Relocating a shower drain can seem like a daunting task, but with the right planning and tools it can be manageable as a DIY project. The difficulty level depends on factors like the shower type, drain location, access to plumbing, and your skill level. Understanding what’s involved is key to deciding if you should tackle it yourself or hire a pro.
Page Contents
- 1 What’s involved in moving a shower drain
- 2 Key factors determining the difficulty
- 3 Moving the shower drain yourself vs hiring a plumber
- 4 Conclusion
- 5 Tips for DIY Success
- 6 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Shower Completely
- 7 Top Trends in Showers
- 8 Quick Tips for Your Shower Relocation Project
- 9 FAQs About Relocating a Shower Drain
- 9.1 Is it better to move the drain or remodel the whole shower?
- 9.2 Can I install the new drain anywhere?
- 9.3 How long does it take to move a shower drain? The time depends on scope, access, and skill level. But typically 1-3 full days for an experienced DIYer. Hiring a plumber can shorten the time since work is done efficiently. Can I walk on the shower while the mortar sets?
- 9.4 Should I update my shower plumbing during relocation? Absolutely. Since you have access to the plumbing, it’s smart to replace any worn gaskets, valves, supply lines etc. to prevent future leaks or clogs. What mistakes should I avoid?
- 10 Conclusion
What’s involved in moving a shower drain
Here are the main steps to relocating a shower drain:
- Turn off water supply and drain the pipes
- Remove shower pan/surround materials as needed to access the drain
- Disconnect existing drain from plumbing
- Cap off old drain line
- Cut an opening for the new drain location in subfloor
- Install new drain assembly & connect to plumbing
- Test for leaks
- Add gravel base and slope mortar for the shower pan
- Reinstall shower pan liner and tiles
As you can see, moving the actual drain is just one part of the process. The demolition, plumbing alterations, and shower reconstruction steps add time and complexity. Accessing the plumbing can be tricky depending on your home’s layout.
Key factors determining the difficulty
Here are some of the main factors that determine how hard it will be to move your shower drain location:
Shower type
The difficulty varies significantly depending on what type of shower you have:
- Fiberglass/acrylic unit: Relatively easy since the pan is all one piece.
- Tiled shower pan: More labor intensive to remove and replace tiles.
- Mortar bed shower: Most difficult because pan needs to be built from scratch.
Drain location
How easily you can access and alter the plumbing depends on where you want to move the drain:
- Corner to corner: Easiest option with minimal plumbing changes.
- Center to wall: Requires capping the old center drain.
- Opposite wall: Most work since all plumbing must be relocated.
Access to plumbing
Being able to get to the drain pipes from below makes the job much simpler:
- Basement below: Provides easy access for plumbing work.
- Slab foundation: May require cutting concrete to access pipework.
- Upper floor: Plumbing may be very hard to get to.
Skill level
Previous plumbing experience is very helpful. Key skills include:
- Shutting off water and manipulating drain pipes
- Cutting openings for new drain
- Installing a drain assembly
- Creating the mortar base
- Tiling
A first timer can learn but should expect to face a steep learning curve.
Moving the shower drain yourself vs hiring a plumber
Should you DIY it or hire a professional? Here’s an overview of the pros and cons:
| DIY | Hire a Plumber |
|---|---|
|
|
As a general guideline, a DIY approach can work well if:
- You have access to plumbing from below
- The relocation is relatively straightforward
- You have some prior plumbing experience
- You have time flexibility if things go slow
Hiring a plumber is advisable if:
- The new location requires complex plumbing changes
- You need to cut into concrete to access pipes
- You want it done quickly with no headaches
- You have no plumbing experience
Cost to hire a plumber
Hiring a professional plumber to relocate a shower drain typically costs $500 to $2,000. Here are some factors that affect the cost:
- Drain relocation distance/complexity
- Shower demolition and rebuild work needed
- Access to plumbing
- Local labor rates
Get free estimates from plumbers in your area to compare rates. Be sure to verify they are licensed.
Conclusion
Relocating a shower drain is manageable for an ambitious DIYer with some plumbing knowledge, provided the project scope is straightforward. But for tough drain moves or concrete-encased plumbing, hiring a pro plumber is likely the smarter and less stressful route. Assess your specific situation carefully when deciding if it’s a DIY or call-a-pro job.
Tips for DIY Success
Follow these tips to improve your chances of DIY success if you decide to move the shower drain location yourself:
Do your research
Understand the full scope of work and potential issues. Watch online tutorials for tips.
Take safety precautions
Wear protective gear when handling plumbing. Follow safe practices.
Buy the right tools
Invest in quality tools for plumbing, concrete work, tiling, etc. Don’t try to improvise.
