Cody Casey
There are several factors to consider when choosing the right mortar for a shower pan. The type of mortar used can depend on the material of the shower pan, the desired thickness, and the need for waterproofing. Thinset mortar, for example, is commonly used for tile showers and can be effective for shower pans with a thickness of 2-3 inches. However, it is not suitable for adjusting a subfloor. Other options include Type S mortar, which can be used for a shower's preslope and mortar bed if mixed as a dry pack, and standard cement mix with sand and Portland cement, which creates a water-resistant barrier. Additionally, some manufacturers recommend the use of expanding foam or a felt pad instead of mortar for certain types of shower pans. It is important to follow the manufacturer's specifications to avoid voiding the warranty.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ideal mortar mix | Standard cement mix with sand and Portland cement |
| Waterproofing | Required before installing the shower pan |
| Thickness | 1/4" per foot slope to drain |
| Tile showers | Require additional steps to ensure the build is waterproof and sufficiently supportive |
| Acrylic shower pans | Crafted out of modified plastic that has been treated with heat and pressure |
| Fiberglass pans | More affordable but susceptible to stains and scratches |
| Mortar bed thickness | Minimum of 1/25" for non-bonded reinforced mortar beds and can vary for bonded mortar beds |
| Thinset | Not suitable for adjusting a subfloor |
| Type S mortar | Not recommended for shower bases but can be used for mixing suitable mortar |
| Structolite | Can be used as an alternative to mortar |
| Foam | Not preferred by some due to the difficulty in guessing the right amount |
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What You'll Learn
Thinset mortar thickness
Thinset mortar is a blend of cement, finely graded sand, and a water retention compound that allows the cement to properly hydrate. The Tile Council of North America defines thinset as a method of adhering tiles to a substrate with a thin layer of cement, typically no thicker than 3/16". This thin layer of cement is designed to adhere well and is usually applied using a trowel.
When using thinset mortar for a shower pan, the thickness of the mortar bed can vary depending on the manufacturer's specifications and the type of shower pan being installed. Some manufacturers recommend using a felt pad instead of mortar, while others specify the use of mortar with a thickness of 1-2 inches.
It is important to note that the thickness of the thinset mortar can affect the overall height of the tile installation. The weight of the tile can also impact the thickness of the thinset, as heavier tiles may require a thicker layer of mortar. Additionally, larger tiles may require thicker mortar beds, and it is recommended to use Large and Heavy Tile Mortars for tiles larger than 15" on any side.
In the case of shower pan installation, it is crucial to ensure that the mortar is applied correctly to avoid issues such as voids or an uneven surface. Some people choose to place blobs of mortar or use a sand/topping mix to ensure the shower pan is secure and level. It is also important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific shower pan being installed to avoid voiding the warranty.
Overall, the thickness of thinset mortar can vary depending on the application and the specific requirements of the project. It is important to consider the size and weight of the tiles, as well as the manufacturer's instructions, to determine the appropriate thickness of thinset mortar for a shower pan installation.
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Using the wrong type of thinset mortar
One issue that can arise from using the wrong type of thinset mortar is the potential for the mortar to pull moisture out of the fiberglass on the backside of the tub, leading to cracking over time. This issue is common with gelcoat tubs but not with acrylic tubs. Additionally, the use of mortar can cause shadowing on the underside of the tub, resulting in a darker or grey appearance that clients may find unappealing.
Another problem that can occur when bonding a tub to a structure using mortar is the risk of cracking if the structure moves. This is a common issue that can happen more often than expected.
Furthermore, using the wrong type of thinset mortar may result in insufficient support for the shower pan. This can lead to issues such as voids or deformities in the pan. In some cases, it may be necessary to use a concrete base or a product like expanding foam to provide adequate support.
It is important to carefully consider the manufacturer's specifications and select the appropriate type of mortar or thinset to avoid these issues when installing a shower pan.
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Waterproofing the shower pan
To begin the waterproofing process, you will need to create a pre-sloped mortar bed. This involves applying a layer of mortar to establish a slope towards the drain. The recommended slope is 1/4" per foot, and it should not exceed 1/2" per foot according to plumbing codes. Once the pre-sloped mortar bed is in place, use a straight edge to confirm that the surface is smooth and level.
The next step is to waterproof the pre-sloped mortar bed. This can be done using either a liquid-applied membrane or a sheet membrane. A liquid-applied waterproof membrane will also provide crack isolation protection, acting as a secondary waterproof layer. After the waterproofing membrane is installed, you can move on to the final layer of the shower pan.
