Installing an outdoor shower is one of the most rewarding home upgrades you can make—especially if you live by the beach, own a pool, or just want to add a little luxury to your outdoor space. Whether you’re a DIYer ready to roll up your sleeves or planning to hire a pro, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know for a successful setup.
From choosing the right location to connecting water lines and avoiding common pitfalls, here’s how to get your backyard shower project off to a strong start.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
The best location for your outdoor shower depends on a few key factors:
- Proximity to water lines – Choose a spot near an existing plumbing line (like a bathroom or laundry room) to minimize labor and materials.
- Drainage – Pick an area with good natural runoff or install gravel, decking, or a dry well to ensure proper drainage.
- Privacy – Consider surrounding fences, walls, or landscaping. If you’re installing a freestanding unit, you may want to add a privacy screen.
- Sun exposure – South-facing areas dry faster and help prevent mildew buildup.
Pro tip: Avoid installing your shower near septic systems or where water could pool around foundations.
Step 2: Select the Right Outdoor Shower Type
Depending on your needs, choose from:
- Wall-mounted showers – Great for small spaces and easy to plumb when mounted on an exterior wall.
- Freestanding units – Flexible and mobile but may require more plumbing setup.
- Enclosed vinyl showers – Offer privacy and aesthetics; ideal for beach houses or family use.
Jetty Outdoor Showers offers pre-fabricated vinyl enclosures and cabana-style units designed for easy DIY assembly or professional installation.
Step 3: Gather Your Materials
Here’s a general list of materials you may need for a standard installation:
- Vinyl or wood shower enclosure kit (Jetty kits come pre-cut for easier install)
- Shower fixture (rain head, handheld, or dual setup)
- Pressure-treated lumber or pavers for a base
- PVC piping, elbows, connectors, and shutoff valves
- Screws, anchors, and sealant
- Gravel or deck tiles for drainage
- Optional: mixing valve for hot and cold water
Step 4: Build the Base
A stable base is essential. You have a few options:
- Gravel base: Easy and cost-effective. Lay down landscape fabric, then fill with compacted gravel.
- Concrete pad: Durable but more labor-intensive. Ideal for permanent installations.
- Wood platform: Creates a finished look and allows water to drain beneath. Use rot-resistant materials like cedar or pressure-treated lumber.
Make sure the base is level and allows for adequate drainage away from your home.
Step 5: Assemble the Enclosure
If using a kit (like Jetty’s vinyl outdoor shower kits), follow the included instructions:
- Begin with corner posts or anchor points
- Secure panels and doors in place
- Reinforce with fasteners where necessary
- Check for levelness as you build
Leave space in the structure for fixture access and ensure all plumbing holes are pre-drilled or marked before finalizing placement.
Step 6: Connect the Plumbing
If you’re comfortable with basic plumbing:
- Turn off the water supply
- Tap into an existing water line using a T-fitting or hose bib splitter
- Run new lines to the shower location using PVC or PEX tubing
- Install shutoff valves, especially for cold-weather areas
- Use a mixing valve if you’re installing hot and cold water
- Secure all connections and test for leaks
Outdoor plumbing tips:
- Insulate any exposed lines if you’re in a seasonal climate
- Use outdoor-rated fixtures and hardware
- Slope the piping slightly downward to prevent freezing
Step 7: Test Your Setup
Before closing up any panels or finalizing the enclosure:
- Turn on the water slowly and check for leaks
- Ensure consistent water pressure and proper spray pattern
- Test drainage to confirm no pooling or backflow
Make adjustments as needed before completing the build.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the drainage plan: Poor drainage leads to puddles, mud, and mold.
- Forgetting shutoff valves: These are crucial if you need to winterize.
- Using the wrong materials: Indoor fixtures and untreated wood won’t hold up.
- Ignoring local codes: Check with your town or HOA before starting.
Final Touches & Add-Ons
Once your shower is up and running, add features like:
- Towel hooks
- Built-in benches
- Solar lights
- Weatherproof shelving
- Plant walls or privacy screens
These little upgrades can take your setup from basic rinse station to full-blown backyard retreat.
Let Jetty Help You Build It Right
Whether you’re a DIY homeowner or looking to have it professionally installed, Jetty Outdoor Showers has solutions built for the coastal lifestyle. Our vinyl outdoor shower kits are designed to be durable, easy to install, and beautiful enough to elevate any backyard space.
Explore our models, request a quote, or reach out for guidance—we’re here to help you rinse off in style.
