replacing a shower stall any tips?

Answer 1

yea be carful ther is your tip.

Answer 2

Well, the question is vague. Is the current stall fiberglass or tile...and do you want to replace it with fiberglass or tile...and are you going to do this yourself?

The fiberglass unit is easier, but not nearly as durable as tile. BOTH require multiple skill sets...the most difficult being the actual plumbing.

Home Depot puts out their own DIY book, that's comprehensive, and has excellent detailed pictures. You don't have to actually buy it...just go look at the section on replacing shower stalls both fiberglass and tile, to see what's involved.

Find THE Home Depot PLUMBING associate that is the expert. While quite a few work in the department, it's usually one specific person that is the actual expert. Make him your BEST FRIEND! He can be of invaluable help...treat him right and with respect. He's a busy dude, so be patient and understanding.

Even if you pay someone to do it, it would be a VERY good idea to know what's involved, so you know it's being done right. Also, when "shower valve included", you're getting the cheapest and plainest...usually Delta or Moen's. They're both good brands, but you might want a model with a bit more style than the contractor model. You can't easily change it later, so decide NOW which valve you want. Again, Home Depot.

If you go with fiberglass, make SURE they support the base...fiberglass dry-rots over time, and will crack if not supported. Don't let them tell you otherwise..I AM an expert.

If you go with tile, make sure they use a CONCRETE BOARD backing, and NOT water-resistant drywall. Water-resistant does not equal waterPROOF, and only has a 10-15 year life span...while concrete board NEVER rots and can easily last 50-75 years when done correctly.

This should all be discussed with your contractor PRIOR to getting a price quote, and should be stated literally on the contract. DO NOT PAY IN FULL UP FRONT...though it is customary to put down a percentage. Make sure the contractor states, in writing, a date by which the work must be started...and a date by which it must be completed...and the penalty (to the contractor) for not honoring those dates...such as money back, or reduced overall cost.

Is this something you can do? If you have confidence, trust yourself, have an aptitude and desire to learn new skills, and have patience, then YES...ABSOLUTELY.

Feel free to email me.

Answer 3

Do it yourself? kinda tough for a non-experienced. Major stuff at stake would be leaks if not done right. I would leave it to the experienced people, We charge approximately $1,800 (bay area, CA) for shower stall replacement including materials: pan, surround, and mixing valve. good luck