Installing A Shower Pan In Your Camper Van: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to install shower pan in camper van

Installing a shower pan in a camper van is a challenging but rewarding task. It requires careful planning and a good understanding of plumbing and construction. The first step is to choose an appropriate shower pan, considering factors such as size, material, and cost. The shower pan should be secured firmly to the floor of the van, with proper waterproofing and drainage systems in place. The walls of the shower can be constructed using wood panels, with attention to sealing all gaps and joints to ensure waterproofing. The choice of shower fixtures, such as faucets and showerheads, will depend on personal preferences and budget. It is important to consider the available space in the van and plan the layout accordingly. Some people opt for a wet bath design, combining the shower and toilet area, while others prefer a more traditional shower enclosure. The plumbing and drainage system should be designed to handle greywater and prevent odours from entering the living space. Overall, installing a shower pan in a camper van requires careful planning, creativity, and attention to detail.

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Choosing a suitable shower pan

The first step in installing a shower in your camper van is to choose and install a suitable shower pan. This is a crucial step as the shower pan will form the base of your shower and needs to be sturdy and waterproof. There are various sizes and materials available on the market, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a shower pan for your camper van:

Material

  • Hard PVC Plastic: This is the most common material for shower pans in factory-made RVs. It is impact and stress-resistant and mould-proof.
  • Ceramics: Ceramic shower pans have a classic and elegant style but are heavy and fragile. They are also difficult to find in custom sizes and work with for DIY projects.
  • Acrylic: Acrylic is a lightweight and affordable option. Acrylic plates can be cut to size with a circular saw, making them a good choice for DIY installations.
  • Resin: Resin shower pans are modern, thin, lightweight, durable, and elegant. They can also be cut to size, making them a great option for custom showers. However, they are usually more expensive than other options.
  • Steel: Steel is an unusual and modern option for shower pans. It is easy to clean and hygienic but may not contribute to a "warm" atmosphere in your shower. Custom steel shower pans will likely require a professional craftsman, increasing the cost.

Size and Edges

When choosing a shower pan, consider the size and edges that best suit your camper van layout and design preferences. Standard sizes for shower pans usually start at 70x70 cm, but you can also find smaller sizes like 60x60 cm or even custom sizes. Also, consider whether you want a shower pan with high edges to prevent water leaks or one that is flush with the floor.

Installation

Before installing your shower pan, mark the location of the drain hole and double-check that there are no other services or plumbing running underneath the floorboard that could interfere. You will also need to calculate the slope of the drainage pipes to ensure wastewater flows into the grey water tank.

To install the shower pan, use a suitable adhesive or glue to secure it to the floor of your van. You can also use metal brackets or screws for added stability. Don't forget to waterproof the shower pan and seal all gaps and corners to prevent water leaks.

Examples

  • A 24" x 32" shower pan was chosen for a camper van conversion, providing enough space for showering while not taking up too much room in the van.
  • A 32" long by 24" wide shower pan was used in a Promaster DIY camper van. The frame was slightly longer at 33-1/4" to allow for the walls to fit below the shower pan.
  • A universal hard plastic shower pan with an inside measurement of 59x59 cm and an outside measurement of 62x62 cm was chosen for a DIY camper van shower installation.

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Preparing the hole and the shower pan

The first step in installing a shower pan in your camper van is to choose a suitable shower tray. There are various sizes and materials available, including hard plastic, ceramic, acrylic, resin, and steel. Consider the size and edges of the shower tray that will best suit your van's layout and your personal preferences. Keep in mind that you will need to ensure proper drainage for your shower, so the placement of the shower pan is crucial.

Once you have selected the shower pan, lay it on the floor of your van to determine the exact location for the drain hole. Use painter's tape to mark the edges of the shower pan and a pencil to mark the hole that needs to be cut. Double-check that the location is correct before drilling through the entire floor of your van, including the vinyl, plywood floor, insulation, and sheet metal floor.

At this stage, it is important to ensure that there are no other services or plumbing running underneath the floorboard that could interfere with your installation. Additionally, calculate the slope required for the waste water to flow into the grey water tank after the shower trap. This will help you plan the location of the drain plug and the route of the drain pipes.

