How to install shower pan liners is critical for building a leak-free shower. You have options for installing a shower pan. Read to learn the basics of shower pan installation and the different options for building a durable, good=looking shower.
The Traditional Way To Install Shower Pan Liners
For a ceramic shower, the traditional way is the most common way to build a shower pan. The traditional way is masonry construction. A cement base is built and the ceramic tile is set in place over the masonry base. This method requires knowledge, skill and art. Get the basics right and a handy person can install a shower that works right on the first try.
Over a sold sub-floor, you build two layers of mortar and then set the tile over the top layer. The drain is a special drain with two layers of drain holes. The first mortar layer is poured and sloped to the bottom drain holes. After that first layer dries, a waterproof vinyl sheet is installed on top of the first layer. This sheet is the real key to waterproofing the floor. The sheet is run up the shower walls and glued to the shower drain base. Over the waterproof membrane goes the top mortar layer. The tile is installed over this layer and grouted in place.
The vinyl membrane is necessary because ceramic tile and grout are not waterproof. The grout especially soaks up water and doesn't stop water at all.
One big plus of traditional construction is that any size or custom layout for your shower is possible.
Fiberglass or Acrylic Shower Liners
Your local building supply store stocks shower liners ready to install. These pans are easy to install and can be used with matching walls or with tile walls. Choose fiberglass or acrylic materials for different looks and quality. The advantage of these shower floors is ease of installation and ease of cleaning. But custom sizes are much more expensive and may not be available in the layout you need. Fiberglass shower floors also are easy to scratch and damage and do wear over time. Ceramic tile cannot be installed over standard fiberglass or acrylic shower pans.
Tile Ready Shower Pans - Easy?
If you want a traditional looking ceramic tile shower without the struggle of building a traditional shower pan, choose one of the tile ready shower systems. And these are systems. Most include wall and ceiling component liners as well as floor liners. Most tile ready shower pans include a vinyl pan with a built in drain. The pans are built over a masonry base or over foam support.
The advantage of these systems is the ease of installing. The skill level is less than the traditional construction. Plus installation is faster since no waiting is required between layers. The downside is cost. The kit often costs as much as a completed traditional installation. Manufacturers of tile ready systems are Tile Redi, Schluter and Wedi. Check your area for installers.
Puzzled about how to build a shower pan liner? Need more information? Visit our site for shower pan tips.
We invite you to visit http://www.installingceramictile.net for answers to your ceramic shower questions.
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