Whether you’re doing a major remodeling or simply looking to make minor changes, there are several steps you can take to ensure your shower renovation goes as smoothly as possible. Make sure to replace the water lines, waterproof the floor and walls, and install grab bars. Looking for the best bathroom renovation in Melbourne?
Build a new shower unit
A new shower can make your bathroom look larger and more spacious. You have the option to either buy a prefabricated or built shower unit. The cost will depend on how you choose to do the work and the material you use.
Adding a new shower to a half bath costs between $900 and $12,500. You might need to move walls or change the plumbing. New shower units usually have a central drain. They also have a waterproof membrane installed.
Without proper training, installing a new shower can be a dangerous project. If you don’t have the experience to do it yourself, you may want to hire a general contractor. He or she will help you decide where to save money and where to spend your money.
Materials can cost anywhere from $20 to $900. This can include the cost of a new showerhead and faucet. You’ll also have to pay for an expert plumber to install the new unit. A builder’s permit is required in some states, which costs $250.
You’ll also have to pay for a plumber to move the drain and pipes
The cost of these tasks will vary, depending on the location of your home. In some metropolitan areas, labor costs will be higher.
A walk-in shower can be installed, which includes a drain cover, showerhead, and faucet handles. You may also have to install a new drain line. A plumber will install the pipes, but they will also need to remove the tub and expose the concrete backing board.
If you plan to add a door, you may want to choose a bifold or sliding door. These doors can be used in a corner shower. This door measures only 36 inches in width. You should measure the depth and height of the shower area twice before you shop for a door.
Replace the hot- and cold-water lines
There are some plumbing tips that you should know, no matter if you are replacing or renovating your shower. Before you begin, make sure you have the proper pipe materials and sizes.
A thermostatic shower valve makes life easier by preventing water from being too hot or too cold. This is especially important for homes with small children or elderly residents. It eliminates the need to constantly adjust the temperature of the water in the shower.
Another plumbing trick is to use a descaling product to clean off lime scale buildup. You have two options: either hire a plumber or do it yourself. You will need to have enough cash on hand for the descaling product.
You may need to open a larger opening if you are replacing your shower faucet. The shower trim plate will cover the larger opening if this is the case. The shower trim plate is also referred to as an escutcheon trim plate. It is secured to the wall with screws. It may also be covered with a cap.
If the pipes are in poor condition or corroded, it may be necessary to add new pipes to your shower. The old shower will need to be removed first. Once the old shower is out of the way, the new one can be installed.
Another plumbing tip is to use Teflon tape around the male threads of PEX piping. This will make installation much easier.
Another plumbing tip is to use an automatic pressure balance valve for your shower valve to maintain the right ratio of hot/cold water. If your water pressure is too high, this may be necessary. You may also need to install a booster pump or pressure-reducing valve.
Grab bars can be installed
Getting in and out of the shower can be difficult. Having a grab bar installed can help to make it easier. However, you should be aware of the safety requirements of installing a grab bar.
Finding the right spot is the first step in installing a grabber. You want to be sure that the bar is installed at a location that is easy for you to use. There are many resources that can help you choose where to place your grab bar. You should also ask around to determine what other people have done.
You’ll also need to decide how to mount your grab bar. Most installation instructions will recommend that screws be driven into the wall covering behind the studs. This is the best and most secure method.
If you have a plaster wall or a ceramic tile wall, you may want to use hollow wall anchors
A masonry bit is also a great tool for drilling small holes in ceramic tile. This type of bit has carbide tips. However, you should use a damp sponge to keep the bit cool.
Another tool that you can use to locate the studs is the stud finder. A piece of stiff wire can also be used. Also, mark the exact centers for the studs. This will help you center your bar when attaching it to the wall.
You’ll also need a drill. You’ll want a drill bit that is at least a 3mm diameter. A 1/4 inch drill bit is a good choice.
Attaching a grab bar to the wall studs is necessary in order to make it work. This will ensure that the bar is securely attached.
It is also important to use a level to make sure that the bar is aligned properly. You can also use painters tape to mark the screw holes. This will guarantee a perfect location.
Add a LED showerhead
Adding a LED showerhead to your shower renovation is one of the easiest ways to make your bathroom a more fun, colorful place to spend time. LED showerheads use light emitting diodes, or LEDs, to create a relaxing and calm atmosphere. They also have unique safety features.
LED shower heads are also more affordable than regular shower heads. To generate power, they use a small turbine system. The turbine converts water into energy, which is used to light the LED lights.
There are many options for LED shower heads. They can be handheld, ceiling mount or even square. You can also find ones that are battery powered.
There are also some LED shower heads that offer end-user control. This allows you to turn the lights on or off, or to change the color.
LED shower heads also have a variety of other functions. Some change the color of the lights based on the temperature of the water. Others change the color of the lights to indicate whether the water is scalding or cold. These are great features to add to the enjoyment of your children’s bath time.
When the power goes out, LED shower heads can be used. They can provide a bright shower while using little power. They won’t stop working even if the power goes out. They can even have a light when your bathroom bulb blows.
There are several LED shower head manufacturers to choose from. The best one is the Luminex LED shower head. It is well-priced at under $20, features a multicolored LED illumination, and four shower settings.
Waterproof the floor and walls
Whether you are renovating a shower or adding tiles to a new bathroom, you will need to waterproof the floor and walls. This is done to stop moisture from leaking through grout or tiles. It also improves indoor air quality.
There are many waterproofing options available. The method you choose will depend on the type of bathroom tiles you plan to use, as well as the budget you have available. It is also important to check the local building codes. You may need to use a particular type of waterproofing membrane if you are required by local building codes.
A membrane waterproofing agent can be painted or sprayed. It is a thin layer that blocks water from entering the wall or floor. It can be applied to the studs or laid as a sheet.
The best way to waterproof a shower is to use a waterproofing membrane. A waterproof membrane will prevent water from leaking through grout lines and causing condensation. This membrane is applied to the backer board or substrate, and can be painted or sprayed.
The backer board or substrate is a thin, hard cement or fiberglass board that is placed over porous materials. Backer boards are often used as waterproofing substrates. It is a good idea to use a waterproof backer board, but it is not always necessary.
A self-adhesive waterproofing sheets can also be used. These sheets are easy to install. They can be used on almost any surface, including ceramic, concrete, wood and cement screeds. These waterproofing sheets come with a ten-year warranty on water tightness.