After cutting the hole, check if the shower drain you plan to use fits perfectly. Treat the cut sheet metal with rust inhibitor and spray paint from underneath the van for added protection.

Now, it's time to reinforce the empty edges of the shower pan. You can do this by creating a plywood frame with planks that are slightly taller than the height of the shower pan and wide enough to provide solid support. This reinforcement step will make the shower pan more durable and stable.

The next step is to enlarge the hole in the shower pan to fit the drain. Use a suitable hole saw to cut the hole, and then attach the drain to the shower pan using a strong adhesive like Sikaflex 521 glue. Tape the drain in place and let it dry for 24 hours. Ensure that there are no gaps where water could seep in.

Once the glue has dried, secure the drain in place by screwing it to the floor of your van. You can also use right-angle metal brackets to attach the shower pan to the floor for added stability.

These steps will ensure that your shower pan is securely installed and ready for the next phase of your camper van shower installation.

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Attaching the drain to the shower pan

Step 1: Choose a Suitable Shower Pan

First, select an appropriate shower pan that fits your camper van's size and layout. Consider the material, size, and edges of the shower pan to ensure it suits your needs and space constraints. Keep in mind that the shower pan should have high edges to prevent water leaks.

Step 2: Prepare the Hole and the Shower Pan

Place the chosen shower pan on the floor of your camper van to determine the precise location for the drain hole. Use painter's tape to mark the edges of the shower pan, and then use a pencil to mark the hole that needs to be cut. Double-check the location to ensure accuracy.

Step 3: Drill the Hole

Using a drill/driver and a hole saw with a diameter matching your drain size, carefully drill through the entire floor of your camper van, including the vinyl, plywood floor, insulation, and sheet metal floor. Ensure there are no other services or obstructions underneath the floorboard that may interfere with the plumbing.

Step 4: Check Drain Fit

After cutting the hole, verify that the chosen drain fits perfectly through the drilled hole. This step ensures that your drain will align correctly with the shower pan and the floor of your camper van.

Step 5: Treat and Paint the Metal Sheet

Apply a rust inhibitor and spray paint to the cut edges of the metal sheet underneath the van. This step helps protect the metal from corrosion and improves its appearance.

Step 6: Reinforce the Shower Pan Edges (Optional)

If desired, you can reinforce the empty edges of the shower pan by creating a plywood frame. This step adds stability and makes the shower pan more durable, especially if you plan to drill holes from the outside.

Step 7: Enlarge the Hole in the Shower Pan

Using the same hole saw, enlarge the hole in the shower pan to match the size of your drain. Ensure that the drain will fit snugly and securely.

Step 8: Attach the Drain to the Shower Pan

Apply a suitable adhesive, such as Sikaflex 521 glue, to the underside of the drain and firmly attach it to the shower pan. Ensure that the glue covers all surfaces and fills any gaps to prevent water leaks. Let the glue dry for 24 hours or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Step 9: Secure the Shower Pan to the Floor

Apply a generous amount of adhesive to the bottom of the shower pan and insert the drain into the previously drilled hole. Secure the shower pan to the floor using metal brackets or screws, ensuring it is immovable.

Step 10: Connect the Drain Pipe

Underneath the van, connect the drain to a simple hard plastic siphon or P-trap to prevent odours from backing up into the shower. From there, connect the drain pipe, ensuring it has a slight slope to facilitate water flow towards the grey water tank.

Step 11: Finalize the Installation

Once the glue has dried and all connections are secure, your drain is now attached to the shower pan. You can now proceed with the rest of your shower installation, including waterproofing, wall construction, and plumbing connections.

Remember to always consult a professional if you encounter difficulties or have concerns about your plumbing and shower installation.

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Securing the shower pan to the floor

Before installing the shower pan, it is important to ensure that the floor of the camper van is level and sturdy. If there are any uneven areas, use a self-levelling compound to create a smooth surface. Additionally, reinforce the floor with a layer of plywood to provide a solid base for the shower pan.