Upgrade old plumbing
Replace worn gaskets, bad valves, etc. while you have access during the project.
Start plumbing early
Give yourself lots of time for potential plumbing problems. Don’t rush this part.
Get help if needed
Know your limits. Have a plumber’s number handy in case you need backup.
Be patient
DIY projects often take longer than expected. Schedule extra time to handle surprises.
Inspect thoroughly
Double check for leaks, proper slope, and drainage before finishing surface materials.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Shower Completely
If your shower is quite dated, you may want to consider replacing the entire unit during your remodel. Here are signs it may be time for a full shower replacement:
- Frequent clogging or very slow drainage
- Visible cracks, leaks, or deterioration in pan
- Outdated size or layout
- Damaged tiles that need redoing
- Insufficient water pressure
- Corroded plumbing fixtures
- High energy bills from inefficient unit
- Ugly appearance that’s tough to clean up
Installing a new shower unit may cost more upfront but can be a worthy investment in your home’s functionality and value. The project also allows you to choose from the latest shower trends and innovations.
Top Trends in Showers
If you decide to replace your current shower during the relocation project, keep these popular trends in mind for your new unit:
Spacious dimensions
Large, open showers allow flexibility. Many are ditching tub/shower combos for big stand-up showers.
Curbless entry
Barrier-free, curbless showers look sleek and facilitate aging in place.
Decorative tile
Bold patterns and shapes create visual interest on walls and floors.
Neutral tones
Whites, grays, and soft natural hues keep things relaxing and timeless.
Seamless glass doors
Frameless glass doors enhance modern, uncluttered style.
Smart controls
Digital interfaces and presets provide high-tech convenience.
Spa elements
Features like body sprays, benches, and grab bars add pampering.
Eco-friendly materials
Sustainable and non-toxic options are ideal for health and planet.
Accessibility
Adjustable handheld showerheads, seats, and grab bars enable universal use.
Quick Tips for Your Shower Relocation Project
Keep these quick tips in mind for a smooth shower drain relocation project:
- Turn off main water supply before starting demo work
- Take photos before and during process to reference later
- Wear safety goggles, gloves, knee pads – waterwork gets messy
- Contain dust and debris to simplify cleanup
- Create plumbing access panel if needed for future
- Hire electrician if wiring needs to be rerouted
- Update to high efficiency showerhead to save water
- Seal grout and caulk thoroughly to prevent leaks
- Double check drain slope and test for leaks before finishing
- Have patience – remodeling always takes longer than expected
FAQs About Relocating a Shower Drain
Is it better to move the drain or remodel the whole shower?
For simpler relocations, just moving the drain may suffice. But for complex layout changes or if your shower needs updating anyway, doing a full remodel allows you to install a fresh new shower suited to your space.
Can I install the new drain anywhere?
The new drain location needs to work with your home’s plumbing layout. Typically easiest to relocate along the same wall or just from one corner to another. Moving to the opposite wall is most difficult.
How long does it take to move a shower drain?
The time depends on scope, access, and skill level. But typically 1-3 full days for an experienced DIYer. Hiring a plumber can shorten the time since work is done efficiently.
Can I walk on the shower while the mortar sets?
No, avoid walking on the mortar base for at least 24 hours as it needs time to fully cure and prevent cracks before applying weight.
Should I update my shower plumbing during relocation?
Absolutely. Since you have access to the plumbing, it’s smart to replace any worn gaskets, valves, supply lines etc. to prevent future leaks or clogs.
What mistakes should I avoid?
Hurrying the plumbing work, improper slope for drainage, skimping on leak protection, and inadequate access panel for plumbing are common mistakes to avoid.
Conclusion
Relocating a shower drain is a significant but manageable project for a DIYer, provided the plumbing alterations aren’t too complex. Careful planning and patience is key. For tricky situations, hiring a professional plumber can save you time and headaches. If your shower needs further upgrades, view it as an opportunity to give your bathroom a fresh new look and functionality.
Absolutely. Since you have access to the plumbing, it’s smart to replace any worn gaskets, valves, supply lines etc. to prevent future leaks or clogs.
What mistakes should I avoid?
Hurrying the plumbing work, improper slope for drainage, skimping on leak protection, and inadequate access panel for plumbing are common mistakes to avoid.
Conclusion
Relocating a shower drain is a significant but manageable project for a DIYer, provided the plumbing alterations aren’t too complex. Careful planning and patience is key. For tricky situations, hiring a professional plumber can save you time and headaches. If your shower needs further upgrades, view it as an opportunity to give your bathroom a fresh new look and functionality.