Easy Guide: Install Tilerdi Pan In 5 Steps

Tile Redi offers a range of shower base pans, including the Redi Base, Redi Free, Redi Trench, WonderFall Trench, Wonder Drain, and Redi Neo. These products are designed to be installed directly on a flat, level surface such as a subfloor or concrete slab. The installation process involves preparing the surface, laying down mortar, and placing the pan, ensuring proper adhesion and drainage. Tile Redi provides installation instructions and videos, and their products are known for their convenience and leakproof design. However, some customers have reported issues with flexing, cost, and customer service during the installation process. Overall, Tile Redi shower pans offer a quick and easy solution for remodelling shower spaces.

Preparing the surface

First, it is important to note that Tile Redi shower pans are designed to be installed directly on a subfloor or a concrete slab. They require a flat, level surface for proper adhesion and drainage. Therefore, the initial step is to assess and prepare the subfloor or concrete slab. This may involve cleaning, levelling, and ensuring the surface is free of any debris or irregularities.

Next, you should carefully measure and mark the installation area. This includes marking the location of the drain and ensuring it is aligned correctly. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the required clearance around the edges of the pan. In some cases, you may need to build a frame to ensure the proper clearance and provide a guide for the mortar bed.

Once the installation area is marked and framed, it is time to mix and pour the mortar. In most cases, a bed of mortar, such as Versabond tile mortar, is used to set the shower pan. Prepare the mortar mix according to the manufacturer's instructions, and then pour it into the installation area. Use your guides to ensure the mortar is level and at the correct height. Allow the mortar to firm up slightly before removing any outside framing.

Before placing the shower pan into the mortar bed, it is important to ensure that the mortar is in full contact with the pan's ribs. Work the pan back and forth and up and down to get as much mortar into the ribs as possible. While it is not necessary to fill all the voids completely, adequate coverage will ensure a strong bond as the mortar dries and expands.

After placing the pan into the mortar bed, use a level to ensure it is even and adjust as needed. It is important not to stand or place any weight on the pan during this process. Instead, place something heavy on it while it dries. The drying time may vary, but it is typically recommended to let it sit for at least 24 hours before proceeding with the rest of the installation.

By carefully following these steps for preparing the surface, you can ensure a solid and level installation of your Tile Redi shower pan, providing a strong foundation for the rest of your shower renovation project.

Using mortar

When installing a Tile Redi shower pan, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions. While some plumbers may suggest that it is unnecessary to use mortar or thinset underneath the shower pan, the manufacturer's instructions for Tile Redi products recommend setting the pan in mortar for support and levelling.

To begin the installation process, prepare the mortar mix according to the manufacturer's instructions. It is recommended to use a generous amount of mortar, such as Versabond tile mortar, in a bed of about 1". You can temporarily frame the mortar bed with a 2x4 to ensure the proper thickness. Additionally, you can use wood guides to indicate the desired height of the mortar, which should be levelled off.

Once the mortar is mixed and the desired height is marked, pour the mortar into the installation area. Allow the mortar to firm up slightly before removing the outside frame. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended waiting time, which may be around 20 minutes. The mortar should be firm enough to hold its shape but still soft enough to place the pan.

Before placing the Tile Redi shower pan into the mortar, prime and glue the drain. Line up the pan with the drain and lower it into the mortar bed. Work the pan back and forth and up and down to ensure that the mortar gets up into the ribs as much as possible. It is important to note that you may not be able to fill all the voids completely with mortar, and that is acceptable. Place something heavy on the pan while it dries to help keep it in place.

During the installation process, avoid standing or putting weight on the Tile Redi shower pan. Additionally, be careful not to drop anything on the pan as you work around it. Once the mortar dries, it will expand and lock the ribs into place, providing a solid and stable base for your shower.

Placing the pan

To install a Tile Redi pan, you must first ensure that you have a flat, level surface for proper adhesion and drainage. Tile Redi pans require a subfloor or concrete slab for installation.

Before placing the pan, you should prepare the area by following the manufacturer's instructions. In some cases, this may involve installing cement boards on the walls and floors, as well as preparing the plumbing and seams.

When placing the Tile Redi pan, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific product you have purchased. Some products may require the use of mortar or spray foam to secure the pan in place. For example, one user recommends using Versabond tile mortar, while another suggests using spray foam.

It is important to note that you should not stand on the pan during the installation process, as this could affect the integrity of the installation. Instead, follow the manufacturer's instructions for placing and levelling the pan. This may involve using shims or other tools to achieve the correct height and alignment.

Once the pan is in place, you may need to weigh it down with a heavy object while it dries. This will help ensure a secure installation.

Adding weight

Prepare the Surface:

Start by ensuring that your subfloor or concrete slab is flat and level. Tile Redi shower pans require proper surface adhesion and drainage, so a level surface is essential. If your subfloor is not level, you may need to use a self-levelling compound to create an even surface.

Framing and Mortar Application:

Build a wall frame to allow for the required clearance around the edges of the pan. This frame will guide you in applying the mortar evenly. Mix your mortar and pour it onto the surface, levelling it off using your guides. Allow the mortar to firm up for about 20 minutes before removing the outer frame. The mortar should be firm yet soft enough to accommodate the pan.

Placing the Tile Redi Pan:

Lay the Tile Redi pan into the mortar bed. It is important to work carefully and avoid standing or applying excessive weight on the pan during this process. Use a level to ensure the pan is straight and even. Make adjustments as necessary by adding more mortar under the pan.

Weighing Down:

Once the pan is level and correctly positioned, place something heavy on top of it while it dries. This added weight helps to secure the pan in place and ensure good contact with the mortar. Leave the weight for an extended period, such as 24 hours, to ensure the mortar sets properly.

Tiling and Ribs:

After the mortar has dried, you can start tiling. The Tile Redi pan is designed to be tiled over, and it is important to get the mortar up into the ribs as much as possible. This will create an expansion that locks the ribs into place, enhancing the stability of your installation. Drilling small holes into the curb ribs can also help the thin set flow and lock into the ribs and the floor.

Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions and reach out to their customer support for any clarifications or assistance during the installation process.

Finishing touches

Once you have installed your Tile Redi shower pan, there are a few finishing touches you can add to complete your shower installation.

If you have purchased a Tile Redi shower pan that requires tiling, such as the Tile Redi shower base pans, benches, niches, or ledges, you will need to tile the surface. This can be done by following Tile Redi's instructions or seeking guidance from their technical support team or online resources.

On the other hand, if you have purchased a LuxShower solid surface shower pan, no tiling is required. These pans are crafted from a high-quality solid surface material and are designed to be used as-is, offering a stylish and low-maintenance solution.

After tiling or installing your chosen shower pan, you may want to consider adding shower walls. Tile Redi offers Redi Wall boards, which are made from the same polyurethane material as their shower base pans. These wall boards are lightweight, durable, and 100% waterproof, providing an easy installation process without compromising strength.

Finally, you may want to consider adding accessories such as a Redi Bench or a Redi Ledge to enhance the functionality of your shower. These accessories can be tiled to match the rest of your shower or left as a solid surface, depending on your preference.

With these finishing touches, you can create a seamless and professional-looking shower installation that is both functional and stylish.

Frequently asked questions