How to replace shower drain cover?

[canaia]

Hi beautiful community, I read you often but this time I need your advice. 

I'd like to replace my shower drain cover assembly but the existing one seems to be cemented in?

I bought the following one which matches the size but can't figure out how to replace it.

 

I hope you can help 🙏

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @canaia. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about drain covers.

It looks like your shower has an acrylic tray, which typically has a specific type of drain cover that is designed for that system. The drain you've purchased is for a tiled floor, and unfortunately, these types are not compatible with your existing tray. The drain in an acrylic tray is usually screwed in from beneath, making it difficult, or even impossible, to remove and replace the entire drain assembly without removing the tray itself.

What you'll need to do is find a replacement cover that suits your current drain type. This can sometimes be a bit tricky, as the specific covers for acrylic trays aren't always easy to find, especially if the tray is an older model.

Could you let me know why you're wanting to replace the drain cover? Is it because it’s aged and you’re not happy with the appearance, or are you noticing issues with the drain waste or pipework, such as soiling or blockages? Understanding the reason will help me guide you towards the best solution.

I think you'll find it hard to replace the cover, so I'd recommend giving it a thorough cleaning, and if that doesn't restore it, you could always try spray painting it white. Ensure you sand the surface with 180-grit before spraying to increase adhesion.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[canaia]

Hi Mitchell,

thank you so much for your detailed and prompt answer!

Reason is purely cosmetic, I'd like to replace it with a chrome looking one...which apparently it is not gonna happen 😔

I have access underneath the house and the drain pipe. Does that help? If it does, would I still need to remove the entire shower tray or I can just unplug the drain assembly from underneath?

Thanks 

[JacobZ]

Hi @canaia,

Do you have some photos of the pipes under your house?

You would need to contact a plumber to confirm if it is possible or not, but you may be able to cut out the pipe and go up through the flooring material to gain access to the bottom of the waste. They may then be able to remove and replace your waste through this hole in the flooring.

It would be costly as you would need a plumber to assist, but it seems likely that it is possible. Realistically though, I don't think the benefit justifies the cost.

Perhaps painting the existing drain cover with chrome paint would be a compromise that doesn't break the bank.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob