and safe shower.

If you're not sure what a proper shower pitch is, it's best to ask your contractor or another contractor who installs showers.

Get a Proper shower Valve


After your shower pitch is correct, getting the right shower valve is the next most important step. Typically, the shower valve controls the water temperature and pressure. There are other types of valves, however, that your specific shower installation may call for.
The two most important factors in a shower's functionality are your shower's temperature and pressure. However, there are a few other factors you must consider as well. First, make sure the shower valve you choose is compatible with your home's piping. Some valves are only capable of handling certain flow rates, while others can only handle a certain pressure. Some valves will balance pressure and others are diverter valves, allowing you to have a tub/shower combo and direct the water to either the showerhead or the tub spout.

Know the Plumbing Requirements


Before you install a new shower, you must first understand the plumbing requirements of your new shower. This includes the flow rate of your piping as well as the pressure it can handle. You must also make sure your new shower's piping is compatible with your home's piping.
Some homeowners mistakenly assume their piping is compatible with a larger shower, but this is usually incorrect. There are ways to determine your flow rate, but it's often best to discuss it with a professional. If there are other plumbing issues, or you want a larger shower, a professional can help you determine what you need to do.  Depending on the age of your home and whether your bathroom has been remodeled before, you may need to install new plumbing to eliminate old, outdated pipes. You'll also need to make sure your new shower plumbing is connected to the home's  sanitary drainage system .

Understand your warranty and coverage


Before you install a new shower, you must understand your warranty and coverage. There are certain steps you need to take to make the shower replacement a smooth and easy process. For example, you must:
  • Make sure the walls of your shower are structurally sound.
  • Make sure there are no holes, cracks, or other imperfections in the walls that may lead to leaks.
  • Make sure all pipes and fittings are fully functional and installed properly. If you notice any problems with your piping or other shower components, you need to make sure they are fixed immediately.

If you don't do those things, the warranty may not cover any damage or problems you have with the new shower. However, if you have a professional install the shower, those concerns are eliminated. If an installer does make a mistake, they'll often correct their error at their own expense to ensure that the warranty can be used later if necessary.

Ready to Install Your New Shower?


Installing a new shower can be much more complicated than it looks at first glance. Regardless of your DIY skill level, you may want to hire a professional to ensure your new shower is installed quickly, seamlessly, and correctly. If you need guidance on installing a new shower, please  contact the experts  at Lutz Plumbing .

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