The majority of showers can be fitted either over a bath or in a cubicle. The fixings and pipe routes vary in accordance to the shower type, the bathroom layout and the shower location, but the method of installation is principally the same.
Before you start: Decide on the type of shower you want, bearing in mind that the shower head must either be fitted so as to prevent it coming into contact with water in the bath or shower tray, or it must have a check valve (non-return valve) where the hose is attached to the shower control.
1. Mark the required positions of the spray head and shower control
2. Plan the pipe work to the shower control and how the waste water will be routed to the drainage system.
3. If you are fitting an instantaneous electric shower, work out the positions of the cable route and the switch
4. Fit the shower control. Most units are available as either surface-mounted or recessed fittings, and come with fixings and instructions.
When fitting a recessed mixer, if possible mount it on a removable panel flush with the wall sot that you have easy access to the controls.
5. Cut off the water supply and fit the water supply pipes in to the wall and ten re plaster or tile over them. However, they must be protected with a waterproof covering and have service valves fittings
6. Fit the shower head and spray. For a separate cubicle, fit the base tray and waste fittings.
7. Connect the supply pipes to the shower control. An adaptor with a female screw thread (copper to iron) may be needed.
8. Restore the water supply and check the piping for leaks. Tighten any joints as necessary.
9. For an electric showed, turn off the electric supply at consumer unit (fuse box). Make the necessary electrical shower manufacturer’s instructions. Restore the power supply.
10. Fit screening panels and seal the joints between the wall and screening and the tray.
A typical cubicle installation
Screens are usually about 1.8m high. Panel widths can usually be adjusted by 25-50mm to allow for walls that are out of true. Doors may bee hinged, folded (with panels shaped to keep water in), sliding with corner entry, or pivoted to give a wide entry without taking a lot of opening space. Some shower trays have an n adjustable support by which the height can be altered so that the waste pipe and trap can be positioned either above or below the floorboards. Plumber Barnsbury
