DIY Guide: How to Remove a Shower Drain Like a Pro
Removing a shower drain can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it’s a manageable DIY project. Whether you’re replacing a corroded drain, fixing a leak, or simply cleaning out debris, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. Before we dive in, let’s emphasize the importance of safety. Always turn off the water supply to the shower before starting any plumbing work. You might also want to wear gloves to protect your hands.
## Why Remove a Shower Drain?
Several reasons might prompt you to remove your shower drain:
* **Replacement:** Old shower drains corrode over time, leading to leaks and unsightly rust. Replacing them is often necessary to maintain a functional and aesthetically pleasing bathroom.
* **Leak Repair:** Leaks around the drain area are common. Removing the drain allows you to inspect the connection, replace worn-out seals or gaskets, and properly reseal the drain to prevent further water damage.
* **Clog Removal:** While you can often clear clogs without removing the drain, sometimes stubborn blockages are located deeper within the drain assembly, requiring removal for thorough cleaning.
* **Remodeling:** During bathroom renovations, you might need to remove the drain to accommodate new flooring, shower pans, or drain configurations.
## Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Gathering the necessary tools and materials beforehand will streamline the process and prevent frustrating interruptions. Here’s a comprehensive list:
* **Flathead Screwdriver:** Used for prying, scraping, and sometimes loosening drain parts.
* **Phillips Head Screwdriver:** Needed for removing screws from the drain flange.
* **Shower Drain Removal Tool (Drain Key or Drain Wrench):** This specialized tool is designed to grip and turn the drain body without damaging it. There are various types available, so choose one that fits your drain type. A universal drain wrench is a good option if you’re unsure of the exact drain style.
* **Adjustable Pliers or Channel-Lock Pliers:** Useful for gripping and turning larger drain components.
* **Putty Knife or Scraper:** Used to remove old plumbers putty or sealant.
* **Old Rag or Towel:** For cleaning up spills and protecting the shower surface.
* **Plumber’s Putty or Silicone Caulk:** Used to create a watertight seal when reinstalling the drain. Choose plumber’s putty for metal-to-metal connections and silicone caulk for plastic-to-plastic or plastic-to-metal connections.
* **Penetrating Oil (Optional):** If the drain is heavily corroded or stuck, penetrating oil can help loosen it.
* **Gloves:** To protect your hands from dirt and chemicals.
* **Safety Glasses:** To protect your eyes from debris.
* **Small Bucket or Container:** To catch any water or debris that may come out of the drain.
* **Heat Gun or Hair Dryer (Optional):** Gently heating stubborn plumber’s putty can soften it for easier removal.
* **Hammer (Optional):** For gently tapping the drain removal tool if necessary.
## Identifying Your Shower Drain Type
Before you begin, it’s crucial to identify the type of shower drain you have. Different drain types require slightly different removal techniques. Here are some common types:
* **Standard Shower Drain:** This is the most common type. It typically consists of a drain flange (the visible part in the shower), a drain body (the part underneath the shower pan), and a strainer or cover.
* **Lift-and-Turn Drain:** This type features a knob or lever that you lift and turn to open and close the drain. Removal usually involves unscrewing the knob and then using a drain removal tool to unscrew the drain body.
* **Toe-Touch Drain:** Similar to the lift-and-turn drain, this type opens and closes with a push of the toe. Removal is similar, but the toe-touch mechanism might require a slightly different approach.
* **Snap-In Drain:** These drains are designed to snap into place without screws. They usually have a special tool or a lever that allows you to release the drain.
* **Threaded Drain:** The drain body screws directly onto the shower drain pipe below.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Removing a Standard Shower Drain
This section provides detailed instructions for removing a standard shower drain. Adapt the steps as needed based on your specific drain type.
**Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply**
This is the most critical safety step. Locate the shut-off valves for the shower, usually located in the basement, utility room, or behind an access panel. Turn off both the hot and cold water supplies to the shower.
**Step 2: Prepare the Area**
Place an old rag or towel around the drain to protect the shower surface from scratches. Gather your tools and materials within easy reach.
**Step 3: Remove the Drain Strainer or Cover**
The drain strainer or cover is the visible part of the drain that prevents large objects from entering the drainpipe. Most strainers are held in place by screws. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws and lift out the strainer. If the strainer doesn’t have screws, it might be held in place by a snap-in mechanism. In this case, try gently prying it up with a flathead screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the shower pan.
**Step 4: Loosen the Drain Flange (Top Part of the Drain)**
The drain flange is the metal or plastic ring that sits flush with the shower floor. It’s usually sealed with plumber’s putty or silicone caulk. Use a putty knife or scraper to carefully break the seal around the edge of the flange. Work your way around the entire perimeter of the flange, gently separating it from the shower pan. If the putty is old and hardened, you can try using a heat gun or hair dryer to soften it. Be careful not to overheat the shower pan, especially if it’s made of acrylic or fiberglass.
**Step 5: Use a Shower Drain Removal Tool**
This is where the shower drain removal tool comes in handy. Insert the tool into the drain body and align the prongs or teeth with the corresponding slots inside the drain. Make sure the tool is securely seated. Some tools require you to tap them gently with a hammer to ensure a tight fit. Once the tool is in place, turn it counterclockwise to loosen the drain body. You might need to apply some force, especially if the drain is old or corroded. If the drain is stuck, try applying penetrating oil around the threads and let it sit for a few minutes before trying again. You can also try gently tapping the drain removal tool with a hammer while applying pressure to turn it.
