How Shower Pan Materials Compare in Leak Prevention
Selecting the right material to cover your shower floor is critical for preventing water damage to your home. The shower pan is the main foundation that helps to direct water toward the drain as you bathe, and you have several material options to choose from. Exploring the main shower pan materials and their special features helps you work with our friendly plumber to make this important decision.
Quick Takeaways for Shower Pan Selection
You can read through this quick guide to get a better overview of the factors that are involved in pan selection.
- Shower base and pan are often used interchangeably.
- Pans are usually pre-formed, but the entire base can be custom-poured.
- Acrylic, fiberglass and tile are a few main materials from which you can choose.
- Quality installation is just as important as the material for leak prevention.
What Are the Risks Associated With Leaky Shower Bases?
A leaky pan in your shower can quickly lead to water damage that threatens your health and property. Considering these risks will help you understand why our plumbers are so cautious about selecting the right pan and using expert installation techniques.
- Mold and mildew
- Wood rot
- Drywall deterioration
- Damage to the flooring
- Leaks through ceiling in multi-level homes
What Are the Main Types of Shower Pan Materials?
These are the most common materials that your plumber might recommend when they offer solutions for pans to install in your shower.
- Acrylic: This durable material is resistant to mold and mildew but can scratch easily.
- Fiberglass: More resistant to scratches and stains, and many people find it warmer than acrylic on their feet.
- Tile: Requires additional waterproofing caution, but offers the benefit of customization by choosing ceramic, tile or stone styles.
- Composite: Known for being easy to clean and excellent at leak prevention
What Other Characteristics Should You Consider?
Homeowners also tend to have specific preferences for features they want in a shower base.
For instance, you might prefer these options to enhance your ability to use the shower:
- Slip-resistance: Most pan materials allow for texturing that helps your feet grip the floor.
- Walk-in or curb-less bases: People with mobility issues may prefer a pan without a lip around the edges, but you’ll need to be cautious about avoiding leaks.
- Pre-fabricated pans: These allow for faster installations, and most have built-in waterproofing features.
- Custom sizing: If your shower has a unique size or shape, then our plumber can help you select a material that allows for customization to make sure water goes down the drain.
How Does Professional Installation Reduce the Chance of Water Leaks?
A pre-fabricated pan could be a DIY project for people who are handy or installing the same type the shower already has. But, professional plumbers have the ability to go beyond the basic DIY method by offering these benefits.
Move existing plumbing features for a complete shower remodel
- Faster installations for greater convenience
- Taking precise measurements and cuts
- Inspecting building materials for existing water damage
- Using additional waterproofing materials as needed
- Checking for leaks
- Offering guarantees and warranties on parts and labor
What Happens During a New Shower Pan Installation?
Although the procedure may vary depending on the type of shower base you choose and your bathroom’s unique layout, this installation procedure gives you an idea of what to expect.
- Remove the old pan and perform an inspection of the subfloor and foundation
- Assess the current drainage and plumbing system
- Level the floor, if necessary
- Set the pan in place and make sure it is properly leveled to direct water to the drain
- Test for waterproofing by filling the pan with water
- Complete the process by installing tiles, fixtures, wall boards and applying caulk
How Do I Care for My New Shower Base and Pan?
Caring for most pan materials involves using a gentle cleanser to remove soap residue and other types of debris. If you choose a tiled pan, then you’ll also want to carefully scrub the grout. Avoiding harsh chemicals is the best way to keep all pan materials for the shower in good condition.
FAQs
What is the difference between a shower base and a pan?
People tend to use these terms interchangeably. Both describe the floor of the shower that contains the drain.
How long does it take to install the pan and other shower components?
Pre-fabricated pans usually take a few hours, provided that the subfloor and other shower parts are in good condition. Custom-poured pans could take longer to install, and our plumber will give you their best estimated timeline.
Is installing the pan a DIY project?
Technically, a pre-fabricated pan can be a DIY project, but you’ll enjoy better results for water leak prevention with a professional installation.
What is the absolute best material for a shower floor?
There is no true best material for a shower pan, but our plumbers can help you find the one that is right for you.
How do you know what size to get?
Plumbers measure the shower space carefully, while taking into consideration any doors or other parts that impact the size of the floor.
Get Professional Advice On Shower Pan Selection and Installation From Our Pompano Beach Plumbers
Time is always of the essence for managing water leaks and making sure that you have a way to bathe without worrying about property damage. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, we serve people in Pompano Beach and the surrounding communities, and we assure you that if there’s any delay, it’s you we pay.
We love guiding our customers to the perfect shower components, and we have access to the best materials and brands for creating the bathroom of your dreams. To get started with your in-home shower installation consultation, give us a call today. We’ll work quickly and efficiently to design a shower with a non-leaky pan that you can trust to last for years.
