How to Install a New Shower Drain

Choosing the Right Drain

Shower drains come in several styles: point drains (centered in the shower floor), linear drains (along one wall), and tile-in drains (that blend with your shower floor). The most common residential shower drain is a 2-inch point drain. When selecting a replacement, match the drain body size to your existing pipe — removing the old strainer cover will reveal the pipe diameter. Purchase a drain that is compatible with your shower pan material (fiberglass, acrylic, tile, or custom).

Removing the Old Drain

Remove the drain cover or strainer. For threaded drains, insert a drain removal tool or needle-nose pliers into the crosshairs and turn counterclockwise. Apply penetrating oil if the drain is stuck. For compression-style drains, you may need to access the underside from a basement or crawl space to loosen the lock nut. Clean all old plumber's putty or silicone from the shower pan surface.

Installing the New Drain

Apply a thick rope of plumber's putty around the underside of the new drain flange, or use silicone sealant if specified by the manufacturer. Thread the drain body into the fitting from above while tightening the lock nut from below. For no-caulk drains, use the rubber compression gasket provided. Ensure the drain is level with or slightly below the shower floor surface so water flows toward it properly.

Testing for Leaks

Before finishing, plug the drain and fill the shower pan with about an inch of water. Let it sit for 30 minutes and check underneath for any signs of leaking. If you find a leak, tighten the connections or reapply sealant. Once confirmed watertight, install the strainer cover and run the shower for several minutes while checking below one final time. Proper installation prevents costly water damage to subfloors and ceilings below.