How To Install A Shower Stall In A Mobile Home (Do This!)

Getting the Water Running Again

To get the shower in your mobile home operating again takes some planning, some preparation, and a little work. The key to a successful shower stall installation is working systematically. To help you have a successful project, here are some step-by-step instructions to assist you along the way.

Step 1: The Tear Out

Before any installation can begin, you must prepare the area. This preparation requires the removal of the old shower stall or shower pan. Work carefully, especially around any plumbing connections.

Step 2: Make Any Necessary Repairs

Often, a leaking or damaged shower pan or shower stall will damage your bathroom’s subflooring or walls. Before putting anything back, repair any damage to these areas.

Step 3: Gather Your Materials and Tools

It is always better to have all your materials and tools gathered before you start a project. Having everything on hand can ease frustrations and make the project go faster. If everything is on hand, you will have fewer interruptions and delays. We suggest that you have the following ready to install your new shower stall or shower pan.

Step 4: Read the Instructions

Before you go any further, take a few moments to review the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Make sure you understand the requirements exactly. Follow these instructions exactly to ensure that the warranty on your new shower stall or shower pan remains in effect.

Step 5: Test the Fit

Before you cut anything or attach anything, make sure everything fits and lines up correctly. These connections include the drain, the water connections, and the showerhead. The drain is of particular importance.

If the drain doesn’t line up with the shower pan’s opening, you must move the drain line and replace the subflooring. In most instances, this is a job best left to a professional licensed plumber.

Step 6: Set the Shower Pan

Step 7: Caulk and Seal

When you are satisfied with the installation of the shower pan, caulk, and seal everything. Pay particular attention to any holes or openings in the shower pan along the edges. Caulk or seal the screw heads that attach the shower pan to the stubs and subfloor. Caulk the edge of the shower pan where it meets the subfloor of your mobile home.

Step 8: Prepare the Shower Surround Area

Step 9: Making the Openings for The Fixtures

Installing a plastic or fiberglass shower surround often requires you to make the openings in the surround for the plumbing. These openings usually involve the control valve and the showerhead opening.

Measure carefully. A mistake now could ruin your new shower surround. The installation instructions that came with your surround should offer suggestions or instructions on the best method for making measurements. Double-check your measurements to ensure precise placement.

Step 10: Make the Cuts

Step 11: Test the Fit

Before you begin to install anything or attach the surround, test the fit of all the pieces. Ensure that the holes for the plumbing line up and allow the other pieces of the surround to connect properly. Once you are confident that everything fits, remove the parts of the surround, and set them aside.

Step 12: Attach the Surround Parts

The installation instructions that came from the manufacturer may detail how to assemble the parts of your shower surround. The order is important to ensure a watertight seal along any joints if your surround comes in multiple parts.

Most fiberglass shower surrounds are glued to the studs or wallboard using construction adhesive. Read and follow the directions on the adhesive to ensure a good bond. Pay particular attention to temperature requirements.

Step 13: Install the Fixtures

When you have the surround in place, it is time to install your new shower fixtures. Some people may prefer to have their plumber come in and put the new fixtures in place. However, new fixture designs allow for easy homeowner installation.

As always, follow the directions that come with the fixtures. Be sure to test fit everything before making the final assembly.

Step 14: Caulk and Seal

With everything else done, caulk and seal all the edges of your new tub surround where they meet the old wall finishes. It is important to seal these outside edges to keep any water from invading the space behind the shower surround. Water in these areas can cause considerable damage over time.

Fiberglass or Plastic?

Both styles and materials used to manufacture shower surrounds have advantages and disadvantages. Before deciding on which material to purchase for your mobile home bathroom remodel, consider the following information.

Price

Acrylic shower surrounds are usually more expensive than fiberglass. Depending on your uses, your plans, and your budget, the price can be a huge determining factor in this choice.

Materials

Acrylic shower surrounds are made by vacuum stretching large sheets of heated acrylic in molds. Usually, acrylic surrounds are reinforced with glass fibers and resin after the acrylic sheets get formed.

Fiberglass surrounds are built up using polyester resins and glass fiber mixtures applied to a mold. The color and finish application are put into the mold first, and then the subsequent layers are built up over time.

Durability

Fiberglass and acrylic are easy to clean and maintain. You should never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on an acrylic or fiberglass surface. Typically, acrylic is less prone to stains. Fiberglass may lose some of its luster due to cleaning and maintenance. Fiberglass tends to be more porous than acrylic and may stain as it ages.

Creating that Ideal Space – Bathroom Remodels

Remodeling a bathroom is one of the easiest ways to add value to your mobile home. A new shower can make your bathroom more inviting and more relaxing. Remodeling a shower enclosure is not out of the range of most homeowners.

We hope that this article has provided you with the information and knowledge you need to upgrade the shower in your mobile home. Good luck and have fun with your projects.