Linear drain solves shower application challenges
Problem: During a recent southwest Michigan residential construction project that involved a bathroom shower, Brandon Davidson, the owner and operator of Kalamazoo Tradesmen, faced a tough challenge during the demo phase. The existing arrangement of the floor joists posed a potential hindrance to the seamless installation of the shower tiles. The joist would block where the outlet would come off a conventional drain body at the bottom.
Solution: After some research, Davidson was introduced to the QuickDrain ShowerLine Linear Drain from Oatey. Its integrated drain, presloped shower panels, and waterproofing represent a total solution. “Building the pan and incorporating the drain within it was an incredibly cool experience,” says Davidson. “It brought a whole new level of creativity beneath the tile — something homeowners may never notice. However, from an installer’s perspective, it was a lifesaver.” Davidson appreciated that the drain system was lightweight, and the pans’ density felt substantial. Composed of extruded rigid PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic foam, the lightweight and shatterproof shower panels are constructed from 100% post-consumer plastic water bottles.
Result: The horizontal outlet saved the day, avoiding the potential blockage by the joist and allowing Davidson’s crew to install the drain right up against the wall. “That horizontal drain body really saved us on this project,” he says. “We could keep the drain right up against the wall, which the homeowner wanted. When another linear drain project arises, I will definitely turn to QuickDrain again.” 800-321-9532; www.oatey.com
Contractor uses macerator pump for a subgrade basement bathroom installation
Problem: For a recent construction job, Mike Barber, owner The Upstate Handyman, and his son were tasked with installing a new bathroom in a 1,500-square-foot basement. The bathroom had already been framed out and roughed in for this type of future build. The problem was it would have to be built beneath a stairwell.
Solution: Fortunately for his client, Barber already had a reliable solution in mind. He installed an SFA Saniflo Saniplus full-bathroom macerating system in the basement bath, having successfully used the product in five previous basement renovation projects. The macerating pump was connected to the toilet, sink and shower, providing a fully functional bathroom despite the basement’s subgrade elevation. In addition, Barber extended the system’s utility by connecting the macerator to a wet bar just around the corner from the bathroom. The system is designed to handle drainage from three fixtures. In this instance, the Barbers tied the shower and the wet bar into the same gray waterline running into the Saniplus, consolidating drainage and further simplifying the layout.
Result: The homeowners’ feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Since the renovation was completed, the basement bathroom has become an integral part of their daily routine. The Saniplus unit remains discreet both in presence and performance. Barber effectively minimized any audible operation by positioning the unit behind a wall and adding insulation, allowing the system to function quietly in the background. “The owners are pleased with the unit being tucked behind the wall and insulated for sound-reduction purposes,” says Barber. “They barely even notice it’s there.” 800-571-8191; www.saniflo.com
