How to Install a Basement Bathroom: Plumbing, Framing, and Draining Tips by: DIYBath
If you are thinking of remodeling the basement at home, a new bathroom there is a great idea. Finishing or upgrading the basement into a living space continues to be a popular alternative now. A basement shower will be a very handy and useful amenity especially if your family members are increasing. You will be able to recoup the costs of your basement in the future since you’re home’s value increases with this added feature. There are some precautions to make since basement bathroom plumbing should be properly and carefully done to prevent water damage.
If you’re doing this yourself, you will need to prepare all the materials beforehand and plan the basement bathroom carefully according to your present specifications while considering possible expansions in the future.
• Find the location of the drain that the contractors installed. This is a pipe that will be sticking out of the floor semi-above the concrete flooring. That is the drainage pipe and it would be easier to construct your shower there.
• Start to break out the area where you plan to install the basement bathroom plumbing system of your shower. The flooring is reinforced by mesh or rebar so you will have to remove that in order to have a space beneath the drain.
• The shower drain should open up to the outside vent stack. If this outside vent is impossible to access, use an auto-vent with rubber flapper for smooth draining of the trapped water.
• Frame the support structure according to the desired size of the bathroom. The water source should be installed in an interior wall so it will be easy to install an access panel in an adjoining room for future expansion.
• If you’re using fiberglass enclosure panels, secure these in place and then check your basement bathroom plumbing for possible leaks.
• Install the faucets and the showerhead. Place the shower curtain or a door for privacy.
