Many bathroom remodels and new construction homes require installing a shower. When doing so, it is essential to know what size pipe for shower drain you should use.
Generally, the building code requires that all showers have a two-inch drain pipe. This helps prevent overflow of water and the potential damage it can do to floors and subflooring.
Table of Contents
Building Codes Require a Two-Inch Drain Pipe
When installing a shower drain, it’s essential to determine what size pipe you will require. Doing this could prevent issues later such as running out of pipe or having the drain too small for your shower head.
Before selecting the size pipe for your new shower drain, it’s essential to understand what building codes require. In general, two-inch drain pipes are required for showers; however, local regulations may differ so it’s essential to check them before making any decisions.
Pipe size is critical when installing a drain, as smaller pipes won’t move water as quickly or efficiently through the pipe, potentially leading to backups and clogs.
You can make the pipe size more manageable by installing a reducer. This will enable you to use one-and-a-half inch pipe the same way a two-inch pipe would, but be cautious when selecting your reducer as it may lead to leaks or damage the drain.
No matter what the local plumbing codes require, installing drain pipes made of stainless steel is recommended. This material offers greater corrosion resistance than copper or galvanized metal pipes and should always be considered when installing a new pipe.
For instance, when installing a drain pipe for your shower, stainless steel is the best choice as it has more durability and resistance to rust or damage. Plus, it’s easier to clean and maintain, saving both time and money in the long run.
Another benefit of stainless steel drain pipes is they prevent your water from leaking. This is because they resist moisture and chemicals from getting inside the pipe, which could lead to issues like rotting or corrosion.
Furthermore, stainless steel drain pipes are lightweight and come in various shapes and sizes. Furthermore, these pipes tend to be less expensive than other types of pipes, so you could potentially save money on your shower drain installation by opting for this type of pipe.
It Is Possible to Use a One-and-a-Half-Inch Drain Pipe
If you’re building a new home or remodeling your bathroom, the size of pipe for the shower drain depends. Generally speaking, building codes require two-inch drain pipes; however, in certain instances one-and-a-half-inch pipes may work just as well.
A 1 1/2-inch drain pipe is an ideal option for showers in areas with limited water. However, the downside is that if there’s too much water coming out, the base of the shower could overflow. Therefore, always consult a professional plumber before installing a pipe that’s too small for your needs.
Before beginning any plumbing work, it’s essential that you have all of the necessary tools and supplies. This includes materials for your drain. In some cases, you might even need a permit from your local building department.
You’ll need a wye-type fitting to attach the new shower drain to your existing drain. This fitting has a slight curve on one side that makes cutting into vertical pipes easier. If you don’t have access to this type of fitting, sanitary tees can be used instead.
In addition to drainage pipes, your shower also requires a vent pipe. This allows water from the shower to drain into the sewer system and septic tank without clogging up plumbing lines. Furthermore, venting removes waste gases generated from the shower, helping prevent back up of sewer gas into your house.
To secure the drain pipe to the shower base drain opening, it must have a flange attached. This flange can be made out of cast iron or ABS and must be secured before beginning installation.
Once installation is complete, you should be ready to use your shower. Apply a thin coat of plastic pipe primer around the outside of the drain and around its smooth socket on the lower body. Apply an even coat of solvent glue on these same surfaces, then slide the drain pipe into its socket until secure.
What if I Want a Smaller Drain Size?
When planning a bathroom remodel, it’s essential to pay attention to some technical details. One such detail is what size pipe should be used for your shower drain.
Most building codes require a two-inch pipe for shower drains. This prevents your shower from overflowing and flooding your bathroom.
If you need a smaller drain size for your shower, there are several options. First, you could install a point drain.
Point drains funnel water away in a funnel, making them ideal for homes with sloped floors. Furthermore, installing a point drain is more cost-effective than installing linear drains.
Another option is a compression drain. This utilizes a rubber gasket between the drain body and pipe to seal it shut, helping prevent leaks and water damage in case of cracks or other damages.
Finally, you can use a strainer to catch water before it goes down the drain. Doing so helps avoid clogs in both your sink and toilet.
You may opt for a drain with a larger flange, making it easier to set the drain higher and prevent any water infiltration from the pipe. This option works great if your bathroom has low ceilings.
It is essential to remember that even if your drain has a smaller flange, it must still be installed according to plumbing codes.
Installing a trap and pipe that are too small can lead to issues in your plumbing system as a whole, such as clogs or sewage backups in other parts of your home.
Most shower trays and pans come equipped with two-inch pipes, so if you’re uncertain whether this type of drain is ideal for your shower, consult a plumbing expert for guidance.
You can purchase a box of size-adaptable shower drains to eliminate the worry about mismatched pipes in your shower. This way, you’ll know for sure that the drain you install fits perfectly in your home.
What if I Have a Shower and a Bath Combination?
If you are adding a shower to your bathroom, it is essential to select the appropriate drain pipe size. Doing so will guarantee proper water flow and keep your pipes dry.
While two-inch drain pipes are the standard for most showers, you can opt for a smaller size depending on how much water flow is expected from your shower and its size. To be certain of which size pipe size best suits your needs, contact a plumber before making a purchase.
Another option is to use a shower drain assembly kit. These contain the drain pipe and compression gasket that fits around it, offering an economical solution while still getting a watertight seal.
In addition to the drain itself, many shower assemblies come with a strainer or inline filter which prevents clogs and keeps your shower working optimally. They can also help eliminate odors from forming inside pipes while decreasing water waste by filtering out extra particles.
When purchasing a shower drain, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. They will tell you which type of drain should be used and how to install it correctly.
Once you’ve selected a drain, test fit it into the opening to make sure it works with your shower base. Then, trim the pipe so that it comes up approximately 3/4-1 inch below the lip of your drain – this can be accomplished using either a hacksaw or tube cutter.
If your building code only calls for a 1.5-inch drain, an adapter can be used to make it smaller. While this helps keep water flowing without overflowing, it won’t be as effective at preventing clogs as a two-inch drain would be.
Tub-and-shower combos are one of the hottest bath and shower designs on the market. These designs maximize space by allowing both a shower and bathtub to fit into one room, helping save room in small bathrooms while increasing your home’s resale value.