A pan liner is usually the last layer of defense against moisture penetration in a shower. Even though the shower pan does a commendable job of preventing water from seeping through the concrete substrate, it’s advisable to use a pan liner for additional waterproofing.
Installing a shower pan liner is a relatively straightforward process. But if it’s your first shower construction project, you may be wondering – can you glue shower pan liner to concrete?
In today’s post, I will answer the above question and share more information about installing shower pan liners on concrete floors.
Can You Glue a Shower Pan Liner to Concrete?
Yes, you can glue a shower pan liner to a concrete floor. This is one of the best ways of installing pan liners on a concrete floor.
If you compare it to other methods, such as using fasteners, the likes of screws and nails will puncture through the pan liner, thus making it ineffective.
Gluing a shower pan liner to concrete is quite simple. Even though a pan liner can just be laid on top of concrete, glue ensures that it remains stuck in that position when you install the pan.
The method of installing a shower pan involves a lot of movement. If the liner beneath hasn’t adhered firmly to the floor, it may be moved out of its original place, thus affecting its waterproofing abilities.
If you were wondering how to install a shower pan liner to concrete, glue is the best option.
What’s the Best Glue for Installing Shower Pan Liner to Concrete?
There are many types of glue that you can use to bond a pan liner to concrete. But the Oatey X-15 shower pan liner adhesive is one of the best options.
This glue creates a durable and permanent bond between a shower pan liner and a concrete floor. The best part about this adhesive is the watertight seal it creates in your setup. This ensures that moisture or water won’t have a chance to pass through.
Besides its impressive adhesive strength, the Oatey X-15 has a fast-drying time. It’s also known for creating a lasting bond.
You can, therefore, be assured that your shower pan liner will remain firmly glued to the concrete floor for decades. In its packaging, you will get an in-lid applicator that makes its application much more effortless.
How to Glue Shower Pan Liner to Concrete?
Here is a quick guide on how you can install a shower pan liner to concrete.
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
If you are installing liner on a concrete floor, it’s bound to be sandy and dusty. To ensure maximum adhesion, start by vacuuming it. Tiny pieces of sand can puncture through the shower pan liner. You should get rid of them.
While preparing the surface, you will need to remove the top flange of your shower drain. This will make it easier for you to install the shower pan.
Step 2: Cut the Liner
To ensure you accurately cut the liner to fit the shower floor, place it over the floor. Spread it over the surface and cut it according to the desired size. The cuts don’t have to be perfect because this is just the beginning of the installation.
Step 3: Cut an X on the Drain
You will need to make space for the drain. The best approach here is to cut an X so you can fold the liner inside the drain without exposing the floor.
Step 4: Remove the Liner and Caulk the Drain Base
The drain base needs to be bonded to the shower pan liner. You can use 100% silicone caulk because it is more effective. After spreading some caulk, put the liner back in place and fasten the drain clamping ring using the bolts provided.
Step 5: Fold Your Pan Liner and Apply Glue to the Bottom
When you are done with the drain, it’s now time to glue the pan liner to the concrete. Fold it from the drain and start applying glue on the bottom part of the liner.
Once you have applied the glue, unfold the pan liner to the concrete floor. Press on it to ensure adequate adhesion. Work your way to the edges and corners.
On the corners, you can also glue it while making cuts depending on the shape or design.
And you will be done with gluing your shower pan liner on concrete. You can proceed to install the shower pan.
Do You Need to Glue the Shower Pan Liner to the Concrete?
You need to glue a shower pan liker to the concrete. Many things will be installed over the liner. And during that process, there is a high chance of moving the liner from its original position.
An adhesive ensures that there is minimal movement of the shower pan liner. This minimizes the risk of making the liner ineffective.
Because once the liner tilts a little bit to the side, there is no way it will prevent moisture from seeping through the concrete.
And it can damage other components within your floor while promoting mold growth. Therefore, you need to glue the shower liner to the concrete.
Can You Glue a Shower Liner Using Silicone Caulk?
Some DIY and expert builders prefer to use caulk to glue pan liners to concrete. It is acceptable because caulk, especially one made out of silicone, creates a strong bond.
But it is advisable to use an adhesive specifically formulated to bond shower pan liners and concrete. The latter will be more effective and can last incredibly long than caulk.
As tempting as it may be to use caulk on the drain flange and all over the pan liner, kindly refrain from following such an approach.
How Soon Can You Flood Test Shower Pan Liner After Gluing It on Concrete?
Most PVC glues dry within two to six hours. However, you should perform a flood test after 24 hours. It’s important to give the shower pan liner adhesive enough time to dry before exposing it to water.
A flood test is crucial before installing a shower pan over the liner because it ensures your setup is fully secure from moisture damage. If you make the mistake of installing the pan without flood testing, the liner may leak moisture into the concrete.
Do You Have to Fur Out the Walls Before Gluing Shower Pan Liner to Concrete?
That will depend on how you intend to finish the floor. If you want to tile the shower floor, apply a liquid membrane such as RedGard and then add a cement board over the concrete before tiling.
But if you’re going to install a shower pan, you must glue the liner first. The latter option doesn’t require you to fur out the concrete or do anything to it.
Can You Nail the Shower Pan Liner to Concrete?
Nailing should be the last thing on your mind when installing a shower pan liner. Liners are usually made out of PVC. When you nail them into the concrete, the liner will be punctured, and the holes can allow moisture to pass through.
Nailing shower pan liners would be counter-intuitive to installing them in the first place. The punctured holes will leave your concrete subfloor exposed to moisture damage.
The recommended method of installing shower pan liners is by gluing them, which won’t poke any holes in the material.
