It is best to be cautious when it comes to DIY bathroom projects. There are some tasks you can do on your own and do not need professional assistance. A shower screen installation can be done at a weekend. You will need to be familiar with the process and basic skills needed to use tools.
This guide will give you all the information that you need for a DIY shower screen installation.
Here are some things to keep in mind before you start
Bath shower screens can be very heavy and difficult to maintain while level. It is best to hire someone to assist you when needed. It can take as long as 1-2 hours to install a shower screen if it's your first time. It will all depend on your DIY skills as well as the type of shower screen that you choose.
What Kind of Shower Screen are You Installing?
The method of installing a shower screen may vary depending on the type. This guide will focus on installing a shower screen over a bathtub.
It is essential to read the manual before you begin.
These types of shower screens are available on the market.
The most common type of shower screen is the static or fixed bath shower screen. These screens are attached to the wall on either one side covering the tub or the middle. These screens are fixed and cannot be moved.
Hinged Bath Shower Screen: This shower screen opens 180 degrees inwards or outwards. It makes it easier to get in and out of your bath. For extra protection from moisture leakages, you can opt for the optional functionality of protecting your shower bathtub. You have many design options and styles to choose from, including frameless and framed versions.
Foldable Bath Shower Screens - These screens fold down easily when you are ready to take a bath. It is a great choice if you have limited bathroom space. These look great and add to the bathroom design.
For DIY Shower Screen Fitting, Here are the Tools You Will Need
- Electric Power Drill
- Hammer
- Spirit level or bubble?
- Sealant gun or caulking gun
- Screwdrivers
- A Marker or Lead Pencil
- Measurement and masking tape
You should also check the box for screws, seals, screw caps, seals, wall channels and plugs in addition to the tools mentioned above.
Expected time to complete:
30--60 minutes
Step by Step DIY Process to Install A Shower Screen
These are the steps you need to follow to install a shower screen.
Step 1: Remove the old shower screen
- These steps will help you remove an old shower screen if it is still in place.
- Separate the screen and the metal channel from the wall.
- Remove the wall channel screws with a drill.
- Remove sealant from the wall and remove the channel.
Step 2 Preparing for Installation
You should prepare the space and yourself for installation. It is necessary to clean the bathtub's edges and walls of any dirt or residue. Now the surface is ready to be fitted with a new shower screen. To ensure that everything is in perfect condition, you should also open the package of the shower screen. You should place the glass screen away from your work area to avoid damaging it in the installation process.
Step 3: Wall Channel Cutting
The glass shower screen panel is held in place by a wall channel. It is necessary to mount it on the wall first. Before you start, make sure it is cut to your specifications. Find the best place for your glass panel to fit. Take measurements of the panel's length and cut the channel on the wall according to the measurement. You can also position the channel track and mark the location for drilling the screws with a bubble level.
Step-4. Drill Screw Holes for Wall Channel Fitting
Before drilling, it is important to inspect for any nearby pipes or cables. This will ensure that you don't damage anything. This is why it is recommended to use a multipurpose detector. With an electric drill, you can begin drilling screw holes in the marked areas. After it's done, place the wall plugs in the holes.
Step-5. Screw the Wall Channel
Next, you will need to attach the wall channel. Place it according to the holes. Next, tighten the screws using the screwdrivers. To do this, you can also use a power drill. You will need to fix each screw one at a time. As it will support the weight of a shower screen, make sure the wall channel is tight.
Step-6. Fit The Shower Screen
After you have made sure that the channel fits perfectly on the wall, place the glass screen in the channel carefully. Due to the weight of the glass screen, you may need to have someone help you secure it. To ensure that everything works properly, it is important to read the instructions. You can now install a towel rail or handle if your shower screen includes one.
Step 7 Seal the Edges
You will seal the wall's channel edges with a sealant gun or caulking gun as the last step. It should dry for at least a couple of hours before you can use the shower.
Congratulation! You have successfully fitted your bath shower screen
Summarising It
You can save both time and money by installing a shower screen yourself. If you are not familiar with the process, it may be a good idea to hire a plumber to help you. These instructions should be used as a guideline only. Professional advice is recommended.
FAQ
Do You Have the Ability to Install a Shower Screen?
Installing a shower screen in a bathroom is much easier than installing a toilet. It is easy to do yourself. You will still need to have basic skills in order to use the tools and to find the right information and guidance to make it happen.
Do You Have the Ability to Fit a Shower Screen in a Bath?
A shower screen can generally fit into any bathtub. This includes freestanding and semi-separated baths. These are better if they're installed together with the shower bathtubs to prevent water splashes.
What is the average time it takes to install a shower screen?
It depends on the type of shower screen and your level of skill. It will take 30-60 minutes to install a bath screen. Others types of shower screens can take up to three hours to complete.
Is it possible to install a shower screen on a freestanding bath?
You can install a shower with a freestanding tub in the same manner as a bathtub. It is only possible if you install a freestanding bathtub along the wall so that you can attach the shower screen to it. There are many options for shower screens that can be customized to fit any bathtub.
How long does a shower screen last?
Shower screens should not be left in place for an unspecified period of time. It all depends on how well maintained and the quality of the screen. If taken care of properly, it can last around 20 years.