Introduction: The Hidden Challenges of Bathroom Renovation
Renovating a bathroom always seems straightforward—until you uncover the unexpected. If you’ve ever torn up old tiles or removed a shower pan, you know what I’m talking about. One common issue that trips up even seasoned DIYers is uneven floors. Suddenly, the sleek new shower base you bought doesn’t line up with the plumbing, or worse, the floor slopes enough to create drainage issues.
Here’s the good news: a 60-inch shower base with a riser kit is the ultimate solution to these plumbing challenges. Whether you’re working in an older home with structural quirks or trying to save money on floor leveling, this setup eliminates many of the headaches associated with shower installations.
Drawing from over a decade of experience in bathroom remodeling, I’ll walk you through why this combo works, how to install it effectively, and why it’s worth considering for your next renovation.
Understanding the Problem: Uneven Floors and Plumbing Headaches
Why Uneven Floors Are More Common Than You Think
Uneven floors are surprisingly common, especially in older homes or spaces like basements. Over time, houses settle, wood expands and contracts, and bathroom floors can develop slight (or significant) slopes.
If you’ve got a floor that isn’t perfectly level, installing a shower base becomes a frustrating experience. Without a riser kit, you’d typically need to level the floor with concrete or other materials, a time-consuming and messy process. Worse, even minor height mismatches can result in:
- Drain Misalignment: The shower base’s drain doesn’t line up with the existing plumbing, leading to leaks or poor drainage.
- Water Pooling: Without a level surface, water won’t flow properly to the drain, increasing the risk of mildew and mold.
- Cracking and Damage: Uneven weight distribution can cause stress on the shower base, leading to cracks over time.
Why a Riser Kit is the Ultimate Solution
A riser kit raises the shower base slightly above the floor, creating flexibility in aligning the drain and compensating for uneven surfaces. It’s like giving your shower base an adjustable foundation that works with your floor’s imperfections instead of fighting against them.
1. Aligns the Drain Perfectly
One of the biggest advantages of a riser kit is that it allows you to position the shower base’s drain exactly where it needs to be. If your existing plumbing doesn’t align with the new base, the riser kit provides the height needed to make adjustments without tearing up your floor.
Think about it: Without this flexibility, you’d need to re-route your plumbing—a costly job that often requires professional help. A riser kit eliminates that extra labor, saving time and money.
2. Compensates for Uneven Floors
The riser kit helps create a level surface for the shower base, even if the floor underneath isn’t perfect. By raising the base above the uneven floor, it ensures proper water flow to the drain and prevents issues like pooling or backflow.
I recently worked on a bathroom in a 1950s house where the bathroom floor sloped nearly an inch from one end to the other. Using a riser kit with a 60-inch shower base, we bypassed the need for messy floor leveling and still achieved flawless drainage.
3. Simplifies Installation
For anyone tackling a bathroom remodel, time is money. A riser kit simplifies the process significantly. Instead of dealing with complicated plumbing adjustments or precise floor leveling, you can focus on getting the base in place and move on to tiling or installing fixtures.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or hiring a contractor, the ease of installation makes a riser kit worth every penny.
Why a 60 Inch Shower Base is the Perfect Fit
The 60-inch size is one of the most versatile options for shower bases, providing ample space without dominating your bathroom. Here’s why it’s such a popular choice:
1. Ideal for Medium to Large Bathrooms
If you’re renovating a master or guest bathroom, a 60-inch shower base strikes the perfect balance between comfort and practicality. It’s spacious enough for a luxurious feel but compact enough to fit most bathroom layouts.
2. Perfect for Walk-In Showers
The trend toward walk-in showers continues to grow, and for good reason—they’re stylish, accessible, and functional. A 60-inch base is the ideal size for creating an open, modern look, especially when paired with sleek glass doors or panels.
3. Works Well with a Riser Kit
The larger surface area of a 60-inch base means it benefits even more from the added support and alignment provided by a riser kit. Together, they ensure a level, secure installation that stands up to daily use.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Installing a 60-inch shower base with a riser kit may sound technical, but it’s surprisingly manageable if you follow these steps:
Step 1: Assess the Floor
Start by inspecting the bathroom floor with a level. Mark any areas that are noticeably uneven. If the slope is extreme, you may need additional leveling materials, but minor imperfections can be handled by the riser kit alone.
Step 2: Position the Riser Kit
Lay out the riser kit where the shower base will go. Use shims or leveling tools to ensure the riser itself sits evenly, as this will determine the stability of the shower base.
Step 3: Align the Drain
Before placing the shower base, align the drain with the existing plumbing. This step is much easier with the height provided by the riser kit, as it allows you to make minor adjustments without modifying the floor.
Step 4: Secure the Base
Once the drain is aligned, place the shower base on the riser kit and secure it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Check for levelness again before tightening everything down.
Step 5: Seal and Test
Use a waterproof sealant around the edges of the shower base to prevent leaks. Finally, pour a small amount of water into the base to ensure proper drainage and test for any leaks around the drain.
Why Choose ACE DECOR for Your 60 Inch Shower Base with Riser Kit
Not all shower bases are created equal, and after years in the industry, I always recommend ACE DECOR for their combination of quality, durability, and style. Here’s what sets them apart:
1. High-Quality Materials
ACE DECOR’s bases are built from premium materials that resist cracks, stains, and mildew. Whether you choose the ACE Center Drain Shower Base or the ACE Single Side Drain Shower Base, you can count on them to last for years.
2. Easy-to-Clean Surfaces
Their smooth, non-porous surfaces make cleaning a breeze—something every homeowner can appreciate.
3. Stylish and Functional Designs
ACE DECOR products strike the perfect balance between form and function. Their shower bases are not only durable but also add a sleek, modern look to your bathroom.
4. Reliable Customer Support
With a 5-year warranty and responsive customer service, ACE DECOR gives you peace of mind that your investment is protected.
Practical Tips for Homeowners
If you’re considering a 60-inch shower base with a riser kit, here are some additional tips to ensure success:
- Measure Twice: Always double-check your bathroom dimensions before purchasing to ensure the base will fit.
- Test Fit Before Securing: Place the riser kit and base together temporarily to check alignment before committing to final installation.
- Consider Professional Help: If you’re dealing with significant floor unevenness or complex plumbing, don’t hesitate to call in an expert.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q: Can a riser kit handle severely uneven floors?
A: Yes, riser kits can accommodate significant height differences, but extreme cases may require additional leveling tools or shims.
Q: Is a riser kit difficult to install?
A: Not at all. Riser kits simplify installation by eliminating the need for floor modifications. With basic tools and instructions, most homeowners can handle it.
Q: Why is ACE DECOR a trusted brand for shower bases?
A: ACE DECOR combines top-tier materials, stylish designs, and reliable customer support, making their products a favorite among professionals and DIYers alike.
Conclusion: A Hassle-Free Solution for Bathroom Renovations
Dealing with uneven floors and plumbing misalignment doesn’t have to derail your bathroom renovation. A 60-inch shower base with a riser kit offers a practical, cost-effective solution that simplifies installation while ensuring long-term durability.
By choosing a high-quality product like those from ACE DECOR, you’re investing in a shower setup that looks great, functions perfectly, and stands the test of time. Ready to take the stress out of your bathroom remodel? Explore ACE DECOR’s collection today and start building the bathroom of your dreams!
