How to Replace a Shower Drainpipe

Remove the drain's cover, the metal grate on top of the drain that prevents large objects from entering your drain line. If necessary, pry the cover off with a flat-head screwdriver or crowbar. Or cut it away with a rotary tool and cutting disc.

Unscrew the wing nuts underneath the shower drain cover with a regular screwdriver. Lift the drain off the drainpipe by hand. If you have a traditional drain, move on to the next step and skip the above steps.

Cut the drainpipe leading to the shower drain with a reciprocal saw. You may have to take down a ceiling panel to access the drain if it is on the second floor.

Pull the drainpipe out of the drain. Measure the distance from the main drain line to the shower drain with a tape measure. Install a new shower pipe in place of the old one. Connect the new PVC pipe to a t-fitting on the main drain stack with PVC cement. Push the other end of the pipe up through the shower drain hole. Slide a compression washer over the pipe, hammer the washer and the pipe itself down into the drain to form the connection to the drainpipe and shower.

Insert the top of the new drain in the drain opening. Turn the screws clockwise to tighten and secure the new drain.