A: Bonnie, thanks for a great question and a wonderful compliment!

First, I know you stated that your sister is on a tight budget so let's start by saying that whenever you add a large fixture like a shower to an existing bathroom, usually there is no inexpensive way out. The job will usually run into the thousands by the time you add up the labor costs of installing fixtures, valves, water piping, vents, drains, exhaust fans, and the carpentry work. Plus, the additional costs of the material itself, concrete cutting, and permits for the job. I don't want to scare you, I just want to give you a heads up that if you go forward with this project, get all estimates in writing before you get in over your head.

Speaking of getting in over your head, that is the main issue of most basement showers, how much room will you have over your head? Ceiling height is critical and most basement showers can only get the ceiling height up to code if the shower stall is installed flat on the existing floor. This will require breaking up the concrete, digging out and connecting the drain lines, then refilling and patching the floor.

Now back to your question about raising the shower stall. Yes, in some instances and if local codes allow, you can build the shower stall on a raised platform and tie the drains into an existing above-grade main drain. This will eliminate most of the floor breaking and digging and it can cut down labor costs. The key to this option is head room; if you have enough ceiling height after you consider the platform height, you can look into this option.

Please note, on this project your sister will need to work with a local licensed contractor and they should be able to line up all the materials, permits and subcontractors needed to complete the job. With enough money, anything is possible. So if she really needs the shower, it may be worth the expense. But, if it's just a "cool" thing to have a shower in the basement, you might want to reconsider this project so you don't drain your wallet instead!