How to Add a Shower to Your Basement Bathroom

Adding a shower to your basement bathroom can greatly improve the functionality and appeal of this often underutilized space in your home. With some careful planning and elbow grease, you can transform your basement half-bath into a full bath ready to serve family and guests.

The benefits of upgrading your basement bathroom with a shower are numerous. A shower adds value to your home and makes the space fully usable by all occupants. It also provides convenience when exercising in your home gym or doing messy projects that require clean-up. Kids and teens will appreciate a functional bath when getting ready for school and activities.

Upgrading does involve commitment and labor. But the project is worthwhile if you break it down into manageable steps. In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to successfully add a shower to your basement bathroom.

Assess Your Basement Bathroom

The first step is to take stock of your existing basement bathroom layout, fixtures, plumbing and any constraints. This will determine the shower design options available to you.

Carefully measure the empty floor space as well as the location of existing plumbing, electrical, windows and doors. Note these measurements on a rough sketch of the room. Identify the bathroom wall that will house the shower.

Examine your ceiling height. For a freestanding shower stall you’ll need at least 80 inches. A shower/tub combo or walk-in shower require at least 100 inches of ceiling clearance.

Inspect the current condition of your flooring, walls and lighting. These may need upgrades for proper waterproofing and ambiance. Also take note of any HVAC ducts, pipes or wires running through the space.

Consider if you have enough space to expand the footprint or if you must work within the existing layout. This will determine if you need to downsize or eliminate the vanity to fit the shower.

Finally, examine the existing plumbing. The complexity of rerouting or adding new pipes, drains and water lines will impact your DIY confidence.

Choose Your Shower Type

Once you understand the constraints of your space, it’s time to choose the shower type that best suits your bathroom:

Freestanding Shower Stall

This is the most basic shower option. A freestanding unit is comprised of three prefabricated walls and a shower head. The open side is stationed against an existing wall.

Freestanding showers are affordable and easy to install. However, they do take up space in your bathroom footprint.

This style works best when you want a budget-friendly option and have ample square footage. The open design may also suit a basement gym shower.

Shower/Tub Combo

Another space-saving option is replacing your current tub with a shower/tub combo unit. These can have a tub depth ranging from 10 to 14 inches. Some include a shower curtain rod, while others have doors.

The combo unit allows you to enjoy both a bathtub soak and a shower cleanse. Great for families and resale value. However, the smaller tub can be uncomfortable for adults.

Make sure to measure your existing alcove or footprint to ensure the combo unit will fit.

Walk-in Shower

For a customized shower experience, a walk-in style is the way to go. This features no tub and completely enclosed walls for a water-tight environment.

You can design the footprint, shape, layout and finishes. Add bench seating, niches and multiple shower heads for luxury.

Walk-in showers require careful planning and construction. But they provide the greatest aesthetic appeal and function.

Prepare the Space

Once you’ve determined the shower style, it’s time to prep the space. Careful demolition and reconstruction will create the perfect foundation.

First, turn off the main water supply to the bathroom. Then disconnect and demolish the existing tub, shower or vanity. Use a pry bar and sledgehammer to remove fixtures.

Be sure to wear safety goggles and a mask to protect from debris. Properly dispose of all materials in a dumpster.

Next, examine the existing plumbing lines. Reroute drain pipes as needed to accommodate your new shower location. Extend the hot and cold water supply lines.

Adding a shower will likely require upgrading your water heater and home’s supply lines. Consult a plumber if you are uncomfortable with plumbing alterations.

With the space emptied and plumbing rerouted, now is the ideal time to replace the flooring. A waterproof subway tile or vinyl floor is best to withstand moisture.

Waterproof the walls with cement backerboard. Treat exposed wooden wall studs with a water repellent coating.

Finish by painting the prepared walls and ceiling. The bathroom is now ready for shower installation.

Install Shower Fixtures

The fun part is finally here—it’s time to install your shower! This process will vary based on whether you choose a prefab unit or custom build. Follow the manufacturer’s specific directions closely.

Freestanding Shower Stall

For a freestanding shower, first assemble the three walls according to the instructions. Then carry the unit into place and shim it level.

