Ethan Clarke
Connecting a plastic shower drain requires some basic plumbing knowledge and tools. The process involves cutting the existing drain line, attaching new fittings and pipes, and sealing the connections securely. The type of tools and fittings used will depend on the material of the existing pipe – whether it's plastic, cast iron, or copper. This guide will cover the steps to connect a plastic shower drain, including choosing the right fittings, preparing the pipe, and making secure connections to ensure a successful installation.
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What You'll Learn
Connect to a plumbing vent
When connecting a shower drain to a plumbing vent, it's important to follow local plumbing codes and ensure the vent connects to the shower drain within the specified distance (often 42 inches). Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Cut the Existing Pipe
Locate the existing drain pipe and determine the spot for the new shower drain connection. Cut the drain line—if it's plastic, use a hacksaw; if it's cast iron, use a cast iron snapping tool or a hacksaw/electric saber saw for copper pipe. Cut a section of pipe 1 inch longer than the wye or tee combination.
Step 2: Attach the Fittings
Attach the new fitting and pipe to the existing pipe. If using plastic pipes, cut two 6-inch pieces of pipe with the same diameter as the existing drain pipe. Use a wye-type fitting for horizontal pipes or a sanitary tee-type fitting for vertical pipes. Ensure the side opening is horizontal and directed towards the new pipe leading to the shower drain.
Step 3: Secure the Connections
Tighten the connections using steel bands and a screwdriver or a socket wrench. Slope the new 2-inch plastic drain pipe towards the shower, ensuring a downhill slope of 1/4 inch per linear foot towards the new connection.
Step 4: Install the Vent Pipe
Glue a tee into the shower drain with the outlet pointed upward. Run a 1 1/2-inch diameter vent pipe from the tee to connect to an existing plumbing vent or a mechanical vent.
Step 5: Connect the Drain to the Shower
Connect the new drain to the shower with a P-trap directly below the shower outlet. The P-trap prevents sewer gases from entering the house. If the trap will be accessible, use one with a union for easy disassembly; otherwise, use a trap that glues together solidly.
It's important to note that a vent serves multiple purposes, including facilitating draining, preventing gurgling, maintaining atmospheric pressure, and stopping back pressure in the plumbing system. Always ensure your plumbing setup is properly vented and follows local regulations.
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Cut the drain line
To connect a plastic shower drain, you'll need to cut the drain line to the correct length. Here's a step-by-step guide for cutting the drain line:
Before you begin cutting, ensure you have the necessary tools, including a hacksaw or tubing cutter, measuring tape or ruler, and a marker. It is also important to wear protective gear, such as safety goggles and gloves, to prevent any injuries during the process.
Mark the desired length on the drain line: Using the measuring tape or ruler, determine the required length of the drain line. Make sure to account for any fittings or adjustments needed for the specific shower drain setup. Mark the cutting point clearly with a marker to ensure an accurate cut.
Cut the pipe: Using the hacksaw or tubing cutter, start cutting the pipe at the marked point. Hold the saw or cutter firmly and apply moderate pressure to ensure a smooth and straight cut. Take your time and avoid rushing to achieve a clean cut. If using a hacksaw, ensure the blade is suitable for cutting plastic to prevent any pipe damage or an uneven cut.
Smooth the edges: Once the pipe is cut to length, use fine-grit sandpaper or a utility knife to smooth out any rough edges. Removing burrs and creating a smooth finish is essential to prevent leaks and ensure a proper connection. Take your time with this step to guarantee a seamless finish.
Dry-fit the pipe: Before finalizing the installation, dry-fit the cut drain line to ensure it fits properly. Check if the length and alignment are correct and make any necessary adjustments. This step is crucial to verify the accuracy of your cut and prevent any issues during the final assembly.
Cutting the drain line to the appropriate length is a crucial step in ensuring a proper shower drain connection. Always measure twice and cut once to avoid mistakes, and remember to take your time and work carefully to achieve the best results.
With these steps, you'll be able to cut the drain line accurately and prepare it for the next steps in connecting your plastic shower drain.
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Use a hacksaw for plastic pipes
When connecting a shower drain to an existing drain, you may need to cut the drain line you are attaching to. If you are cutting into a plastic pipe, you can use a hacksaw.
