Learning how to install a basement bathroom can be tough. It’s a huge puzzle.
And any wrong step can lead to massive problems.
In addition, there are plenty of online tutorials that share costly ‘shortcuts’.
And that’s just wrong.
So today we’re sharing tons of great tips for building a new basement bathroom.
Let’s dive in!
How to Install a Basement Bathroom…What’s First?
Basement bathrooms sometimes require additional plumbing.
Know the local building codes and what you’ll need to comply.
This Old House has a fantastic tutorial that shares plumbing tips for basement bathrooms.
Once the plumbing is done the next step is to assess the bathroom floor.
Leveling Basement Bathroom Floors
Basement bathrooms are notorious for uneven floors.
Use a four-foot level to see if the floor needs to be self-leveled.
I recommend Ardex Liquid Backer Board for this step because it doesn’t require a metal lath.
Always prime the floor with the product that’s made by the company that produces the self-leveler. This way, the bond will be good and not fail.
Allow the leveler to set up per the directions, and install your tub or shower the next day.
Installing Tubs or Showers in Basement Bathrooms
Acrylic tubs often require mortar underneath. Always use mortar if the directions call for it. This prevents acrylic tubs from flexing and breaking.
Also, most shower systems can be installed directly over concrete. For example, Schluter’s prefab and pre-sloped shower trays are terrific.
One word of caution: always determine what type of thin-set should be used for the shower tray that you’re installing.
Waterproofing Basement Shower Walls
Modern materials make waterproofing showers so much easier these days.
Hydro Ban Board is a new option. These boards are light, easy to cut, and very affordable.
Wedi’s backer boards are similar but a bit more expensive. And Schluter’s KERDI-BOARDs are another foam board we like.
Cement board is the cheapest alternative but use either RedGard, Hydro Ban, or Ardex 8+9 to waterproof.
Waterproofing Basement Shower Floors
Basements get moisture from concrete floors. So it’s imperative to waterproof. Hydro Ban, ShowerSeal, RedGard, and DITRA or DITRA-HEAT are all great options.
Liquid waterproofing membranes like Hydro Ban, ShowerSeal, and RedGard are applied using a paint roller. Most of the time it’s necessary to do two coats. This involves waiting and depends on the temperature and humidity.
DITRA or DITRA-HEAT can be set, waterproofed, and tiled over in one day, which makes them a great option if you’re short on time.
What’s Next
Do you need to finish your bathroom remodel before Thanksgiving?
We can help.
Our Platinum Membership has over 355 step-by-step tutorials and Personal Coaching to make your project easier. Tap the button below to learn more
Cheers,
Jeff
