Whether you're renovating your bathroom or simply updating its look, one essential element you'll likely encounter is the shower screen. A shower screen can drastically enhance the visual appeal of your bathroom, adding a sleek, modern touch while keeping the water where it's supposed to be - within the shower area. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of DIY shower screen installation in Melbourne homes.
Firstly, it’s crucial to select a shower screen compatible with your bathroom's measurements and layout. When you’re shopping around, keep in mind the unique architectural features of your Melbourne home.
Measure Twice, Cut Once
Start by measuring your shower area. The
accuracy of these measurements is paramount to a successful shower screen installation. Measure the width at the top and bottom and the height on both sides. Note these down and double-check them. We all know the saying - " measure twice, cut once!"
Remember when finalising the position of your shower screen to allow for other items in your bathroom like windows, toilets, vanities, and of course, the shower head, to ensure easy access, there's no use stepping out of the shower and tripping over the toilet because the door is in the wrong side, or the door smashes into the shower head and taps.
If your bathroom has a sloping roof line, ensure you have clearance to install a shower screen that can accommodate this. We have a few tips on measuring your new shower screen
Your New Shower Screen Has Arrived
Once you’ve selected and measured your shower screen, the next step is to prepare the area for installation. This involves removing old frames or panels, cleaning up any debris, ensuring moisture-proofing is in place, and prepping for the new screen installation. Once your new shower screen has been delivered, you can begin the installation. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to assemble the screen. Melbourne Shower Screens Online resource page can be invaluable here
Depending on the type of shower screen and its features, most screens will require some form of cutting and drilling to fit into place.
For instance, fixed panels will need holes drilled for screws, while framed screens may require hinges and handles also attached through drilling.
Ensure you have the right tools at hand.
These typically include:
Caulking gun
Silicon
Drill
Marking pen or pencil
Gloves
Hammer
Allen/Hex key
Impact driver
Large spirit level
Measuring tape
Safety glasses
Trimming knife
Pop rivet gun
Diamond drill bit for ceramic tiles,
Screwdriver.
Glass lifting gloves if you have them
Next, mark out the profiles where the shower screen will stand.
Use your level to ensure everything is straight, as an uneven installation can cause leaks, shower doors that do not close securely or even screen breakage over time.
Once everything is marked and double-checked, it's time to install the profiles. Drill holes where you have marked and secure the profiles to the wall, making sure they're straight and level.
If your shower screen is attached to the wall with chanelling
Fix the metal channels for the shower screen to the wall
Use a spirit level to mark the positions where the metal channels for the shower screen will be installed. Begin your lines from the floor, ensuring that the screen is properly positioned within the lip of the shower base. Next, position the steel channels along the marked lines and securely fasten them in place. If you're attaching them to tiles or plasterboard, make sure to reinforce the screws with nylon wall plugs for added stability.
After securing the profiles, you can install the shower screen. Depending on the type of shower screen, you might need a helping hand for this step.
Insert the first panel into the wall channel and ensure it is level. Next, mark a vertical line where the panel aligns with the channel. Position the panel securely and, while inside the shower, carefully drill three to four holes through the channel, ensuring they align with the frame of the panel. Create a hole near the top, another close to the bottom, and one or two evenly spaced in the middle. Once completed, firmly secure the panel in position using pop rivets.
Now you are prepared to smoothly slide the second panel into position and seamlessly connect it with the first one. Ensure that the panel is perfectly level within the wall channel and secure it firmly, just as it was previously. Once this is accomplished, proceed to attach the handle by screwing it into the pre-drilled holes on the door.
If Your Shower Screen Is Attached With Brackets
- Fixed panel, frameless and over bath shower screens
To drill the marked holes, use a 6mm ceramic drill bit. Apply even pressure at a low speed while drilling to a depth of 30mm. Insert plastic plugs into each hole and carefully trim any excess using a utility knife. Securely fasten the brackets using the screws, and subsequently, gently loosen the grub screws.
Cut the rubber blocks to a thickness of 6mm and position them in front of each bracket to provide support for the glass. Place the panel onto the floor brackets, smoothly glide it into the wall brackets, and securely fasten the grub screws using an Allen key. TIP glass-lifting gloves are a god send here.
Ensure the hinge panel is aligned, verifying the door opening is 6mm wider than the door panel. Additionally, check that the gaps between the walls and the panels do not exceed 12mm. Finally, secure the screws using an Allen key. TIP Position rubber blocks on top of the brackets to achieve a consistently uniform gap.
Once the screen is in, check again with your level to make sure the installation is straight.
Lastly, seal the edges of the shower screen with silicone to ensure a water-tight fit. It's best to let the silicone dry for at least 24 hours before using the shower.
FAQ's About Shower Screen Installation:
Do I Need Silicone When Installing Shower Screens?
Yes, when it comes to sealing your shower screens, silicone is the recommended choice. Unlike other sealing materials, silicone boasts exceptional durability, ensuring long-lasting protection.
Do you seal inside or outside of shower screen?
You'll hear many conflicting pieces of advice on this; we recommend only sealing a cubicle with silicone on the outside.
When applied on the inside, there is a possibility of water leaking through the profiles, resulting in a damp patch. Similarly, if sealed on both the inside and outside, trapped moisture can stagnate within.
Can you attach a shower screen to tiles?
There's no big problem fitting a shower screen on tiles. However, it is important to exercise caution when drilling holes into tiles, as standard drill bits are not suitable for this purpose.
For drilling into ceramic tiles, use a carbide bit. If the tile is made of glass or porcelain, opt for a diamond-tipped drill.
Can you add a shower screen on top of tiles?
The bath shower screen or shower cubicle should always be installed on top of the tiles, ensuring a perfect fit within the limits of the bath or shower tray.
Installing a shower screen yourself can be a rewarding project, especially if you're a DIY enthusiast. It can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment once you see the final result. However, it requires precision and patience.
Below is a perfect example of a before and after shower installation from one of our great Melbourne shower screen DIY'ers - we think it looks great!
If you're unsure, it's always best to hire a professional to ensure your shower screen installation is perfect.
Remember, with any home improvement project, safety should always be your top priority.
Have all the necessary safety gear, work with careful attention, and don't rush the process.
So why not give it a go? You'll be surprised at how easy it is and you'll save yourself a lot of money in the process. Good luck with your DIY shower screen installation!
Happy Renovating
If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact the team at Melbourne Shower Screens Online.
We're always happy to help.
Melbourne Shower Screens Online