Guidelines for Building an Outdoor Shower with an Efficient Drainage System
Building an outdoor shower can enhance your backyard or cottage into a more comfortable space for leisure and relaxation. When it comes to the structure, especially the drainage aspect, ensuring effective water management is crucial. This article provides detailed steps and tips to build an outdoor shower with a reliable drainage system, including necessary materials and installation techniques.
Step-by-Step Construction Guide
1. Plan Your Drainage Outlet and Below-Ground Pipe
It is critical to plan the drainage outlet and the below-ground pipe to connect to the nearest sewer line. This ensures that the water from the shower can be efficiently drained away. First, mark the spot where the drainage hole will be dug, ideally away from the shower location. The depth and size of this hole will depend on local regulations and your specific needs.
2. Install the Perforated Drain Pipe
Once the drainage outlet is planned, the next step is to install a 20 feet long, 4-inch perforated pipe with fabric buried over a 4-inch gravel layer. Cover the gravel with 12 inches of topsoil. At the end of the pipe, near the water source, dig a pit measuring 4 feet by 4 feet and 12 inches deep. Install a gravel base to prevent soil from entering the pipe. The pipe in the trench needs a 4-inch 90-degree bend and a drain cap at the top of the gravel.
3. Construct the Shower Floor
Construct a cedar floor using 4-inch planks with 2-inch gaps on 2”x4” joists, ensuring the floor is level. Sink 4-inch x 4-inch cedar posts 3 feet deep, fill with dry sacrete for stability. This step is crucial to ensure the shower structure is sturdy and safe. The posts can be further stabilized using a square pipe curtain hanger for privacy, if desired.
4. Install the Mixing Valve and Shower Supply Hoses
Install the mixing valve at mid-height, with water quick connects for the supply hoses. Next, connect the copper upright with a 90-degree connector to the shower head pipe and head. This ensures a smooth and steady flow of water to the shower head. If you want to include hot and cold water, consider using a splitter at the house, running 100 feet of 1/2-inch black irrigation pipe on one side and 50 feet of white hose on the other, both connected to a mixing valve at the shower head.
Key Considerations
When building an outdoor shower, it is essential to ensure that the drainage system is properly installed to avoid water accumulation. Proper planning and attention to detail are crucial in the construction process. Additionally, local regulations and building codes should be followed to ensure compliance and safety.
Summary and Tips
Building an outdoor shower with a reliable drainage system involves several steps, including planning the drainage outlet and below-ground pipe, installing the perforated drain pipe, constructing a stable shower floor, and properly installing the mixing valve and shower supply hoses. By following these guidelines, you can create a functional and enjoyable outdoor shower for years to come.
Keywords: outdoor shower, drainage system, shower construction