Can I install my own shower?

Question

I am renovating an old house and in my bathroom is a shower/bath combo that I want to replace with tiled walls and a shower screen. I found Bunnings/Mitre10 videos that showed how you can install your own shower, so presumably this is legal (I had previously thought only a plumber could legally do this):

https://youtu.be/K1889rjISd0?si=JddAEeTi-YNXyFtW

https://youtu.be/JnVm6F7Aj-U?si=Ox8EYSJcwObSPIs1

https://youtu.be/IK5tuRdEGWU?si=S4va3PEXueMq1RS5

Some videos I've seen seem to contradict each other and it's confusing to understand what exact procedures/steps I need to take.

Like, do I need to waterproof the whole shower area with the blue membrane? Because in the Mitre10 video he doesn't do that. And do I need to use concrete for under the base? If I decide not to use a plastic base, and opt to make a tile floor around the drain, do I need to put concrete underneath the tiles?

I have a lot of questions and I need to ensure I get this right as I aim to sell my house soon so I can't screw it up.

EricL · Answer

Hi @Noyade

Yes! Magnum Force (I won't mention the date as it gives away too much)! You've got to say it while squinting your eyes (just like clint) "A man's got to know his limitations."

Eric

Noyade · Answer

"so I can't screw it up."  - @Shufflebum

Just an interested observer - but at the 1 minute 10 second mark the Mitre 10 gent makes the remark - "make sure the waste pipe lines up."

What are the chances of that? I'm sure if I bought a base it would be buckley's and none. Even if I'm out buy 20 mm this would mean some serious reconfiguration especially if the waste pipe is embedded in concrete? No?

I'd be employing a plumber - but that's just my opinion. I think it was Clint Eastwood who said "a man needs to know his limitations."

I know mine.

EricL · Answer

Hello @Shufflebum

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. it's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about your bathroom renovation.

Renovating a bathroom is an exciting project, and it's completely understandable that you'd like to save money by tackling some of the work yourself. It's great that you're taking the time to research the process before you begin, as that will help you avoid costly mistakes later on.

The instructional videos from Bunnings and other retailers are a useful introduction to the products they sell and can demonstrate how individual components are installed or how a product is applied. However, they are generally intended to showcase a specific product rather than provide a complete guide to renovating a shower or bathroom. They don't always show every step of the construction process or explain the sequence required to meet the relevant building standards.

Bathroom renovations are more complex than they first appear, with plumbing, electrical and waterproofing all playing a critical role in creating a safe, durable and compliant wet area. Depending on where you live, some aspects of the work may need to be completed by licensed tradespeople, and in some cases permits or approvals may also be required before work begins.

Before starting your renovation, it's worth spending a little time researching the requirements that apply in your area. Contacting your local council is a great first step, as they can explain any permits, approvals or local regulations that may affect your project. It's also worthwhile speaking with a licensed plumber who has experience completing full bathroom renovations. Asking to see examples of previous work or customer references can give you confidence that you're receiving advice from someone with practical experience.

Questions such as whether the entire shower needs to be waterproofed, whether a shower base requires a mortar bed, or how a tiled shower floor should be constructed often depend on the existing structure of your bathroom and the type of shower system you choose. For example, a bathroom with a concrete floor may be suitable for a tiled shower, but waterproofing is still required. Likewise, installing a preformed shower base doesn't necessarily remove the need for waterproofing, as the applicable building requirements and manufacturer's installation instructions still need to be followed.

The National Construction Code (NCC), the relevant Australian Standards, your local council requirements and the installation instructions supplied by the manufacturer all work together to determine how a bathroom should be built. Taking the time to understand these requirements before demolition begins means you'll be making informed decisions rather than educated guesses throughout the project.

A little planning at the beginning can make the entire renovation much smoother, helping you achieve a bathroom that not only looks fantastic but is built correctly, complies with the relevant requirements and gives you confidence for many years to come.

I also suggest having a quick look at this guide - How to plan a bathroom renovation by @Adam_W.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric