Marianne Martinez
Kerdi shower pans can be cut down to size, but it is not as simple as cutting off any amount from each side. The first step recommended by Schluter Systems is to cut off the first 3/4 inch of the perimeter, which is flat, to help with shower wall and floor tile. Then, opposite sides should be cut as evenly as possible to ensure a uniform slope towards the drain. For example, if you need to trim 6” off of the Kerdi Shower Pan, cut 3” off both sides. If the drain is centred, it is recommended to cut both sides evenly. If the drain is off-centre, it is still recommended to cut opposite sides evenly, but the cut does not need to be centred.
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What You'll Learn
Cutting a Kerdi shower pan to size
Kerdi shower pans can be cut down to size, but it is important to be aware of the potential issues that may arise. Cutting the pan to fit the space you have available can save time and money, but there is a risk of the shower pan leaking if it is not cut and sealed correctly.
The first step when cutting a Kerdi shower pan to size is to cut the perimeter. The first 3/4 inch of the Kerdi pan is flat, so cutting this off first will help with the shower wall and floor tile. Once the perimeter is removed, the shower pan size can be reduced accordingly. For example, if you have a 48-inch shower pan that needs to be 38 inches, you would cut 3/4 inch off both sides of the perimeter, and then 5 inches off both sides of the pan itself, resulting in a total width of 36.5 inches.
When trimming a Kerdi shower pan, it is recommended to cut opposite sides as evenly as possible to ensure a uniform slope towards the drain. If your drain is centred, you should cut equal amounts from both sides. For example, if you need to trim 6 inches off the total width, cut 3 inches off each side. If your drain is off-centre, you may need to trim more off one side than the other, but it is still important to ensure the slope towards the drain remains uniform.
To cut the Kerdi shower pan, you can use a track saw or a jigsaw, reciprocating saw, or router. It is important to protect the pan while you are kneeling on it, so it is recommended to cut up the box and use double or triple layers for protection. Once you have cut the pan to size, you will need to waterproof it against the walls, curb, or bench. This can be done using Schluter ALL-SET or unmodified thin-set mortar, ensuring that the mortar will bond to the fleece on the pan, walls, and banding.
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Ensuring a uniform slope to the drain
KERDI shower pans can be cut to size, and the first step in customising them is to cut off the perimeter. The first 3/4 inch of the KERDI pan is flat, which helps with shower wall and floor tile installation.
To ensure a uniform slope to the drain, the KERDI pan must be installed correctly with the proper slope. The slope angle, or pitch, should be at least 1/8 inch per linear foot of run, or 1/4 inch per foot of run to ensure no drainage dead spots. This can be tested by blocking the drain and filling the shower base with water. If the water level does not change after 30 minutes or overnight, then the slope is uniform and the drain is functioning properly.
It is important to note that the drain should be positioned correctly before cutting the KERDI pan. If the drain is installed too high, it can cause issues with the slope and lead to standing water after use. In such cases, it may be necessary to redo the installation.
When installing a KERDI shower pan, it is also crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and industry standards. For example, waterproofing is essential, and the wrong thin-set mortar or trowel size can lead to issues. Additionally, the mortar bed thickness should be at least 1/2 inch on a concrete slab and 3/4 inch on a wood subfloor.
To summarise, ensuring a uniform slope to the drain in a KERDI shower pan involves correctly installing the pan with the proper slope angle, positioning the drain correctly, and following manufacturer instructions for waterproofing and mortar bed thickness.
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Waterproofing the shower pan
Waterproofing a shower pan is essential to prevent water damage, which can cause mould, mildew, and structural rot. The Schluter Kerdi waterproofing membrane is a popular choice for waterproofing shower pans. Here are the steps and tips for waterproofing a shower pan:
Preparation
Before beginning the waterproofing process, ensure that you have the necessary materials, such as the Schluter Kerdi Board Kit, which includes all the required components for waterproofing. Measure the area to determine the layout of the Kerdi Boards, which can be installed horizontally or vertically.
Installation
Install the Kerdi Boards directly onto the wood studs, following the manufacturer's instructions. These boards provide the necessary underlayment for tile installation and serve as a waterproofing layer. You can install tiles directly on these boards, eliminating the need for cement boards.
