How to Install a Shower Drain in a Basement

Installing a shower drain in a basement can seem like a difficult task, before you even begin to do the research on what will be required of you. The truth of the matter is that installing a shower drain can be an extremely straightforward project. On the DIY scale, in terms of difficulty, we would put it somewhere near the middle. If you have some basic DIY plumbing experience, then there is a good chance that you can handle a project such as this. There are several considerations that you will need to keep in mind.

Installing A Shower Drain In A Basement

When it comes to installing plumbing fixtures at what is likely the lowest point of your house, here are a few things virtually all homeowners need to keep in mind:

Gravity: It is gravity that sends water from upstairs drain pipes moving down to your main sewer line. With a basement drainpipe, you have something that exists on the same level as your main sewer line. To that end, you want to make sure your drain pipes are graded properly, which ensures proper flow.

Trench: Remember that if you are going to install a shower drain in the basement, the concrete floor surrounding your main sewer lines must be broken up, and then moved aside. You have to be able to dig a trench.

Concrete Construction: If concrete construction of any kind is absolutely out of the question, remember that there are toilets and pumps that can send wastewater straight up.

The Trap: Remember that you are going to need to have space enough to set up your trap. This is the short, U-shaped pipe that can be found under the sink and shower drains. These are designed to keep hairs, sediment, and a range of valuables from getting so far down the drain, they form inaccessible clogs. At the same time, traps also provide a crucial measure of protection against sewer gases. In order to accommodate this important pipe, you will need to dig a deeper.

Ventilation: It stands to reason that your plumbing system also features vents. Remember that you are going to need to take into account the ventilation needs of any new plumbing system you are planning to install in your basement. This includes plumbing fixtures, basement toilets, sinks, and even if you are planning to only install a new shower.

Planning: Pulling off this task often comes down to lots of careful planning. Consider consulting a plumber, as well.