Many outdoor adventures—camping, beach trips, marathons, and even local park visits—become more enjoyable with a portable shower. A roof-mounted shower is a game-changer for staying clean and refreshed while on the go. In this guide, we’ll walk you through building your own DIY roof-mounted shower in just over an hour for around $60.
Why This DIY Portable Shower Works
- Affordable: Costs significantly less than commercial options.
- Convenient: Easily mounts on your vehicle’s roof.
- Efficient: Uses air pressure to deliver a steady water flow.
- Customizable: You can modify it to fit your needs.
- Durable: Made with sturdy PVC materials, ensuring longevity.
What You Will Need
Materials:
- 5 feet of 4-inch PVC pipe
- 1 x 4″ to 4″ to 3″ junction
- 2 x 4-inch caps
- 2 x tubeless tire valve stems
- 1 x ball valve
- 1 x 3-inch pressure test cap
- 1 x garden sprayer
- 1 x 6-foot garden hose
- PVC primer and glue
- Thread tape
- Black paint (preferably truck bed liner spray for durability)
Tools:
- Drill with a 3/4-inch drill bit
- Saw
- Tape measure
- Pipe wrench
- Heat gun or torch
How to Build Your DIY Portable Shower
Step 1: Measure and Cut the PVC Pipe
Start by cutting a 2-foot section off your 5-foot length of 4-inch PVC pipe. This will form the main reservoir of the shower tank.
Step 2: Assemble the Pieces for a Test Fit
Before gluing, dry-fit all the pieces to ensure they fit properly. The 4″ to 4″ to 3″ junction is used instead of a fully threaded 4″ to 4″ to 4″ joint because:
- It allows easier insertion of the 3-inch pressure test cap.
- It provides an excellent seal without tools.
- It acts as a safety feature, releasing excess pressure if it builds up due to heat expansion.
Important: The pressure cap is rated to 50 lbs of head pressure (approximately 21.67 psi). To avoid exceeding safe limits, do not pressurize beyond 15 psi.
Step 3: Glue the Shower Tank Together
Using PVC primer and glue, securely connect all pieces. Apply glue to the interior female pieces first, then to the exterior male pieces to ensure a strong bond.
Step 4: Install the Valve Stem
Drill a hole slightly smaller than the valve stem diameter in a dry section of the tank. Apply PVC primer and a small amount of PVC glue before inserting the valve stem to ensure a watertight seal.
Step 5: Install the Ball Valve
Choose a location that allows easy access and attach the ball valve to control water flow. Drill the appropriate hole, then heat the area with a heat gun or torch before threading in the valve. Once the PVC cools, remove the valve, apply Teflon thread tape, and reinstall it for a tight seal.
Step 6: Perform a Pressure Check
Fill the tank with air and check for leaks. 4-inch PVC is rated to 100 psi, but do not exceed 15 psi to maintain safety.
Step 7: Paint the Shower Tank
For durability and heat absorption, spray the assembled tank with black truck bed liner paint. This also helps warm the water in the sun.
Step 8: Install the Shower on Your Vehicle
Use tie straps for temporary installation, or secure it permanently with rubber hoses and cable clamps.
Step 9: Fill the Tank with Water
Pour water into the tank through the 3-inch opening.
Step 10: Insert the Pressure Plug
Secure the 3-inch pressure test cap into place to prevent leaks.
Step 11: Pressurize the Tank
Use a 12V tire inflator to pressurize the tank. Do not exceed 15 psi.
Tip: If you remove the pressure cap, gravity alone will provide a steady flow, conserving water while still allowing effective showering.
Step 12: Choose Your Shower Attachment
Attach a 6-foot garden hose and a garden sprayer for adjustable water flow. The 3/4-inch fitting allows compatibility with other standard garden hose attachments.
Other Important Details
- Safety: The pressure test cap acts as a fail-safe in case of over-pressurization.
- Water Conservation: A gravity-fed option allows the water to last longer.
- Heat Absorption: Black paint helps warm the water naturally in the sun.
- Portable: Easily detachable for cleaning and storage.
- Multi-Use: Great for showering, rinsing off gear, or washing dishes while camping.
Summary
A DIY roof-mounted portable shower is a cost-effective and convenient solution for outdoor enthusiasts. By following this simple step-by-step guide, you can build a durable and efficient pressurized shower for your next adventure. Whether you need a quick rinse after a beach trip or a full shower while camping, this homemade portable shower has you covered. Give it a try and let us know how it works for you!
This plan is a contribution by [Joshuat5]. Project Via Instructables – Get the PDF Instructions here.