Replacing a tub with a walk in shower, there is an access hole in the cement floor around the drain (aprox. 24in x 14in). I don't want to put a prefab pan and have to replace the whole pan if we need access again. I was considering putting a bench over it but still worried about water leakage. Any advice?

If I understand you correctly you are concerned with the dap out hole containing the trap and riser. Is that correct? If so, simply extend the raiser 3 inches above the floor line and then cement hole. This is assuming that you have the riser where you want it. More questions? I'm as close as a click. Good luck, Tom

Tom, the reason I don't want cement the whole is that's the only plumbing access now available they are back to back bathrooms with a tub on the other side. There was an access from back underneath the house but an extension was put in covering that access. It's an older home (60+) and had majority of the plumbing for these rooms replaced. I just don't want to cover it and cost me more later if I ever need to get under there

I just don't want to cover it and cost me more later if I ever need to get under there this will be a custom tile shower, correct ? You propose to build a walk in shower and leave a hole underneath it? Not a good idea! How it works is you take the trap and possession that where you want the drain to be Anne Arundel riser about 3 inches above grade. After you get the trap and riser in place you cement and cover the old hole. Good luck, Tom

Can you take a photo of it and post it for us ?

Back to you

Milo