For the final layer, you will need to float a dry-packed mortar bed over the pre-sloped membrane. The thickness of this layer should be at least 1.5" thick, and it may require wire reinforcement fabric if the shower pan area is larger than 65 square feet. It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the thickness and type of mortar to use.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some manufacturers may void the warranty if you use thinset or mortar to set the shower pan in place. This is because the mortar can pull remaining moisture out of the fiberglass, causing it to crack over time. Therefore, it is essential to carefully review the manufacturer's specifications and guidelines before proceeding with the installation.
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Using a pre-sloped mortar bed
When using a pre-sloped mortar bed for a shower pan, it's important to follow the correct steps to ensure a durable and effective installation. Here's a detailed guide on using a pre-sloped mortar bed:
Planning and Preparation:
Before beginning the installation, it's crucial to consult local building codes, the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Handbook, and ANSI108.1 for specific guidelines and requirements. Estimate the amount of material needed, assuming a standard depth of 2" for the shower area. Use a slab calculator for quick and accurate measurements.
Creating the Pre-Slope:
Start by levelling the perimeter of the shower pan. Then, fill in the centre, establishing a rough slope from the edges towards the drain. Pack down the material as you work, ensuring a smooth slope in all directions. Allow this pre-slope bed to cure for 24 hours. You can use a steel finish trowel to smoothen the surface, which will help ensure the waterproofing membrane remains intact.
Waterproofing:
Apply a waterproofing membrane to the pre-sloped mortar bed. You can use either a liquid-applied membrane or a sheet membrane. This step is crucial to prevent moisture intrusion and potential water damage.
Final Mortar Bed Installation:
After the waterproofing membrane has cured, you can proceed to install the final mortar bed. Float a dry-packed mortar bed over the membrane, ensuring a thickness of at least 1.5" for shower pans larger than 65 square feet. Smaller shower pans may not require wire reinforcement fabric within the mortar bed.
Tiling:
Tiling should begin within 16 hours of installing the mortar bed. After 24 hours, the mortar bed enters a "green" state, and you will need to wait 28 days before adhering tiles. Using a steel finishing trowel to smoothen the final mortar bed allows tiles to be set directly on it, eliminating the need for additional thin-set mortar.
Additional Considerations:
It's important to note that using thinset or mortar to set prefabricated shower pans may void the manufacturer's warranty. Some manufacturers recommend using expanding foam or a felt pad instead. Always refer to the manufacturer's specifications to avoid warranty issues.
Additionally, ensure that the mortar bed is sloped correctly towards the drain, with a minimum slope of 1/4" per foot and a maximum slope of 1/2" per foot, as per plumbing codes.
By following these steps and considerations, you can effectively install a pre-sloped mortar bed for your shower pan, ensuring a durable and watertight installation.
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Using a liner
Choosing the Right Liner
Select a liner that suits your shower pan installation. PVC and CPE liners are commonly used. PVC liners are versatile and suitable for most installations, while CPE liners are recommended for floors with radiant heat systems. Oatey's shower pan liner kits, for instance, offer a range of dimensions and thicknesses to fit different shower sizes.
Preparing the Subfloor
Before installing the liner, prepare the subfloor by pouring mortar onto it. The recommended slope is 1/4 inch per foot, sloping inward from the wall framing towards the drain base. Ensure the mortar bed cures according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Installing the Liner
Lay the shower pan liner on a flat surface and measure the total length and width of the mortar bed. Cut the liner according to your markings. Drape the liner over the mortar bed and drain base, ensuring it is centred. Cut X shapes over the bolts that the clamping ring screws into.
Securing the Liner
Secure the liner to the wall framing using staples or adhesive. Cut away any excess liner that hangs outside the shower dimensions. Ensure there are no penetrations of the liner below 3 inches above the finished curb height.
Testing the Installation
After securing the liner, let any adhesives cure overnight. Perform a flood test by pouring water into the shower bed to the curb height and letting it sit for at least two hours. This test will determine the waterproof status of your shower pan liner installation.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use thinset mortar for a shower pan. However, some manufacturers will void the warranty if you do so.
You should use a modified thinset mortar.
The thinset mortar should be at least 1.5 inches thick.
You can use a concrete layer, a wood frame, or a combination of wire mesh and a paper slip sheet.
The ideal mortar mix for a shower pan is a combination of standard cement mix, sand, and Portland cement.