Be sure there is proper drainage pitch toward the drain. Seal the corners with waterproof caulk.

Next, install the shower pan liner under the stall, with a drain pipe connecting to the home’s plumbing. The liner should extend 6 inches up the walls of the stall.

Apply waterproofing agent to the floor around the stall exterior.

Finally, connect the hot and cold plumbing lines to the shower valve and install the shower head and handles. Turn on the water supply to test. Seal any leaks with more caulk.

Shower/Tub Combo

When installing a combo unit, first prepare the alcove by waterproofing the walls and floor.

Next, lower the combo tub in place and level it. Connect the drain pipe to your home’s plumbing.

Seal the edges with caulk and tile in around the tub edges if desired.

Finally, install the faucet valves, shower head and curtain rod attachment according to the directions.

Walk-in Shower

A custom walk-in shower takes more skill and labor. First construct the framing for the walls to the desired size and layout. Waterproof the walls with cement backerboard.

Install a shower pan with a centered drain pipe to pitch water toward. The pan should cover the entire floor area.

Next, build the wall surfaces. Options include tile, glass block, or waterproof panels. Choose textures and patterns as desired.

Attach the wall material securely to the framing with waterproof adhesive and caulk. Use bullnose tile edging for a built-in look.

Install the shower valve and water supply lines. Then add your choice of shower head, body sprays or jets.

Finish by sealing all material edges with caulk. Let dry fully before water testing.

Finish Touches

You’re nearing the finish line! Wrap up your shower installation with these final touches:

• Caulk all interior corners and seams completely to prevent water escaping. Clear caulk is recommended for a clean look.
• Let caulk dry then test the shower drainage. Turn on the shower and inspect for any drips or leaks. Re-caulk as needed to ensure watertightness.
• Consider applying grout sealant to shower tile or grout joints. This adds water repellency and stain resistance.
• Install supportive grab bars if desired. Choose slip-resistant steel or plastic bars. Secure firmly into wall studs.
• Add a shower shelf,nbins, or hooks for bathing accessories. Stagger at different heights for convenience.
• Hang the shower curtain or enclose with glass doors. A tension curtain rod allows quick install.
• Finally, decorate with fun shower mats, curtains, artwork and plants to complete your spa-like oasis!

Maintain Your New Shower

To keep your basement shower looking fresh and prevent mildew, be sure to:

• Squeegee shower walls and glass after each use to dry moisture.
• Disinfect shower walls and floors weekly with a non-abrasive bathroom cleaner. Avoid bleach products.
• Inspect the caulk seals around the shower for gaps or cracks annually. Re-caulk as needed.
• Check for any leak stains or moisture buildup on walls or ceilings. This may indicate plumbing issues.
• Recaulk tile grout every 1-2 years. Let it fully cure for 48 hours.
• Use a wet/dry vac to clean the shower drain. Pour in baking soda and vinegar for a deeper clean.
• Monitor your water pressure. Improper pressure can affect shower function and lead to leaks.
• Readjust or replace the shower head flow restrictor if pressure becomes too low.

With proper care, your basement shower can provide a pleasant bathing experience for many years. The effort to add this useful feature is well worth it!

FAQs

Is it cheaper to add a shower or convert the tub?

Generally, adding a new shower is cheaper than replacing a tub. Tub conversions require more plumbing changes.

How much does it cost to add a basement shower?

Estimates range from $2,000-$6,000 depending on the shower type and complexity. Custom walk-ins are most expensive.

Can I install a basement shower myself?

With some plumbing and DIY experience, you can likely handle a freestanding or alcove unit install. Walk-ins usually require a pro.

Do I need a permit to add a shower?

Most likely yes. Building codes require permits for any home plumbing changes. Make sure to check your local regulations.

How do I waterproof wall tile in a shower?

Use cement backerboard on walls behind tile. Apply a waterproofing membrane before tiling. Then seal grout and caulk.

Conclusion

Adding a shower to your basement bathroom brings tons of extra convenience to your home. After careful planning to customize the space, you can handle a DIY install in gradual steps. Taking the necessary preparation and finish steps will ensure your new shower provides a relaxing, spa-like retreat for many years.