How to Install a Shower – Here's How It Works

Imagine coming home after a long day and all you want to do is step into the shower — but your old shower is leaking, unattractive, or simply impractical.

The idea of a brand-new, functional, and visually appealing shower can be extremely tempting. However, before diving into this project, there are several important considerations and steps that need to be taken into account.

Installing a shower can feel overwhelming, especially if you have little experience with plumbing installations. But don’t worry — we’re here to help you understand the process and the costs involved, and to show you why it’s advisable to hire a professional.

What Is Needed to Install a Shower?

Installing a shower can be a major challenge, particularly if you have limited experience with plumbing work. There are several essential elements to consider, which is why it’s always recommended to hire an expert. Below are the most important aspects to keep in mind:

Shower enclosure or shower wall: Depending on the type of shower you want, you will need either a complete shower enclosure or a shower wall. These are available in various sizes and designs, making them suitable for almost any bathroom.
Shower tray: The shower tray forms the base of the shower and should be robust and waterproof. Shower trays are available in different materials, such as acrylic, steel, or ceramic.
Water connections: Proper connections for hot and cold water are essential. A professional ensures that these connections are installed correctly and sealed tightly to prevent water damage.
Drainage system: An efficient drainage system is necessary to ensure that water drains away properly. The drain must be installed professionally to avoid blockages and flooding.
Shower fittings: Choosing the right shower fittings — such as the showerhead, mixer tap, and shower rail — is important for both comfort and functionality. These components should be high-quality and durable.
Waterproofing: Proper waterproofing is crucial to prevent water damage to walls and floors. Precision is required to ensure that no moisture penetrates the building structure.
Tiles and wall finishes: The walls and floor of the shower should be tiled or finished with other waterproof materials. This protects against moisture and gives the bathroom an attractive appearance.

A professional will not only source all the necessary materials but also ensure that each component is installed correctly. This guarantees a functional and long-lasting shower that you will enjoy for many years.

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Cost Breakdown for Installing a Shower in Switzerland

Based on the information provided and additional input from experts, below is a detailed cost breakdown for installing a shower in Switzerland:

1. Material and Installation Costs

Prices can vary significantly depending on the quality and scope of the project. Typical costs include:

Installation of an affordable shower enclosure (including labor and materials): CHF 1,750 to CHF 2,691
Installation of a high-quality shower enclosure (including labor and materials): CHF 1,890 to CHF 3,890
Tile price per square meter: CHF 10 to CHF 70

2. Labor Costs

Labor costs depend on the complexity of the project and the hourly rates of skilled professionals. In general, you can expect the following:

Installer (including travel): CHF 70 to CHF 90 per hour
Additional masonry work (excluding materials and travel): CHF 70 to CHF 90 per hour
Additional tiling work (excluding materials and travel): CHF 70 to CHF 90 per hour
Additional plumbing work for drains and water connections (excluding materials): CHF 70 to CHF 90 per hour
Waste disposal fee: CHF 22.50 to CHF 27.50

Example Calculation

If you have a mid-range shower installed and additional masonry and tiling work is required, the cost breakdown could look like this:

Affordable shower enclosure: CHF 2,200
Additional work (20 hours at CHF 80): CHF 1,600
Tiles (10 m²): CHF 400
Waste disposal: CHF 25

Total cost: CHF 4,225

Costs for Additional Work

If additional work is required, total costs can be significantly higher. Our experienced plumbers can provide a more precise cost estimate and ensure that all work is carried out professionally.

How Long Does It Take to Install a New Shower?

The time required to install a new shower varies depending on the scope and complexity of the project. Below are some general time estimates based on current information:

Small Projects

Installing a new shower enclosure or shower cubicle: This can often be completed within 1 to 2 days, especially if prefabricated units are used and no major renovations are required.

Replacing shower fittings or showerheads: These tasks can also usually be completed within 1 to 2 days.

Medium-Sized Projects

Converting a bathtub into a shower: These projects typically take 3 to 5 days, depending on whether additional work such as tiling is required.

Installing a custom-made shower: This may take slightly longer, around 5 to 7 days, particularly if special materials like marble or tiles are used, which require additional installation and curing time.

Larger Projects

Complete bathroom renovations: If extensive work is required — such as removing and replacing walls, rerouting pipes, or installing new windows — the entire process can take several weeks, typically 4 to 6 weeks or longer, depending on the scope of the work.

It’s important to note that unforeseen issues such as material availability or unexpected repairs can extend the timeline. Working with a professional installer is always recommended to ensure accurate scheduling and high-quality results.

In summary, smaller projects usually take around 1 to 2 days, while more extensive renovations can take several weeks. Planning ahead and maintaining regular communication with your installer will help ensure the project runs smoothly.

Can You Install a Shower Yourself?

Installing a shower is a complex project that requires expertise in several areas, including plumbing, waterproofing, and tiling. While it is theoretically possible to install a shower yourself, there are several reasons why this is not recommended:

Expertise and experience: A professional installer has the training and experience required to complete the work correctly and in compliance with building regulations. Mistakes can lead to significant water damage.

Specialized tools and materials: Installation requires specific tools and materials that a non-professional may not have or know how to use properly.

Waterproofing and plumbing: Improper waterproofing can result in leaks and long-term water damage. Professional installers ensure that waterproofing is done correctly.

Time investment: An experienced installer can complete the work efficiently. DIY projects often take significantly longer due to lack of experience.

Conclusion

Installing a shower requires careful planning and professional expertise to ensure that all components are installed correctly and remain durable over time. Working with a professional installer provides safety, quality, and peace of mind, helps avoid costly mistakes, and ensures that your new shower functions perfectly and meets your aesthetic expectations. Investing in professional assistance can save time and money in the long run while delivering the best possible result.

How to Install a Shower – How It Works