The best material for an outdoor shower floor is one that can withstand outdoor elements and wear and tear. Outdoor showers see a lot of foot and animal traffic, so it is important to choose a material that is durable.
Popular options include natural stone, concrete pavers, travertine, ceramic, and porcelain. Natural stone such as slate, granite, or sandstone is ideal since it’s non-slip, weather-resistant, and looks great.
Concrete pavers provide a similar non-slip, durable surface and can be more cost effective. Travertine is a type of limestone that is extremely durable, temperature-resistant, and comes in a variety of colors and textures.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles have gained popularity in recent years. They come in many designs, colors, and styles, and are more resistant to scratches, chips, and dents than other tiles. Whichever material you choose, be sure to seal it with a stain and slip resistant sealant to make it last longer and resist moisture.
Does outdoor shower require drainage?
Yes, an outdoor shower typically requires drainage. Depending on the materials used, it may require a more complex drainage system than an indoor shower. The complexity is based on the type and size of the shower and whether a shower floor will be used.
Generally, the water either needs to be collected in a container or drain into a surface, like a garden bed or gravel, that can absorb and dissipate the water to prevent potential water damage. For example, a container like a water butt with an overflow pipe could be used to collect the run-off water and allow it to be used for other functions like gardening.
If a shower floor is included, a drain will likely need to be installed beneath the floor and routed to a suitable collection point or connected to an existing drainage system. While some materials, like concrete, require no drainage system, it’s important to consider potential problems with water running off to adjacent areas.
For these reasons, it’s important to consult with a professional before beginning any installation project to ensure it is built in a way that meets safety and environmental regulations and prevents any potential issues.
Are outdoor showers worth it?
Yes, outdoor showers are definitely worth it if you have access to them. They allow you to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature while taking a refreshing shower outdoors. In addition to being a great way to beat the heat on a hot summer day, they are also ideal if you’re looking to save on energy and water costs.
By being outside, you don’t have to worry about running the AC to keep the bathroom cool, and you don’t have to worry about using up a ton of water on your shower. Furthermore, many people report feeling more invigorated and energized after taking a shower outdoors, as the fresh air and sunlight often give them an extra boost for the day.
Finally, the experience of showering outside can be quite therapeutic and can even help reduce stress levels. In short, outdoor showers are definitely worth it if you have the option available to you.
How much does it cost to install an outdoor shower?
The cost of installing an outdoor shower can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, such as the type of shower enclosure chosen, the plumbing needed for the shower, and the size of the project.
An entry level shower enclosure could cost anywhere from $500 to $1,200, while a more elaborate shower enclosure could cost up to $2,000. The cost of plumbing and electrical components needed to operate the shower may add significantly to the total cost.
Depending on the size of the project, professional installation of the outdoor shower could range from $500 to $1,000. Therefore, an outdoor shower could cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000.
What’s the purpose of an outdoor shower?
The purpose of an outdoor shower is multifaceted. It can be used as a convenience to quickly rinse off after swimming in the pool, ocean, or lake. It can also be used to rinse off after a day spent gardening, playing sports, or engaging in any activity that requires getting dirty.
This is especially practical in areas where summer weather is hot and humid, because it allows the user to rinse off in the open air, which can be refreshing and invigorating.
An outdoor shower is also an attractive addition to any outdoor living space. Fitting in with the landscape, it can serve as a centerpiece or provide an aesthetic contrast. Set up in an eye-catching location, an outdoor shower is often an interesting and attractive feature.
Finally, an outdoor shower can be an important tool for conservation. It uses far less water than a traditional indoor shower because of the time saved by avoiding the need to warm up the water indoors.
This can be the perfect way to minimize energy use during the humid months when air conditioning is essential, while still staying clean and refreshed.
How do I drain my outdoor shower for winter?
Draining your outdoor shower for the winter is relatively easy and straightforward. First, you will need to switch off the water supply as you don’t want to accidentally leave it running. Then, you need to empty any existing water from the shower base.
Depending on the size of your shower, you may be able to simply use a sponge or old cloth to soak up any remaining water.
For more stubborn water, you may need to use a siphon pump. This works by having two hoses with one submerged in the water and the other connected to a bucket or other water receptacle. When you pump the handle, it creates a pressure difference which draws the water out of the shower and into the bucket.
Once the water has been removed, disconnect the showerhead, hoses, and any additional pipes (if required). Empty out any remaining water and then pack the parts away for safekeeping over the winter. If you have a permanent outdoor shower set up, then you can disconnect the pump, motor, and timer for safekeeping.
Once all the parts are disconnected and packed away, check for any other pipes that need draining. Remove the water plug, if you have one, and make sure the drains are clear of cupro-nickel. Finally, cover the entire shower with a tarp or waterproof cover to keep it protected over the winter.
Following these steps should ensure your outdoor shower is fully drained and protected against damage caused by snow and ice.
How do you run plumbing for an outdoor shower?
In order to run plumbing for an outdoor shower, you should first consult with a local plumber to make sure that you’re taking the necessary steps with the codes and regulations of your local area in mind.
