How to build an RV shower pan?
By
Elaine Knight
In this blog post, we will answer the question: “How to build an RV shower pan?” We will discuss the steps in detail on how to successfully build an RV shower pan. We will talk about the materials that are used in this project and all the important tips that need to be considered while working on the RV shower pan.
How to build an RV shower pan?
To build an RV shower pan, you will need to follow the steps described below.
- Measure the shower floor
- Cut the plywood base
- Cut a hole for the drain
- Build a pitched slope
- Spray form for the voids
- Trim the overhanging shims
- Install the drain
- Fix the PVC shower liner
- Install the plywood tile base
Measure the shower floor
- First, you will need to measure the floor of the shower area. Get the right dimensions with the help of a measuring tape. Note down the length and width of the shower floor. Be sure to have accurate measurements since you are working on a small area.
Cut the plywood base
- Use plywood as a base for the shower floor. You can also use fiberglass, but plywood is always easier to work on and it is a better option to consider.
- Be sure to purchase plywood that is thick and strong. Avoid using thin plywood since it can get damaged later on. Baltic birch plywood is one of the best options to consider as a base for the shower floor.
- Assuming that your shower already has a support structure, the plywood base will act as a subfloor for the shower pan of the drain to rest on.
Cut a hole for the drain
- Next, you must cut a hole in the shower drain. Measure the spot where you plan on fixing the drain and mark it on the plywood base.
- Based on the size of the drain hole, you will need to drill and use a jigsaw to cut out the hole. Do not add extra pressure and make sure that the plywood base does not break.
Build a pitched slope
- Now you will need to build a pitched slope around the hole for the shower drain. Use wood shims and place them on each other to get the right thickness.
- You will need to work around the drain by spiraling out the shims to get a proper slope. This is essential since you will need the water to get flow with ease through the drain. Be sure to get a perfect slope to the drain.
- Use another plywood with the same shower floor measurements as a template. This must have the same dimensions as the subfloor. With the help of a jigsaw get the same shape and set it in place.
- You will need to add wood glue between the layers of the plywood and under the wood.
Spray foam for the voids
- You can also choose to spray foam on the voids, which is the gap between the shims if necessary. While this is not mandatory, you can still do it to keep it secure and intact. Note that you will need to wait for the foam to cure before moving to the next step.
Trim the overhanging shims
- Get rid of the extras by trimming the overhanging shims. Use a jigsaw to trim the shims. A hacksaw will also get the job done. For the extra foam, you can use a razor knife and level it out easily. Work carefully while trimming and try not to cause any damage in this process.
Install the drain
- Fit the drain and make sure that everything is in place when you set the shower pan.
- You will need to add an ABS pipe as per the size of the gap between the u-trap and the bottom of the flange.
- Fix a 1.5-inch to 2-inch reducer/couple to get the transition between the 1.5-inch pipe and the drain. Be sure to double-check everything and make sure it is all in place once again.
- Next, you will need to add Oatey ABS cement to fix everything together. Hold it together for a minute until the cement sets properly.
Fix the PVC shower liner
- The PVC shower liner plays an important role when it comes to building an RV shower pan. You must add a PVC shower liner for waterproofing. Add approximately about three to four inches all around and a little more for the curb or the entrance area of the shower.
- Install the PVC liner directly to the platform that you have built. The best way to fix the PVC shower liner is by applying construction adhesive under the PVC liner. This will secure the PVC liner to the wood under with ease.
Install the plywood tile base
- Next, you need to install the plywood tile base. Be sure to attach the top portion of the drain flange assembly and secure it in place. Add enough construction adhesive or use silicon of 100 percent on top of the liners.
- Follow a zig-zag pattern to make sure that the plywood tile base is fixed properly. Place the plywood tile base on top of the glue immediately. Use something heavy to add pressure to the plywood tile base. Add sufficient weight for the plywood tile base to stick well to the glue.
- Leave the weight on the plywood base for more than two or three hours. Once you are done waiting, the tile base should be firm and secure to the bottom. Look around the tile base and try lifting it to double-check and see if it is secure.
To build an RV shower pan you will need to right materials and tools. It is not a complicated process and it can be done by one person. Avoid using a mortar base since it is not advised for RVs. This can get crumbled into dust while driving down a bumpy road. Seek help from a professional if you are not sure about doing this on your own.
Building an RV shower pan will take you less than a day but be sure to wait for the adhesive to dry properly and stick to the plywood tile. It is also important to make sure that you have your connections in place. The drain must be connected to the RV grey water tank. Ensure to double-check these connections before you go ahead with the process.
Conclusion
In this blog post, we have answered the question: “How to build an RV shower pan?” We have discussed the steps in detail on how to successfully build an RV shower pan. We have talked about the materials that are used in this project and all the important tips that need to be considered while working on the RV shower pan.
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