How to Install a Shower

How to Install a Shower

Installing a shower may look simple on the surface, but anyone who has worked with plumbing knows that it is one of those tasks where small mistakes can lead to big problems later.
The good news? With the right planning, solid guidance, and high-quality parts, installing a shower can be a deeply rewarding project that enhances your daily routine. We’re here to walk you through it, not with confusing jargon, but with clear, step-by-step advice. At RZBM, we believe everyone deserves a shower that works perfectly for them.

Before You Begin

We cannot stress this enough. The single most important step happens before you touch a single pipe. You must be thorough.
First, know what you’re working with. In the UAE, our plumbing can vary. Most modern villas and apartments use a pressurized system, often with a central water heater or individual boilers. You need to identify your system type. Is it a gravity-fed system from a tank on the roof, or a pressurized one? This will impact the kind of shower valve and pump you might need.

Next, gather your tools and materials. You will need: a good quality pipe wrench, adjustable spanners, Teflon tape (plumber’s tape), a spirit level, a drill, screwdrivers, and possibly a hole saw for tiles. Most crucially, you need the right components. At RZBM, we supply only the highest-grade shower fittings, valves, and heads because we know that in our region, longevity and performance are non-negotiable.

Finally, turn off the water. Locate the main shut-off valve for your home and close it. Then, open the existing taps and shower to drain the pipes and release any pressure. This simple step prevents a very wet and potentially damaging surprise.

Fitting The Valve

The shower valve is the brain of your shower. It’s the part behind the wall that mixes hot and cold water to your desired temperature and controls the flow. Installing it correctly is critical for safety and comfort.
If you are replacing an old valve, you will need to carefully remove the existing one. If this is a new installation, you’ll need to mark the exact height on your wall.
Connect your new valve to the hot and cold water supply lines using proper connectors. Ensure the threads are clean and wrap them generously with Teflon tape in a clockwise direction. This creates a watertight seal. Do not overtighten the connections. A snug fit is all you need; over-tightening can strip threads or crack fittings.

As you secure the valve into the wall, use your spirit level. This is not the step to eyeball. A crooked valve means a crooked handle plate, and that’s a daily reminder of a rushed job. Once the valve is perfectly level and firmly fixed to the wall framing, you can connect it to the shower arm outlet (the pipe that will eventually hold your shower head).

Fitting The Shower Head And Arm

The shower arm is the pipe that comes out of the wall. Screw it into the valve outlet you connected earlier, again using Teflon tape on the threads. Tighten it firmly by hand, then give it a little more with a wrench, but be gentle. The goal is for it to point straight down.
Now, for the best part, your shower head. Before attaching it, remove any plastic protective covers from the inlet. Wrap the shower arm threads with Teflon tape and screw on your new shower head. Hand-tight is usually sufficient here. You want to be able to adjust its angle easily.
Consider the height. The standard is about 2100mm from the floor, but this is your shower. Hold it up and see what feels right. Maybe you prefer it higher for a rain-like effect. The beauty of a custom installation is making it work for you.

Finally

Before you seal up any walls with tiles or access panels, you must test your work. This is the final, crucial check.
Slowly turn your main water supply back on. Listen for any immediate hissing sounds. Then, with the shower valve in the off position, check every connection you made for even the smallest drip. If you see a leak, turn the water off and tighten the connection a little more. Sometimes a second wrap of Teflon tape is needed.
Now, turn the shower on. Let the water run. Check again for leaks, especially around the valve handles and shower arm. Test both the hot and cold functions. Adjust the temperature control to ensure it moves smoothly from cold to hot.

Once you are confident there are no leaks and everything works, you can proceed to finish the wall. Install your chosen handle and faceplate onto the valve, following the manufacturer’s instructions for a sleek, professional look.

Your Perfect Shower, Powered By Rzbm

At RZBM, we are more than just suppliers; we are your resource for quality. We provide robust, dependable shower fittings designed to perform flawlessly in your home. From thermostatic mixer valves that guarantee a safe, consistent temperature to shower heads that deliver the perfect spray, our focus is on bringing you lasting quality.

Visit RZBM today. Explore our range of premium shower fittings and find the perfect components for your project.