A hacksaw is a good choice if you only need to make a few cuts. Before you start, ensure you are wearing safety goggles or eye protection, as well as a mask or respirator. Pipe fragments can be ejected from the cut area and PVC pipe can emit small particles that irritate the lungs or throat.
To cut the pipe, first, clamp it to a solid surface, such as a table. You can use a vice, C-clamps, or quick-release clamps to secure the pipe. Then, mark the pipe where you want to cut it, lining up the mark with the blade. Place the rear of the hacksaw blade on the cut mark and draw it backward to create a notch in the pipe. Repeat this process until there is a defined notch in the pipe, which will guide your subsequent movements.
Begin cutting with a slow back-and-forth motion, ensuring the cut is straight. As the hacksaw cuts further into the pipe, you can speed up the sawing motion. When you get to the bottom of the pipe, slow down again and complete the cut smoothly and gently at an angle to avoid a 'blowout' of the edge of the pipe.
Finally, if you are using a hand saw like a hacksaw, you may need to deburr the pipe. The back-and-forth motion of the saw can create small fragments at the end of the inside of the pipe, known as burrs. These can be removed with a deburring tool, which can be inserted into the end of the pipe and turned manually.
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Seal with washers
If you are installing a compression-style shower drain, you will need to use washers to create a watertight seal. Compression shower drains are generally easier to install than solvent-glued drains, especially if you don't have access to the area below the shower base.
To install a compression shower drain with washers, follow these steps:
- Trim the drain pipe to the appropriate height using a hacksaw or plastic tubing cutter. The pipe should come up to about 3/4 to 1 inch below the lip of the shower drain, but always follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the top flange of the shower drain opening.
- Place the rubber sealing washer and cardboard friction washer over the drain assembly tailpiece from underneath the shower base.
- Thread the mounting nut onto the tailpiece and tighten it with channel-lock pliers.
- Wipe away any excess caulk that has oozed out.
- Position the shower base so that the drainpipe extends up into the drain assembly.
- Place the soft rubber compression gasket down into the drain opening, fitting it around the drainpipe.
- Thread the compression nut into the drain opening and tighten it with a screwdriver. As you tighten, the rubber gasket will be compressed against the drainpipe, creating a watertight seal.
It is important to note that compression-style shower drains are available in various materials, including PVC, ABS, and brass, and can be used with steel, fiberglass, or acrylic shower bases. Always consult a professional before attempting any DIY plumbing projects to avoid any unforeseen issues.
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Fit a P-trap to prevent sewer gases
Fitting a P-trap to your shower drain is essential to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. A P-trap is a specialised fitting that creates a powerful barrier, stopping sewer gases and odours from escaping up your drains. Its U-shape captures a small amount of water, creating a seal that keeps the nasty smells from entering your home.
To fit a P-trap to your shower drain, you will need to follow these steps:
First, locate the P-trap under the outlet of the shower. Measure and cut the drain line to the required length, ensuring that you use a pipe that is the same diameter or larger than the existing drain pipe. Most shower drains are 2-inch drains, so you should look for a pipe that is 2 inches or larger in diameter.
Next, dry-fit the drain pipe, P-trap, and fittings to ensure correct placement. You can use PVC or ABS fittings for any directional changes. Once you are satisfied with the placement, disassemble the components and solvent weld the P-trap, shower adaptor, and fittings.
Now, join the J-bend to the tailpiece, securing the seal with a washer and tightening it with the included nut. The J-bend is the section of the P-trap that resembles the letter "J" and is connected to the shower drain on one end and the drainage system on the other.
Finally, check that all the connections are tight and secure. Turn on the water and test the shower drain to ensure that it is functioning properly and that there are no leaks.
By following these steps and fitting a P-trap to your shower drain, you can effectively prevent sewer gases from entering your home and keep your living space odour-free.
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Frequently asked questions
The first step is to install a no-caulk barrel flange to the shower base.
Install the shower base into its final location.
Washers are used to seal the drain body to the shower base.
Install the rubber gasket by screwing it into place.
Snap in the drain cover.