Now, let's move on to the steps for securing the shower pan:

  • Measure and mark the location of the shower pan on the floor. Use a pencil or a marker to outline the exact position of the pan.
  • Dry fit the shower pan in the marked location to ensure it fits properly. Make any necessary adjustments to the floor or the pan itself for a perfect fit.
  • Apply a generous amount of adhesive or caulk to the underside of the shower pan. Silicone-based adhesives are commonly used for this purpose and provide a strong and flexible bond.
  • Carefully lower the shower pan into position, ensuring that it aligns with the marked outline. Press it firmly onto the floor to create a strong bond.
  • Use weights or clamps to hold the shower pan in place while the adhesive dries. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying time.
  • If desired, you can also screw the shower pan into the floor for added security. Drill pilot holes through the flange or lip of the pan and into the floor. Insert appropriate screws and tighten them securely.
  • Once the adhesive has dried completely, carefully remove any excess adhesive or caulk that may have squeezed out from the edges. Use a damp cloth or a scraper to clean up any residue.
  • Test the stability of the shower pan by applying gentle pressure to different areas. It should feel sturdy and securely attached to the floor.
  • If your shower pan has a drain, ensure that it is properly aligned and connected to the plumbing system. Consult a professional plumber if you need assistance with the plumbing connections.
  • Finally, test the shower pan by pouring a small amount of water onto it and checking for any leaks. If there are no leaks, you have successfully secured the shower pan to the floor of your camper van!

By following these steps, you will have a secure and watertight shower pan installation, providing a solid foundation for your camper van shower.

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Building the shower structure

Framing the Shower Stall

The first step is to frame the shower stall by using a combination of 1x2's along the van's exterior wall and a framed 2x4 wall between the bed and the shower wall. The framing provides support and stability to the shower structure. It is important to ensure that the framing is level and squared with the floor to ensure the shower is straight. This process may require some ingenuity and adjustments to account for any irregularities in the floor or walls.

Mounting the Plywood

Once the framing is complete, mount 1/4" plywood on the interior of the rear and side framing. The plywood provides a solid base for the shower walls and helps to enclose the space. Ensure that the plywood is securely attached to the framing to prevent any movement or instability.

Installing the Shower Pan

Choose a suitable shower pan that fits the dimensions of your shower stall. Hard plastic, acrylic, resin, ceramic, and steel are some common materials for shower pans. Consider the size, shape, and edges of the shower pan to ensure it meets your needs. You may need to make adjustments to the framing or flooring to accommodate the shower pan.

Waterproofing the Shower

To make the shower waterproof, you can use Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) panels. Cut the FRP panels to shape using electric sheet metal shears and adhere them to the plywood walls using FRP glue. This process may require two people and ensure that all seams and corners are properly sealed. You can also use a product like Mapegum WPS, which is a liquid waterproofing membrane that is applied to the wood walls using roller brushes.

Adding the Finishing Touches

Install the shower door, plumbing, and electrical fixtures. Choose a shower door that suits your needs and preferences, such as a retractable or sliding door. Ensure that the plumbing and electrical connections are secure and properly sealed to prevent any leaks. Test the shower to ensure it functions properly and make any necessary adjustments.

Frequently asked questions

Installing a shower in a camper van has its pros and cons. On the one hand, it provides great benefits in terms of livability as it allows you to wash yourself whenever and wherever you want. If you plan long trips, a shower will definitely help you maintain your personal hygiene without depending on outside facilities. On the other hand, installing a shower means sacrificing valuable space in your van, incurring costs, and spending time on planning and installation.

Here are some DIY shower ideas for your camper van:

- Permanent whole shower with a mobile compostable toilet

- Under-floor shower

- Shower in a drawer

- Shower in a bucket (economical option)

- Solar shower (outdoor economical option)

The steps to install a shower pan in a camper van are as follows:

- Choose a suitable shower tray that fits your van's dimensions and meets your preferences for material and size.

- Prepare the hole and the shower tray by marking the edges and drilling a hole through the van floor.

- Reinforce the shower tray by creating a wooden frame and attaching it to the floor.

- Install the drain by gluing it to the shower tray and the van floor.

- Build the shower structure by shaping wood panels or using fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) panels.

- Seal and waterproof the shower by caulking the gaps and applying a waterproofing membrane or FRP panels.

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