Building A Mortar Shower Pan: My Personal Experience

Building A Mortar Shower Pan: My Personal Experience

A few years ago, I decided to renovate my bathroom and create a walk-in shower. I researched various shower pan options and decided to go with a mortar shower pan. It was a challenging project, but the end result was worth it. In this article, I’ll share my experience and provide a step-by-step guide on how to build a mortar shower pan.

What is a Mortar Shower Pan?

A mortar shower pan is a waterproof base for a tiled shower. It’s made by mixing sand and cement together to form a thick mortar that’s shaped into a sloping base. The slope is necessary to ensure that water drains properly towards the shower drain. Once the mortar is dry, it’s covered with a waterproof membrane and tiled.

Why Choose a Mortar Shower Pan?

There are several reasons why I chose a mortar shower pan for my bathroom renovation:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Customizable size and shape
• Waterproof
• Can be tiled with any type of tile

Step-by-Step Guide for Building a Mortar Shower Pan

Here are the steps I followed to build my mortar shower pan:

1. Prepare the shower subfloor by ensuring it’s clean, level, and free of any debris.
2. Install the shower drain according to manufacturer instructions.
3. Create a form for the shower pan using 2x4s and plywood. The form should be the size and shape of the shower base you want.
4. Mix sand and cement in a bucket according to manufacturer instructions. The mixture should be thick and not too runny.
5. Pour the mixture into the form and use a trowel to smooth and shape the slope. The slope should be at least 1/4 inch per foot towards the drain.
6. Let the mortar dry for at least 24 hours.
7. Cover the mortar with a waterproof membrane and seal all seams and corners with waterproof tape and sealant.
8. Tile the shower base according to manufacturer instructions.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Building a Mortar Shower Pan

Here are some tips and ideas to keep in mind when building a mortar shower pan:

1. Use a pre-sloped shower pan if you’re not comfortable building a mortar shower pan from scratch.
2. Ensure the shower subfloor is level and free of any debris before starting.
3. Wear gloves and a mask when mixing and handling the mortar.
4. Use a trowel to shape and smooth the mortar while it’s still wet.
5. Let the mortar dry for at least 24 hours before covering it with a waterproof membrane.
6. Use a waterproof membrane that’s specifically designed for shower pans.
7. Seal all seams and corners with waterproof tape and sealant to ensure a watertight seal.
8. Choose a tile that’s slip-resistant and easy to clean.
9. Consider adding a built-in bench or niche to your shower for added convenience.
10. Consult a professional if you’re not comfortable with any aspect of building a mortar shower pan.

Pros and Cons of Building a Mortar Shower Pan

Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to build a mortar shower pan:

Pros

• Durable and long-lasting
• Customizable size and shape
• Waterproof
• Can be tiled with any type of tile
• Less expensive than other shower pan options

Cons

• Time-consuming and challenging to build
• Requires some construction knowledge and skills
• Not as easy to install as pre-fabricated shower pans
• May require professional help if you’re not comfortable with DIY projects

My Personal Review and Suggestion for Building a Mortar Shower Pan

Overall, I’m very happy with my decision to build a mortar shower pan. It was definitely a challenging project, but the end result was worth it. The shower pan is durable, waterproof, and looks great with the tile I chose. If you’re comfortable with DIY projects and have some construction knowledge, I would definitely recommend building a mortar shower pan. However, if you’re not comfortable with DIY projects, it may be best to consult a professional.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: How long does it take to build a mortar shower pan?

A: It typically takes at least a few days to build a mortar shower pan. You’ll need to factor in time for mixing and pouring the mortar, letting it dry, and applying the waterproof membrane and tile.

Q: Can I tile a mortar shower pan with any type of tile?

A: Yes, you can tile a mortar shower pan with any type of tile. Just make sure the tile is suitable for use in a shower and is slip-resistant.

Q: Do I need to hire a professional to build a mortar shower pan?

A: It depends on your level of construction knowledge and skills. If you’re comfortable with DIY projects and have some construction experience, you may be able to build a mortar shower pan yourself. However, if you’re not comfortable with DIY projects, it may be best to consult a professional.