**Step 6: Unscrew and Remove the Drain Body**
Once you’ve loosened the drain body, continue turning it counterclockwise until it’s completely unscrewed from the drainpipe. As you unscrew the drain body, be prepared for some water or debris to come out. Have a bucket or container ready to catch it. Once the drain body is completely detached, carefully lift it out of the drain opening.
**Step 7: Clean the Drain Opening**
After removing the drain body, clean the drain opening thoroughly. Remove any remaining plumber’s putty, sealant, or debris. Use a putty knife or scraper to scrape away any stubborn residue. Wipe the area clean with a rag.
## Removing Other Types of Shower Drains
While the steps above are primarily for standard shower drains, here’s how to adapt them for other common types:
* **Lift-and-Turn Drain:**
* Remove the knob or lever by unscrewing it. Some knobs have a set screw that needs to be loosened first.
* Use a shower drain removal tool to unscrew the drain body, as described in Step 5 above.
* **Toe-Touch Drain:**
* The removal process is similar to the lift-and-turn drain. However, you might need to use a special tool or technique to remove the toe-touch mechanism. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance.
* **Snap-In Drain:**
* Locate the release mechanism, which might be a lever or a set of tabs. Use a flathead screwdriver or a specialized tool to release the drain. Gently pull the drain up and out of the drain opening.
* **Threaded Drain:**
* These are removed by unscrewing them directly from the drain pipe below the shower. Accessing the connection might require access from below the shower (e.g., a basement or crawl space). Use adjustable pliers or channel-lock pliers to grip the drain body and turn it counterclockwise.
## Troubleshooting Common Problems
Removing a shower drain can sometimes present challenges. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
* **Drain is Stuck:** If the drain is heavily corroded or stuck, try these solutions:
* **Penetrating Oil:** Apply penetrating oil around the threads and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to loosen the drain.
* **Heat:** Gently heat the drain body with a heat gun or hair dryer to expand the metal and loosen the corrosion. Be careful not to overheat the shower pan.
* **Hammer:** Gently tap the drain removal tool with a hammer while applying pressure to turn it. This can help break the corrosion.
* **Drain Removal Tool Slips:** If the drain removal tool keeps slipping, make sure it’s properly seated and aligned with the slots inside the drain. You might need to try a different type of drain removal tool.
* **Damaged Drain Flange:** If the drain flange is damaged or corroded, you might need to replace it along with the drain body. Be careful not to damage the shower pan when removing the old flange.
* **Difficult Access:** Accessing the drain from underneath the shower can be challenging. Make sure you have adequate lighting and space to work. If necessary, you might need to remove an access panel or create a temporary opening.
## Reinstalling the Shower Drain
Once you’ve removed the old shower drain, you can install a new one. Here’s a brief overview of the installation process:
1. **Clean the Drain Opening:** Make sure the drain opening is clean and free of debris.
2. **Apply Plumber’s Putty or Silicone Caulk:** Apply a generous bead of plumber’s putty or silicone caulk around the underside of the drain flange. This will create a watertight seal.
3. **Insert the Drain Body:** Insert the new drain body into the drain opening and align it with the drainpipe below.
4. **Tighten the Drain Body:** Use a shower drain removal tool to tighten the drain body. Turn it clockwise until it’s snug, but don’t overtighten it.
5. **Remove Excess Putty or Caulk:** Remove any excess plumber’s putty or silicone caulk that squeezes out from under the drain flange.
6. **Install the Strainer or Cover:** Install the drain strainer or cover and secure it with screws.
7. **Test for Leaks:** Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks around the drain. If you see any leaks, tighten the drain body or reapply plumber’s putty or silicone caulk.
## Preventing Future Problems
To prevent future problems with your shower drain, consider these tips:
* **Use a Drain Strainer:** A drain strainer will catch hair and other debris, preventing clogs.
* **Flush the Drain Regularly:** Flush the drain with hot water regularly to prevent buildup.
* **Avoid Harsh Chemicals:** Avoid using harsh chemicals to clean the drain, as they can damage the pipes.
* **Inspect the Drain Regularly:** Inspect the drain regularly for signs of corrosion or leaks.
## Safety Precautions
* Always turn off the water supply before starting any plumbing work.
* Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and chemicals.
* Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
* Be careful when using tools to avoid injury.
* If you’re not comfortable with any of these steps, consult a qualified plumber.
## When to Call a Professional
While removing a shower drain is a manageable DIY project for many homeowners, there are situations where it’s best to call a professional plumber:
* **Extensive Corrosion:** If the drain is heavily corroded or damaged, it might be difficult to remove without damaging the surrounding plumbing.
* **Difficult Access:** If you have limited access to the drain from underneath the shower, a plumber might have the tools and expertise to handle the job more efficiently.
* **Persistent Leaks:** If you’ve tried to repair a leak around the drain and it persists, a plumber can diagnose the problem and provide a more permanent solution.
* **Lack of Experience:** If you’re not comfortable with plumbing work, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and call a professional.
Removing a shower drain can be a rewarding DIY project that saves you money and gives you a sense of accomplishment. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can successfully remove and replace your shower drain like a pro. Remember to take your time, be patient, and don’t hesitate to consult a professional if you encounter any difficulties. Good luck!