Waterproofing
For effective waterproofing, seal all gaps, seams, fastener penetrations, and pipe protrusions. Pay special attention to transitions at corners and wherever the Kerdi Board meets another wall. Use Kerdi-Band at the corners and finish with a Schluter profile to protect the edges of your tiles and provide a clean finish.
Mortar Application
When using thin-set mortar, ensure you use the correct type, such as Schluter ALL-SET or unmodified thin-set mortar. Follow the mixing instructions to achieve the proper consistency, which is crucial for bonding to the fleece on the pan, walls, and banding. Apply the mortar using the recommended trowel size and type, such as the Schluter KERDI trowel.
Tile Installation
After waterproofing and mortar application, you can proceed with tile installation. Consider using Schluter profiles such as Dilex-As or Dilex-BWA profiles to separate the tiled area from the shower pan, providing a clean and maintenance-free finish.
Additional Tips
To customize the shower pan size, you can cut the KERDI pan, ensuring the drain is positioned correctly. Trimming equal amounts from all sides is recommended. Additionally, consider using a flood test to ensure the effectiveness of your waterproofing.
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Using the correct tools
Kerdi shower pans can be cut down to size, but it is important to use the right tools for the job. The first step is to perform a dry fit of the shower pan and mark the location of the drain hole. The drain hole should then be cut out using a drill and hole saw bit. If you don't have a drill, a jigsaw, reciprocating saw, or router can also be used. It is important to use the correct type of drill bit to avoid damaging the shower pan.
Once the drain hole is cut out, you will need to trim the shower pan to fit the installation area. This can be done using a razor knife and a straight edge. It is important to cut opposite sides as evenly as possible to ensure a uniform slope towards the drain. For example, if you need to trim 6 inches off the pan, cut 3 inches off each side.
When it comes to the thinset application, it is recommended to use a 1/4" x 3/8" square or U-notched trowel. This will help you apply the thinset evenly and smoothly. It is also important to use the correct type of thinset for Kerdi shower pans. Schluter ALL-SET or unmodified thinset mortar are recommended as they will bond effectively with the shower pan.
Additionally, it is important to prepare the subfloor before installing the shower pan. Use a damp sponge to remove any dust or debris that may interfere with the thinset bonding. This will help ensure a strong and durable installation. By using the correct tools and following the recommended steps, you can successfully cut and install a Kerdi shower pan to fit your specific needs.
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Trimming the perimeter
Once the perimeter is cut off, the shower tray size will be reduced. For example, if you have a 48-inch wide shower pan that needs to be 38 inches wide, you would cut off 3/4 inch on the left and 3/4 inch on the right sides of the perimeter. This reduces the pan width to 46.5 inches. To get the pan down to the required 38 inches, you would then cut off 5 inches on both sides of the pan, taking the width down to 36.5 inches.
When trimming the Kerdi shower pan, it is recommended to cut opposite sides as evenly as possible. This ensures a more uniform slope towards the centre drain. For instance, if you need to trim 6 inches off the pan, you should cut off 3 inches from each side.
It is important to note that the drain position should be considered when trimming the pan. If the drain is centred, it is recommended to cut both sides evenly. However, if the drain is off-centre, you may need to cut more off one side than the other. For example, if the drain is off by 1/2 inch in the long direction of the pan, you could shave off 1/2 inch from the plumbing wall side and 16.5 inches from the far end.
Overall, trimming the perimeter of a Kerdi shower pan is a crucial step in customising the pan to fit your shower. By following the recommended steps and considering the drain position, you can ensure a successful installation.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Kerdi shower pans can be cut to any size within reason.
It is recommended to cut opposite sides as evenly as possible. For example, if you need to trim 6” off of the Kerdi Shower Pan, cut 3” off both sides.
A drill and hole saw bit, a jig saw, reciprocating saw, or router can be used.
Cut off the perimeter of the shower pan. The first 3/4 inch of the Kerdi pan is flat, which helps with shower wall and floor tile.
After cutting, you need to waterproof the shower pan against the walls, curb, or bench.
