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A small bathroom? Or just prefer a shower to a bath? If you even nod your head at least at one of these questions, then this article will be of interest to you. Here we will talk about how to install a shower tray in your bathroom.
However, not all at once. It is important to know the installation technique, but first we’ll look at the types of pallets and other important nuances.
Types of pallets. Making the right choice.
Pallets are quite diverse. Color, material, depth, shapes and sizes - all of these parameters vary between models. If you already bought a pallet - excellent. But if you are only at the stage of choice, we will try to help you not make a mistake.
Shape and size differences
In total, 4 main forms of shower trays can be distinguished:
- Square (with face sizes up to 130 cm);
- Rectangular pallets have a minimum size of 70x80 cm;
- Semicircular - 80x80, 90x90;
- Pentagonal - 100x100 cm.
In addition to form, pallets differ in depth. So you can buy plumbing with a depth of only 4.5 cm. The maximum figure is 18 cm.
Dimensions are far from all. You can find out in more detail already at the time of purchase. However, it is worth considering the area of the bathroom. But you should not forget about comfort. If the small size bothers you, and the minimum depth causes discomfort, it is better not to save money and choose a larger pallet.
Differences in Materials
Materials for the manufacture of shower trays are enough. The main ones are: acrylic, ceramics, cast iron, steel and even marble. Which one to choose? The answer to the question lies in another question. Quality or appearance. The fact is that some materials are more durable, others more annually in the design decision. Therefore, you should decide what is more important for you. Or you can combine both qualities. But here there is a problem financially.
The best option is a marble tray. In terms of external parameters and strength, none of the above options can be compared with it. However, this financial plan affects this. The cost of the pallet is high compared to other models, so not everyone can afford it.
If you rely on strength, then do not ignore cast-iron and steel models. The first also have an attractive appearance, which, alas, can not be said about the second option.
Acrylic and ceramic pallets have a beautiful appearance. However, compared with plumbing from other materials - more fragile. Despite this, it is acrylic pallets that are bought most often. Many are not confused by the fact that even under the weight of a person they are already bending and can crack. In fairness, we note that this can be avoided. This is done by pre-installing a special stand for the pallet. I wonder how to make it? Read on.
Acrylic Pallet Mounting Basics
Since we touched on the installation of acrylic pallets, we will not deviate from the course and immediately analyze the installation technique.
First of all, it is worth deciding on the stand for the pallet. It can be installed on the floor, and then adjust the legs. However, it is better to mount a brick stand, which will provide support from below. So the pallet will stand more confidently, and you will not have to wait cautiously for the day when the coating bursts.
Basic installation steps
You already understood about a brick substrate. But we will analyze everything from the very beginning. It is worth noting that the following instructions apply to all pallets, not just acrylic. So let's go.
We have already discussed the parameters of pallets and how to choose them.However, there is another nuance that lies in the drain holes. Usually they are located below, but there are options when the holes are offset sideways. This should also not be forgotten when choosing a pallet.
When the bottom for the shower has been delivered, you can proceed to the main work. The most necessary thing is to do the markup. To do this, put the pallet in the selected place and circle it with a marker. Also do not forget to indicate the place of discharge. Try to avoid marking errors so that there are no further problems.
After that, remove the pan, disconnect the drain hole into parts, the output of which is connected to the main sewer pipe. Do not forget that the location of the hole must match the previously marked markings.
Now again take the pallet and try it in accordance with the marking. If the hole fits perfectly, you can continue and mount the pipes. Remember that their joints must be well sealed. In conclusion, the pallet itself is installed.
Tips
The debate about how to install the pallet - evenly or with a slight slope, will probably never end. In fact, there is not much difference. And if the essence of a perfectionist has played out in you, and you want the pallet to stand perfectly level, stock up on the water level. But if it was deemed necessary to establish a shower bottom with a slight slope, be sure to take care of additional strength.
Remember, we talked about how important it is to install bricks under an acrylic pallet? If not, raise the page a little higher. So, in addition to support, they serve as a soundproof coating for your neighbors. Water that will beat on the pallet will be incredibly audible among residents of the lower apartment. If you do not want them to know the schedule of your trips to the shower, or just want to protect other people's nerve cells, soundproofing is necessary. However, it can be not only bricks. Now you can purchase modern materials that better cope with their task.
Want to visually expand the pallet? Cover it with a brick, on which stick ceramic tiles on top. Why ceramic? It best tolerates high levels of moisture. In addition, it is better to install the tile with a slight slope towards the pallet. So the water will not remain on it.
Do-it-yourself pallet
Is it often said that you have golden hands? Then, maybe you’ll try to make a shower tray with your own hands? What are the advantages of this method?
- You can choose any shape and size;
- At the same time, save something;
- And once again make sure that your hands are really golden.
However, think again before you get down to business. After all, work is really not easy. Do not change your mind? Great, let's get started.
To begin with, we determine and establish the place of the drain, the height of which should be at least 20 cm from the floor. However, we are not in a hurry to fix it. You will definitely do this, but a little later, when you complete all the calculations and make sure that they are correct. After that you can fix the stock. This is obvious, but still recall. The drain should go into the main sewer.
There is still a lot of dusty and hard work that could damage the drain. To prevent this, it should be covered with a metal pipe, which is suitable in diameter and attached with clamps to the floor. Next, you need to create a platform for the future pallet. To do this, lay bricks around the entire perimeter, which should be poured with concrete screed. By the way, it should be about 7 cm below the drain level, as there will be several more layers on top. From what they will be made, you will know very soon.
So, while your screed is drying, do not waste time. Consider what should be the side for the pallet and whether you need a step under the seat. All this can also be made of bricks, and ultimately finished with ceramic tiles.
Finishing work
When the screed and the composition for the bricks have dried, it is possible to carry out the primer with a special waterproofing composition. Now the design is almost ready. It remains only to overlay it with ceramic tiles. Choosing it is in accordance with the general style of the room.
The shower tray is ready. When everything is dry, you can try it in action.
As you can see, you can install a shower tray with your own hands in various ways. And it is not necessary to start with the purchase of this plumbing. However, it will be a purchased or made-up pallet, it is up to you. The main thing is to correctly perform all installation procedures, and then you will enjoy staying in the shower for a long time.
Video: how to install a shower tray
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