Once you have the proper permits, there are a few steps to take into consideration.
When plumbing for an outdoor shower, you will need to consider your water source for the shower. If you have a hose source or a frost-protected box that won’t freeze in the winter weather, you can use standard 3/4-inch PVC pipe to connect your hose or frost-protected box to the shower valve.
If you are hoping to connect to a hot water system, connect the pipe to whatever hot water source you are using and run the pipes accordingly.
Included with the pipe, you will need the appropriate fittings and connectors to make the connection. You may also need a shut-off valve in the event of any repairs or maintenance.
The last consideration is the pipe insulation to help with the cold winter climates. If temperatures dip below freezing, both the pipe and the shower valves must be insulated and protected to prevent any cracking as a result of the cold.
Once the pipe and valve are insulated and connected to your water source, you can install the outdoor shower head. Make sure to consider the height of the shower head and ensure that the shower head is mounted firmly to the shower valve.
Finish the project with a shower curtain, base and tile to complete the look of your outdoor shower.
Why are outdoor showers popular in Cape Cod?
Outdoor showers are popular in Cape Cod for a variety of reasons. On a practical level, outdoor showers are a relaxing, convenient way to rinse off after a day at the beach, after gardening, or after any outdoor activity, as they allow users to quickly and easily clean up without having to trek sand and dirt through their home.
On more aesthetic considerations, outdoor showers can add a decorative touch to any backyard or outdoor space, with numerous design options to choose from, and highlight the natural beauty of Cape Cod.
Additionally, outdoor showers are often associated with the classic Cape Cod beach feel, evoking a sense of nostalgia and relaxation, of leisurely days spent at the beach, swimming and lounging in the sand.
All of these factors contribute to the popularity of outdoor showers in Cape Cod, and make them an ideal outdoor addition for any Cape Cod homeowner.
What can I use for an outside shower base?
An outside shower base should be strong and durable to ensure a long lasting result. Some of the most popular choices include concrete, tile, stone, plastic and fiberglass.
Concrete is the most popular option used for outdoor shower bases as it is strong and provides a waterproof surface. It can be mixed with sand and a binding agent to create a strong and sturdy base. Additionally, it can be colored to achieve your desired design aesthetic.
Tile is also a popular material for outdoor shower bases and is available in a wide range of colors and patterns to suit any aesthetic. Additionally, grout can be used to secure the tiles together and create a waterproof barrier.
Stone is another option to consider, although it is more expensive than tile and concrete. It is extremely durable, easy to clean and maintain, and can create an attractive finished look.
Plastic is a budget-friendly option, but it is not as durable as the other materials. However, if you are looking for a low maintenance option and you don’t mind its lightweight nature, then plastic is a good choice.
Fiberglass is the most lightweight and low maintenance option of all the materials, however it is also the most expensive. It is water resistant and can be shaped and molded into any shape you desire.
Ultimately, the best material to use for an outside shower base is the one that works best for your needs and budget. Whether you choose concrete, tile, stone, plastic, or fiberglass, it is important to ensure that it is installed correctly to make sure it provides a safe and long lasting result.
What is the difference between a shower pan and a shower base?
A shower pan and a shower base both refer to the bottom piece of a shower stall. A shower pan is a prefabricated acrylic, plastic or fiberglass unit that is the waterproof base of a shower stall. The shower pan is installed on the floor and typically comes with a drain, which is connected to the plumbing system.
The shower pan also usually comes with a pre-formed lip or curb to contain water in the shower stall. It is usually connected to a wall or enclosure to form a shower stall.
A shower base is a flat platform, usually made of concrete or tile, that is installed underneath the shower pan. It provides a base for the shower pan and provides support for the pan’s structure and weight.
The shower base also serves as a waterproof layer between the shower stall and the floor. While a shower base may provide a more aesthetically pleasing look, it is more costly and time-consuming to install compared to the shower pan.
How do I make a concrete shower pan?
Making a concrete shower pan is a straightforward process but it does require some DIY expertise and the right supplies. Before beginning, it’s important to select a suitable space, measure and mark it out, and ensure the subfloor is both level and structurally sound.
The first step is to build a form for the shower pan. This can be done using exterior-grade plywood that is cut to the desired sizes and shapes of the pan. It’s important to use exterior grade as it can handle moisture better and it’s also important to use screws to secure the pieces together instead of nails so they don’t pop up during the concrete-pouring process.
Next, a layer of plastic sheet should be laid into the form, with the edges overlapping the sides and overlapping the drain hole in the middle. This will stop the concrete mix from blocking the drain hole and also help to create a watertight seal.
The final step is to mix the concrete with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions, pour it into the form, level it off, and let it dry and cure for the specified amount of time. After the curing time is up, the form can be removed and the concrete shower pan should be ready to use.
It’s important to note that building a concrete shower pan should not be handled as a weekend DIY project. If the instructions are not followed properly, there is the potential for water leakage and damage to the surrounding areas.
If unsure about any aspect of the process, it is best to consult a professional.