DIY Floor Drain: Save Money and Give Your Bathroom a Professional Look
What To Know
- Use a drain cleaner or a baking soda and vinegar solution to clean the drain.
- The best way to clean a floor drain is to use a drain cleaner or a snake.
- The best way to prevent floor drain clogs is to use a drain strainer to catch hair and soap scum.
Floor drains are an essential part of any bathroom or kitchen, but they can often become clogged with hair, soap scum, and other debris. If you’re tired of dealing with slow-draining water or foul odors, it’s time to learn how to make a floor drain.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating your own floor drain. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right materials to installing the drain, so you can get your bathroom or kitchen back in working order in no time.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you get started, you’ll need to gather the following materials:
- Floor drain strainer
- PVC pipe (1-1/2 inch diameter)
- PVC elbow (1-1/2 inch)
- PVC tee (1-1/2 inch)
- PVC cement
- Hacksaw
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Plumber’s putty
- Caulking gun
- Caulk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Measure and Cut the PVC Pipe
Measure and cut the PVC pipe to the desired length. The length will depend on the distance between the floor drain and the wall.
2. Assemble the PVC Piping
Connect the PVC pipe to the elbow and tee using PVC cement. Make sure to apply the cement to both the inside and outside of the joints.
3. Install the Floor Drain Strainer
Place the floor drain strainer in the hole in the floor. Use plumber’s putty to seal the strainer around the edges.
4. Connect the PVC Piping to the Floor Drain
Connect the PVC piping to the floor drain using more PVC cement. Make sure to level the piping before it dries.
5. Seal the Joints
Once the PVC piping is installed, seal all of the joints with caulk. This will prevent water from leaking out of the joints.
6. Test the Floor Drain
Run water into the floor drain to test it. Make sure that the water drains properly and that there are no leaks.
Troubleshooting
If you’re having trouble with your floor drain, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
- Slow-draining water: The drain may be clogged with hair or soap scum. Use a drain cleaner or a snake to clear the clog.
- Foul odors: The drain may be clogged with organic matter. Use a drain cleaner or a baking soda and vinegar solution to clean the drain.
- Leaks: The joints may not be properly sealed. Apply more caulk to the joints to stop the leaks.
Maintenance
To keep your floor drain working properly, it’s important to clean it regularly. Use a drain cleaner or a snake to remove any hair or soap scum that may have accumulated. You should also caulk the joints around the drain every few months to prevent leaks.
Summary: The Power of Unclogging – A Newfound Skill for a Seamless Drainage System
By following these steps, you can easily make your own floor drain and save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber. With a little bit of time and effort, you can keep your bathroom or kitchen drains flowing smoothly for years to come.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What is the best way to clean a floor drain?
A: The best way to clean a floor drain is to use a drain cleaner or a snake. You can also use a baking soda and vinegar solution to clean the drain.
Q: How often should I clean my floor drain?
A: You should clean your floor drain every few months to prevent clogs and foul odors.
Q: What is the best way to prevent floor drain clogs?
A: The best way to prevent floor drain clogs is to use a drain strainer to catch hair and soap scum. You should also avoid pouring grease or food down the drain.
