How to Build an Outdoor Shower
Introduction
An outdoor shower can be a fantastic addition to your home, providing a refreshing and practical space for washing off after a day at the beach or tending to the garden. Building an outdoor shower can seem like a daunting task, but with the right planning and materials, you can create a beautiful and functional space that will boost your home’s appeal. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to build an outdoor shower from scratch.
Step 1: Plan Your Design
Before you begin construction, it’s essential to plan your outdoor shower’s design. Here are some considerations:
– Determine the ideal location: Choose a spot that offers privacy, good drainage, and access to water and electricity (if needed).
– Choose between an open or closed design: An open design is less expensive but provides less privacy. A closed design includes walls and sometimes even a roof.
Step 2: Gather Materials
Collect all necessary materials for your outdoor shower:
– Wood or PVC pipes for the frame
– Screws, nuts, and bolts
– Concrete mix (if needed)
– Outdoor pipe fittings
– Faucets or showerheads
– Walls materials (wood slats, bamboo fencing or lattice)
– Waterproof floor surface material (decking, stones, or tiles)
Step 3: Create A Foundation
Build a solid foundation for your outdoor shower by preparing the ground:
1. Outline the area where you plan to construct the shower.
2. Dig out about 4-6 inches of soil.
3. Fill the hole with gravel or crushed stone to ensure proper drainage.
4. Compact the layer and add concrete or paver base if required.
Step 4: Build The Frame
Construct the frame using either wood or PVC pipes:
1. Install 4×4 posts as vertical supports in each corner of the outline.
2. Attach horizontal supports along the top and in the middle of the vertical supports.
3. For a closed design, install additional horizontal supports to provide attachment points for the walls materials.
Step 5: Install Plumbing
With the frame in place, install your outdoor shower fixtures:
1. Run a water line from your home’s plumbing system to the desired valve location.
2. Attach an outdoor mixing valve for both hot and cold water, secured to a horizontal support.
3. Install the showerhead to a vertical support, ensuring it’s at a comfortable height.
Step 6: Add Walls And Floor
Install the materials you’ve chosen for your walls and floor:
1. Attach walls materials (wood slats, bamboo fencing or lattice) to the frame using screws or nails.
2. Lay down your waterproof floor surface material (wood decking, stones, or tiles).
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Complete your outdoor shower with some finishing touches:
1. Install hooks or shelves for towels and bathing accessories.
2. Apply a weather-resistant sealer to any wooden surfaces.
3. Consider adding plants or decorative lights for added ambiance.
Conclusion
Building an outdoor shower can be a rewarding project that adds both utility and value to your home. By following these steps and tailoring the design to suit your needs, you can create a private oasis just steps from your back door. Whether you’re rinsing off after a swim or gardening session, an outdoor shower provides a convenient and luxurious option for staying clean while enjoying nature’s surroundings.