How to Build a Redwood Shower

Paint all sides of the lumber with the waterproofing sealer. This slows weather damage to help the wood retain its color and last longer.

Dig three holes for the shower wall posts. Generally, each hole needs to be at least 2 feet deep. However, if you live in an area of heavy frost or snow, you may need to make the hole deeper to avoid frost heave. Make one hole at the back center of the shower where the two walls meet. This is also where the pipe will be installed. Place the other two holes 2 feet away from the center to form a 90-degree angle once the walls are built.

Place a 2-inch layer of gravel in the bottom of each post hole to help water drain away from the bottom of the post.

Insert one 8-foot post into each hole. Mix up a batch of quick-dry cement according to the manufacturer's directions. Fill the holes around the posts with cement mix. Use the level to make sure each post is perfectly upright. Add supports, if necessary, to keep the posts straight while the concrete dries. Allow the concrete to harden before continuing.

Cut four equal pieces from the remaining 8-foot piece of lumber. Measure down 1 foot from the top of each of the three posts to indicate where the first crossbar belongs. Use wood screws to attach a 2-foot section of lumber at the marks. Drive the screws in at an angle where these crossbars meet the center post.

Measure down 4 feet from the bottom of the cross pieces and mark the place to attach the bottom crossbars. Attach the bottom two pieces in the same manner as the top ones.

Cover the outside of the braces with the 1-by-4-inch lumber. Use six pieces on each side. Use two screws at both the top and the bottom to attach the lumber to the braces. Leave at least a 1/4-inch gap between the boards to allow for swelling and shrinkage with the weather.

Use plumber's tape on the threaded ends of the galvanized pipe. Screw one end of each pipe into the gate valve. Attach the pipe to the center post with the brackets. You can set the pipe at any height you like, but the pipe bottom needs to be at least 6 inches above the ground.

Wrap plumber's tape around the shower arm where the head will connect to it. Attach the shower head to the shower arm, then attach this assembly to the top of the galvanized pipe. Make sure the shower head is facing the correct direction.

Thread the hose coupling onto the bottom of the galvanized pipe. Attach the hose to this coupling and to an exterior water faucet.

Place a layer of river rock for the floor of the shower. River rocks have been worn smooth by water and usually are comfortable to stand on.

Turn on exterior faucet and test the shower.